If you were only allowed to peruse the bookshelves inside the main gathering room of the clubhouse at Copal Tree Lodge, you might have difficulty ascertaining the lodge’s primary purpose. On those shelves, titles such as Lords of the Fly and The Fisherman’s Guide to Life share space with The Fat Duck Cookbook and The Art of Simple Food. Wedged in between, you’ll find books on mixology—Speakeasy and The Bar Book, specifically—while a current volume of Gray’s Sporting Journal abuts two issues of Condé Nast Traveler.

Is the southern Belizean property a fishing camp? A gourmand’s retreat? A luxuriously appointed eco-lodge? While the library suggests it could be any of those things, Copal Tree Lodge is, in fact, all of them. What once began as an understated fishing lodge—a property that attracted adventurous and enthusiastic sport fishermen (and still does, albeit to a lesser extent given the lodge’s evolution in recent years)—Copal Tree Lodge is a boutique resort perched on top of a bluff and nestled into the heart of a 16,000-acre estate that today includes an organic farm and a sustainable rum distillery.

The resort offers guests easy access to a lineup of seafood shanties and bars set only a few hundred yards from the Caribbean Sea in the town of Punta Gorda, less than 20 minutes to the south. And while a visit into town offers a glimpse into the local culture, which has its merits, guests likely won’t feel compelled to venture away from the estate for long—nor should they. From its dock positioned along the Rio Grande River, the lodge runs snorkeling, river fishing, and sunset cruises; while serious fishermen who are yearning to cast flies for bonefish, tarpon, and permit can set sail from the nearby marina in town.

“Fly fishing is a serious sport,” says Waluco Maheia, the lodge’s assistant manager. “River fishing can be more relaxed.”

Of course, notable guest experiences don’t require ventures out onto the water. Those looking for a day (or multiple days) of leisure, will be drawn to the lodge’s Jungle Spa, while Copal Tree’s small, teardrop-shaped pool provides an ideal oasis for quiet dips and peaceful lounging. Guests can also venture down the hill for guided tours of the organic farm, or they can participate in a bean-to-bar chocolate class. And for those who take immense pleasure in flavorful sips and bites, the lodge offers a farm-to-table, all-inclusive package ($150 add-on per night for each adult guest), which covers meals featuring ingredients grown on the 3,000-acre farm, as well as stirred and shaken cocktails highlighting a trio of estate-produced rums.

Annual production at the Copalli Rum distillery currently sits around 42,000 cases, and plenty of that rum makes its way up the hill to the lodge, which means guests will never ask the question that Johnny Depp famous quipped in the first Pirates of the Caribbean film: “Why is the rum gone?” Guests are also encouraged to schedule distillery tours, not to mention mixology classes and guided tastings.

During the latter, Maheia—who also serves as Copalli’s brand champion—prefers to learn from guests which flavors and aromas they identify. He doesn’t like to dictate what they’re likely to smell or taste. “We like to make this part of the tasting very interactive,” he explains. “And, of course, we’re going to name the dominant [flavor] profiles within the spirit, and I’d like to know what you all think is in there. What kind of flavors do you get?”

The white rum elicits responses that include prominent citrus notes alongside hints of banana and lychee. “So, what we’re getting is some tropical fruits,” Maheia acknowledges. “We’re definitely getting pineapple and banana and citrus; we’re getting hints of vanilla; and then you get some grassy notes in there, a bit of vegetation, something that compares to lemongrass.”

The barrel-rested expression, by contrast, introduces aromas of leather, burnt orange peel, and cola, which transition to baking spice flavors and tobacco on the palate. And Copalli’s Cacao rum delivers the roasted (almost bittersweet) aromas that are commonly associated with dark chocolate. When sipped, the rum offers up equally rich cocoa flavors with a pleasingly long, creamy finish.

All three spirits are the handiwork of Ed Tiedge, Copalli’s first master distiller, who learned the distillation trade at a family-owned cognac house in eastern France several decades ago. The rums also serve as an homage to the hundreds of acres of organically cultivated sugar cane that grows almost in the distillery’s shadow (as well as at off-site locations nearby).

“Our role as the rum makers is to transition those flavors from the field to the bottle, to not mess up what the farm has created,” Tiedge says. “That’s really the secret—exceptional sugar can juice. You have to start off with a high-quality product in the field, and if we’re good stewards of that juice at the distillery, you’re going to get a pretty good-tasting rum at the end.”

That good-tasting rum is proudly on display as the foundational spirit for 15 cocktails served at the rum bar inside Copal Tree Lodge’s clubhouse. Some are shaken with allspice or sage leaves; others include freshly squeezed pineapple juice or hand-cut chunks of watermelon; and some are sweetened with a variety of infused syrups, including fresh ginger and vanilla. All, however, provide a distinctive taste of the estate, which is yet another example of the property’s success.

Ultimately, Copal Tree Lodge accomplishes the most important objective of any luxury resort, especially one set in such an exotic locale. It delivers a dynamic and authentic sense of place—one that, in an unusual twist, can also be poured directly into your glass.

The post This Luxury Eco-Lodge Provides an Authentic Sense of Place—and Taste—of Southern Belize appeared first on Islands.

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.

Forget death and taxes—if one thing is certain in this world, it’s that Caribbean resorts will never stop trying to develop the most creative, extravagant pools we’ve ever seen. This is especially true on the island of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, where Grace Bay Beach is so magnificent and alluring that the resorts that are blessed to have it as a backdrop must come up with concepts that will make guests want to remain on-property. In fairness, they all do it very well.

But what if the resort’s pool uses the beach to its advantage and offers guests the best of both worlds? The brilliant minds at Wymara Resort and Villas answered that question with a slam dunk and three exclamation points when the property recently unveiled its spectacular Ocean Pool, which is the first of its kind in this region.

Owner Bruce Maclaren was inspired to create this unique amenity after spending many years in Australia, where ocean pools have long been a popular attraction. The resort began construction last October by moving more than 1,500 tons of rock, and the result is a 3,900-sq. ft. pool with shallow and deep ends (the depth depends on the tides), as well as a stunning 4,880-sq. ft. timber deck complete with a bar and enough lounge chairs for an intimate, Instagrammable day.

“While ocean pools aren’t just an Aussie thing, they do inspire a kind of fervor there that borders on the fanatical,” Maclaren explained. “They’re probably more in the public eye now than ever. Maybe it’s Instagram—they’re so seductive to photograph. But having experienced the benefits of ocean pools and the communities that evolve around them, I thought, well, maybe we can do this here.”

And done this they have. Although, it’s hardly the best thing this Wymara property has to offer. In a destination known for exceptional villas, this resort raises the bar with both luxury and quality of service. Families will especially love the Amuse Villa, which boasts four bedrooms and myriad exclusive services and amenities, including a private infinity pool that overlooks the ocean. However, younger travelers will experience love at first sight when they see the phenomenal multi-story waterslide.

Wymara Resort and Villas in Turks and Caicos is currently offering guests a free fourth night when they book a three-night stay between now and October 31. However, some would argue four nights is hardly enough time to enjoy the best of this resort and Provo.

The post The Caribbean’s Coolest Pool Just Debuted at Wymara Resort and Villas in Turks and Caicos appeared first on Islands.

To say that Andaz Turks and Caicos is a highly anticipated resort is a bit of an understatement. Since I first had the opportunity to view the plans and renderings, as well as the lot where it will soon exist, it was clear that this resort concept was going to put the rest of the destination’s offerings on notice. And that’s not exactly an easy thing to do when the other hotels and resorts on Providenciales alone are collectively among the best in the Caribbean.

Set on the western end of Grace Bay Beach—one of the most beautiful stretches of sand you’ll ever see—it’s safe to say the views alone will be worth the effort to get here. But the 59-key resort, which will also boast 74 residential units, promises to be as breathtaking inside as everything is outside, and eventual guests can now mark the calendar for a late 2025 opening.

Now that this project is “shovel-ready,” this will be the first Hyatt Hotels property in the destination, and it’s safe to assume that it will instantly be one of the most popular in the entire portfolio. Judging by the success of financing and sales, travelers will be eager to spend as much time testing the resort’s four dining options and indoor fitness and wellness facility as they will swimming around the nearby Smith’s Reef.

At this stage, though, it’s all about building energy, positivity, and reasonable expectations. That shouldn’t be difficult.

“Having lived and worked on the island for 26 years, I can say this is one of the most exciting developments in decades,” said John Zammit, a real estate developer and longtime resident who serves on the property’s board of directors. “It is a complete game changer, offering a new take on contemporary luxury lifestyle accommodations and residences, while offering the upscale amenities and guest services that the Andaz brand is so well known for.”

Resorts in Turks and Caicos are notorious putting luxury above all else and redefining comfort, so the addition of the Andaz brand is about as fitting as it gets.

The post Construction Set to Begin on Andaz Turks and Caicos appeared first on Islands.

Casa de Campo is the kind of place that is loaded with pleasant surprises. From the stunning views and challenging holes of the celebrated Teeth of the Dog golf course to the luxurious new spoils of the Premier Club, this spectacular resort community offers guests so many activities and adventures, and one of my favorite elements is the marvelous Altos de Chavón.

This charming replica of a 16^th century Mediterranean village is home to several dining options that make it, first and foremost, the perfect stop after a round or two on the Dye Fore courses. Chilango Taqueria alone is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best mezcal cocktails on the entire island. And even if you’re simply stopping in to admire the architecture, the amphitheater’s ancient vibes will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to watch history’s greatest plays or a brilliant philosopher explain the meaning of the universe.

That is, until one of today’s biggest stars takes the stage for the concert of the year.

On September 30, Michael Bublé will make his debut in the Dominican Republic as a special addition to his 2023 Higher Tour. Fans will undoubtedly flock to the 5,000-seat venue for this once in a lifetime performance that slotted perfectly between his Puerto Rico show and a run of dates in Mexico. Bublé joins prestigious company, as the amphitheater’s 40-year run began with Frank Sinatra and has included legends like Elton John, Jennifer Lopez, Gloria Estefan, Andrea Bocelli, and Sting, among many others.

General ticket sales launched on June 28, so if anyone was somehow on the fence about visiting this spectacular golf haven in the fall, this should seal the deal. And if that’s still not enough, the brand new Spa at Casa de Campo is the cherry on top. Believe me, I’ve seen it all with my own eyes and can’t wait to get back.

The post It’ll Be a Beautiful Day at Casa de Campo when Michael Bublé Makes his Dominican Republic Debut appeared first on Islands.

Everything about Amanyara encourages escaping. The 10-minute drive from the main road down a bumpy, unpaved path hints at its remote location on the island’s northwest coast, far from the resorts strung along Grace Bay. Freestanding villas flanked by foliage with paths leading to private beaches and jagged outcrops speak to the level of privacy; stringing a rope barrier across the path leading to your front door lets staff know you want to be left to your own devices.

Some accommodations are self-contained, with private pools, the option of a private chef and butler, and bedrooms designed for your nanny—or your bodyguard. But if I had to select the one feature that makes this upscale tropical escape a paragon of perfection, it’s not the fact that you can hole up and be left completely alone—it’s the water.

In my Instagram story, I referred to the water as looking like “Turks-quoise”, and there’s no other fitting way to describe its uniqueness. The color on this island—and on the pristine stretch of beach occupied by the Amanyara—is like none other I’ve seen, except maybe Bora Bora. It’s a hue that mesmerizingly morphs into various shades of cerulean, teal, aquamarine, and cobalt depending on the water depths, time of day, and the sun’s angle. I couldn’t get enough of it. And it’s definitely capable of stirring any guest to emerge from their cocoon of luxury.

Depending on the time of day or time of year, you might have that half-mile of white sand beach practically to yourself. (When I was there in June, there were rarely more than a few other guests strewn out on lounge chairs.)  The property is located within an 18,000-acre nature reserve, with literally nothing next door except a public beach a decent walk away that’s really only “busy” on weekends. The water is gloriously calm and unbelievably clear, and so salty that it’s literally impossible not to float. Kayaks and SUPs are at your disposal; just as fun is watching schools of fish meander by. The name Amanyara, a mash-up of Sanskrit and the language of the indigenous Arawaks, doesn’t translate to “peaceful place” for nothing.

Even more restorative than hugging the coastline on the water is getting out there on a boat. Included as an amenity are snorkeling expeditions within Northwest Point Marine National Park —just a five- or 10-minute boat ride right from the beach. The morning I went, I was the only taker, and my captain graciously offered to accompany me underwater to spot the marine life.  He dove down to coax out spiny lobsters from their hiding spots and we peered at aqua parrotfish and graceful blue and yellow queen angelfish hanging out by the coral reef, as purple lace-like sea fans lazily waved with the current. It was among the best snorkeling I’ve ever done, especially since it was so effortless: no taxi to the harbor or shuttling on and off a boat with dozens of other people.

Eventually, though, I had to retreat to my villa to escape the intense summer sun and wash off all that salt. Not that it was a hardship by any stretch. Amanyara’s pavilions, as they are called, overlook ponds or beaches. Eaves overhang on three sides to provide shade on the terrace, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors let you soak in your natural surroundings. In addition to the watersports and snorkeling, other niceties include daily wellness classes, in-room refreshments like fresh fruit, chocolate, nuts, and candy, a well-stocked coffee and tea station with a Nespresso machine and electric kettle, and a mini-fridge with non-alcoholic beverages. (There is a charge for in-room wine and liquor in the minibar.)

I was given a welcome cocktail upon arrival that I could spike at the bar, and when I checked into my room, there was a bottle of Charles Heidsieck Champagne chilling, which I immediately uncorked, taking a fluteful down my path to check out my semi-private rocky beach at dusk. (Daily insect treatments keep the mosquitos relatively at bay, but there is bug spray in the room if you need it.) A tote bag and flip flops are for your use and a sweet souvenir when you return home.

Layouts and other amenities depend on the room category. My 700-sq. ft. Ocean Pavilion was outfitted with a four-poster king-size bed with sheer curtains, a living area, and en suite bathroom with a freestanding tub, spacious rain shower, twin vanities, and a Japanese toilet with an automatic heated seat and bidet and dryer features. Thoughtful pampering-focused treats were left on my bed nightly including Aman-branded gold algae eye masks, handmade soap, and bath bombs. My wooden sun deck had two lounge chairs and an umbrella, and there were two bikes parked outside for my use. (It was a tad hot during my visit, so I opted to call the front desk to request a buggy ride to get to and from the restaurants, beach, and spa.)

Since Amanyara is so isolated, you’ll most likely enjoy all your meals on property. Most guests take advantage of the Season of Discovery package, which is all-inclusive of all meals including a two-course lunch and three-course dinner. The Restaurant, as it’s simply called, serves breakfast and dinner, with a view of either the ocean or shallow water features adjacent to the lobby and bar. The latter look especially dramatic after dark, when the lights reflect on the water, and on some evenings there’s live music.

You can start your day with a variety of pastries and egg dishes, options from the wellness menu like coconut chia pudding or an açai bowl, or savory fare like shakshuka or cheese and charcuterie. I was delighted to learn that the current dinner menu skews Asian, with curries, sushi, and noodle dishes, and throughout the course of my stay I sampled a lot of it. Memorable dishes include gyoza stuffed with pork, ginger, and cabbage, silky black cod sliders, green Thai curry with eggplant, and A4 Japanese Wagyu sirloin served with bok choy and shiitake mushrooms, which literally melted in my mouth like butter. Desserts also have an Eastern slant, like a coconut cream-topped spongy, green chiffon cake with the herbaceous, vanilla-coconut flavor of pandan leaf.

The Beach Club is Amanyara’s other dining concept, with a Mediterranean menu for lunch, snacks, and casual dinners, taken at tables on tiered decks with ocean views. I found this to be quite a delightful spot to escape the sun for lunch, but if you prefer, staff will bring food to your lounge chair or daybed at the beach or infinity pool. Start with an Aperol, Hugo, Amalfi, or Campari spritz and a trio of spreads, served with freshly baked oregano bread. Crispy fritto misto arrives with fried zucchini and lemon aioli, clams are steamed with white wine, tomatoes and garlic, and tender, fresh conch ceviche is topped with gremolata and tomato salsa.

There’s also a wood-fired oven for pizzas and freshly made pasta, and a catch of the day that can be grilled, pan-seared or fried. (A seriously overcooked piece of grouper one day was the kitchen’s only misstep, and staff immediately swooped in to rectify the situation.) If you’re feeling peckish in the afternoon, complimentary afternoon tea is served at the bar, with an iced tea infusion and savory and sweet bites like mochi and tofu.

Sundowners are a big deal here. Guests flock to a table al fresco next to the infinity pool, or one of the open-air built-in nooks with lounge pillows, to sip a craft cocktail from a menu that balances booze-forward libations with refreshing ones as the sun sets. The herbal, savory Gin Ticker combines fennel-infused gin, Chartreuse, lemon, celery bitters, and saline; and Aztec Summer shakes jalapeno Tequila and mezcal with Lillet Blanc, cucumber, lime, and agave. The resort also regularly welcomes guest bartenders; during my stay, Valentino Longo, beverage consultant and winner of the 2020 North America Most Imaginative Bartender Competition, was serving original sips including a mango and rum riff on a New York Sour.

At the spa, all-in-one freestanding treatment pavilions include a full bathroom and changing area. Treatments are inspired by the Aman brand’s three product lines—Grounding, Purifying and Nourishing—with four treatments for each formulation, Massage, Body Scrub and Wrap, Face Ritual, and the Journey. My 90-minute massage from in-house therapist Jick was exactly what my stiff neck and shoulders needed. A spa pool and relaxation area extend the bliss.

In addition to treatments, Amanyara’s wellness programming includes mindfulness and stress management, one-day wellness immersions, and longer retreats. One afternoon, I met with visiting specialist and current wellness manager Toby Maguire, who used a device on me called an AcuGraph, basically a simplified version of Chinese medicine that can chart deficiencies in various organs and systems. The results can be used to curate a customized holistic plan with nutritional and fitness guidance during and after your visit. Afterwards, he guided me on one of the mindfulness walks offered weekly, which wound through the vegetation and ended with a seated guided meditation on the sand.

Staff told me that four nights here is the sweet spot for a stay, the perfect amount of time to generate restorative vibes and take advantage of the property’s amenities without running out of things to do. As my car service turned onto that dirt road to begin the half-hour journey back to the airport in Providenciales, I thought about how even a three-night sojourn in this blue-filtered escape definitely instilled a sense of lingering peace.

The post Soak in the Turks-quoise Bliss at Amanyara appeared first on Islands.

There’s just something about the Abacos that makes a person’s eyes light up. Fishermen, beach bums, boaters, divers, and all types of travelers love this destination in the Bahamas because it simply feels like it exists for all of us to enjoy and embrace. And perhaps the best thing about it is that it’s away from the massive resorts and cruise crowds, so there’s an extra level of seclusion that is so much better than even the most luxurious amenities.

But imagine being able to visit any time you feel like it. Even better, imagine living there. That’s what my brain has been doing since the moment I laid eyes on one of the dream home concepts now for sale in The Residences at Montage Cay.

Villa 7, also known far more affectionately as Jasmine, is located in the Southpoint Village of Montage Cay, and the interior design has been conceived by DesignAgency to be as beautiful as the natural surroundings. Fully furnished, this home is ideal for anyone who wants to sit inside and enjoy the Bahamian breeze while reading a book and/or sipping a neat rum, but it’ll be tough for residents and guests to not spend every moment in the private infinity pool.

At approximately 4,100-sq. ft., this $8.9 custom home is big enough for a family that wants nothing but the best for every occasion. Birthdays, anniversaries, and any milestone celebration in between can all be celebrated under this roof, and eight people will feel like royalty while staying in the four bedrooms.

That’s not to say the party can’t be bigger, although any other guests will need to find other accommodations. Fortunately, there will eventually be a 50-suite hotel at The Residences at Montage Cay, boasting more pools and beaches, and a 46-slip marina will be the best place to dock vessels as long as 110-feet. Jasmine is just one of the 47 luxury residences expected to be built in this ambitious 53-acre community concept.

The post Enjoy a Sneak Preview of ‘Jasmine’, an Exceptional New Property in the Abacos appeared first on Islands.

Recently built atop Reed’s Point in Antigua, the location of Villa Papillon almost gives the illusion that you’re overlooking the Caribbean of pirate lore. The view of Pearn’s Bay has several small mountains in the near distance and, save for the modern sailboats floating in the bay, you almost expect a notorious captain’s ship to round the corner at any moment. It is easily one of the most engaging views on the island of Antigua no matter how many mornings you stare at it while sipping your coffee.

Villa Papillon is a six-bedroom residence that is now available for rental for those looking for an intimate, luxurious getaway that is a completely different experience than a resort. Perfect for groups such as friends traveling together or extended families, this villa has every detail that makes “exclusive” vacations desirable. 

Designed to showcase the never-ending views, Villa Papillon features two unbelievably gorgeous outdoor eating areas and an infinity pool complete with a bar and an ice machine that pumps out crystal clear ice—the fun kind with the hole in the middle that mingles perfectly in a cold soda.

The gourmet kitchen on the main floor is commandeered by a private chef who makes all meals to order daily. There are also a housekeeper and house manager checking in frequently to ensure guests have everything they could wish for, or maybe even something they never knew they needed. 

The king bedrooms all have ocean views of the expansive surrounding nature, and they also all feature ensuite bathrooms, providing great privacy and eliminating the “who gets the master” bedroom anxiety.  Seating areas are incredibly comfortable with fluffy pillows and several inviting couches, with all details well-thought out by the professional interior designer (who also happens to own the house).

Besides lounging around the pool, sunning on the deck, and sipping cocktails while admiring the view, there is plenty to keep guests busy. For example, the house manager can arrange yoga on the deck, which is done before the sun gets too hot. It’s a lovely touch and the class is tailored to the guests’ ability levels.

The beach is a few short minutes via a path from the villa, and staff will bring lunch, beverages, chairs, and umbrellas for a beach day.  For off-villa adventures, we like Barefoot Antigua charters. Charters start at about $700 for up to 6 people, and guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, wakeboarding, and simply exploring the island from the water.

Dining out is a must, as Antigua has many excellent restaurants. Visitors’ favorites include Sheer Rocks, because it may have the only view on the island that rivals Villa Papillon. Located inside Cocobay Resort—a very short ride from the villa—this spot features cocktails that are inspired and delicious, and it is also a prime location for selfie loving Instagram posters. 

Additionally, Catherine’s Cafe has THE vibe.  Right on Pigeon Point Beach, it is a truly laid-back place to enjoy French inspired cuisine while listening to a local band and sipping rose. The food is terrific, and the atmosphere is super chic. Wear your best flowy dress and bring a bathing suit in case you want to hang on the beach afterward.

Villa Papillon starts at $6,000 per night for 12 people and worth the splurge for the view alone.  Add to that the privacy, the beauty, the chef, the small touches and luxurious service – it’s a bargain.

The post This Stunning Residence in Antigua is Always Worth the Splurge appeared first on Islands.

Alaska Airlines has added its first-ever flights to the Bahamas with nonstops from both Los Angeles and Seattle. The airline is also adding new routes between Las Vegas and both Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

All four new international routes begin flying in mid-December.

RELATED: Alaska Adds More Non-Stop Service to Florida

For a limited time, introductory fares for flights between Los Angeles and Nassau start at $169 one-way and flights between Seattle and Nassau start at $199 one-way. Flights from Las Vegas to Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta start at $139 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase now at Alaskaair.com.

“We’re excited to add a ‘new dot’ to our route map and believe our guests will appreciate the convenience of nonstop service to the Bahamas this winter,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “Whether our guests choose to stay in Nassau, or venture to the outer islands, the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters of the Bahamas await.”

The new flights to the Bahamas are a first for Alaska Airlines to the Caribbean nation. The morning departures from both Los Angeles and Seattle allow guests to arrive in Nassau in the late afternoon.

Alaska Airlines’ new service to Nassau will become its 101st nonstop destination from its hometown airport in Seattle.

Las Vegas becomes a new Alaska gateway to two of Mexico’s most popular destinations from the West Coast: Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Both flights depart Las Vegas late in the morning for a midday arrival.

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The post New Nonstop Option for the Caribbean appeared first on Islands.

With a celebration worthy of its legendary tale in Jamaica’s tourism history, Sandals Resorts opened its newest resort, the 260-room Sandals Dunn’s River this weekend. Grammy-award-winning artist Shaggy and “The Voice” winner Tessanne Chin joined Caribbean tourism officials and Sandals executives for the occasion.

“This is the place where everything began for Sandals Resorts, and from where we stand, it’s a stunning representation of where we’re headed,” said Adam Stewart , Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts. “Sandals Dunn’s River is the continuation of my father’s journey to better. It is a hero’s tale about an ambitious boy who began selling fish to local resorts and how he went on to change how people prefer to vacation, making Jamaica and the Caribbean the centerpiece of his efforts. It is an epic story about an incredible person who continues to inspire us to dream bigger, do more, be better. It is the stuff of legends and that is what this evening is all about.”

Stewart, SRI CEO Gebhard Rainer, and other members of the Sandals Resorts team joined with Prime Ministers, including The Most Honourable Andrew Michael Holness of Jamaica and The Honourable Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ministers of Government, including Minister of Tourism of Jamaica The Honourable Edmund Bartlett, and local dignitaries from throughout the Caribbean region for an official invocation of the event.

In his speech, Prime Minister Michael Holness of Jamaica remembered his discussion about buying the land with the late Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart. “Seeing a dream come true is such a remarkable thing, and Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart was a dreamer, if there is one thing you could say about him. He was a dreamer, but he was also a doer, someone who would always finish the task. We are figuratively living in ‘Butch’ Stewart’s fantasy as we stand here,” he remarked.

The event served as a throwback to the resort’s earlier days as the Arawak Hotel, which opened in 1957 and was the brainchild of visionary architect Morris Lapidus, whose exuberant, colorful designs epitomized Caribbean style in the 1950s and 1960s. The event, with the theme “Return of a Legend,” offered an artistically recreated experience and atmosphere. The luxurious all-inclusive resort’s outdoor areas were transformed into a vintage supper club with lounge music, sparkling gold embellishments, brilliant green palm trees, and SWAG servers—a modern update on the “cigarette servers” of yesteryear.

The new resort features 12 restaurants, nine bars (including a swim-up bar in the pool), stocked bars in each room, a fitness center, unlimited land sports, and five pools along with two “river pools.”

In a first for Jamaica, Sandals Dunn’s River will have Beachfront Skypool Suites, a unique accommodation with a pool on the balcony – even balconies not on ground level.

The resort officially opens for guests on May 24.

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