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If you’re ready to dust off your passport, there are few places dreamier than The Bahamas for much-needed sun and sand this fall.
Home to pristine beaches, world-class resorts, unforgettable excursions, and underrated cuisine, our crystal ball at Travel Off Path says The Bahamas will forever be a favorite getaway for American travelers.
Not that we’re here to step on Nat Geo’s well-traveled toes, but their experts believe there are some great alternatives to avoid the crowds of The Bahamas’ low-lying sands in place of far more dramatic landscapes largely overlooked in the Caribbean.
That’s right — one of the most respected travel publications isn’t hyping up the same-o, same-o experiences at world-renowned Atlantis or any other stunning island, such as Bimini.
Instead, they believe there’s a cluster of paradisal islands offering more culture, seemingly untouched shores, and fewer butts in loungers without sacrificing the “wow factor”.
Off oui go to the French Antilles!
St. Barts
Wanna score better rates in the Caribbean’s ritziest island? Then become best friends with Jeff Bezos, one of many A-listers you could potentially hobnob with about the vibrant town of Gustavia.
Kidding, of course. You’d probably be brushed away by their heavy security team. But, you’re still in luck.
The coming months are St. Bart’s shoulder season, meaning it’s likely this is the most “affordable” this island will be, though there’s no such thing as budget travel here.
For example, Hôtel Le Village is $258 in October. Anything that starts with the number “2” and doesn’t have a comma is a steal here.
Beyond posh hotels, insanely priced restaurants, and you-know-what measuring contests between yacht owners, you’ll find dozens of postcard-worthy golden coves to unwind with fewer crowds and no cruise port hoopla.
St. Martin
The Bahamas have become so “Americanized”, its fascinating culture can be lost in the Goombay Sauce.
The same can’t be said for St. Martin, the French side opposite the Dutch side of St. Maarten, both exuding touches of European flair through sightly architecture, impeccable cuisine, and simply the joie de vivre with a glass of wine in hand.
The map-dot town of Marigot is the tiny island’s capital, boasting sensational French-Creole eateries, lavish villas, and magnificent shores, such as Baie Rouge, Happy Bay, and Orient Bay (often referred to as the Caribbean’s “St. Tropez”).
Beaches here are truly tranquil, as The Bahamas may have screaming kiddos running rampant, ruining your Zen.
Here, the soundtrack is rolling waves, clinking glasses, and maybe a boat horn in the distance.
Martinique
Who knew there were so many islands oozing European vibes in the Caribbean? Add Martinique to the mix.
While The Bahamas tends to push resort after resort and cruise after cruise, Martinique is laid-back, local, and flavored with French flair.
Rather than towering eyesores, expect more boutique stays and secluded villas — and the food is often described equally as divine as France’s culinary scene, with ample traditional bakeries and fine dining.
But what most tourists claim leaves the biggest lasting impression beyond the palm tree-laden volcanic beaches are Martinique’s rum distilleries, a must-do tour before you head back home.
That’s not to say beaches here are overrated — not in the least! National Geographic says Grand Anse des Salines should top your list.
French Guadeloupe
Perhaps the most raw and rugged island of the French Antilles is French Guadeloupe. Many say it’s shaped like a butterfly with each “wing” offering its own unique vibe and appeal.
- Grande-Terre (east wing) boasts exactly the type of beaches you’d expect in the Caribbean as they gleam with white sand and colorful townscapes.
- Basse-Terre (west wing) is just as jaw-dropping, but on the opposite spectrum with black sand, lush forestry, and dramatic bluffs.
One aspect you can’t miss the French Guadeloupe’s culture. You could say it’s a cousin to New Orleans with festive zouk music echoing in the streets and Creole cuisine reminiscent of Bourbon Street’s best.
Food and stunning coastlines aren’t the island’s only calling cards. Pack your hiking shoes and venture into the rainforest for picturesque waterfalls, in particular Guadeloupe National Park for crowd-free hikes, less footprints in the sand, and phenomenal wildlife sightings.
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