Your 411 to paradise

Ready to unplug yourself and drift away to the island of your dreams? Better make a move before someone else takes your spot. Use this handy guide to find the one that's just right for you.

Caribbean SunshineAntigua: With more than 300 beaches to choose from, there's lots of room here to lose yourself. And if you're into textile-free vacations, we recommend Hawksville Beach. Bring your lunch or buy a one-day pass because there are no restaurants here.

Aruba: If you've ever been to Aruba you'll agree it's like visiting your beautiful older cousin for the weekend. Everything here is more polished and stylish than many Caribbean islands. But if you're looking for the kind of fun that you had in college, it's here too. Check out Mi Dushi and reacquaint yourself with your younger, free-spirit.

Barbados: A surfer coastline dominates the Atlantic side while idyllic shores will calm your troubled soul along the Caribbean shore. Skip the sometimes noisy Bridgetown and St. Lawrence Gap and chart a course for the eastern side of the island where you'll find wilderness hiking trails, surf sports and a delicious sampling of local culture.

Curacao: Savor the delightful blend of Dutch and Caribbean cuisine amidst a sorbet-colored landscape. Start with the most popular dish - Edam cheese filled with savory stew and baked until yummy.

Jamaica: A recent push to improve its international image has put this Caribbean hot-spot back on the map. You'll find sparkling beaches, gorgeous cliffs and a healthy choice of all-inclusive resorts. For some real fun, zip-line across the jungle canopy in Ocho Rios - the most eco-logical way to enjoy the vistas here.

St. Kitts: From century-old state houses to modern resorts, beautiful beaches to sugar plantations St Kitts is a study in contrasts. Thankfully, this is the kind of study that's all about the fun - no books involved!

Caribbean islands, how do we love thee. Let us count the ways again and again and again.

What's your favourite Caribbean hot-spot?