Although it was never my intent, I have visited many world capitals in my travels around the globe. Some of them were truly memorable and some were just average. Because the capital typically contains the government center and because much effort and investment is made in these government buildings, they are frequently must-see attractions for the tourist. It is also interesting that, outside of the United States, a country’s capital is often its largest city.
These world capitals can be found as one explores the numerous Caribbean islands.
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, US Virgin Islands — This popular cruise ship port is the shopping Mecca of the Caribbean with its numerous duty-free shops.
Charlotte Amalie Alleyway
Oranjestad, Aruba — The island of Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s top destinations because of its fantastic weather (almost no rain annually) and its location, away from the typical route of hurricanes.
Oranjestad
George Town, Cayman Islands — This capital city is popular with cruise ships traveling through the Western Caribbean.
Peace Memorial, George Town
St George’s, Grenada — The people of Grenada love Americans since we intervened in a revolution which could have plunged the island into Communism.
St George’s Harbor
Fort-de-France, Martinique — This decidedly French island has an active volcano, Mount Pelee.
St Louis Cathedral, Fort-de-France
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago — This Caribbean capital is famous for its Mardi Gras celebration, one of the most elaborate in the world.
Queens Royal College, Port of Spain
