The Caribbean is a fascinating place. Many are drawn there because of its great weather, clear, calm seas, brilliant sunshine, exotic dishes and rhythmic innovative musical styles. The Caribbean is made up of the estimated 7,000 islands and landforms which touch the Caribbean Sea. The islands are sometimes referred to as the West Indies. The Caribbean is divided into the Greater and Lesser Antilles and the Lucayan Archipelago. The countries of Guyana, Suriname and Belize are also included. El Salvador, located on the Pacific Ocean, is sometimes considered a Caribbean nation. The name Caribbean is derived from the Caribs, the dominant aboriginal group living in the region prior to European colonization.
When most people think of the Caribbean they picture great beaches. And with good reason. Caribbean nations tend to have great beaches. From Cuba to Trinidad and Santo Domingo to Belize the Caribbean nations all have beautiful white-sand beaches. Many people also like the Caribbean because the seas are generally calm. This makes it suitable for people of all ages. Even the very young, the very old and the infirmed can safely bathe in the Caribbean Sea. They don’t have to fear towering waves or overly rough waters. They can relax comfortable in the knowledge that the seas will remain relatively calm.
Water-sports are very popular in the Caribbean. Scuba diving and snorkeling are especially so because the Caribbean Sea tends to be calm and clear. When that is combined with the coral reefs and colorful tropical fish, sea creatures and plants it is little wonder scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts flock to the Caribbean. The undersea world in the region is spectacular. The warm climate helps everything to grow and reproduce and time and nature have also conspired to create life forms in the Caribbean Sea that are intriguing and stunningly beautiful.
The Caribbean climate also makes it possible to grow unique, nutritious, flavorful fruits and vegetables. The local people use special herbs, spices and cooking techniques to prepare them and endow them with a savoriness that is out of this world. The people of each Caribbean nation use special local seasonings and methods to bring out the taste of the food. You can eat the same dish prepared in different Caribbean nations and it will taste great but different each time. Its part of the magic of the Caribbean. The people are able to add that special touch that makes your taste buds stand up and take notice.
Part of the reason the food and culture of the Caribbean is so different is because it is an amalgamation of cultural elements from a vast number of places. Modern Caribbean culture has elements derived from the Caribs, Arawaks and other aboriginal people. In some parts of the Caribbean these groups are referred to as Amerindians. To this basic element are added aspects of African, European and Asian culture. These blend to create a new and unique culture that reflects the older cultural elements but is different from it.
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