There are so many different experiences available in the Caribbean: the classic beach getaway; the rainforest retreat; the urban adventure; the castaway island escape, and everything in between.

If you’re looking for something different, though, it’s time to think about a trip to one of the Caribbean’s small towns.

These places have a bit of everything – food, nightlife, culture and a unique portal to experience authentic island living.

Here are five wonderful Caribbean towns to think about.

St. Pierre, Martinique

Dubbed the “Caribbean Pompeii,” this was once the Paris of the Caribbean until a 1902 volcano utterly destroyed the area. Now, it’s a charming, classic French-Caribbean town, with great food, bakeries, hiking, historical ruins and even a rum distillery right on the volcano.