Typically categorized as a sub-region of North America (similarly to neighboring Central America), the Caribbean Sea has had a unique history of development in the shadow of its much larger surrounding mainland neighbors. Today there are 13 independent countries in the Caribbean region along with 17 additional overseas territories, mostly dependent on the United States, United Kingdom, France, or the Netherlands.

With a population of roughly 11 million citizens, Cuba is the largest country by population in the Caribbean region. Having only recently normalized relations with the United States and other Western countries, Cuba is beginning to open its doors to international interns as well, and it is a very exciting time to be visiting the country.

With populations hovering around 10 million citizens, Haiti and the Dominican Republic are not far behind Cuba in terms of population size. Both of these countries are important regional players with tight knit cultures, and can be very rewarding destinations where to intern abroad in the Caribbean.

Other potential destinations where you might seek out internships in the Caribbean region include Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Bear in mind throughout your search that Caribbean countries vary in their national languages, the most common being Spanish, English, French and Creole.