Our Caribbean Travel Guide

The East Caribbean dollar (XCD) is the legal tender in the countries comprising the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, with the exception of the British Virgin Islands, which use the US dollar. You can use the XCD in Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The first series of XCD coins was introduced in 1981 and was updated to the current series in 2002. It is useful to have some one dollar coins on hand for smaller purchases and for leaving tips. When shopping at markets, it is common to negotiate prices, and you may not have to pay the listed price.

There are six official languages spoken in the Caribbean, as well as many more unofficial languages. The official languages include Dutch, English, French, Haitian Creole, Papiamentu, and Spanish. Of these official languages, Haitian Creole and Papiamentu are Creole languages.

The Caribbean islands experience a hot, tropical climate throughout the year, with average high temperatures around 28°C (82°F). Although there are some variations within the region, the best time to visit the Caribbean is generally considered to be the dry season, which falls between February and May. The wettest months are typically from July to November.

In many countries in the Caribbean, electricity is generated at 110 volts and a frequency of 50Hz (cycles) alternating current. In the United States, electricity is generated at 110-120 volts and a frequency of 60Hz (cycles) alternating current.

As of Wednesday, November 30, 2022, the population of the Caribbean is estimated to be 44,008,334, according to the latest data from the United Nations.

The Caribbean has a rich history in film, with numerous movies being shot on its islands. In fact, the very first James Bond film, "Dr. No," was filmed in the Caribbean. It's not just pirates that have been featured in films set in the Caribbean.