You've just returned from a trip to a Caribbean island and you're back to your daily routine. Undoubtedly, there are moments when you'll long to be back by the edge of your hotel's pool sipping a cool drink and enjoying the native tropical music of the island. You're missing the island but you can't find the music anywhere. Don't despair. You can enjoy tropical music you heard on your vacation with the click of a few keys on your computer and purchase CDs or MP3 downloads. You'll be able to enjoy tropical music at home, in your car, and even at your workplace.

Tropical music has long been defined as music from Afro-Caribbean locations such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. Tropical music now includes music from Colombia, Venezuela, and the area along the Mexican gulf coast. Some of the music styles that come from these locations include salsa, meringue, reggae, and bachata. Though recordings of these styles have been available in the United States for many decades, they originally appealed to specific ethnic communities. Recordings were only found in music stores in these communities. Tropical music has surged in popularity in recent years across all ethnic lines and is now widely available in music stores throughout the country and in several online sources.

A good online source for tropical music is www.descarga.com. Although they primarily specialize in Afro-Cuban music, they do stock a wide selection of other tropical music styles. New releases and reissues are often accompanied by some well-written reviews. Another excellent online source is www.amazon.com. Here you will find virtually everything found on www.bachata.com at very reasonable prices. In many instances, you can also listen to some sample clips.

You can also find a wide assortment of tropical music that you can download as MP3s. The best sources to check for tropical music downloads are www.emusic.com and www.iTunes.com.

One of the most popular themes for parties is a tropical theme. Regardless of what it is that you are celebrating or even whether you have no reason at all for getting together other than simply having a good time, a tropical theme can be a great choice for your next party. There are a few things that all successful tropical parties have in common including cold slushy drinks with colorful little umbrellas, leafy foliage and the right music. Pulling off a tropical party does not have to be time consuming or expensive when you know the right steps to take.

One of the first things to focus upon when planning a tropical party is the food. This is the one item that most people leave a party talking about so it's important to make sure that all of your food choices compliment your tropical party theme. The food you choose should remind you of cool waters and sunkissed beaches. Tropical fruit when in season is always a smash hit and can be served in a variety of different manners. Tropical style barbecues are also a great idea and easy to prepare and serve so that you have plenty of time for visiting with family and friends. Don't forget to serve up some tropical style drinks like Mai Tais or Pina Coladas. Don't forget the umbrellas!

When it comes to decorations, the sky is the limit for your party. Place a few palm trees around your party area, string up some tropical flowers around the patio or walls and use grass skirts to decorate the tables. Of course, you should also make sure you include tiki torches to light up the evening. As a side note, these lamps are also great for warding off pesky and annoying insects that might annoy your guests if you are entraining outdoors. If your budget will allow it you might also consider renting a tiki hut for serving up tropical themed drinks. This can be a great place for friends to gather and chat and will also add in a true tropical themed ambience to your party.

You will want to make sure that you set the right atmosphere for your tropical party by choosing the right music. Steel drum band or reggae music can be an excellent backdrop for your party. Either choice will ensure your friends and family are in the right mood for a tropical evening.

When you are ready to serve up snacks and food, consider using inexpensive fishbowls for handing out snacks and party favors or even appetizers. They are also great for using to float a few candles or flowers.

Planning a tropical party can be easy and quick, even if you are planning a party at the last moment or on a limited budget. With a few accessories, the right music and some tropical inspired food, it can be easy to wow your friends and family with a tropical party that will be sure to delight.