Anguilla

Anguilla has a unique Caribbean vibe, and it's a good one. This small territory is one main island surrounded by tropical cays and smaller isles and a little different to some of its neighbours yet no less welcoming.

Envisage white-sandy beaches shaded by coconut palms, reggae music, and multi-coloured beach bars and dining shacks. Offshore, the waters are home to reefs teeming with vibrant coral and colourful fish. With an embargo on casinos, cruise ships, and high-rise buildings, Anguilla retains a wholesome Caribbean charm.

All levels of accommodation are available on the island, casual restaurants laid back beach bars, clubs and DJ's are aplenty.

Take a sunset cruise as the moon rises over the ocean and then go bar hopping, trying the local rum punch. Seafood lovers will be able to indulge as this is one country that knows how to catch and cook to perfection. Blanchard's Beach Shack, Meads Bay, has become renowned for its excellent seafood lunches, especially the lobster and fish are all fresh from the ocean. And there are plenty of white linen elegant dining options for a fancy night out.

Days are easily spent exploring the local markets, historical sites, and nearby islands. From Sandy Ground filled with bars and restaurants along yet another glorious beach visit, one of the more popular day trip isles, Sandy Island. This tiny solar-powered islet's fringing reef is the residence of giant groper, friendly turtles, and more exquisite corals and reef fish. Prickly Pear Caves may not sound enticing, but in fact, it's a set of twin islands and boasts some of the whitest beaches and best snorkelling and diving in the nation, if not the Caribbean. There are day trips to many smaller isles, and many have a restaurant and bar available for your stay during the day.

Wander down to Bankie Banx's Dune Preserve for sunset and a sing-a-long. Legendary reggae singer Bankie Banx transformed the giant treehouse from driftwood and old boats. There's fantastic live music by the locals played here and make sure you try their signature cocktail Dune Shine, made from ginger, pineapple juice, white rum, and bitters.

Festivals and street parades are aplenty. With extravagant costumes, dancers, music, and food, there is always a time to celebrate and party in Anguilla.

Best time to visit Anguilla

Summer is the peak season and not the cheapest time to visit. Anguilla caters well for those with a fat wallet. If you are on a budget, visit outside peak season when prices dip. Summer is also the Wet season, and rain is frequent and guaranteed almost daily in a short torrential downpour, usually in the afternoon. Tropical storms and the occasional hurricane are known to impact the region. The temperatures in Anguilla are delightfully warm year-round, so there's never a wrong time to visit.