🌴 20 Days in the West Indies – A Complete Travel
Daily Life, Food, Hotels, Safety, Budget & Island Tips
The West Indies is not a place you rush—it’s a region you live slowly. Over 20 days, I island-hopped across the Caribbean, waking up to ocean breezes, eating fresh local food, and learning how island life truly works. This journey wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was about daily rhythms, safety awareness, local culture, and traveling smart.
🇯🇲 Day 1 – Arrival in Jamaica & Easy Beach Life
I arrived at Montego Bay Airport in the morning, where immigration was friendly but unhurried. After taking an official airport taxi, I checked into Seagarden Beach Resort, a clean and safe mid-range hotel with direct beach access. The afternoon was slow and relaxed—after resting and showering, I walked to Doctor’s Cave Beach for an easy swim in crystal-clear water. As evening arrived, I enjoyed a sunset walk along the shore while reggae music played nearby. Dinner was classic Jamaican jerk chicken with rice and peas, paired with fresh pineapple juice. I avoided empty streets at night, kept valuables secured, and ended the day peacefully. Daily spend was around $110.
🇯🇲 Day 2 – Waterfalls, Nature & Adventure
The day began early with breakfast before joining a group tour to Dunn’s River Falls. Wearing water shoes made climbing the falls much easier and safer. In the afternoon, we visited the Blue Hole, where swimming in cool natural pools felt refreshing after the hike. Lunch was simple but delicious at a local roadside stop. I made sure to return to the hotel before dark, enjoyed a light dinner, and rested early. Staying with the tour group at all times ensured safety, especially in rural areas. Daily expenses were about $140.
🇯🇲 Day 3 – Negril & Iconic Caribbean Sunset
After breakfast, I transferred to Negril, a scenic three-hour drive along Jamaica’s coast. Once checked into the hotel, the afternoon was spent relaxing on Seven Mile Beach, snorkeling and soaking in the Caribbean sun. As evening approached, I visited Rick’s Café, famous for its cliff divers and unforgettable sunsets. Dinner was grilled lobster with a cold Red Stripe beer. I stayed in crowded, lively areas at night and avoided walking the beach after midnight. This unforgettable day cost around $150.
🇯🇲 Day 4 – Culture & Departure
My final morning in Jamaica was dedicated to culture. I visited the Bob Marley Museum, learning about the island’s musical soul, then picked up handmade souvenirs from local markets. In the afternoon, I headed to the airport for my flight to the Bahamas, ending my Jamaican chapter with deep appreciation. Daily spend was approximately $120.
🇧🇸 Day 5 – Relaxed Arrival in the Bahamas
I arrived in Nassau and checked into my hotel before heading out for a relaxed afternoon at Cable Beach. The calm turquoise water and soft sand made it perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with a rented beach chair adding comfort. In the evening, I explored the Straw Market, browsing local crafts and gifts. Dinner featured fresh conch salad and fried snapper. Nassau felt safe, though I avoided isolated beaches at night. Daily cost was about $150.
🇧🇸 Day 6 – Blue Lagoon Island Escape
The morning started with a ferry ride to Blue Lagoon Island. I spent the day snorkeling in clear waters and relaxing on pristine beaches, with an optional dolphin encounter adding excitement. A beachside BBQ lunch kept the island vibe strong. By sunset, I returned to Nassau, pleasantly tired. I followed all water safety rules and used a life jacket when needed. Expenses for the day were around $180.
🇧🇸 Day 7 – Exuma Islands Highlight Day
This was one of the most memorable days of the entire trip. A speedboat tour took me through the Exuma Cays, where I swam with the famous pigs, snorkeled at Thunderball Grotto, and walked across stunning sandbars. The sun was strong, so constant hydration and sun protection were essential. I returned exhausted but incredibly happy. Daily spending reached about $200.
🇧🇸 Day 8 – Travel Day
The day was kept simple with an easy breakfast and a smooth flight to Puerto Rico. Minimal activities meant a lower spend of around $120.
🇵🇷 Day 9 – Old San Juan Exploration
In San Juan, I spent the morning walking through Old San Juan’s colorful streets, enjoying colonial architecture and vibrant energy. The afternoon was dedicated to exploring El Morro Fort, followed by an ocean sunset along the city walls. Dinner included traditional mofongo and empanadillas. Puerto Rico felt very safe, requiring only standard city precautions. Daily cost was approximately $120.
🇵🇷 Day 10 – Rainforest & Waterfalls
I headed out early to El Yunque Rainforest, hiking through lush greenery and cooling off near waterfalls. The afternoon was slower, spent resting on a nearby beach. In the evening, I enjoyed a relaxed local dinner before returning to the hotel. Total expenses were around $140.
🇵🇷 Day 11 – Bioluminescent Bay Magic
The highlight of the day came in the evening with a kayaking tour through a bioluminescent bay. Each paddle stroke lit up the water, creating a surreal experience. Afterward, I returned late, packed my bags, and rested. The magical night cost about $150.
🇩🇴 Day 12 – Punta Cana Resort Life
I arrived in Punta Cana and checked into an all-inclusive resort. The day was spent moving between the pool and beach, enjoying unlimited food and drinks. Resort areas felt very safe, and I avoided leaving the property at night. Daily spending was about $130.
🇩🇴 Day 13 – Saona Island Adventure
A catamaran cruise took me to Saona Island, where natural pools and white-sand beaches defined the day. Swimming, sunbathing, and island lunch made it a perfect tropical escape. Expenses totaled around $160.
🇩🇴 Day 14 – Santo Domingo History
I explored Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone, walking through historic streets and landmarks. Lunch featured La Bandera Dominicana, a traditional and hearty local meal. The day blended culture and history beautifully, costing around $120.
🇩🇴 Day 15 – Relax & Fly
The day was kept light with a spa visit and last-minute shopping before flying to Saint Lucia, transitioning into a more nature-focused phase of the journey.
🇱🇨 Day 16 – Saint Lucia Beach & Sunset
After arriving in Saint Lucia, I spent the day relaxing at Reduit Beach, enjoying calm waters and soft sand. In the evening, a sunset cruise offered breathtaking views of the coastline. Daily spending was approximately $140.
🇱🇨 Day 17 – Pitons & Natural Wonders
This adventurous day included hiking Gros Piton with a local guide, followed by visits to volcanic mud baths and nearby waterfalls. Hiring a guide ensured safety during the hike. It was physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, with costs around $170.
🇱🇨 Day 18 – Easy Island Living
The day was intentionally slow, featuring snorkeling and a peaceful village walk. In the evening, I flew to Barbados, ending my Saint Lucia experience.
🇧🇧 Day 19 – Barbados Island Tour
I toured Barbados, visiting Harrison’s Cave and the dramatic coastline at Bathsheba Beach. Dinner included flying fish and cou-cou, the island’s national dish. The friendly atmosphere made the day especially enjoyable. Daily spend was about $150.
🇧🇧 Day 20 – Farewell to the Caribbean
On the final day, I woke early for a sunrise swim, enjoyed a relaxed breakfast, picked up last souvenirs, and prepared for departure. The journey ended with gratitude and unforgettable memories.
🌅 Final Words
The West Indies teaches you slow living. Every island feels different, every sunset tells a new story. These 20 days were not just a vacation—they were a complete reset for the mind, body, and soul.
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