SPECIAL EDITION CARIBBEAN A–Z How to sell
W is for Wildlife The Caribbean is awash with marine biodiversity but there
are many species to enjoy on land too, from hard-to-spot agoutis in the lush landscapes of St Vincent and protected blue iguanas in the Cayman Islands, to the mona monkeys of Grenada’s Grand Etang National Park – one of Kuoni’s top nature-focused excursions – and the so-called ‘accidental Eden’ of Cuba’s highlands. Aruba, just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela,
has an array of endemic species best seen in Arikok National Park (pictured). Vivian Eckmeyer, nature experience ranger, says: “Arikok’s rugged terrain protects a mix of desert landscapes and wild coastlines. It’s home to 34 endemic species like the endangered Aruba rattlesnake (cascabel), the Aruba burrowing owl (shoco) and the Aruban whiptail lizard (cododo). “My advice is go slow – in Africa you look for the big five, and in Aruba it’s the tiny 100s. Start early to catch birdsong, hike trails such as Cunucu Arikok or Miralamar, and don’t miss Fontein Cave, where ancient Arawak drawings show you the island’s deep history.”
X is for X-Parks X really does mark the spot for this
series of theme parks on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, offering eco-adventures aplenty for both families and fun-loving adults. Xcaret Park (pictured), four miles south of Playa del Carmen, is the best known, bringing together underground rivers, archaeological sites, traditional folklore performances and wildlife that includes a butterfly pavilion. Its fellow theme parks – including
Xplor, Xel-Ha, Xenses and Xoximilco – offer ziplines, watersports, cliff diving, cenotes, caves and jungle trails, all with a Mexican cultural twist.
Jorge Quibell, head of trade distribution, Classic Collection “Don’t just sell the hotel – sell the experience.
Even on a single-centre stay, well-chosen excursions can be the highlight of the holiday and often the reason clients rebook the same destination.”
Steven Heath, senior trade relations manager, Marella Cruises “When I was an agent,
I found clients interested in all-inclusive Caribbean resorts were often ideal candidates for cruise holidays. Framing the ship as a floating resort – with all the same amenities and often more – helped open their eyes to cruising. Plus, waking up in a new destination each day adds a layer of excitement and value.”
Vishal Patel, director, Travelpack “By highlighting the islands as a
Y is for Yoga Wellness activities are often high on the list of priorities for
clients, and the Caribbean offers the perfect environment in which to unwind, with secluded coves, remote jungles, castaway-style resorts and an off-grid vibe. Some hotels, such as BodyHoliday in Saint Lucia and Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort in the Dominican Republic, include spa treatments and mindful exercise classes in the room cost. In Tobago, trade-friendly wellness resorts include
Castara Retreats and the Kariwak Wellness Village Hotel. Zahra Duncombe (pictured), wellness services director at the latter, says: “Tobago’s slower pace, unspoiled nature and rich traditions create the perfect setting for true restoration. From forest bathing in ancient rainforests to stargazing by the sea, Tobago is where true wellbeing begins.”
Z is for Ziplining Nothing busts the perception of the
Caribbean as purely a fly-and-flop destination better than its array of adrenaline-pumping ziplines. These aerial adventures can be found in many popular spots, from Antigua and Saint Lucia to Sint Maarten – home of the Flying Dutchman, the steepest zipline in the world – and Puerto Rico, where thrill-seekers can take on a challenge while enjoying unforgettable views of El Yunque National Forest. Cruise visitors don’t miss out either, with ziplines forming a key attraction of some lines’ private islands, including Perfect Day at CocoCay for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises guests and Great Stirrup Cay for NCL passengers.
TW 50 28 AUGUST 2025
playground for culture, nature and adventure, agents can inspire clients to see the Caribbean in a new light – and benefit from the added value of selling immersive experiences alongside the holiday. We expect the trend towards active and experience-rich Caribbean holidays to continue – travellers are increasingly pre-booking excursions to secure availability and return home with memories that go far beyond the beach.”
Jim Robertson, senior regional product manager, Kuoni “The Caribbean is an amalgamation of
music, soul, history, people and beauty, with each island offering a diverse mix of landscapes, rich culture and ultra-friendly people. [There’s] a treasure trove of ‘wow’ experiences, so customers can get under the skin of this iconic destination whichever island they head for.”
travelweekly.co.uk
PICTURES: Shutterstock/Serge Yatunin, Pandora Pictures, Solarisys
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