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The Leeward Islands, a geographical grouping with an essentially shared history, have developed over time into six separate nations. They have a common interest in tourism, and in economic and cultural advancement for their ethnically diverse but essentially harmonious populations.

As long as you avoid the hurricane season during the latter half of the year, you'll enjoy pleasant tropical temperatures between 81°F and 95°F (27°C and 35°C) and bright sunny days that never seem to end.

The varied cuisines that travelers enjoy while cruising the Leeward Islands reflect the diverse cultures from which they come, featuring a broad palate of seafood dishes drawing from local Caribbean and African, French, Dutch, British and Asian influences.

Along with the Windward Islands, the small Leeward Islands form the Lesser Antilles on the eastern border of the Caribbean Sea. The geography of the Leeward Islands is comprised primarily by coral and volcanic islands. The soil on the coral islands is not well suited to agriculture, making these countries' primary economic engine tourism.

The cultures of the Leeward Islands are as diverse as the people that inhabit them, coming from many countries in western Europe (like France, the Netherlands, Great Britain, and others) and Africa. Much of the culture ties back into the region's colonial European roots, but there is also a notable presence of unique local Caribbean traditions.