Over the years, the Caribbean has provided many cocktail lovers and bartenders alike with numerous classic staples. From Mexican-based tequila cocktails to colorful Curacao masterpieces, the root of rum cocktails is firmly planted in Caribbean culture. Nowadays, cocktail creation has reached almost peak popularity with everyone looking to try something new and exciting.

If you’re new to Caribbean cocktails or are looking for new inspiration to experiment with, look no further. We’ve compiled a fresh list of cocktail recipes to try.

Let’s Get Started

All Caribbean cocktails have some needed preparation. Particularly if you’re aiming to ace these specialty drinks, you’re going to want to do some groundwork before you start. Start by  gathering all the alcoholic ingredients you need. For Caribbean cocktails, you’ll want the best of the best. Whether it’s a specific kind of rum straight from a particular country or a unique tequila, this can be the small variable that makes a huge difference. When purchasing, look into online alcohol delivery. Some can offer you specialty alcohol brands you may not be able to find in stores near you. Check to see what’s available in your area!

Next, gather your garnishes. Many Caribbean drinks require sweet fruits like oranges, pineapples and more. Make sure you have more than the base amount needed so you can munch while you mix.

Last but not least, be sure to have your bartending equipment handy! Cocktail shakers will be needed for most of these recipes so be sure to have them ready to go. Plus, ice makers, fancy glasses, and any other alcohol gadgets can help you out as you try out these new drinks

1. Pina Colada (Puerto Rico)

For the most classic of Caribbean cocktails, we had to start off with the luxurious Pina Colada. Originating in Puerto Rico over 60 years ago, this tasty rum-based coconut concoction is synonymous with a vacation in paradise. Between the delicious tropical and fruity flavors, and the ease in throwing the drink together, nothing says relaxation like a homemade pina colada.

Check out our recipe here to get started.

2. Dark “N” Stormy (Bermuda)

Born and raised in the Bermuda area, the Dark “N” Stormy is a staple rum cocktail for those who really love a bit of spice. It is said that due to the area’s abundance of rum and sailors, this drink was a favorite among many locals for quite some time. It still is to this day. Similar to an American rum and coke recipe, a Dark “N” Stormy incorporates rum and ginger beer. Adding the two together with some lime juice to finish it off creates a refreshing citrusy flavor.

Full recipe here.

3. Rum Punch (Saint Lucia)

This recipe originates in one of the most beautiful countries in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia’s. The island’s colorful and natural terrain lends itself perfectly to a sweet and colorful cocktail, like this Rum Punch. Again made with a base of rum, this punch concoction uses some of Saint Lucia’s favorite fruits like oranges, pineapples, and limes to give a sweet and refreshing kick. If you’re looking for the perfect combo of taste and appearance, this is the drink for you!

Find step-by-step instructions here.

4. Blue Lagoon (Curacao)

If you’ve ever set foot on a Caribbean island, you’re probably familiar with the crystal blue ocean water that surrounds as far as the eye can see. With this inspiration in mind, we introduce: the Blue Lagoon. Unsurprisingly, this concoction from Curacao incorporates Blue Curacao liqueur. And while you may think it would give a standard “blue drink” flavor, this recipe is focused instead on a lemonade taste. If you’re looking for something sweet for your next pool party or even a night at home, give this colorful drink a shot.

Find the full drink here!

5. Classic Margarita (Mexico)

Although Mexico isn’t always considered part of the Caribbean, we would be remiss if we omitted the classic Mexican margarita. This drink has risen to extreme popularity since its initial introduction in 1942. It consists of classic, pure tequila mixed with liqueur and juice. You can’t go wrong with a margarita that not only tastes good, but also looks good! 

See our recipe here.

6. Painkiller (British Virgin Islands)

This drink derives from the British Virgin Islands, a stretch of islands in the Caribbean known for its historical connection to England. The “painkiller” name comes from local lore claiming that a few glasses will make you forget your all your pain. Locals and vacationers of the area enjoy it as they swim back and forth between their boats and beach-side bars, a tradition you can still take part in today.

What makes this drink unique is the usage of darker rum rather than lighter variations of rum that are recommended for the previous concoctions. This is a nice mix-up if you’re a fan of dark rum!

Full recipe here.

7. Aruba Aribe (Aruba)

Using Coecoei, a local Aruban liquor, as a base, this drink is a unique rum and vodka combination that puts it in a class of its own. It can be combined with any of your favorite fruit juices like pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and orange juice. This rich, red cocktail is a yummy, fruity option that you should consider trying!

If you’re able to acquire Aruba specialty liquors, this recipe should be a no-brainer!

Check out the full recipe on the official Visit Aruba blog!

Financially planning for a vacation may not always take the additional fees in account that can spring up at the last minute. Without being aware and preparing for them, it’ll be much more likely that you go over your travel budget. Here are just a few unexpected travel expenses to keep in mind when setting aside money for your trip!

Foreign Transaction Fees

If you’re using a debit card to make purchases during your vacation, foreign transaction fees can quickly add up. These costs are usually three percent of every purchase that you make with a card. Cards that have foreign transaction fees typically charge an international ATM fee as well, which could cost $5 for every withdrawal. To combat this, you’ll want to have all of your exchange money handy before even leaving the country, or enroll in a spending account with no foreign transaction or overdraft fees. This way, you’ll be able to relax and not worry about paying an extra three percent on every meal, souvenir, or train ticket! 

Oversized and Overweight Baggage

While bringing checked baggage to the airport is a commonly known payment, did you know that airlines will also charge you for having baggage that is oversized and overweight? The easiest way to ensure you won’t have to worry about paying an extra $50-100 is to do research on your airline before arriving at the airport. Weighing and measuring your bag ahead of time will allow you to make sure that all your luggage meets the guidelines given by your airline! This will save you a lot of heartache and money, too.

Wi-Fi and Food in the Hotel

Although they may look complimentary, oftentimes the food and beverage in your hotel room can cost you extra (and the Wi-Fi, too!). Check to make sure there aren’t any signs or pamphlets in the room with a fee associated with any food or beverage displayed in the room. Or, to be certain, call the front desk before opening any food or signing into the Wi-Fi. While this may seem overboard, it will help you out in the long-run, and your wallet too.

Mobile Roaming and Data

Last but not least, when traveling internationally, it’s important to keep in mind that usage of your phone can lead to extra charges for roaming and mobile data. Be sure to turn off roaming on your phone to avoid this charge completely. You’ll also want to consider a free Wi-Fi calling and texting app to be able to communicate with your family and friends for both check-ins and in case of an emergency.  Finally, make sure to only use apps on your phone when you have Wi-Fi to avoid charges for using mobile data.

Traveling, especially internationally, can come with lots of unexpected costs that can put a damper on your travel budget. However, with the proper research and planning, you’ll be able to avoid these fees altogether and have the trip of a lifetime!