Not So Hot Caribbean Islands
Cooling hot spots you won't miss visiting this year
Snorkeling in ParadiseIt's unlikely the Caribbean will ever cool completely with North Americans. The weather is unbeatable, the beaches are as plentiful as the rum and it's just too close (and well-priced) to look anywhere else.
But though our Caribbean love affair is a year-round obsession, many islands have are losing favor with cruisers and resort goers alike. Even dedicated beach bums still want to feel there's something left to discover.
If you're still planning a getaway, feel free to cruise directly past these has-beens.
Grand Cayman
The island's commitment to the delicate coral reef means big cruise ships can't dock at the shore. But during peak season, small boats tender thousands of passengers. George Town, the tiny shopping area, is a cramped and unimaginative place to spend your money. And Seven Mile Beach, which is only 5.5 miles long, is crammed with water-sport vendors, bars and restaurants - not to mention the ridiculous number of tourists vying for their place in the sun.
Costa Maya
Literally leveled by Hurricane Dean in 2007, there's not much of anything here for anyone. Developers anticipate the port to be open again late 2008, but the nearby village of Majahaul could take much longer to rebuild.
Aruba
Aruba's decline has more to do with rising fuel costs than anything else. It's at the southern tip of the Caribbean and many cruise lines are trimming Aruba from itineraries in an effort to save costs. Carnival doesn't offer Aruba on any of its 2008 ports of call. Cruising aside, Aruba offers unbeatable duty-free shopping, more casinos than you can ever hope to visit and world-class golf. And of course beaches, beaches and more beaches.
Got plans to jump ship and find a new place to float your boat this year?
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