How to Get To the Caribbean

Except for Belize and the Mexican Caribbean, visitors to the Caribbean have basically two choices for arrivals: by sea or by air.

Flying is definitely the fastest way to go, with a growing number of flights to the Caribbean from many gateways. You'll find a heavier flight schedule during peak season (mid-December to mid-April).

A growing number of air carriers are offering flights to the Caribbean but the largest number of flights remains with American Airlines. Many of these flights are routed through Miami or their Caribbean hub, San Juan, Puerto Rico. To visit the smaller islands, many make connections to American Eagle flights.

Air Jamaica also has many flights throughout the region, served through their hub in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Air Jamaica partners with Delta Airlines.

Island-Hopping

Want to island-hop? It's fun and, if you're visiting small islands, a necessary part of a Caribbean vacation.

Island-hopping passes must be purchased and ticketed (a very important detail) within the continental US. They cannot be purchased in the Caribbean. Check with carriers including LIAT, and Caribbean Star about multi-island passes. Also Air Jamaica permits layovers in Jamaica if you're en route to another island (either coming or going).

When traveling on small carriers, be prepared to carry on only one small bag. You'll be able to check other luggage at the ticket counter or right at the airplane door as you board (our choice so we can make sure the bags board the same plane as we do).

Service may be limited on some flights. A few times we have flown on prop planes when the only staff members were the pilot and co-pilot, seated just a couple of rows ahead of us. The flights are generally short, though, and really give you a bird's-eye view of the islands that can't be beat.

Check-in requirements are not flexible with the small carriers. Requirements vary from carrier to carrier, but make sure you arrive at the airport by the requested check-in time. Some flights have been known to leave early, so make sure that you check in ahead of schedule. Call the night before and reconfirm your seats, then arrive at the airport at the stated check-in time.