I don’t recall how my 7-year-old son originally learned about Turks and Caicos, but once he’s set on an idea, he rarely relents. “Did you know that Turks and Caicos has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world,” he told me in more of a statement than question. I admitted I’d already visited Grace Bay multiple times and can assure him—and everyone else—that it more than lives up to its reputation. He was instantly jealous and a little angry I hadn’t let him tag along, so I pulled the ultimate dad move: “I’ve been trying to talk your mom into a vacation there, but she prefers the Bahamas.”

Sure, I was in trouble the moment that sentence ended, but I had been dying to get back to Providenciales, so I knew the boy would take care of the rest. In the meantime, I also knew I’d be grilled about resorts—it comes with the career, obviously—but there’s only one choice for a boy who is crazy about pools, thrilling experiences and amenities, and occasional surprise events: Beaches Turks and Caicos.

Each time I’d previously visited Provo, I asked my hosts about the various resorts, and while they certainly spread the praise equally, they all agreed that Beaches Turks and Caicos was the best choice for families. “There’s so much to do and you never have to leave,” one local told me. Another added, “They always have something going on and the beach is never crowded, so everything is right there.” Of course, they also agreed that everyone should still leave and explore, especially for my personal favorites, like a round at Royal Turks and Caicos and dinner at Le Bouchon Du Village.

But the kids are ultimately the best critics, so here are the aspects my son loved the most—all of which put the biggest smile on my face.

Wide Open Spaces

Let’s start with the most important factor: accommodations. Beaches Turks and Caicos is set up like a city, with different neighborhoods and styles to choose from, including the Key West, Caribbean and Seaside, Italian, and French Villages. It’s like a tropical Epcot you can sleep at. On one hand, I was enthralled with the various designs and concepts, but I was also a little bummed that we couldn’t stay in all of them. Still, the typical dad in me was thrilled to say things like, “Let’s hang a left at Key West and go two pools beyond France” and “If you’ve reached Italy, you’ve gone too far!”

Our Key West Three Bedroom Gardenview Butler Villa was basically a vacation apartment and more than we needed in terms of space, but that’s kind of the thing here. Everything feels like a bonus. From the living room to the patio deck and the dining options to the nightlife, it’s an all-exclusive experience on steroids.

Making Familiar Friends

When we set up a bedtime book-reading with Cookie Monster, my wife and I were a little worried our son had already outgrown his favorite Sesame Street character. (Not to mention his poor Elmo doll has collected two years of dust in the closet.) Fortunately, he’s as much a nostalgic soul as I am, and when that giant blue belly and those big eyeballs appeared at our villa door, he basically lost his mind as if he was four all over again.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Oh great, some poor guy in a costume just going through the motions.” Not the case. Cookie Monster and his handler were so incredibly kind and in-tune with my son’s reaction and even his age, so their jokes delighted him and the character’s dancing antics had him laughing so hard I thought he was going to barf up the cheese and crackers he didn’t know I saw him take from the complimentary platter.

Not that we needed extra snacks, of course…

Food, Glorious, Food!

With 20 dining options to choose from, this is a kingdom of indulgence. Just thinking about how much we ate during our four-day visit has me sweating again. My opinion matters very little, however, because every parent knows that the greatest vacation challenge is appeasing the wildly changing appetites of the world’s pickiest eaters. And I can’t even imagine what that’s like for families with two or more kids, which is why Beaches Turks and Caicos is currently my number one recommendation when friends call.

It’s not just the number of options, though, as much as the variety. Italian, Mediterranean, British, French, Caribbean, American—when your child has that mac and cheese mindset or is just a cheeseburger machine, a parent can stress over the thought of not being able to incorporate foreign cuisine into the daily grind. (Hell, my son thinks Mexican food begins and ends with a quesadilla.)

The cuisine at Café de Paris will hardly remind anyone of a bistro two blocks from the Eifel Tower, but it’s still very good and, best of all, my son thinks The Cricketers Pub was a legitimate British establishment, so he even asks for fish and chips at home now. (I draw the line at black pudding, though.)

Very Pleasant Surprises

Sandals resorts are well known for spoiling guests with a little extra fun on a moment’s notice. For example, the Blue Man Group was brought in to headline the opening party at Sandals Royal Curacao last year, but those famous silent dudes also spent time running around the property for their legendary hijinks. So, I wasn’t necessarily surprised when the Beaches Turks and Caicos staff alerted us at check-in that we’d picked a very “hot” weekend to stay.

That’s because 98 Degrees had just arrived for a one-night-only show, and you don’t have to be a fan of cheesy boy band pop to appreciate the opportunity to witness this rare reunion. Although, it was a little difficult to explain to a seven-year-old how cool these men who all look like dad’s friends used to be, but the enthusiasm of the women in the crowd helped me deliver my point. Also, he just loved being at a concert, so it was yet another win.

So Much More than the Beach

The thing about Provo is any vacation begins and ends with Grace Bay Beach. Family, romance, adventure—pick a theme and this destination does it with aplomb, because the sand makes such a phenomenal setting and backdrop. Beaches Turks and Caicos is not only a gateway to that majestic natural landmark, but it is also a theme park (the water slides are awesome), an entertainment venue, and even an educational experience (geography, anyone?).

Most of all, it’s a starting point for a lifetime of amazing memories. What does Sandals do better than any resort chain in the world? It turns guests into repeat visitors by offering them consistent, creative quality and comfort in some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful settings. Children don’t get to have that fun, but Beaches Turks and Caicos is one of the few exceptions.

And for family fun in paradise, it’s nothing short of exceptional.

The post 5 Things Every Parent Will Love about Beaches Turks and Caicos appeared first on Islands.

As summer approaches, parents across the U.S. are undoubtedly booking camp sessions, locking down music lessons, and staring at their big, empty calendars with the hopes that some other time-consuming events will magically appear. At the same time, they are also presumably choosing destinations and resorts for that one big family getaway, and that process usually provides far more stress than most humans can even burn off while relaxing poolside.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that all this planning and scheduling will have parents also dreaming of a vacation from their vacations, and the Sandals Institute of Romance estimates that a whopping 80 percent of partners say this year is busier than ever, so they’d love a little time away from the kids… before traveling with them. Of course, the biggest obstacle is finding time, so the all-inclusive resort brand is lighting a fire under hesitant travelers with a special deal.

The Deal: Couples that book three nights will receive a fourth night free, which means the grandparents and sitters will be a little busier. Participating properties include Sandals Emerald Bay (Bahamas), Sandals Royal Bahamian, Sandals Barbados, Sandals South Coast (Jamaica), Sandals Royal Caribbean (Jamaica), Sandals Grande Antigua, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Ochi (Jamaica), Sandals Grenada, and Sandals Negril.

The Dates: Book now through May 31, 2023, for travel between May 1 and June 15, 2023.

The post Sandals Wants Parents to Take their Own Vacation Before Any Family Summer Getaways appeared first on Islands.

Excellence Oyster Bay isn’t your average Caribbean all-inclusive resort. Yes, the standard buffet is stocked with gourmet international cuisine, bartenders will cheerfully mix a mai tai or pina colada at the swim-up bar, and there are dazzling clear waters and white sand beaches to take in. However, it’s the size of the resort, wholly attentive staff, and perhaps most of all, privacy that really sets Excellence Oyster Bay apart from the rest.

From the moment you enter through the floor-to-ceiling doors into the lobby, the resort exudes luxury and coolness with a West Indies meets modern aesthetic. Bright white, airy walls and light-colored upholstered couches contrast black marble floors that spill into the chic lobby martini bar area. But even the thoughtfully designed interior spaces pale in comparison to the sweeping patios and terraces just outside, where guests can take in the breathtaking ocean views from veritably any number of vantage points. The meticulous attention to detail even lends itself to the painstakingly maintained landscaping dotted with coconut and banana trees throughout the grounds.

The smallest of the brand’s resorts (with other Excellence locations in Playa Mujeres, Cancun, El Carmen, and Punta Cana), which opened in 2018, Excellence Oyster Bay is located on its own completely private peninsula. There, it boasts just 320 guest rooms—not including 12 beach houses, each comprised of four individual suites, and five private beach villas. And although the resort was not at full capacity during our preview, the limited number of guests was very much apparent through deliberate touches and an unparalleled level of service throughout our stay.

For instance, not only are Excellence’s five main pools not packed with partygoers or screaming children—the adults-only resort does cater to couples, after all. But finding a choice seat by the pool or beach does not require waking up at an early hour to “claim” a spot with a towel, typical of comparatively larger resorts. The ample seating is clearly by design, allowing guests to move about freely from beachside to poolside throughout the day. 

Likewise, the friendly and watchful staff outnumbers guests, and a fresh towel or drink refill is never more than a moment’s wait. The modest capacity and personalized service help give the resort a decidedly intimate atmosphere. Perhaps this is why arriving guests are told, “Welcome home,” while being handed a glass of champagne and chilled towel. Indeed, in addition to 62 percent of guests celebrating honeymoons or anniversaries at Excellence Oyster Bay, as many as 60 percent are return customers. 

You will also not find a bad room at Excellence Oyster Bay, which are all sleek and spacious in design. Most suites exhibit stunning ocean views, while ground-floor suites feature private infinity pools. Some second and third-floor terrace suites are even equipped with individual plunge pools. All suites come with their Jacuzzis, separate seating areas, rainfall showers for two, fully stocked minibars, and an in-suite premium liquor selection. Room service is available 24 hours per day, so guests looking for the utmost privacy barely even need to leave their suites during their stay to enjoy the bounty of what Excellence Oyster Bay has to offer.

However, that would mean missing out on all the great activities and entertainment throughout the resort, both day and night. In addition to snorkeling, fat bike tours, beachside yoga classes, and water aerobics, the first-rate live entertainment is more in line with what you would expect from larger resorts. Nightly shows at the outdoor Stars Theater feature everything from Bob Marley tribute bands—this is Jamaica, after all—to local dancers putting on gravity-defying performances. 

But even after the shows wind down, the party keeps going. A rotating line of late-night entertainment includes karaoke and “silent dance parties,” where guests can put on headphones and choose from one of several tracks the DJ is spinning.

The terrace outside of the lobby likewise features all-day and evening entertainment, from low-key live music performances to “sips” painting classes overlooking the ocean. After all, are you even in paradise if there’s not a drink in your hand at all times?

Because the resort is in such close proximity to Jamaica’s infamous Luminous Lagoon, one activity that guests of Excellence Oyster Bay absolutely will not want to miss is swimming among the dinoflagellates—microscopic organisms that sparkle and glow in the dark when disturbed. Located in the shallow, warm waters along the marshlands of Trelawny, just across from the town of Falmouth, the lagoon is only a short ride from the peninsula’s cape, where boats depart from every night. Just watch out for moon jellies!

It’s also difficult to get bored with the restaurant options at Excellence Oyster Bay. For al fresco dining, head to either Oregano, serving up Italian fare, or the seafood-forward Lobster House. Both open-air restaurants are located just steps from Excellence’s main pool area and underneath the rooftop X-Lounge and infinity pool—the latter of which I’m not embarrassed to say I spent more than my share of time. It’s entirely too easy to lose an afternoon while staring out at the tranquil waves and sipping on a fruity beverage.

Other standouts include the Caribbean Grove restaurant, which focuses on Jamaican cuisine and, naturally, a wide selection of high-end rums to pair with your meal. The Asian fusion Spice restaurant, situated just above the lobby area, is also among guest favorites. If you happen to be traveling with a group, don’t miss out on reserving one of the restaurant’s hibachi tables in advance for a fun and unforgettable evening. And although I didn’t have the opportunity to try it for myself, I heard multiple guests rave about the casual outdoor Jamaican barbecue Jerk Hut just next to the main pool.

For those who like to pair their meal with a fine glass of wine, an on-site sommelier has curated a list of 3,900 bottles for guests’ enjoyment. Of course, this is on top of the talented mixologists found throughout the resort’s bars and restaurants.

And although every guest at Excellence is treated like a VIP, for a truly next-level experience, guests can opt to stay in one of the resort’s 148 Excellence Club suites, which—in addition to the beach houses and villas—offer upgraded services and amenities. Upon arrival, Excellence Club guests are whisked off to a private check-in by one of the small electric cars often seen zooming around the property. (And watch out because those things will sneak up on you.) Each end of the peninsula also features separate Excellence Clubs and private pools, exclusive to upgraded guests, as well as access to the world-class Zenith and Magna restaurants. 

Other perks limited to Excellence Club guests include an expanded room service menu and upgraded minibar and liquor selection, Bvlgari bath amenities, champagne, and flowers waiting in your room after check-in, and one complimentary hydrotherapy treatment at the resort’s Miilé Spa.

Open to all guests, this spa provides a wide variety of massages and skin and beauty treatments—but the hydrotherapy sessions are an experience all unto their own. Guests are scrubbed, steamed, dunked, and doused through a circuit of rooms, pools, and various equipment to ease chronic pain and cleanse pores.

As I took one last walk along the beach before checking out, I felt a certain sense of wistfulness in knowing that my stay was coming to an end. After spending a few days at Excellence Oyster Bay, it became easy to see why so many guests return to its properties year after year. It’s safe to say I can now consider myself a convert among their ranks.

The post Want for Nothing at Excellence Oyster Bay—Only the Luxury All-inclusive You’ve Needed appeared first on Islands.

When it opened in December 2017, Sandals Royal Barbados became the gold standard for the beloved all-inclusive brand, with an emphasis on sophistication while still providing all the fun and excitement guests expect. Five years later, very little has changed in terms of the excellence guests have come to expect, and while Sandals has opened the doors on other thrilling properties, this one still delivers the best of its special Caribbean home.

Located on Barbados’ southern coast, the resort boasts 338 showstopper suites, as well as 10 restaurants, a 15,000-sq. ft. spa, 34 pools (yes, 34!) and one stunning white-sand beach. It also remains a Sandals trendsetter, as it was the first to debut amenities a spectacular rooftop pool and even more restaurant concepts that leave guests fulfilled and eager to return.

Here are nine things we love about this all-inclusive resort experience in Barbados.

Butler Service

Why not hand over the work of organizing your holiday to a pro? Personalized butler service is included in top-level suites and takes the pampering to the next level. Your butler is on-call 24/7 to make your vacay dreams come true: from drawing a candlelit bath to unpacking your luggage to fetching homemade cookies. Lounging by the pool and forgot your book? Call the butler using the cell phone provided by the resort. Need to make dinner reservations? Pick up the phone. It’s a luxury service that makes you feel like a celeb and lets you totally unwind.

Skypool Butler Suites

The property offers many fabulous room options: from private villas with plunge pools to oceanfront Millionaire Butler one-bedroom suites to seaside swim-up suites. But for the ultimate indulgence, book a beachfront Skypool Butler Suite. Each opulent room boasts a plush king-sized bed, a living room with a dining table, a spa-like bathroom, a butler pantry, and an infinity pool on the terrace. As if that wasn’t luxurious enough, guests also enjoy personal butler service, 24-hour room service, and VIP check-in.

The best part? Revel in ocean views from the deep soaker bathtub, day bed or infinity pool on the terrace. Sip on champagne while soaking in the pool and listening to crashing waves—it doesn’t get much more romantic than that.

Sandals’ First Rooftop Pool

Hidden away on the rooftop of the Skygazer Building is a spectacular pool with a panoramic view of the beach and surf. It’s the first rooftop pool for Sandals Resorts, and one of 34 pools located on the property. Get some rays from one of the sun loungers, take a refreshing dip, and grab a snapshot that’ll make your friends back home green with envy.

There’s also a French bistro and bar, perfect for a enjoying a glass of champagne at sunset or stargazing at night.

The Beachfront Location

The property fronts Maxwell Beach, a stunning stretch of powdery white sand leading to water so translucent you can see your toes. There’s an ample supply of canopies and beach loungers, which are complimentary on a first-come-first-served basis. However, if you have a butler, he or she will happily set up chairs and an umbrella in advance, as well as serve a gourmet lunch and a cooler full of your favorite drinks on the beach.

To spark a little l’amour, ask your butler or concierge to arrange a sunset dinner for two on the beach. Imagine dining by shimmering candlelight, while a white-gloved waiter serves a gourmet feast under the stars. It’s truly magical.

A Massive Glass-fronted Pool

Maxwell Beach is a certainly a showstopper, but the resort’s massive glass-fronted infinity pool overlooking the ocean is irresistible. Spanning 8,293 square feet and holding 220,000 gallons of water, it is possibly the largest glass-fronted pool in the Eastern Caribbean. Basking in the balmy air, it feels blissful floating in the refreshing waters with a rum punch in hand. Afterwards, get a group selfie standing by the pool’s glass front.

Something Even More Romantic

How could this resort be even better for couples on a honeymoon or special anniversary getaway? The addition of the South Seas Village, set against the beautiful beach. Simple touches like blackout shades and an in-room aromatherapy system guarantee a great night’s sleep for anyone, but creative signature elements like the Sandals Tranquility Blissful Bed—a king-size bed spoiling guests with fine linens and a pillow menu—and bath amenities by the Red Lane Spa make this a romantic haven within a haven.

And we’d be foolish to ignore the Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, which is a perfect setting for enjoying a few drinks from the full in-room bar.

Sandals’ First Four-Lane Bowling Alley

After a lazy day, strike out at Lover’s Lanes, Sandals’ first four-lane bowling alley for couples. ). In between games, snag a seat at the wraparound bar at Lover’s Lane Craft Beer Bar (another Sandals first) to sample up to 19 different ales from around the world.

Culinary Variety

Ten restaurants offer diverse menus and settings, ranging from on-the-beach casual to swanky white-gloved service. What makes a Sandals stay so great is guests almost never have the same meal twice—unless, of course, they want to. When this property opened, it welcomed two new names to the brand: The American Tavern and Chi Asian Fusion. And while those concepts instantly became crowd favorites, there’s always something newer on the horizon.

The most recent additions to the dining options are Heart and Sol and Greenhouse, with the former serving up healthy options from deli-style sandwiches to bowls, and the latter offering locally sourced ingredients in a rustic farm-to-table setting.

Access to a Second Resort

If you run out of places to dine, play, and swim at Royal Sandals Barbados, mosey over to the resort’s older all-inclusive sibling, Sandals Barbados. Sandals’ resort share program means you can use the other property’s amenities during your stay, gratis. No need to arrange transportation—a five-minute stroll leads you the resort, where you can enjoy 11 additional dining options and three more pools.

The post 9 Things We Love about Sandals Royal Barbados appeared first on Islands.

Signature cocktails sometimes tell us everything we need to know about a resort. A simple recipe might mean humble, minimalist luxury and comfort, while elaborate lists of ingredients and a spectacle of mixology at the lobby bar suggests guests are in for a heck of a stay. If anything, it is a sample of the creativity we will experience elsewhere in the property during a stay, and that’s especially the case at Garza Blanca Resort and Spa Cancun.

This staple of modern all-inclusive luxury has already wowed travelers with the elaborate three- and four-bedroom penthouses and thrilling amenities, but it is the debut of the Gold Mine Margarita at the adults-only rooftop bar that is sure to be the talk of Cancun. Developed by the property’s Master Mixologists, this cocktail was conceived as a delicious tribute to Mayan culture, as the recipe calls for 24 karat gold flakes.  

Truly a marg destined for Instagram glory.

In addition to the gold and crucial top-shelf tequila, guests will be treated to a room-stopping presentation, sort of like when someone in your crew orders fajitas and all heads turn. Except this is way cooler and ends with the name of the person who ordered the marg being immortalized on a plaque for The Gold Mine Margarita Club. An honor like that is truly hard to come by anywhere else, which is why the price tag is $200.

Garza Blanca Resort and Spa Cancun spoils guests with variety at restaurants like Blanca Blue, DAO, and Bocados Steak House, and there are many more cocktails to be enjoyed at the beachside Food Truck. They just won’t land your name on a plaque.

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Perhaps that sense of initial unease will be felt when traveling to the Dominican Republic and, more specifically, to the all-inclusive Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. It’s Club Med’s first Exclusive Collection resort—essentially the brand’s best-of-the-best line—in the Americas and the first resort on the DR’s virgin north shore (about a 75-minute drive from the nearest airport in Punta Cana), so crowded tourist areas are replaced by serene isolation.

But upon stepping out from under the open-air, thatched-roof resort lobby, you are introduced to the village center—the heart of Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda —via a long-reaching pool, flanked by palm trees replanted from the area, that invites you to connect with the water. “Jump in first, before heading to the beach within eyeshot,” it seemingly says. It’s then I realized that, at this resort, I could be excited by something new and didn’t have to be afraid of it.

To the pool’s right resides the resort’s main bar, manned with the optimal number of bartenders and stocked with a library of domestic and foreign spirits (my go-to drink was a caipirinha); to the right of the bar is the entrance to the resort’s theater, which also has its own indoor bar. During the second day of my stay, Club Med welcomed Danilo Medina, president of the Dominican Republic, and other officials to the resort’s official opening ceremony.

Follow your nose up a nearby wide, winding staircase to three of the resort’s four restaurants: Cayuco Market, the main restaurant; Coal & Copper, a steakhouse; and Cacao & Co., the family restaurant, which hides a speak-easy for children—the Secret Chocolate Room—complete with candies and melted-chocolate fountains.

I quickly discovered why Cayuco was the main restaurant and why it’s called a “market”:

After surveying a seemingly endless buffet of foods—from exquisitely designed small dishes and thinly sliced, expertly seasoned meats to various pastas, piles of fresh seafood and a dessert center that never disappointed—it felt like I’d just explored a marketplace of cuisines from around the world.

I decided what I wanted for my first plate, planned out my next three or four visits to the buffet, and then proceeded to find a place to start my feast. You can sit either in tropically designed indoor seating or on the outdoor balcony in the warm, welcoming Dominican Republic climate. I noshed on crab legs and other small seafood plates as roaming waiters were quick to ensure our table never had empty wineglasses.

Dinner for my second night was held at Coal & Copper, where I finished off a perfectly portioned salad with octopus for a starter, a medium-rare ribeye with red-wine reduction sauce for the main course, and a Black Forest-style cheesecake with Amarena cherries for dessert. For breakfast on departure day, I made a quick pit stop for fruits and pastries at the alfresco Coco Plum, which has its own bar and provides a dreamy view of the beach.

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda’s amenities can’t be discussed without mentioning electric jetboarding, just around the bend of the secluded beach. You can either lie prone on the electrically powered board or stand up like it’s a high-speed surfboard. Show up early, though, or be ready to wait—this is definitely one of the resort’s most popular activities.

Of course, a day’s worth of relaxing can be exhausting, and the value of a comfortable room in a home away from home can’t be understated. Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is divided into four boutique villages: Explorer Cove (families), Caribbean Paradise (everyone), Emerald Jungle (adult-exclusive and designed for wellness seekers) and Archipelago (adult-exclusive and ideal for romantics).

I stayed in Explorer Cove. The children’s room—furnished with two twin beds, a flat-screen TV and a separate, in-room thermostat—has its own bathroom and shower and is separated from the master bedroom by a small common space with a third bathroom. In addition to a king-size bed facing a beachward, furnished porch, the master bedroom also has a flat-screen TV and a small couch. The master bathroom has a bathtub and rainforest shower too.

Some of my favorite moments happened off the resort’s property. For starters, our trip up La Montaña Redonda (“the Round Mountain”) was a welcome surprise for a flat-Florida guy like me. It’s about a half-hour drive from the resort, and about 10 (it felt like 30) of those minutes are spent slowly bumbling your way up the mountain’s unkempt roads. I’d suffer another 20 (60) minutes of bumpy roads, though, if it meant I could bask in those views again.

The mountaintop supplies literally endless vistas that look over rolling hills of green, and calm, blue Caribbean waters. Here, there is the famous Instagram swing too—well, there are actually multiple Instagram swings—where you can take in 360-degree views of the surrounding region. The mountain’s proximity was undoubtedly my favorite part of the resort (the food was a super-close second).

When we returned from the mountain, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda held its soon-to-be-popular sunset rituals, the most relaxing part of the trip for me.

Venturing down the beach until the resort’s village center and its boutique villages are out of sight, there’s this little corner of sand nestled away by a picturesque palm tree and ocean waves that gently fold upon the shore. Far off in the distance, cloud-touching mountains bordered us as if to say, “Relax, you’ve nothing to worry about here,” and a glowing sun slowly fell, signaling the beginning of the evening festivities to come.

A gentle acoustic band set the tone as coconuts were popped open and stuck with straws. Pillows rested on blankets that covered cold, silky sand beneath our feet, and tents made of smooth cloth that rustled in the wind made for the most memorable sunset scenes.

Once the sun set, there was one thing left to do before bed: party. Each of the two nights of my stay at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, there was a lively party that reminded me of any downtown scene—but cleaner. The first one was conveniently located in front of the main bar and featured electronic music, a DJ and live singing performances; the second night’s festivities took place right on the beach and featured music of all genres.

With complete sincerity, it’s not always easy to go on vacation. You need to make certain your responsibilities and duties at home and at work are handled, bookings can be a hassle, and you’re often venturing into unfamiliar territory.

At Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, the kind of escape it provides—including cathartic moments of peace and reflection atop La Montaña Redonda as well as entering sleep comas after eating at Cayuco—pays you back tenfold for whatever struggle it took to get there.

The post Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda Epitomizes the Concept of Escaping It All appeared first on Islands.

Earlier this year, while on a woefully quick trip to Turks and Caicos, my host spoke the greatest words my ears can ever hear: “I’m taking you to get the best steak on the islands.” A few minutes later, we were seated at Le Bouchon Du Village, where the owner and head chef scoffed at the notion I was about to eat the best steak in Turks and Caicos. “It’s the best steak in the world,” he said with a grin, and about 30 minutes later I completely agreed.

With that hunk of meat still on my brain, I jumped at the opportunity to return to Turks and Caicos a few months later, but this time a friend eagerly told me, “There’s a place called Salt… it has the best calzone in the world.” It’s a good thing I’m not allergic to hyperbole or I’d need an EpiPen the size of an oil tanker. But as luck (or foodie fate) would have it, I was spending my first night at Blue Haven Resort, the home of Salt, where I did, in fact, enjoy the best calzone I have ever had.

That’s sort of Turks and Caicos in a nutshell. There is something about these islands that causes people to seemingly oversell the experience, because no place can be this amazing, right? And yet, Turks and Caicos always delivers, from the steak au poivre and the calzone to the gorgeous beaches and kind, generous people. So, when I was offered the chance to visit Ambergris Cay, a private island resort from the Turks and Caicos Collection, I had no doubt that it would deliver the best vacation experience of my life.

It Starts with a Flight

Whenever someone asks me if I really love everything about Turks and Caicos, my reply is: “Well, not everything…” Providenciales International Airport isn’t exactly my favorite place to land (it’s certainly no Queen Beatrix International Airport), but let he who complains about tiny airports stay home, right? And tiny airports play a big part in this private island experience, because the only way to get to this resort that sits on Big Ambergris Cay is by private airplane.

It goes without saying that the involvement of a private plane makes any situation a VIP affair. I once flew from Orlando to Palm Beach in a 12-seat plane and I thought I was the king of England. At Ambergris Cay, the island’s small air strip leads right to the front door of the reception building, so this is truly the pinnacle of door-to-door service. It’s also the beginning of an extravagant vacation experience that gets better with each new revelation.

There’s Nothing Like Your Own Island

Most of us never really know what to expect when we hear the phrase “private island.” Admittedly, I think of old cartoons when there’s a little blob of sand sitting in the middle of the ocean, with coconut radios, and maybe the Harlem Globetrotters stop by, so part of me expects a private island resort to be a hotel that is basically surrounded on all sides by beaches. After all, that sounds pretty amazing. But Big Ambergris Cay is, well, big, and so getting around the resort was unexpectedly adventurous.

Once checked in, you’ll hop in your own golf cart and embark on the journey to your one-bedroom beachfront suite or three- or four-bedroom villa. This excursion also serves as a tour of the island, as there’s plenty of ground to cover between the resort’s facilities, and suites are also located on lower ground, while the villas are up the hills and closer to the other side of the island. It’s not like you’re traveling from one side of the main island to the other, but I definitely found out the hard way, driving back to my villa from dinner on the first night, that it’s very important to remember which turns to make.

Fortunately, it’s easy to get the hang of the layout after one or two rides around the island. I only accidentally wound up at the tennis courts once—okay, twice—when I was trying to get to the beach. If anything, it made me wish I packed my tennis gear.

Inside the Accommodations

Everything about this resort is romantic, so choosing the right accommodation comes down to preference. There are 10 one-bedroom beachfront suites lining the incredible white-sand beach, and while you will be close enough to wave hi to your neighbors, privacy is no concern, with each suite surrounded by native flora.

What makes these suites so amazing is the stunning-yet-simple design, which was created by Nicole van Schouwenburg. Enter the lone, beautifully decorated bedroom and you’ll see a king-size bed that faces the ocean and overlooks your private plunge pool. The bed sits on a wall that separates the room from the large closet and bathroom, and there is also a living space with couch in case you want to turn on your flat screen TV and then quickly turn it off when you remember everything that is right outside your massive windows. (Not turning on a TV is my favorite part of any trip, and I didn’t touch a remote the entire time I was at Ambergris Cay. Never even thought about it.)

The villas are also great for romance, as they offer significantly more privacy with less windows and a pool deck that is very well hidden from the eyes of other guests. But if I was recommending the villas for anything, it would be a family getaway or large gathering, as the three- and four-bedroom setups are perfect for families with multiple children, or extended families that have multiple couples. As of my visit there are three villas available: two three-bedrooms and one four-bedroom.

All villas can sleep up to eight people, and so all I could think during my entire stay was how the villas are laid out in such a way that we could easily host my entire family and my wife’s family for a huge reunion. There’s even enough space between the villas that we could keep the in-laws from fighting over politics.

When It’s Time to Eat

There are two restaurants at Ambergris Cay: Calico Jack and the Club House. The first is your traditional resort restaurant and bar, as Calico Jack sits near the suites, and just a quick golf cart ride from the villas. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this restaurant offers a combination of Caribbean and international cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood dishes like paella and lobster. And just steps from the restaurant is the Calico Jack bar, where our bartender made craft cocktails like he was making art. Not only is there an impressive cocktail list, but the bartender went out of his way to make various drinks for us, including a strawberry margarita that made me hug him.

The Club House is a different experience, in that it has a rugged vibe and looks almost like a bait shack when you drive up. But looks are deceiving, and this spot will have kids of all ages running wild. For starters, there are classic and modern video games available (I went nuts for the stand-up arcade version of 1942) but the coolest part of this building is the kids’ art room, which offers everything from paint to Legos, and little guests even get to slap a hand print on the wall to let the world know the next Picasso once stayed here.

And then there was the Club House food. I am a grilling fool, and game respects game, so I was thrilled with the various chicken, beef and vegetable skewers we picked straight from the massive grill below the wraparound deck. This is a fantastic spot for a quick early lunch prior to a snorkeling excursion or even dinner after taking the paddleboards out.

Saying Goodbye is So Hard

There’s an old unattributed saying that goes something like this: “The hardest part of leaving a private island is knowing that you’re returning to a public island.” Okay, that’s not an actual saying, but it should be. Boarding that private plane for the return trip was once of the saddest vacation moments of my life, because what Ambergris Cay offers is truly the vacation experience of a lifetime.

Even the iguanas that snuck around us at lunch and dinner seemed happy to have us on their island, or maybe those lucky lizards were just rubbing it in my face that they never have to leave paradise.

The post Inside the Private Island Resort that Redefines a Turks and Caicos Getaway appeared first on Islands.

It is difficult to describe Aruba to someone who has never been. For a lot of people, this island is simply the first word in the classic Beach Boys hit, “Kokomo.” But for many others it’s a charming Caribbean gem that makes for the ideal annual getaway. After all, the resorts are affordable, the beaches are beautiful and rain is rarer than an empty cocktail glass. Families, couples, party animals who want to dance the night away—Aruba is a destination for everyone, because when they say, “One Happy Island,” they really mean it.

And so, if I’m trying to describe Aruba to a curious first-timer, that’s the word: happy. There’s an infectious positive vibe that hits you the moment you arrive at the airport, and what makes the people of Aruba so great is how they won’t let that vibe escape you, not for a single moment of your trip.

That was definitely the case when I recently stayed at Barceló Aruba, which served as my home base for a four-day getaway focused on the island’s adventurous side. The last time I was in Aruba, my trip was a lesson in the island’s history and culture, so this time I wanted to focus on the island itself. Specifically, I wanted to see the places that define the island.

That’s a tall order for a short trip, but that’s probably the thing I love most about Aruba—there’s always a reason to return. It also helps when the resort experience is flawless.

All-inclusive and Then Some

The best all-inclusive resorts can be a little problematic, in that they make it difficult to actually leave the property. Located on Palm Beach, Barceló Aruba is a shining example of this wonderful dilemma, as it offers six restaurants that cater to every appetite, from Tex-Mex at México Lindo to a la carte Italian at L’Olio. (The Japanese cuisine at Kyoto deserves to be singled out, because rarely would I be willing to trade margaritas for sake, but this was a delightful curveball.) Even the buffet shatter stereotypes, as the options are vast and second plates come with zero regrets. (Can’t say the same for the third plate, though I never apologize for enjoying a hearty breakfast.)

But food is only one aspect of the all-inclusive experience at Barceló Aruba. Make it outside and you’re faced with the challenge of not spending the day poolside, enjoying delicious cocktails at the swim-up bar. Escape the pool and you might fall asleep beneath the palm trees and thatch-roof umbrellas on the beach. And even if you’re intent on spending the day in the water, Barceló Aruba will keep you on the property with a variety of activities and water sports. All the while, the poolside party will keep luring guests back, like a siren who is quick to refill your piña colada.

For this stay, I was also curious to see what makes Barceló Aruba’s “Royal Level” so special. When something is billed as an “exceptional luxury service,” expectations will be high. Royal Level Barceló Aruba definitely lives up to the hype—and my personal standards for royalty—beginning with the extra attention to detail in the boutique stylings of the Royal Level, which is located within the three upper floors of the resort’s north tower.

This isn’t just about a fancier décor or a room with a bed so comfortable that it made me ask three employees where I could buy the mattress pad. Think of this as a VIP service or a first-class section for a hotel. A personalized check-in process and concierge keeps you out of the long lobby line, and guests also enjoy priority reservations at the aforementioned six restaurants, which, if you’re familiar with all-inclusive dining, is a godsend. I cannot overstate how great it is to walk into a packed restaurant and be seated promptly. It’s up there with the Starbucks mobile app and ordering Publix deli meats online.

Or, if you prefer to mingle with fellow royalty, the Royal Level Lounge boasts its own private gourmet restaurant, which includes premium drinks. Again, good luck escaping.

Aruba’s Adventures Await

Once you escape the property, there are two types of adventures you should consider. First, and perhaps the quintessential Aruba experience, is Arikok National Park, which takes up nearly one-fifth of the entire island and is home to the legendary natural pool. We departed Barceló Aruba in a massive Jeep-like vehicle provided by De Palm Tours for the Natural Pool Off-Road Safari, and this vehicle made the bumpy ride a heck of a lot more fun (but some people’s bumps are other people’s bruises, so please book your own trip accordingly).

Unfortunately, the sea was angry that day, my friends, and so the Natural Pool was off-limits. Still, the hike to the bottom and simply overlooking this popular tourist spot make for a great experience, as well as conveying the connection Arubans have with their landmarks.

No spot reflects that idea more than our next stop, the Aruba Natural Bridge. Loving island history as much as I do, I was bummed to hear the story of the collapse of “Mama Bridge,” which played such a huge role in local tourism until the morning of September 2, 2005, when, as it was explained to me, the operator of the Natural Bridge Shop arrived at work and saw the remains of this once great coral limestone formation.

As news spread, hundreds of people gathered to see for themselves. Still, the locals persisted and made the best of a bad situation, mostly by naming the area’s smaller natural structure, “Baby Bridge.” It might not seem like much of a story or even a landmark, but, again, it’s about the people and their infectious happiness. (It also helps to hear the story while sipping on a Green Iguana cocktail from the shop.)

From there, we drove past the Bushiribana Ruins, which I probably could have explored for hours just out of historical fascination, on our way to the Alto Vista Chapel, which sits on a site where a Spanish missionary built the island’s first Catholic church in 1750. Many visitors also take the opportunity to walk the Peace Labyrinth and meditate or pray, but I was busy enjoying a fresh fruit drink from a local vendor while I listened to my tour guides tell us about this inspirational spot, before we returned to the resort.

The second adventure is the SS Antilla, one of the Caribbean’s largest wrecks. I boarded a boat owned by Pelican Adventures, which is located a hop, skip and a jump from Barceló Aruba’s beach. (It’s also important to note that the bar at Pelican Pier serves one of the best strawberry margaritas on the island.) We visited Catalina Bay as well, but the history buff in me was thrilled to hear the local’s story about the SS Antilla’s sinking before flopping into the water to see for myself. All the while, the boat’s crew kept pumping out very basic yet delicious margaritas and a strange blue juice that kept the two dozen or so guests lively and, obviously, happy.

Of course, as I lamented the end of each adventure, I couldn’t hide my own happiness to return to Barceló Aruba and simply relax before the next great meal or heading down to the seemingly neverending pool party. Just thinking about it all over again makes me wonder when I’ll hop into Kyoto again for another bottle of sake.

The post The Bar is So High at Barceló Aruba appeared first on Islands.

Traditional all-inclusive brands may not have a presence in the British Virgin Islands, but this idyllic island chain does offer a range of accommodations bookable on an all-inclusive basis—from dreamy private-island hideaways to an old-school boutique resort on the main island of Tortola.

All-inclusive here is more about laid-back vacation ease than a major swim-up pool bar scene, but the options, though limited, offer something for both travelers who can splurge and those on a more limited budget.

Guana Island

Both a private-island enclave and a destination dedicated to the conservation of local flora and fauna, 850-acre Guana Island allows guests to luxuriate in the seclusion of 14 cottage-style Sea View Rooms and four expansive one- to three-room Villas as they encounter endemic species, both on land (iguanas, tortoises and 60+ other species) and in the pristine Caribbean seawater that washes its beach-fringed shores (125+ species of fish).

The accommodations’ delightful décor—white-washed walls and accented with cheerful printed pillows and linens—induce tranquility as do the private pools in many units and the sublime white-sand beaches. Guests can also work up a sweat on 12 miles of hiking trails (including to the top of 860-foot Sugarloaf Mountain) or on a pair of tennis courts before cooling off with a relaxing massage and winding down with sunset cocktails and an alfresco dinner crafted of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Necker Island

A devastating fire and a pair of unforgiving hurricanes can’t keep British music and hospitality mogul Richard Branson down. His exclusive Necker Island private-island resort—which is his home as well as a luxury enclave rentable on a takeover basis by anyone with the money to make it happen (and on a room-by-room basis during several “Celebration Weeks” each year)—has bounced back from both.

Characterized as barefoot luxury the island accommodates up to 30 people (40 after full restoration in April 2020) in the Great House’s 11 bedrooms (each with an en suite bathroom and balcony) and a bunkhouse for up to six kids; Leha Ho (a stand-alone room with 180-degree views); and the two-tiered Bali Lo house in the middle of the island along with the one-room Bali Buah and Bali Kukila.

Equally impressive is the Dining Pavilion, where a massive table can seat up to 40 guests, and the 74-acre island’s pristine white-sand beaches. Add in wildlife that includes flamingos, tortoises and even lemurs and this is one indulgent all-inclusive paradise.

Moskito Island

Richard Branson’s second private hideaway, Moskito Island is open for guests seeking all-inclusive luxury villas—Branson prefers estates—with the three-villa Branson Estate (sleeping 22 people) available starting in April 2020 and additional estates opening later in the year and into 2021.

Ideal for a family reunion, getaway with friends or other group travel experience, the nightly rental rate for the estate includes all meals and beverages, transportation from Beef Island (where the nearest airport is located), Wi-Fi, watersports and laundry service.

There are two main beaches plus a few intimate coves with sheltered beaches as well as tennis courts, hiking trails and in-villa spa treatments.

Sugar Mill Hotel

Back in business for the 2020 season after a post-Hurricane Irma renovation, the Sugar Mill Hotel on Tortola is a boutique resort set amid tropical gardens on the grounds of a 17th-century sugar mill.

The property offers old-school ambience in 24 inn-style rooms (Deluxe, Prestige, Signature and Poolside Mini Suites) that have been updated with modern amenities (flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports) while the Honeymoon Cottage is a stand-alone option that, as its name suggests, is ideal for romance.

The property also offers all-inclusive rates for weekly bookings, but guests can add a daily all-inclusive fee to the room-and-breakfast rate for shorter stays. There’s also a completely rebuilt Islands Beach Bar, Tramonti restaurant and swimming pool (with an adjacent spa). The post-Irma renovation also added extra space to the terrace of the Sugar Mill restaurant, which features a revised fine-dining menu. Another cool inclusion: transfers to and from the airport are in a stately green Bentley sedan.

The post Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the British Virgin Islands appeared first on Islands.

Following its opening in January, Bungalows Key Largo was the subject of a lot of buzz. After all, this is the Florida Keys’ first all-inclusive resort, and this brand new adults-only spot was offering unparalleled luxury in a location that is perfect for anyone seeking the ideal Keys experience. But then tragedy struck.

On an early Sunday morning in May, a fire blazed through the main building of Bungalows Key Largo, destroying the entire upstairs area, while dealing considerable water damage downstairs. The main building features the lobby, Zen Garden Spa, the Hemingway Bar and two restaurants: Fish Tales and Bogie & Bacall’s. Guests and employees were evacuated and no one was injured, fortunately.

On December 19, Bungalows Key Largo will finally reopen its doors and the two-story beach house that serves as the main building has been completely restored to its original glory. The resort is currently accepting reservations.

“Bungalows Key Largo opened to a bevy of buzz and incredible interest from guests throughout the U.S. and beyond,” owner Jerry Johnson said. “We have worked tirelessly to restore the resort to its original grandeur, and we are confident the finished product is worthy of the hotel’s opening fanfare. We look forward to welcoming new guests as well as loyal guests back for a truly immersive Florida Keys experience.”

Located 62 miles south of Miami, and not far from John Pennekamp State Park, Bungalows Key Largo boasts 135 private bungalows on 12 acres of waterfront property. In addition to Fish Tales and Bogie & Bacall’s, guests can enjoy beachside casual Mexican fare at Sea Señor and cocktails on the two six-seat tiki boats, S.S. Rum Runner and S.S. Margarita.

The post Bungalows Key Largo Set to Reopen in December appeared first on Islands.