Fly Away From the Past To A

Beautiful Landing Into The Future

Exploring their Purposes

Great Festival & Events in the Caribbean

Caribbean Islands

Contents

Message from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat .................................................. 4

Message from Island Skies ............................................................................................................. 5

Fly Away From the Past To A Beautiful Landing Into The Future .................................................... 6

Exploring their Purposes ................................................................................................................ 9

Great Festival & Events in the Caribbean ..................................................................................... 15

Trinidad and Tobago .................................................................................................................... 15

Jamaica ........................................................................................................................................ 15

Antigua-Barbuda .......................................................................................................................... 16

Cuba ............................................................................................................................................ 17

Izzhempto Bosm to be Honoured with Nelson Mandela .............................................................. 18

Lifetime Achievement Award ....................................................................................................... 18

Caribbean Islands ......................................................................................................................... 19

CARIBBEAN TIME ZONES .............................................................................................................. 20

Areas in the Caribbean which use the GMT -5 time zone correspond with Eastern Standard Time

in the United States and Canada. ................................................................................................. 20

Areas in the Caribbean which use the GMT -4 time zone correspond with the Atlantic Standard

Time Zone which is used in Puerto Rico. ...................................................................................... 20

These corresponding time zones do not always result in the same local time due to daylight

saving time not being observed in all locations. ........................................................................... 20

ISLAND SKIES SAFETY MEASURES ................................................................................................. 21

According to the Federal Aviation Administration ....................................................................... 22

Evacuation ................................................................................................................................... 22

Electronics on Board .................................................................................................................... 22

Exit Row Seating .......................................................................................................................... 22

Fire or Smoke ............................................................................................................................... 22

Use a wet napkin or handkerchief over nose and mouth. ............................................................ 22

Passenger Safety Information ...................................................................................................... 22

CHILDREN SAFETY ON AIRPLANES ................................................................................................ 22

The Caribbean is the splendour of the tropics, with its warm,

welcoming and friendly people who deserve the best offerings of life.

Island Skies has a mission to complement the delightful qualities of the

Caribbean people with a service that is unparalleled and exclusive.

Island Skies offers a network of flights which open up the region to

diverse destinations worldwide. Our introductory Outer Space Tours

have created a tremendous sensation and another historic milestone is

our inaugural non-stop flight to South Africa which opens up a new

world of business and cultural exchange.

Our customers’ comfort and safety are our first priority. Feel free to

take advantage of our time efficient flights which take you directly to

traditional destinations – fewer connections and less waiting time.

Island Skies also offers to our customers visiting the Caribbean

attractively priced travel-hotel packages.

While awaiting flights, de-stress in our travel spa salon, socialise in our

music lounge or simply pass the time in our family-friendly lounges at

all airports region-wide. Be sure to enjoy a satisfying meal, utilise

entertainment features, or simply enjoy the comfort of the refreshing

rainforest lounges, a popular attraction at any of our international

airports in the region. The newly installed in-flight features include

grouped seating which creates a private haven with new levels of

exclusivity. Indulge in travelling with us. Island Skies is Caribbean. Let

us treat you with Caribbean style!

ISLAND SKIES Facts Incorporation Date December 1, 2029

Operational Launch January 1, 2030

Head of Operations Caribbean Union and Regional Airline (CURA)

Corporate Headquarters The Towers, Waterfront Highway Kingston, Jamaica

Website www.Island-SkiesAirlines.com Reservations 188-446-2399 (toll free) 876-924-7500 (Jamaica)

Operational Hub Donald Sangster International Airport Montego Bay, Jamaica

Airline Code IS

Message from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat

For more than half a century, Caribbean people and nations at large have

hoped that an era would arrive where the Caribbean would have a single

airline operating within the region. Many reasoned that a single airline

jointly owned, funded and operated by Caribbean countries would harness

benefits for the Caribbean and solve several problems faced within the

industry. Over the years many ideas have been developed, plans

established, and arguments made in support of this stance. However, none

of these were ever really and entirely implemented because they either

lacked feasibility or were not financially viable. In addition to this, many

people simply did not support the notion. Fortunately, the dream did not die there; these ideas were further

developed over the years by varying Caribbean nationals who saw the need for this single airline.

The year, 2030, engraves in Caribbean history the realisation of a dream shared by many who came before us

and those in contemporary society who worked assiduously to see the launch of a Caribbean airline. The

establishment of the Caribbean Union and Regional Airline (CURA) will see the initiation of Island Skies, the

first regional airline in the Caribbean. Under the management of CURA, Island Skies has pledged its service to

the

Caribbean. The launch of this airline signifies for CARICOM, the achievement at a milestone; a milestone that

possesses the potential to be a catalyst for further integration among Caribbean countries, both commercially

and socially. For Caribbean nationals this development creates a variety of opportunities associated with intra-

regional tourism within the Caribbean.

The entire development has attracted many professionals once lost by the region to favourable employment

opportunities in the US and Europe, to return home in an effort to improve the progress the region is making.

The recent implementation of the Caribbean Working Class Treaty (CWCT) on November 18, 2029 allows

professionals in the field of hospitality and tourism to travel to and work freely in any Caribbean country of

their choice. This provision will see an expansion in the labour force across the Caribbean and a reduction in

poverty levels. The treaty provides several benefits pertaining to taxes, travel rights, among others.

With the implementation of the CWCT and the launch of Island Skies, the Caribbean is now geared toward

promoting and advertising the region as a single tourist destination with all countries receiving equal

recognition. It is CARICOM’s intention to utilize these developments as a bridge for integration in trade and

other commerce among Caribbean countries. The Caribbean must now seek to embrace this development and

endeavour to make progress in efforts to improve our nations and by extension, the region, for the long

awaited era is here; the era of integration and unity.

Andrew Clarke, Secretary-

General of CARICOM

Message from Island Skies

This year, 2030, undoubtedly marks the redefinition of the

Caribbean in air travel. Island Skies’ inaugural flight scheduled for

March 29, 2030 will depart from the Donald Sangster International

Airport, Montego Bay, Jamaica- the hub of the Caribbean Union and

Regional Airline (CURA). It is with our utmost humility that the Island

Skies team warmly welcomes those who are actively partaking in

this launch as well as our passengers scheduled to be onboard. Our

gratitude is extended to you and the Caribbean people at large, in

joining us in making history in the Caribbean skies. We are pleased

to provide such a prestigious service to the Caribbean people and

the world at large, by flying you to see friends and family, taking you

on business trips and great adventures.

The shareholder and management agreements made among the member states of CURA create a

solid partnership and union among Caribbean nations in creating a well-deserved service for its

people. Under CURA’s direction Island Skies’ mission is to provide a world class, second to none travel

experience to its people in and out of the Caribbean. The union provides a single reservation and

ticketing system and single maintenance and information systems. Our flight schedules have been

designed to provide our customers with flawless connectivity to all destinations previously travelled

to by the different airlines of the Caribbean. Island Skies’ intends to spread its wings to new horizons,

initiating with South Africa.

Our team is poised at providing safe, optimum travel services with the vast fleet provided by the

CURA. Together the member states have assembled a fleet of modern airplanes including but not

limited to 12 Boeing 737 aircrafts, 9 Boeing 747 aircrafts, 6 Embraer 195 aircrafts, 3 Sukhoi Super jet

100 aircrafts, and 3 Airbus 380 aircrafts. Island Skies will proudly provide nonstop flights from the

Caribbean to Australia where the 2030 staging of the World Cup Football will be held. In our mission

as a responsible corporate group we intend to support Caribbean societies where needed in areas of

education, sports, and arts. Island Skies has already started to assist in the rebuilding of schools in

Haiti. The team will be assisting both the Jamaica Reggae Boyz and Trinidad Warriors who have both

qualified to compete in the World Cup Football 2030.

It is with pleasure that Island Skies takes this opportunity to wish you a warm, friendly, and safe flight,

in our care, for 2030 and years to come. Prosperity be unto this endeavour and prosperity be unto the

Caribbean.

Kameika Coleman, Island Skies

General Manager

Image Retrieved from ( jamaicapage.com)

Air Jamaica was established in October 1968 and began

operations on April 1, 1969. The national airline was

under a tripartite agreement between the Jamaican

government, the British Overseas Airways Corporation

and British West Indies Airways (BWIA). On April 1,

1969 emerged the birth of Air Jamaica, limited so that

the majority of the shares were owned by the Jamaican

Government and the minority of interest in Air Canada.

Around that time Air Jamaica had made history of

being Jamaica’s national airline. It offered non-stop

flights from Kingston and Montego Bay to New York

and Miami and became “the little piece of Jamaica that

flies”. Air Jamaica had begun to expand its routes and

flight schedules as well as focused on giving their

passengers a one of a kind in-flight experience.

Passengers were given complimentary air Jamaica

signature drinks named Rum Bamboozle and a fashion

show that highlighted fashion from Jamaican designers.

The 70’s was a significant period for the airline

concerning their growth and more routes were added.

In addition, the launch of Air Jamaica’s Sky Writings

flight magazine was considered to be a new dimension

to their on-board product. Up to 1984, the Jamaican

Government had full ownership of Air Jamaica but sold

the majority of the shares to a private owner known as

Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart in 1994 with them having a

minority stake. In 2004, the airline was back in the

hands of the government due to severe financial

constraints and a meltdown in the airline industry.

However Air Jamaica failed as a result of poor

management, being under financed and travelling to

routes that were not financially viable. However, the

airline has been owned and operated by Caribbean

Airlines since May 26, 2011 and the government of

Jamaica has a 16% share in ownership. Caribbean

Airlines operates both Caribbean Airlines and Air

Jamaica brands.

Fly Away From the Past To A Beautiful Landing Into The Future

Image Retrieved from ( tobagoestate.com)

BWIA, which means British West Indies Airways,

locally known as B-WEE, was founded in 1939 and

commenced on November 27, 1940 was a national

airline for Trinidad and Tobago. The airline shut down

its operations on December 31, 2006 and is now taken

over by Caribbean Airlines. Caribbean Airlines started

operation on January 1, 2007; they picked up where

BWIA had left off. The airline which operates both

brands Caribbean Airlines and Air Jamaica had

retained the in-flight magazine known as Caribbean

Beats and in-flight video called Caribbean Essence.

They have continued flights to Miami, Toronto, New

York, Jamaica, Barbados and other Caribbean

Countries as well as retained a code share agreement

with British Airways for services to London and

beyond. The acquisition of Air Jamaica by Caribbean

Airlines created the need for the station now located

at the Norman Manley International Airport Kingston.

They have also continued service to the countries that

Air Jamaica previously travelled. In addition, the

airline was awarded by World Travel Awards in 2010

and 2011 for The Caribbean’s Leading Airline.

Image Retrieved from (scheduleconsult.com)

LIAT which means Leeward Island Air Transport is

an airline whose headquarters is located in V.C.

Bird International Airport in Antigua with other

locations in Barbados at the Grantley Adams

International Airport and Trinidad and Tobago at

the Piarco International Airport. LIAT, which uses

small aircrafts, was founded on September 20,

1956 and began flying one piper apache between

Antigua and Montserrat. Then came the

acquisition of LIAT airline by BIWA in 1957. LIAT

was able to expand their routes to other

Caribbean destinations as well as obtain new

aircrafts. However, during all its expansion LIAT

was struggling to keep the airline flying and had

called on 11 governments of the Caribbean who

stepped in and purchased the airline. The 1980s

were considered to be decade of growth for the

airline and by 1986 the airline had flights to Puerto

Rico as well as other destinations that they had

never previously been. In November 1995, LIAT

was partially privatised which saved the airline

from bankruptcy. In 2007, the airline announced

their plans to merge with Caribbean Stars Airline

with whom they had entered into a commercial

alliance. A bit later that same year, in June, the

shareholding governments Barbados, Antigua and

St. Vincent gave the go ahead to boards of

Directors to purchase all of Caribbean Star and this

purchase came through in October 24, 2007. LIAT

provides air transport services to the Eastern

Caribbean operating on a high frequency

interisland scheduled serving 21 destinations in

the Caribbean. LIAT was also awarded in 2007 as

the Caribbean’s Leading Budget/No Frills Airline by

the World Travel Awards.

Image Retrieved (seeklogo.com)

Bahamasair was established by the government of

Bahamas and began operations on June 7, 1973.

This was done through the acquisition of

Flamingo Airlines and Out Island Airways. The

government of Bahamas opted for their own

airline because British Airways had stopped flying

to the Bahamas as well as other airlines, as the

government had accurately predicted, ceased

operations. This was as a result of the oil crisis of

the 1970s. Bahamasair had encountered many

operating difficulties which included poor

maintenance facilities, economic conditions and

company structure. However, the airline

continued its move forward and opened its first

international service from Nassau to Tampa,

Florida. In 1973, major companies had stopped

operating to the Bahamas and this enabled

Bahamasair to take over a substantial portion of

the Bahamas air transport market. Throughout

the rest of the 1970s the airline added new routes

to other cities in Florida hence there was a rapid

growth. During the 1980s Bahamasair lost

because they expanded to routes that were not

financially viable and so in 1989 those routes were

cut off the airline’s map. In that same year also,

the airline got a new fleet of Boeing 727s and new

uniforms for staff were introduced. However,

their Boeing 727s didn’t last due to political

favours and interference which resulted in the

airline losing vast sums of money in the late 1980s’

and early 1990s. Presently, the Bahamasir airline

serves all the islands of the Bahamas, Cuba,

Dominican Republic, Turks and Caicos Island

and Florida. In November 2011, the government

had tabled plans to convert the Bahamasair

Boeing 737-200 aircraft to more fuel efficient and

cost effective aircraft.

Island Skies Airline, the future for 2030, is an airline that is proposed to serve

the entire Caribbean region. Island Skies came about as a result of the crisis

that the airline industry in the Caribbean has endured for decades. Given the

importance of tourism to the region, tourism professionals are recognizing that

it is more worthwhile and cost effective for the region to have a single carrier

that will provide passenger air services for the entire Caribbean. Financial crisis

was not the sole problem encountered by previous carriers, but foundations

they have built for years failed to adequately market the Caribbean and create

regional cooperation and international links. As a result Island Skies wishes to

restructure those foundations that the carriers have built and set the pace,

create linkages, and market the Caribbean as one tourist destination, putting

an end to the struggles and crisis that preceding airlines encountered

throughout the years. Island Skies wishes to say thank you to all the airlines in

the Caribbean because without them this proposed venture would not have

been possible to envision. The airline intends to have their own in-flight

magazine, complimentary food and drink, champagne for first class passengers

with a red carpet check in at the counter.

The Caribbean is more than just the coconut trees, reggae music, the sand and the sea. It is an area populated with many plants and herbs with boundless capabilities. The Caribbean is considered to be one of the 34 biodiversity hotspots in the world. To us who live here, it is known to be a hotspot for medicinal plants and herbs. The simple fact that the medicinal purposes of these plants have only been in oral tradition have previously caused problems in verification. It was hard to identify myth from reality. Recent studies in the last 2 years reflect that researchers have been able to identify reality and as such the medicinal properties can be used. The names of such herbs and plants vary from island to island for this purpose we will refer to their biological names.

Coffee Arabic(coffee)

Cocos Nucifera (coconut oil)

It is used as a massage base for rubbing,

especially the head as it prevents hair loss and

premature greying.

Aloe Vera (Aloes)

Used as a laxative, has great powers when used

to tackle colds as well as asthma. When applied

externally to the skin it has healing powers, it

heals wounds bruises and burns

The Caribbean: Next Stop to Health

Exploring their Purposes

It is among the best coffee found in the world. Those found in the

Caribbean are under the brand Blue Mountain Coffee. The ground coffee

beans are used in body scrubs and other detoxifying treatments which have

proven to provide healthy skin.

Cocoa( theobroma cacao)

Great anti-oxidant purposes

Cymboprogan citrates (fever grass)

This plant commonly found around the

Caribbean, is used to treat fevers, colds and

influenza when used as a warm beverage.

The Caribbean and the cure for cancer Annona muricate (Soursop)

The pill format is also very effective. The soursop cure has been proven effective for specific types of cancers which are pancreatic, prostate and lung cancer which are some of the most common forms of cancer. The soursop cure is now the most preferred and leading cure as it does not have the common side effects of other treatments such as hair loss. The soursop cure not only heals and cures cancer but it also helps protect the immune system and prevents infections.

The cure has been open to all persons willing to explore its effectiveness by choosing their preferred treatment

option. The Caribbean health and cancer centers have now partnered with Island Skies to provide you with your

opportunity to get treatment. With discounted flights anything is possible!

Soursop as it is called on the islands is also known by its biological name Annona Muricate. It was first discovered as a potential cure in 2011. Studies showed that it possesses qualities that could possibly treat cancer cells. In the year 2027 breaking news released that the cure for cancer was found in the midst of the Caribbeans’ rich in biodiversity.

The key ingredient to the cure is found within the bark and leaves of the soursop plant. It can be ingested in various ways, the fruit can be eaten as it is or it can be juiced to make a delicious drink which can be sweetened with honey or milk. The stem and the leaves can be used to produce a tea.

Jolly Harbour Golf Club

Nassau's famous coral reefs

The Great Blue Hole

Caribbean Hot Spots…. Explore the marvels of the islands

Antigua

As one of the premiere golfing venues of the Caribbean, Jolly Harbour Golf Club is

the perfect place to compete in a friendly game of rivalry. Designed impeccably

by world renowned golf course architect, Kirk Litton of Florida, the 5,587 yards

green hilly terrain has been sculptured into the ideal golf course including seven

lakes which add a little complexity and excitement to the game. The club includes

clubhouse with pro shop, snack bar, showers and locker room which are freely

available to visitors on a daily basis.

The Bahamas

Looking for an unforgettable under water experience? A marvellous adventure

awaits you in the shallows of the Nassau coral reefs. Enjoy a 5 hour trip exploring

Nassau under water where you can go swimming with the most exotic fish,

examine the wrecks, or for a thrill of a lifetime go swimming with the sharks! Tours

are made available by Stuart Cove’s diving operation which provides all diving

equipment necessary.

Belize

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the world’s deepest sea hole where you can swim with the most beautiful fish and meet the sharks of the Caribbean. Famed by slightly elevated coral, The Great Blue Hole is home to a unique ecosystem which is a magnificent sight to see and attracts divers from all over the world.

Dominica

The Emerald Pool is the perfect location for nature lovers and those who appreciate being in the tranquil environs of nature’s untainted gifts. The Emerald Pool is one of Dominica’s most visited attractions and is featured in numerous movies. Even to this day it remains one of the most photographed attractions and lends the perfect backdrop for wedding ceremonies.

Grenada

A mysterious world awaits you off-shore Grenada. Underwater, lies the still civilization

of living sculptures done by internationally acclaimed ecosculptor Jason deCaires

Taylor. The objective of building this underwater world was to replenish the

ecosystem and pull tourists away from the fragile naturally occuring reefs. The

scultures act as an artificial reef which atracts various exotic fish and other living

organisims.

Guyana The natural beauty of the Kaieteur Falls is a tourist’s paradise. Nestled in the centre of

lucious greenery, the Kaieteur Falls is a sight to behold! Surrounded by exotic flora

and fauna the Kaieteur National Park is the perfect location for relaxation and

observing nature.

Haiti Labadee is the perfect tourist attraction; other than its naturally beautiful

coastline this destination has a wide variety of activities for tourist to get involved

in. The beach provides a gorgeous place for relaxation and getting the perfect tan.

Kayaking, snorkelling and parasailing are few of the many activities offered at this

beautiful tourist haven.

The Emerald Pool

Underwater Sculprute

Kaieteur National Park

Labadee

White River Valley

Jamaica Hidden in the rainforest of the White River Valley the ever changing river

flows are accompanied by the singing of exotic birds and murmurs of insects.

This is the location for various water activities due to the different paces of

the river. Visitors can enjoy rafting, swimming, kayaking or tubing all in this

location. While sailing through, visitors are able to observe ruins left behind

by previous colonizers.

Montserrat The Souftiere Hills Volcano plays an integral part in the civilization of Montserrat as

we know it now. This majestic beauty was the cause of the destruction that caused

the citizens of Montserrat to relocate and start life anew due to its numerous

eruptions. This majestic element can be observed from a safe distance while being

educated about the country’s history.

Saint Lucia Treetop Adventure Park offers a wide range of activities amongst the trees. Let your hair

down and swing past all the animals with the wind blowing in your face. While moving

from tree to tree, visitors can observe the beautiful flora and fauna in this luscious area.

St. Kitts and Nevis The Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is one of the best kept historical

fortifications in the Americas. This monument was designed by the British and

built by the African slaves who lived in St. Kitts. Brimstone Hill Fortress National

Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of historical, cultural and architectural

significance.

Souftiere Hills Volcano

Treetop Adventures Park

Brimstine Hill Fortress

St. Vincent The St. Vincent Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest of its kind and

sanctuary to an abundant species of flora and fauna. The wide variety of

beautiful animals and plants makes it one of the most visited spots in St.

Vincent.

Suriname The Colonial era Presidential Palace is one of the most well-known buildings in

Suriname. The prominent white structure stands out in the presence of the

other wooden mansions around it; its doors are opened for ceremonial

occasions and Independence Day.

Trinidad and Tobago Pigeon Point Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the

Caribbean. Its natural charm and beauty provides the ideal location for

beach lovers or for persons who just want to relax. Restaurants and

bars are in close proximity to the beach which makes the experience

even more enjoyable.

St. Vincent Botanical Garden

The Presidential Palace

Pigeon Point Beach

Great Festival & Events in the Caribbean

There is more to the Caribbean than sands and beaches…

Trinidad and Tobago

Carnival is an annual event celebrated on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesdays. The momentous

event is part of the island’s cultural and tourism calendar. Running in the lead up to the street parade in

costumes stick fighting and limbo completion are also important artifacts of the carnival.

Jamaica

JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL traditionally held in the month of January in the parish of either St. James or

Trelawny. 25 live acts performing over three days. Major international music acts. Venue with amazing views

of the coastline of Jamaica, excellent parking facilities, security, comfortable amenities and plenty of room to

completely relax, dance, and enjoy the Festival vibes. Art of Music Talent Stage featuring undiscovered,

unsigned, upcoming and original Jamaican and international artistes.

International Artist Local Artist

ST.KITTS AND NEVIS

The international triathlon is an annual athletic event held in May. This event has fascinated local, regional

and international competitors. The athletic event includes swimming in the tranquil Caribbean Sea, exigent

ride along the scenic Southeast Peninsula and running along Frigate Bay area.

Antigua-Barbuda

Turtle watch at Pasture beach, long island (Jumby Bay) held at the end of the month of October. The local

and international tourists travel for this special event to view the endangered species of turtles that come

on shore. Visitors take photos to remember the adventure of a once in a life time experience.

Master of the ocean is a magnificent event held in the month of February where local and international

tourist who are interested in water sports travel to this beautiful island to be engaged in these roaring

athletic activities which include surf, windsurf and kite surf.

Cuba

Havana International Rap Festival is held in the month if August. The event has attracted an increasing

number of hip hop artists from other countries, as well as featuring many important local groups. There are

more than 1,000 rap groups in Cuba today. More recently, the festival has also included rap dancing, graffiti

artists, a series of films.

Izzhempto Bosm to be Honoured with Nelson Mandela

Lifetime Achievement Award

Jamaican Reggae sensation Romel

Robinson, better known as Izzhempto

Bosm will be the recipient of the Nelson

Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award

at the 20th annual World African Pride

Gala in Ghana.

The Nelson Mandela

Lifetime

Achievement

Award is

presented each

year to an

individual who

embodies

attributes of a

true humanitarian.

These recipients are

dedicated to the

empowerment of others

and promoting unity

among persons of African

descent.

“We are honoured that

Izzhempto Bosm has accepted

this award and applaud his

contribution to the African

Community through his music

and service,” said WAPO

president and founder Jaheel Mandela.

Izzhempto Bosm serves as the founder

and president of The LOTUS

Foundation which now

gives a home to over 250

homeless and unfortunate

adolescents. During their

stay at the foundation they

are given reading lessons

and training in various

skills in order to make

them more efficient

once they leave.

The 2030 World African

Pride Gala will be held

April 2nd in the Ritz

Carlton Ballroom in

Ghana. Last year close to

700 guests attended from all

over the world raising US $ 27

mil. Part proceeds of the funds

raised at this event goes

towards providing more

educational opportunities for

young Africans and the latter is

given to the charity of the Nelson

Mandela lifetime achievement

award recipient.

Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean islands embrace an extraordinary place in the hearts of its people, from childhood tales of treasure on a deserted island hidden by ‘Caribbean Sea’ pirates to a silky smooth beach with white sand and turquoise waters. View a map of the Caribbean and try to decide which one country to visit…that is indeed a hard task. The truth is all the islands in the Caribbean offer a unique, varying, and diverse experience teasing one to get a taste of them all.

CARIBBEAN TIME ZONES

The Caribbean nations use one of two time zones. From west to east they are GMT -5 and GMT -4.

Areas in the Caribbean which use the GMT -5 time zone correspond with Eastern Standard Time in the United States and Canada.

Areas in the Caribbean which use the GMT -4 time zone correspond with the Atlantic Standard Time Zone which is used in Puerto Rico.

These corresponding time zones do not always result in the same local time due to daylight saving time not being observed in all locations.

Daylight Saving Time in the Caribbean is used by several countries, including the Bahamas, Bermuda, Cuba, Haiti, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The beginning and ending times vary for each nation.

Caribbean time zone map

ISLAND SKIES SAFETY MEASURES

According to the Federal Aviation Administration

Evacuation

LEAVE YOUR POSSESSIONS BEHIND. Stay low. Proceed to the nearest front or rear exit - count the rows between your seat and the exits. Follow floor lighting to exit. Jump feet first onto evacuation slide. Don't sit down to slide. Place arms across your chest, elbows in, and legs and feet together. Remove high-heeled shoes. Exit the aircraft and clear the area. Remain alert for emergency vehicles. NEVER RETURN TO A BURNING AIRCRAFT.

Electronics on Board

The FCC and FAA ban cell phones for airborne use because its signals could interfere with critical aircraft instruments. Radios and televisions are also prohibited. Laptops and other personal electronic devices (PEDs) such as hand-held computer games and tape or CD players are also restricted to use above 10,000 feet owing to concerns they could interfere with aircraft instrumentation

Exit Row Seating

You must be physically capable and willing to perform emergency actions when seated in emergency or exit rows. If you are not, ask for another seat. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the emergency evacuation techniques outlined on the written safety instructions. Ask questions if instructions are unclear.

Fire or Smoke

Use a wet napkin or handkerchief over nose and mouth.

Move away from fire and smoke. Stay low.

Passenger Safety Information

Review the passenger safety card before takeoff and landing. Listen carefully to the safety briefing. Be able to locate emergency exits both in front and behind you. Count the rows between you and the nearest front and rear exits. Locate the flotation device. Make a mental plan of action in case of emergency.

CHILDREN SAFETY ON AIRPLANES

The safest place for your little one during turbulence or an emergency is in a government-approved child restraint system (CRS) or device, not on your lap. A CRS is a hard-backed child safety seat that is approved by the government for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft.