Expert: John Crandall - 4/20/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi, what Island(s) are the safest choice for a Caribbean vacation in September?
ANSWER: Hi Scott. Honestly, there are several islands that come to mind concerning safety. First, you need to know that most of the islands are safe. What makes them unsafe is when novice travelers venture out to the unknown. No matter what island you choose, you should always research it and become very familiar with the culture and areas of interest. Secondly, if you are not familiar with the island do not venture out alone. Travel in groups if possible and take regulated tours and excursions with a reputable tour agency. Every hotel has tour agents and hospitality reps. Check with them before you decide to go on an excursion or organized tour. As far as the islands are concerned, I particularly suggest Aruba and St. Maarten. If you are searching more for family oriented islands then Bermuda and Turks and Caicos are a great choice. St. Thomas is good, but not my first choice. Stay away from Jamaica if your concerned about safety. The one thing you want to know about your Caribbean destination is whether it is safe to venture off the resort/hotel property at night. Another great choice is Paradise Island, Bahamas. All that I have mentioned are clean, safe, and have much to do in ways of tours and excursions. Remember, you are only as safe as you make it. Ask questions and always try and travel in groups. So many times I hear about inexperienced travelers getting robbed, mugged, or even kidnapped because they don;t think before they venture out and around the islands. Aruba is probably the safest island that I have ever been to, but even the foolish ones can be unsafe if there not familiar with where you are and not being aware of your surroundings. Have fun choosing your island destination, but research it too. Oh, one more thing. Hurricane season in the Caribbean is June 1st through November 30th. Just something to keep in mind. September can be a dangerous time to travel to the Caribbean.

John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi John, I guess I should have clarified. I'm not concerned about safety as you understood it. My question should have been: Which islands in the Caribbean are safest from Hurricanes. That is if I were to vacation in the Caribbean in September, which islands are most likely to have nice weather and not be threatened by a hurricane!

Thanks for the lengthy reply though, much appreciated!

Answer
That would be Aruba my friend. One of few islands out of the hurricane belt. Aruba is my second favorite island in the Caribbean. You will absolutely love it. They call it the "Happy Island"; and there is a good reason why. It only rains approximately 4" annually. One of the friendliest islands too.