Caribbean guides - your travel companion in the Caribbean

The sunny Caribbean Islands are known for their lively nature, and Christmas like in many other parts of the world brings with it a festive cheer that is no different than in these islands.

The islands are best loved and known for their celebration of life and Christmas with its different religious and cultural connotations is celebrated with much enthusiasm. Although it may not be a white Christmas for those who visit here, it remains the major event for the islands, and those who spend it here will appreciate its own unique festivities.

The traditional associations with Christmas will vary from nation to nation but the aspect of religion is common. The different ethnicities and their own means of celebrating Christmas offer a lively experience.

Usually many take to the streets on Christmas Eve. The traditional exchange of gifts, greetings and cards among friends and relatives is common. A band playing in the streets with people wearing all kinds of masks is usually how Christmas is welcomed into the Caribbean. The huge masks are part of the revelry to scare people in the streets and usually taken on the form of a head of a bull or a cow, although one could also expect to see masks of policemen as well.

Santa in this part of the world is better known as Papa Noel and is associated with the usual generous nature of any Father Christmas who lavishes children and adults with goodies.

The bursting of Bamboos is much looked forward to in St. Lucia during the festive season and it's also one of the main traditions. It begins from the middle of November and also coincides with the Festival of Lights which takes place a few days before Christmas.

For Jamaica the concept of Christmas was brought to the land when markets were established. And even today the community fairs that take place during Christmas are reminiscent of these old markets which sold anything from fire works to crackers to other gift items.

However, in the Bahamas the Junkanoo Festival is at the centre of Christmas celebrations, which comprises of colourful parades and a traditional carnival which is the highlight of all the fanfare.

No festivity would be complete without some local cuisine to add to the celebrations and those who spend Christmas in the Caribbean should not miss an opportunity to savour some local delicacies. Traditional turkey, a variety of cakes, roasted pork is the usual for the occasion.

As they say it's the most wonderful time of the year and when in the Caribbean it gets even better with accommodation at