By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor
Beyond all those white-sand beaches, rummy cocktails and duty-free shopping is a side of the Caribbean you probably didn’t know exists. Browse these unexpected island activities then tear yourself away from the sand for an experience you’ll never forget.
Make your own perfume on St. Martin
The French tradition of perfumery is alive on well at Tijon in Grand Case, where you’ll join one- to three-hour classes and learn how to combine essential oils into a signature fragrance that you can take with you and re-order once you get home.
Ride a Hot Air Balloon in the Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is the only place in the Caribbean where you can take a hot air balloon tour. Dominican Balloons’ 75-minute airborne adventure ascends as high as 3,000 feet, and concludes with a buffet breakfast and champagne toast.
Go to Hell on Grand Cayman
How do you turn a jagged West Bay field of black limestone into a tourist attraction? First, name it Hell. Then set up a post office where you can send mail postmarked from “Hell.” And of course, open a gift shop where you can buy whatever the hell you want.
Swim With Pigs in The Bahamas
Get up close and personal with “the other white meat” in the turquoise waters of the Exumas, where Exuma Water Sports will take you to feed and swim with the mysterious paddling porkers at Big Major Cay. The timid can watch from the boat; more intrepid visitors just jump right in and swim with them.
Celebrate Pride Week in Curacao
The Caribbean is notoriously conservative but come September 30, this ABC isle will welcome the international LGBT community to its third annual Pride Week. Expect colorful parades, rollicking parties, and a relaxed “Live and Let Live” vibe.