Some Travel Tips

Taxis: Taxi fares work differently in the Caribbean. They are not metered, so just be sure and ask what the fare will be before you hop in. Most of the time, you will not encounter any oddities, it's just a good idea to stay sharp and pay attention. All licensed taxi drivers must display credentials in their cab. Again, more often than not, you won't experience anything other than licensed drivers. Remember, the cab drivers have been on the islands for a long time. Most of them love to tell great stories and point out the interesting places for tourists to visit. Ask you cabbie what to do and where to go. If you find them helpful, and if they handle your baggage for you, be sure to tip appropriately -- this is how they make their money.

Photos: You will encounter lots of unique people when you travel abroad. Some of the islanders wear exotic clothing and pose for tourism photos for a fee, in order to make enough money to eat. Other exotic dress may be a form of religious expression and those people may not want their photo taken at all. As a general rule, remember that you are a guest in their country. Be polite. Ask first, and you'll find most locals will give you a broad smile and a wonderful photo to take home to your friends.

Traffic: Be careful. More Americans are struck by cars than anything else in the Caribbean. This is because some of the islands drive on the right side of the street, some of the islands drive on the left! Just be careful when you are a pedestrian, and look both ways before you cross any street -- you might not know which way the traffic is coming from unless you pay attention.

Bartering is a way of life for vendors in the Caribbean. In America, we are used to seeing a price tag and paying that amount. If you see something that you like in the Caribbean, don't be afraid to offer a lower price. The vendor will then counter with a slightly higher price. This will not offend the vendor -- this is how they are accustomed to doing business. Keep working until you both agree on a price. You might find some really great deals on some beautiful souvenirs.

Relaxing at the Beach; There will be all types of flavorful beaches in the Caribbean. Some our clothing optional -- but are always well marked as so. Other beaches are considered religious areas, and nudity is frowned upon. Most of the beaches, however, are just like the beaches in Hawaii or Mexico, or the Riviera. Just be aware that there are differences. Also, the angle of the sun in the Caribbean is different than in the northern climes. As a result, wear plenty of sunscreen. A bad sunburn can ruin an entire vacation!

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