If you are planning to travel anywhere in the Americas or Caribbean in February and want to avoid (or join) the festivities and additional crowds over Carnival 2012, you'll want to keep these dates in mind. Once the party ends on Mardi Gras (February 21, 2012) things pretty much get back to normal, though for ease of travel, you may want to wait another day or two.

TOP 3 REASONS TO AVOID CARNEVAL

1 - Increased and potentially rowdy crowds on the beach throughout the long-weekend.
2 - Travel delays can be expected
3 - Potential for higher trip-costs at some hotels.

TOP 3 REASONS TO JOIN CARNEVAL

1 - PAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTY!
2 - A chance to experience some great cultural events alongside the local population.
3 - Increased ratio of sailor:hangovers means early-risers get a better selection of "1st choice" from the rental fleet.