For years the Southern Caribbean has been the most underrated of the tourist spots in the Caribbean region. There were tourists who were regulars at the eastern or western Caribbean cruises who didnt even think of detouring to the southern parts. But the ensuing air scare post 9/11 meant that tourists became keen to venture to new places they could reach without flying. Thus, the hitherto unpopular Southern Caribbean Cruises soared in popularity. The islands of Aruba, St. Berth's, Dominica, Barbados, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Antigua, St. Kitts, and Nevis are the more popular ones among the lot.

The Southern Caribbean Cruises have won favor with the tourists in such a short time mainly due to the fact that they offer a varied palette. You have beaches and the associated sundry beach activities in Aruba, Antigua and Barbados, while Guadeloupes charm lies in the myriad forms of scenery found here. You have here tropical rain forests, mountains and volcanoes. You have a slice of France at St. Barth. Here you will find quaint roadside cafes, swank boutiques with a mind-boggling array of merchandise, upscale restaurants for fine dining experiences, and a hip beach culture. The ambience is so French that you will almost feel that you would walk into the Eiffel Tower at the next turning. Grenada and Dominica, not yet evolved as tourist hotspots, have retained their old world and laidback charm and this adds to their attraction. After all, theres never a dearth of city slickers who yearn for a piece of quiet once in a while.

Though ships, the luxury liners and the budget ones, ferry all throughout the year, still winter is the best month to visit the Caribbean islands. For one, you can escape the sweltering summers and also avoid the ferocious tropical storms that pound the region every year during June to November.

The southern Caribbean should feature in every travelers itinerary, for this is a region which offers both scenic beauty and a multifaceted cultural milieu, which make for a truly enriching experience.