From explorers to sun-seekers, over the past 500 years of Caribbean history, one group after another has sought out the bounty and beauty of the region. The islands are named for the Carib Indians, who in the early 14th century paddled their canoes north from the coast of South America and conquered the indigenous Arawak tribes. Not far behind came the adventurers, pirates, merchants, and colonists; and eventually nature enthusiasts and vacationers from all over the world.

Come along on the adventure. Float on the same tradewinds that brought pirates and the spice trade, leave your footprints in sand, linger over a traditional rum punch, and do a little "whining" to some local music. You'll find a culture that is as multihued as the fish and parrots that share this tropical paradise.