Riselle Celestina lights up whenever she has the chance to talk about the Caribbean.
Born on the island of Curaçao, Celestina has called St. Maarten home for more than two decades.
Between the region's welcoming people, diverse landscapes, historic sites, hidden destinations, and rich cultures, Celestina told Insider that she's seen and experienced many of the islands that make up the Caribbean.
She isn't afraid to share the highlights of her home on her travel blog The Traveling Island Girl or her podcast Paradise Perspectives. And while she's eager to broadcast the good, she doesn't hesitate to share the ugly, too.
Celestina told Insider that her points of frustration often stem from visitors and their behaviors. Whether it's a cruise passenger who prances around St. Maarten wearing only a skimpy swimsuit or a visitor who forgets to say hello, Celestina said there are plenty of things tourists do that annoy both her and other islanders.
Before a trip to the Caribbean, Celestina urges travelers to research. And once you're there, don't be afraid to keep learning.
"It's your vacation destination, but it's our home," she said.