Car rental is straightforward on most Caribbean islands, with major companies operating on many and local outfits offering stiff competition in terms of price. On many of the islands you will need to buy a local, temporary driving permit, usually valid for three to six months and costing US$15-25. Car rental will cost on average US$200-350 per week for a compact automatic with air conditioning. Be prepared to be refused, or at least charged a hefty surcharge - sometimes as much as the regular rate again - if you are under 25. Be aware that on most Caribbean islands vehicles drive on the left, with the exceptions being Aruba, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, and St Eustatius.

Driving conditions and local driving patterns vary widely. Many roads are narrow or winding, signs may not be in English or there at all, some routes may be little more than dust tracks and inaccessible after rain or without a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and in some places domestic animals roam freely. Defensive driving , therefore, is a must. Be prepared to use your horn - and your hand gestures - liberally.

Many hotels and resorts will either rent bicycles to guests or have a company nearby with whom they can arrange preferential rates (US$10-25/day with discounts for weeklong rentals). Similarly, scooters and motorbikes are available; some local car rental agencies have motorbikes and scooters for hire. Count on paying around US$20 per day or US$130 per week for a scooter; US$25 per day or US$160 per week for a motorbike