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Caribbean real estate listings options are widely varied. Owning a property in the islands provides a great opportunity to experience life in paradise. Whether searching for a condo, beach bungalow or luxurious complex, there are options available to meet all needs. The region is known as the West Indies, and encompasses more than 7,000 islands, reefs, cays and islets. Its name came from Christopher Columbus. When he arrived in 1492, he thought he had reached the Indies, in Asia. Historically, the area is known for its connections to slavery, the spread of European colonization and the growth of the plantation system. There are over 30 territories in the area, including dependencies, sovereign states and overseas departments. These include the Bahamas, Lucayan Archipelago and the Antilles, which are sub-divided into the Greater and Lesser Antilles. The Lucayan Archipelago includes the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos islands. Located in the Greater Antilles are Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico. The Lesser Antilles include the U. S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Antigua, Barbuda, Saint Martins, Saint Kitts, Nevis, Saba, Saint Eustatius, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. This tropical region is recognized for the extreme biodiversity of its terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Land areas include dry cactus scrublands and upland cloud forests. The shallow waters are home to extensive seagrass meadows. About eight percent of the world's coral reefs are located among these islands. It features 70 hard coral species, and hosts up to 700 varieties of reef fish. The area has a rich and diverse cultural heritage. About 37.5 million people inhabit the islands. Most residents have an African heritage. Others are descended from Spanish, English, Dutch, French, Italian, Portuguese, Indian and Chinese ancestors. Spanish and English are the main languages spoken. However, some natives speak French, Dutch, Haitian Creole and Papiamento. The main religions include Christianity, Islam, Rastafari, Hinduism, Voodoo and Santeria. The clear, warm tropical waters and diverse, exotic landscapes provide many opportunities for recreational activities. Swimming, scuba diving, sailing, fishing and kite-surfing are popular water-sports. Hiking, camping, wildlife-watching and bicycling are among the most popular land-based activities. Caribbean real estate listings can open the door to life in paradise. Whether seeking an affordable beach bungalow or apartment, or an expensive luxury estate, there are a wide array of properties among the islands to meet all needs. Some people choose to purchase properties as investments, while others are motivated because they wish to live in the islands.
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