Reader's Choice Awards Names #1 Caribbean Island of 2019

Condé Nast Traveler announced the results of its annual poll on Tuesday, revealing the #1 Caribbean Island of 2019.

Can you guess which Caribbean island took the top spot in Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards 2019? After a record-breaking number of votes from readers, one country won first place overall, and several others were named in the Top 5. In addition, the poll ranked the best hotels, resorts, and cities in the world for travelers.

#1 Caribbean Island for 2019: Puerto Rico

cueva ventana puerto rico credit Alamy — Cueva Ventana, Puerto Rico (Credit: Alamy)

After about 600,000 votes, the 32nd annual Reader’s Choice Awards crowned Puerto Rico as this year’s winner! Amazingly, the US territory has beaten all odds after an incredibly rough hurricane season in 2017 to bounce back as the top Caribbean destination.

Under the Best Islands in the World category, Puerto Rico took first place in the Caribbean and Atlantic sub-category. Thanks to its “no passport required” perk for Americans, it’s one of the easiest Caribbean islands for US citizens to visit. It’s also a popular stop for cruise lines, with a handful of ships stopping in San Juan daily. According to Condé Nast, more than a million cruise ship passengers visit the historic capital each year.

Of course, there are plenty of other reasons beyond accessibility that make Puerto Rico a fabulous vacation destination. This Spanish and English- speaking island seems to have everything– amazing beaches, towering but hikable mountains, horseback riding, ziplining, stunning secluded islands, you name it!

Top 5 islands

After Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands take second place. You can get to Grand Cayman from Miami in just an hour, making this country one of the most accessible to visit in the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands are known for great snorkeling, sea turtle sightings, hiking, sailing, and golfing.

Turks & Caicos comes in at a close third. Although just 8 of the country’s 40-or-so islands are inhabited, there are plenty of incredible vacation villas to make you wish you were a permanent resident. If you’re looking for ultimate relaxation during your vacation, Providenciales is known for its top-notch wellness resorts. In addition, the island is home to the world’s best beach, Grace Bay Beach.

Jamaica takes fourth place. The island has long been a favorite among Spring breakers, but that doesn’t mean it’s not family friendly. You’ll find all kinds of charming things to do there, such as water sports, beach lounging, and scuba diving and snorkeling. What’s more, there’s even a cool water park for the kids.

Rounding out this list in fifth place is the island of Bermuda. Although it’s not technically a Caribbean island, it has a subtropical climate. In addition, it shares many aspects of Caribbean culture. Popular for its pink-sand beaches, this North Atlantic island is accessible by direct flight from many east coast cities of the US.

Visit the top 10 beaches Turks & Caicos. — An aerial view of Leeward Beach, Turks & Caicos. (Source: Visittci.com)

Other Caribbean awards

The Condé Nast Reader’s Choice Awards also chose winners in a host of other categories, such as best small cities in the world, and best hotels. Here are the Caribbean winners:

Best Caribbean Hotel: S Hotel Jamaica, Montego Bay

Best Caribbean resort: Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Puerto Rico

Cruise Lines, Mega Ships: Royal Caribbean International

Cruise Lines, Large Ships: Disney Cruise Line

Medium/Small Ships: Crystal Cruises

Main image credit: BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock

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