Last Updated
Tourism to the Caribbean has surged this past summer, with many destinations breaking their all-time visitor records.
However, contrary to what some might’ve expected, travel in the area shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.
In fact, many Caribbean hotspots are expected to experience double-digit growth during these last months of 2023, and inbound travel throughout the entire region is set to increase by 15% in comparison to the same time last year.
According to a recent study by Forward Keys, these are the trendiest Caribbean Destinations that will be leading the area’s growth.
5. Aruba
Though Aruba has experienced a slight dip in visitor numbers these last few years, the new statistics speak of a potential resurgence to mainstream popularity.
The island is set to see a 22% increase in tourists before the year ends, outpacing its current growth rate by a large margin.
Interestingly, group travel is also surging in the area, so if you’re looking for the perfect spot for a vacation with your friends or extended family, move Aruba right to the top of your list.
As temperatures cool down, Americans are more eager than ever to experience the beaming sun and white-sanded beaches of the Caribbean.
Temperatures in November range between 79°F and 88°F (26°C and 31°C), making Aruba the perfect spot for that beach getaway we find ourselves craving right before a long winter season.
4. Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos boasts breathtaking beaches, fascinating wildlife, and some of the best, freshest seafood in all of the Caribbean.
The archipelago has long been one of the more secluded destinations in the region, attracting fewer tourists than the likes of Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, or the Bahamas.
However, if these reported growth rates are anything to go by, that’s about to change.
Turks and Caicos is set to see a 29% increase in visitors these upcoming months, falling just a few points behind the no. 3 ranking on the list – Curaçao.
3. Curaçao
Between its natural allure and improved infrastructure, Curaçao is creating the perfect escape for tourists looking for their next Caribbean getaway.
The island’s efforts in turning itself from an off-the-beaten-path destination to an international tourism hotspot have obviously paid off.
Curaçao now expects a tourism growth rate of 31% during 2023’s last quarter, leaving behind much larger, and generally well-known destinations.
Not only is Curaçao projected to end the year with a bang, but it also has shown consistent growth all throughout the year.
Out of all the destinations included in the ranking, the island boasts the highest year-to-date growth rate, at 20%.
This means that up until now, Curaçao has shown the biggest increase in visitors in all of the Caribbean. However, before the year ends, there are two other destinations predicted to overtake it.
2. US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are primarily known for their turquoise waters, natural diversity, pristine beaches, and rich history.
Moreover, they’ve long been considered to be an excellent winter destination, seeing as the weather is divine and U.S. citizens won’t need a passport to experience their dream Caribbean getaway.
That’s why the destination is set to see a 39% growth this fall and winter season, securing the runner-up position as the region’s fastest-growing attraction.
1. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic’s meteoric rise to mainstream popularity has been nothing short of amazing.
The nation welcomed over 6.2 million visitors through July, marking an exceptional increase from the previous record set in 2019.
The Dominican Republic’s stunning views, idyllic beaches, and all-inclusive resorts seem to still be working their magic, as the country leads the way as the Caribbean’s fastest-growing destination.
During the fourth quarter of 2023, the nation is expected to experience a whopping 54% growth in visitors, leading us to believe that the newly set record won’t hold up for much longer.
To put into perspective just how significant this level of growth is, just refer back to the numbers we've discussed thus far and notice the remarkable difference.
Not only is the Dominican Republic the fastest-growing destination in the Caribbean, but it’s also leaving other countries and islands miles behind.
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Hildegard Hedwig
Tuesday 19th of September 2023
Funny that the Dominican Republic is no 1 because that is the ONLY island where I got robbed AT THE AIRPORT BY THE VERY PEOPLE WHO WENT THROUGH MY LUGGAGE!! I have never been back since!!