If you’re a mom you likely already have Sunday, May 14, 2023, circled on your calendar—and it’s not too late to plan to enjoy a coastal brunch, quick beachside escape, or even a splurge-worthy getaway to the Caribbean or Hawaii. We’ve found options that focus on pampering for Mom and family fun for everyone, so get ready to relax, unwind, and celebrate with one of these 16 Mother’s Day deals at some of our favorite island and coastal resorts.

Fifth Night Free

The Place: Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia

Is a back-to-nature escape what you need this Mother’s Day? Anse Chastanet, an architectural delight offering a retreat in the heart of lush St. Lucia, has just 50 rooms, all scattered throughout the verdant hillside and palm-tree lined beachfront and featuring open-air fourth walls that make guests feel connected with land and sea. You can relax in hammocks, lounge beds, private beach huts, and beachside restaurants and enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving and sunset sailing. 

The 600-acre estate that Anse Chastanet occupies is also home to an extraordinary farm and a tasty chocolate lab, where you can take truffle-making classes. Enjoy a fifth night free of charge if you book four or more nights in a Hillside Deluxe or Premium Suite (rates start at $990/night with the promo). 

One Happy Mother’s Day

The Place: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

Located on Aruba’s spectacular Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba offers a Mother’s Day escape blending natural beauty with luxury amenities. The resort’s 320 guestrooms and suites all have private balconies with sweeping sea views and newly refreshed decor that blends the island’s relaxed aesthetic with Ritz-Carlton’s renowned luxury. 

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is offering a “Mom and Me” experience—a 25-minute facial and 50-minute massage for mothers to enjoy with a guest of their choosing—and a “Mom Escape,” a personalized 50-minute custom facial. Guests can also enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch and endless mimosas at BLT Steak, a specially curated blackboard menu of delectable offerings at BLT Steak for dinner, or the Ti Amo Mamma menu at Casa Nonna. 

A Mother’s Day Bingo event is also planned at The Casino and moms will enjoy a 15 percent discount at The Boutique and Sun Boutique. With the Stay Longer, Experience More offer, book four nights or more and save 25 percent (rates start at $583/night with the promo). 

One Suite Deal

The Place: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Maui, Hawaii

To splurge on an amazing experience for the entire family, consider this “suite” offer by the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. Located on legendary Ka’anapali Beach, the property delivers the quintessential Hawaiian experience through an award-winning luau and dining, expert-led stargazing, wildlife tours, and cultural classes—and this Mother’s Day, it has an offer with every extra imaginable: 

• Three nights in Presidential Suite or the Palace Suite (accommodating four or six guests, respectively)
• Pampering at Kamaha’o, a Marilyn Monroe Spa, which includes a massage, facial, and pedicure Mother’s Day breakfast at Swan Court
• VIP table at award-winning Drums of the Pacific Luau tickets to Tour of the Stars
• A family photoshoot throughout the property by Grins 2 Go
• A private social media mermaid class
• A full-day Ohana Tent rental
• Private penguin feeding and wildlife tour
• Private family virtual golf and games in Hyatt Golf Studio by Yo! Maui hosted by resident PGA golf professional Sutee Nitakorn
• Access to Regency Club 

Prices for this offer begin at $23,000. Call (808) 667-4932 for reservations.

Mother’s Day Brunch

The Place: The Condado Vanderbilt, San Juan, Puerto Rico

It’s easy to jet off to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a long weekend of sun and fun, and the perfect spot to celebrate amid elegant surroundings is the Condado Vanderbilt. Opened in 1919, the legendary hotel retains the opulence and grandeur of that bygone era at every turn—captivating architecture, grand pianos, a cozy cocktail bar, speakeasy-style cigar lounge, and postcard-worthy pool areas overlooking the sea—and its 317 rooms and suites are ideal for both couples and families. 

Get 10 percent off (with rates starting at $377/night) when you book three or more nights and be sure to reserve the spectacular Mother’s Day Brunch at the hotel’s award-winning 1919 restaurant.

Mom’s Getaway 

The Place: Andaz San Diego

Looking to have it all—a suite that epitomizes California cool, a candlelit rooftop dinner, a romantic turn down, a sunset cruise, and a private photo shoot? You can at Andaz San Diego, located in the city’s lively Gaslamp Quarter. 

Splurge on the “Mom’s Getaway” offer to enjoy a one-night stay in the 1,275-square-foot Andaz Star Suite, champagne and your favorite candy/snacks upon arrival, a rose-petal turn down, a wine-paired dinner at The Rooftop by STK, two complimentary poolside cocktails, a $100 spa certificate to Saffron + Sage, a private sunset boat charter with car service to and from the hotel, and a photo shoot on property and throughout the beautiful beachside city of San Diego. 

The offer starts at $7,499 for a one-night stay with a $2,000 charge for each additional night. Contact the hotel at (619) 849-1234 directly to book.

Family Beach Escape 

The Place: Henderson Beach Resort, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL

Looking for a convenient escape with your kids for Mother’s Day? A peaceful yet fun getaway awaits at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL, where the entire family can enjoy access to the picturesque private beach, a lazy river, and an array of services. While you relax, young ones can grab lunch and then participate in crafts and themed activities at Poppy’s Kids Club. 

For some alone time, book a rejuvenating treatment at The Henderson Spa and experience the Himalayan salt suite overlooking lush Henderson Beach State Park. With the Good Day Sunshine offer, book a minimum 3-night stay and save up to 20 percent off your rate (starting at $339/night with the promo), and get a $100 food and beverage credit per stay. 

Buy 4, Stay 5 

The Place: Quintessence Hotel, Anguilla

Perched above the pristine coast of Long Bay on Anguilla, Quintessence Hotel offers a private, villa-like ambience with all the amenities of a world-class resort. The exclusive, nine-suite property is affectionately nicknamed “The Tropical Grand Mansion” and features a captivating avant-garde design and beautiful Haitian artwork throughout its interiors. 

Guests enjoy a first-class selection of amenities and activities, including an exceptional spa, 24-hour butler service, and French-Caribbean gourmet fine dining—all complemented by jaw-dropping ocean views and private beach access. This May for a Mother’s Day getaway, you can book Quintessence’s limited time “Buy 4 Stay 5” package with rates starting at $650/night. Call 800-234-7468 to book the offer.

Summer Nights

The Place: Elite Island Resorts on Antigua and Barbados

Mother’s Day 2023 falls into the date range for Elite Island Resorts’ “Summer Nights” offer, featuring a first night free on a minimum three-night stay. Order a piña colada, put on a tropical sundress, and indulge in the ultimate resort getaway at three of the company’s beachfront all-inclusive properties in Antigua, including Pineapple Beach Club, St. James’s Club & Villas and The Verandah Resort & Spa, as well as The Club in Barbados. All-inclusive rates vary by resort. To reserve call (800) 858-4618.

A Boozy Brunch

The Place: The National Hotel in South Beach, Miami

To literally forget all your real-life cares and worries, spend Mother’s Day enjoying a boozy brunch at Mareva 1939 at The National Hotel. From 11 am to 3 pm, guests will take in stunning views of the iconic Art Deco property as they enjoy a brunch menu ($75/person) that includes dynamic favorites such as huevos rotos and lobster and seafood paella for two made with scallops, mussels, shrimp, and clams—plus have the option of making their brunch cocktails bottomless, including mimosas and Bloody Marys, for just $35. Rates start at $308/night. Reservations for brunch can be made via OpenTable. 

An All-Inclusive Wellness Retreat

The Place: Carlisle Bay, Antigua 

Book it yourself or ask for it as a gift, because Carlisle Bay’s three-night all-inclusive Wellness Retreat from May 19-22, 2023, is equal parts relaxation and fitness motivator. Participants will enjoy daily mindful meditation, gentle yoga classes to suit all levels and abilities, and daily activities, including reef snorkeling at Cades Bay, guided rainforest hike to Signal Hill, and a local cooking demonstration. 

This all-inclusive package (from $2,850 per room/double occupancy for three nights or from $1,884 per room/single occupancy for three nights) is designed to bring a sense of well-being via a holistic wellness experience. 

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

The Place: Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Jamaica

If a spa-centric respite in Jamaica sounds like the perfect way to relax over Mother’s Day weekend, Round Hill Hotel and Villas , a historic resort set on a 110-acre peninsula in Montego Bay, is offering specially curated spa packages for mom at The Round Hill Spa. The limited time spa menu, available from May 12-14, 2023, offers the All About You! treatment, which is a personalized massage, facial and foot treatment; the Mama Mia! treatment, featuring a Frangipani body polish, custom massage, and hand and foot treatment; and the To Mom, With Love! treatment, which includes a signature coconut rub and milk ritual wrap, custom massage, and exotic hand ritual and custom manicure. 

Round Hill’s culinary team has also curated a special prix fixe menu for an unforgettable Mother’s Day Brunch with holiday themed cocktails and dishes. With Round Hill’s Summer Reconnect offer, your 4^th night is free and rates start at $571/night for a 4-night stay.

A Mindful Getaway

The Place: Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Miami, FL

Get several girlfriends to convince their spouses to watch the kids for a few days and head together to the largest spa on the Eastern seaboard (it’s 70,000 square feet) at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. There, you can enjoy an impressive array of retreat programs, specialized circuits and cutting-edge therapies designed to make you feel rejuvenated inside and out. 

Moms seeking some intense R and R can also partake in a Sleep Well Circuit to achieve the ultimate night’s sleep. With the resort’s 4^th Night Free offer, book three nights and get an extra night on a complimentary basis (from $477/night with the offer). 

More is Less

The Place: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa

If a white-sand beach and aquamarine water just steps from a newly renovated pool (the largest on the island) is your idea of heaven, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is the ideal spot for a classic Caribbean escape this Mother’s Day. 

Occupying the most expansive stretch of world-famous Seven Mile Beach, the resort features 343 rooms, a spa, and an array of on-site watersports such as paddleboarding, parasailing, and jet-skiing. Dining-wise, you can indulge at seven restaurants, including Woto, a new sushi, ceviche and poke restaurant, and Beach House for fresh seafood and small-plate specialties. Stay at least four nights with the “More is Less” promotional offer and rates start at $656/night.

A Foodie Indulgence

The Place: Calabash, Grenada

If your top indulgence is enjoying culinary experiences, Grenada’s Calabash resort might be the perfect Mother’s Day couple’s escape for you and your spouse. This five-star Relais & Chateaux boutique hotel is nestled seaside and is home to the elegant fine-dining Rhodes Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy the freshest local ingredients in Caribbean specialties created with European flair. 

Let your taste buds savor the fresh catch of the day and sophisticated, creative dishes that showcase Grenada’s legendary spices. And with Calabash’s Upgraded Meal Plan Offers, stay at least four nights and receive a complimentary upgrade from Bed and Breakfast to Half Board (from $696/night) or from Half Board to All-Inclusive (from $845/ night).

Make My Stay

The Place: Caribe Hilton, San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you only have time for a quick Caribbean getaway, what’s more convenient than Puerto Rico? With the “Make My Stay” offer at the iconic Caribe Hilton, stay three nights and get a resort credit of $150 for use at the spa or restaurants. The resort features a secluded beach, ocean-front swimming pools, beachside hammocks, and a relaxing Zen Spa. You can also reserve a table for the property’s annual Mother’s Day brunch to indulge in a delectable spread. 

Old San Juan is a quick taxi ride away and you can enjoy local food and rum tours and other activities that showcase the island’s rich culture. PS: Don’t leave without trying the classic Piña Colada— it was invented at the Caribe Hilton! Rates start at $483/night. 

Stay Longer and Save More

The Place: Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West, FL 

Dreaming of kicking back in Key West? Southernmost Beach Resort, situated along the quieter southern limit of famed Duval Street where ocean views abound, mixes sleek modern design with classic coastal charm. It’s a quick walk to all the fun happenings in Old Town Key West when you’re not lounging by three palm-fringed pools, getting pampered in the full-service spa, or enjoying a private beach with lounge chairs and cabanas along with a signature restaurant and three bars. 
This Mother’s Day, the resort will also host two special three-course brunches with decadent island-infused cuisine. With Stay More, Save More, book a five-night stay and get the fifth night free (rates start at $594/night for the five nights) along with a $100 food and beverage credit.

The post The Island and Coastal Resorts Offering the Best Mother’s Day Deals appeared first on Islands.

When you spend a significant amount of time eating your way through the Caribbean like I do, every month is National (Insert Food or Drink Item) Month. Margaritas, mai tais, pina coladas, hamburgers, tacos, pizza—we are already constantly celebrating it all, so we sometimes let a special occasion slip through the cracks. But National Sauce Month? That’s one I’ll make a point to set aside a day or two for busting my many bottles out of the cabinet and fridge for a little taste test festival.

I’m especially fond of hot sauces, as I try to collect a prominent bottle from every destination I visit, even if it means just grabbing a random bottle from the airport gift store on the way home. Fortunately, when I have the chance to spend time with an island’s talented chefs, I learn a little more about personal and local favorites, and on the rarest occasions I might even bring home a one-of-a-kind bottle.

The biggest thing I look for in hot sauce isn’t the fire but the flavor. There’s no point in ruining a meal with something meant to punish the consumer, so I collect the bottles that bring a little sweat to my brow, but also a smile to my face. Here are five that I’m especially fond of and hope fellow travelers will love as well. 

Llewellyn’s Guava Pepper Sauce

When I recently visited St. Kitts, one of my most important side missions was acquiring a bottle or two of the legendary Llewellyn’s Hot Sauces, created by Llewellyn Clarke of the Four Seasons Resort Nevis. I was worried that these were only sold on neighboring Nevis, since these flavors were conceived in Rawlins Village, but I was elated to find the guava and mango pepper sauces in the lobby shop at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort. 

In fact, when I entered the store, the incredibly friendly clerk asked if I was looking for something specific, and I immediately said, “Hot sauce” to which she replied, “Then you’ll want…” and I finished her sentence by shouting, “Llewellyn’s!” Both flavors are magnificent, but the guava has been my personal favorite from anywhere in the Caribbean, so much so that when we have guests, I hide it from everyone. Order your own, friends.

Hot Delight Papaya

Aruba’s Hot Delight Papaya sauce is, simply put, one of the best things in the world. Since trying it for the first time four years ago, when a Dutch chef made ice cream with it at Divi Aruba’s Michelin Pop-Up event, I have been downright hooked. A mild flavor, this is as versatile as a sauce can get, because it goes well with chicken, pork, fish, beef, and especially vegetables, and the flavor is so vibrant I even throw a little on my eggs in the morning to wake me up when the cold brew isn’t working.

Of course, I also love hot sauce with a kick, so whenever I’m leaving One Happy Island, I grab a Hot Delight two-pack from the airport gift shop, so I have a bottle of madame as well. A much hotter flavor, this bottle always lasts longer than the papaya, because I’ll drown a meal in that stuff. 

Baron West Indian Hot Sauce

I call this St. Lucia bottle my “hamburgers and fries sauce” because I love adding a little dash and drizzle to an ordinary meal at home. Some people aren’t fond of mustard-based hot sauces, so this might be an acquired taste, and I admit it took me a few dishes to build my appreciation for it. 

But the most important thing to know about Baron West Indian Hot Sauce is: get ready for some heat. It isn’t overbearing, but I have found myself sweating each time I’ve taken this bottle from the pantry, so novice hot saucers should be careful and build a tolerance.

Alvin’s Hot Sauce

This bottle might be found in a lot of big city restaurants—and on Netflix’s Restaurants on the Edge—but the eponymous creator was born in Trinidad and raised in St. Croix, so the Caribbean influence is undeniable. And the experts agree, because this bottle has been celebrated at a variety of food competitions and hot sauce awards events.

Alvin’s Hot Sauce slaps from the moment you open the bottle, as the aroma of Scotch bonnet peppers can take over a room. But again, we don’t want to suffer when eating a nice dish, and this doesn’t make the consumer regret the decision. As for which dish, this is by far my favorite to use on homemade wings, and sometimes I’ll combine it with some Frank’s just to really make it pop.

Spika Oil

It wasn’t long into my first visit to Curaçao last year that I became obsessed with the Dutch Caribbean island’s culinary scene. After a few meals, I realized I was in foodie Valhalla, and so I was excited to try the local hot sauces. Of course, when there are so many talented chefs on one island, you’ll learn quickly that they all make their own sauces. In fact, the head chef at the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort’s phenomenal Zala Gastro Lounge filled a water bottle with his own recipe for me to bring home.
But when it came to finding a local brand’s bottle that I could enjoy, I asked my friends at the tourism board for a recommendation, and they handed me a small bottle of Sonja’s Artisan Spika Oil with a message: “Trust us.” I’m glad I did, because while this isn’t a traditional hot sauce—the ingredients are canola oil and Curaçao hot peppers—it is an exceptional item that goes well with any dish. Best of all, you can only get it at the island’s fresh markets, so that means more trips to Curaçao in the future.

The post 5 Caribbean Hot Sauces that Need to Be on Your Food appeared first on Islands.

With an upcoming jazz and art festival headlined by Sting and Shaggy, as well as the wildly entertaining Kabawé Krawl running throughout the year, Saint Lucia is very much a top contender for the place to be in 2023. In fact, there is so much happening on the island this year—the weekly Gros Islet street parties, Anse La Raye fish fry every Friday, summer carnival, Jounen Kweyol cultural festival in October, to name a few—the dream scenario would be scoring the Saint Lucia Live It Visa and spending the entire year basking in this spectacular island’s creativity.

But where can a traveler ready to drop everything for 12 months feel at home? Soon enough, that answer will be Cabot Saint Lucia. Since breaking ground in 2019, this resort community’s real estate offerings have had travelers all over the world daydreaming about owning an escape on stunning Point Hardy. And when shots of Coore and Crenshaw’s first Caribbean golf course started making their way onto social media, well, we imagine searches for Ship Sticks prices were through the roof.

The 42 homes offered in phase one have all sold, but the second wave offers 56 homes, including turnkey villas that start at $3.5 million and lots that cost anywhere between $1.6-9.75 million, with Hart Howerton handling designs. A jaw-dropping price range, certainly, but the bells and whistles will have homeowners questioning why they’d ever leave.

Anyone who has visited Cabot Cape Breton knows this is an experience rich with spoils, and this Caribbean endeavor will be no different. The 375-acre property will eventually boast as many as 300 homes, ranging from single-family residences to intimate beachfront retreats. 

All the while, residents and visitors will elevate the experience by spending time at the beach club, lounging by the pools, and relaxing in the world-class spa. Kids will even have their own adventures to enjoy, while the sports center will complement the golf experience with other health- and wellness-focused activities.

Point Hardy Golf Club is obviously the crown jewel of this property, as its legendary designers let Mother Nature and the island’s phenomenal beauty influence their conceptual rhythm in the layout. Preview Play began in March 2023, allowing incredibly lucky Cabot Saint Lucia members—and prospective members—to play select parts of the course, but the opening date is still December 2023. Talk about a holiday gift.

The post Cabot Saint Lucia’s Second Phase Offers Golfers Another Shot at Paradise appeared first on Islands.

With an average year-round temperature of approximately 80 degrees and the stunning mountain volcanic plugs known as the Pitons dominating its iconic landscape, the island of St. Lucia paints one of the Caribbean’s prettiest pictures of paradise. 

And if you’ve been looking for a way to stake your own claim on the island for something more permanent than a one-off vacation, the new Cas en Bas development on St. Lucia’s northern coast makes an appealing case for buying in. 

With studios starting at $330,000 and two-bedroom residences at $660,000, the homes unsurprisingly gained a lot of early attention. Phase 1 has already sold out, with Phase 2 now on the market for buyers looking to invest in one of the Caribbean’s most perennially popular vacation isles. 

The UK-based resort company, Wellington Estates, is behind Cas en Bas Beach Resort, which occupies a coveted spot between a ribboning white sand beach and St. Lucia Golf and Country Club, right next to Cabot St. Lucia golf estate. 

It’s a secluded and exclusive part of the island that offers easy access to Pigeon National Park—just a 10-minute drive—as well as the nightlife and restaurants of ​​Rodney Bay and Marina Village. The boutique resort is scheduled to open in 2023, with its 90 luxury freehold apartments owned privately.

The resort has one of the longest pools in St. Lucia and the property’s layout was designed to follow the path of the sun, with shaded and sunny areas to be found throughout the day. Residences have premium finishes and full height sliding glass doors to maximize views and open onto private balconies that beckon owners to enjoy tropical indoor/outdoor living. 

“Cas en Bas Beach Resort fills a void in the current St. Lucia lifestyle hotel and real estate market, so we are delighted to enhance this wonderful island’s tourism in partnership with Dream Hotel Group,” said Edward Wellington, CEO of Wellington Estates. “Our objective is to create a world-class, professionally managed resort that offers the finest levels of contemporary island living, and Dream Hotel Group shares in that ambition.” 

The property’s low monthly service charge (just $250 per month for a studio) means owners can cover the running costs of an apartment by renting it out for just a few nights each month–another factor investors in the project find appealing. 

Amenities that owners—and the hotel’s future guests, too—will enjoy here include the resort’s Champagne terrace and rooftop bar, tapas-style wine bar, sports and beach bars, and a grill on beautiful Cas en Bas Beach.

The post Cas en Bas Offers a Realistic Opportunity to Enjoy a Personal Slice of St. Lucia appeared first on Islands.

As the servers glided effortlessly between tables inside the private dining room of the Brazilian steakhouse located within Puerto Rico’s Distrito T-Mobile, the Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, St. Lucia’s Minister of Tourism, posed a question to the room: “Who would you like to see headline next year’s St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival?” 

His dining partners were a mix of his staff and attendees of the Caribbean Hospitality and Tourism Association convention, and in that moment every single person in the packed room lit up and shouted famous music artist names as if we were nominating for the Grammys. John Legend, Usher, Rihanna, Jay-Z, Beyoncé—the fame escalated with each new recommendation, and Dr. Hilaire even tossed Norah Jones into the mix, almost as if he was asking the universe to make it happen.

It was obvious that none of the stars we suggested would make the cut, but the point behind his question was simple: this year’s event is going to be a big one. Sure enough, Dr. Helaire and his team proved the point by announcing this week that St. Lucia’s festival will be headlined by Sting and Shaggy. And even as big as that sounds, it’s only the cherry on top for 10 days of unforgettable thrills.

“The 2023 Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival promises to be the best yet, as we continue our tradition of hosting the Caribbean’s premier jazz and arts event,” Dr. Helaire declared. “The Festival will showcase music, the performing arts, fine arts, creole cuisine, and the effervescence of Saint Lucia’s creative industries.”

The kick-off event takes place on Friday, May 5, with Kes the Band and reggae star Shenseea, and the next three days will be highlighted by a variety of local entertainers and community jazz performances. Wednesday, May 10, will be the Kingdom Gospel Night, while Thursday’s Pure Jazz celebration will feature Grammy winner Gustavo Casenave and a tribute to Luther François, the godfather of St. Lucia jazz.

On Friday, Buju Banton, Bunji Garlin, and Fay Ann Lyons will lead the Caribbean Fusion showcase, and Saturday’s World Beats celebration will take guests around the world with Afro beats from Rema, Ayra Starr, CKay, and Kizz Daniel. And, of course, if everyone has a little energy left, they’ll head to the “Ultimate Celebration,” a Mother’s Day party unlike any other with Sting and Shaggy with beautiful Pigeon Island National Park as the backdrop. 

All the while, the island’s best artists will entertain visitors with visual and literary arts, theater, fashion, and plenty of crafts and souvenirs. The “Art and the City” concept will take place May 7-11 in Derek Walcott Square, William Peter Boulevard, Constitution Park, Pointe Seraphine, and Serenity Park. 

The post Sting and Shaggy are Headlining the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival appeared first on Islands.

If France, Britain, and West Africa somehow collided on a Caribbean island, it would feel a lot like St. Lucia. Here, towering mountains and fern-frilled jungles meet a cosmopolitan food-and-beverage scene in Castries, the capital.

Have a few days to get away? St. Lucia deserves your attention. You might not be able to do it all and see everything during your visit, but this isn’t an island you only visit once.

DAY 1

The Sweet South: Check in to Rabot Hotel St. Lucia from Hotel Chocolat, a lush property with 25 private eco-lodges that all sport sweeping views of Petit Piton, one of the island’s two iconic pyramid-shaped mountains. The hotel is owned by the chocolatier, so it makes sense that the Beauté de Cacao Spa offers a cacao-infused massage treatment, and a tree-to-bar chocolate-making class is also on the agenda.

The theme continues at the hotel’s Rabot Restaurant, which serves delights like Cacao Cannelloni, Cacao Linguine, and Cacao Braised Local Pork, among many other delightful dishes and cocktails.

Hot, Hot, Hot: Saint Lucia boasts its own version of a drive-in—a drive-in volcano. The only attraction of its kind on the planet, the Sulphur Springs volcano features a tour on foot through the steamy caldera. Park your car on the edge of the crater and walk in—that sulfur smell is just part of the experience—while learning the geological history from a guide.

Better yet, book a bath experience and find out for yourself if the mud, steam, and water will really make you “look 12 years younger.” Even if it doesn’t, the experience will make for a fantastic story back home.

DAY 2

Daily Bread: Meander north, where the road winds its way through a verdant landscape crammed with ferns and lansan trees. There you’ll find Plas Kassav, just north of the hamlet of Anse-la-Verdure, where owner Marina Roberts has been selling her homemade cassava bread, made from yucca, since 1992. The bread—crispy on the outside and pleasantly gooey on the inside—comes in flavors like banana, mango, peach, cherry, raisin, and, of course, chocolate.

Make a Pit Stop: To get a sense of authentic island life, stop by Canaries, a fishing village on the west coast that was accessible only by boat until the 1960s. Have lunch at one of the handful of restaurants, chat with friendly locals, and stroll by the water to see colorful fishing boats called pirogues.

Raise a Glass: About 10 miles up the coast, pause near Roseau to lift your spirits: St. Lucia Distillers has produced fine rums since 1931. They’re so proud of their heritage, in fact, that they’ve named their main brand “1931” to commemorate the origination. Learn how the liquor is made and sample a selection of rums, including the ultra-smooth Chairman’s Reserve, which matures in American oak whiskey casks for seven to 12 years.

Shopper’s Delight: In the laid-back capital of Castries, wander the late-19th-century open-air Castries Market. More than 300 vendors hawk sundries from wood carvings to spices to crispy roti stuffed with chicken curry.

See a Shrine: Continue a few blocks to Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The interior of this Catholic basilica, the largest in the Caribbean, is a riot of colors punctuated by steel arches—a stunning combination of traditional architecture and island flair.

DAY 3

Hike to Heaven: Pigeon Island doesn’t look like much—the 44-acre swath of craggy land was joined with the mainland in 1972—but with its blend of history and nature, the reserve is a good way to sneak in some exercise while traveling. Climb the two peaks, one higher and more treacherous than the other, to get a bird’s-eye view of the sea and the rest of the island. History buffs will enjoy the remnants of embattlements from colonial days when British and French forces fought over the territory in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Fish Fry-Day: Trust us: Be sure you’re on Saint Lucia on a Friday. You won’t want to miss the best party on the island — the Jump Up, also known as the Friday night fish fry, in the seaside village of Gros Islet. It’s a street soiree for the senses: Starting around 8, follow the soca music or the smell of street-food fare, freshly grilled and fried. Buy a bottle of the local brew, Piton, and some fish, then stroll the streets (they’re roped off for pedestrians only), mingling with locals along the way.

The post How to Make the Most of a 3-Day Weekend Getaway in St. Lucia appeared first on Islands.

Back in October, the St. Lucia Tourism Authority officially launched a fun new endeavor known as the Kabawé Krawl, which is a little like the pub crawl concept, except it puts a bigger emphasis on local culture and education than anything else. Known for its immense natural beauty and subsequent romantic inspiration, the island also has a very creative culinary scene, and so this is part of a larger effort to allow guests to “live like a local,” which includes sipping some excellent rum in very charming bars and restaurants.

When I learned about that initiative, I thought, “Well, now I have zero excuses—it’s time to head to St. Lucia,” and then, as if a sign from the heavens, the island also rolled out a phenomenal and comprehensive Black Friday and Cyber Monday program. Two dozen hotels, resorts, and rentals, as well as seven experience providers, are offering generous discounts on rooms, upgrades, credits, tours, excursions, cruises—it’s the kitchen sink of Black Friday deals.

The resorts and rentals included in this island-wide concept are offering the following discounts:

Akasha Luxury Villa: Up to 20 percent off

Bay Gardens Resorts: Buy one night, get one night free and a complimentary Live Like a Lucian experience

Blue Sky Luxury, Bay View #7: 10 percent off   

BodyHoliday: Up to 35 percent off

Caille Blanc Villa & Hotel: Up to 40 percent off stays of five nights or more

Coco Palm Hotel: Up to 50 percent off

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa: Save up to $400, airport transfers included

Flamboyant Villas: 20 percent off

La Flora Villa: 55 percent off select 2023 dates

Ladera Resort Saint Lucia: Book three nights, get three nights free

Marigot Beach Club & Dive Resort: 40 percent off all room categories (except villas)

Montete Cottages: 15 percent off

Rabot Hotel: 25 percent off

Soco House Saint Lucia: 35 percent off

South Sea House: 30 percent off 

Spring of Hope – Comfort Zone Apartment: 20 percent off

StolenTime: Up to 40 percent off 

Stonefield Villa Resort: 30 percent off

Têt Rouge Resort: 30 percent all suites (a renowned hideaway for couples) 

The Harbor Club St. Lucia – Curio Collection by Hilton: Save 30 percent off unrestricted rates

The Landings Resort and Spa: Daily credit of 29 percent, $100 spa credit, daily breakfast

Villa Susanna: 15 percent off 

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort: Up to 60 percent off

Zoetry Marigot Bay, St. Lucia: Up to 80 percent off

That last property will open its doors to the world on December 1, and the latest offering from World of Hyatt will be an instant hit with its 124 suites, pools, and on-site rum cave. However, no visit to St. Lucia is complete without adventure and exploration. These companies are providing generous discounts that will help fill out any itinerary.

Barefoot Holidays: 20 percent off Flavors of Saint Lucia cooking tour

Israel King Boat Tours: 20 percent off scenic cruises

Rhikkie Rainforest & Birdwatching Nature Tours: 50 percent off Birdwatching and Southern Historical Tour 

Sea Spray Cruises: 10 percent discount 

Solar Tours & Travel: Soufriere Catamaran Day Sail and airport transfers for $165

The Pavilion Restaurant: 10 percent off meal and drinks
Trims National Stables: 5 percent off group horseback riding adventures

The post St. Lucia’s Island-Wide Black Friday Deals Make this the Place to Be in 2023 appeared first on Islands.

One of the most difficult aspects of planning a vacation to St. Lucia is choosing the resort. For many travelers, this is a once in a lifetime destination, so everything about the trip simply must be perfect. That’s a tall order when this island is home to some spectacular properties, but fortunately two of the most outstanding resorts have come up with a way to make the decision a little easier.

Both known for distinct elements of luxury, style, and wonder, Ladera and Cap Maison joined forces in 2008 to offer visitors the best of both worlds… or at least the best of both properties. Their “Peak to Beach” concept immediately became one of the best honeymoon ideas in the world, as it beckoned couples to each resort—both considered the upper echelon of Caribbean romance—and lavished them with myriad perks. 

Alas, all good things seemingly came to an end. That is, until the dynamic duo recently resurrected the partnership, albeit with a new twist. The hardest decision for travelers to now make will be choosing between the “Classic” and “Ultimate” experiences; however, it’s safe to say neither will disappoint.

The Classic includes three nights in one of Cap Maison’s extravagant Oceanview Villa Suites, a private infinity pool, one treatment per guest at Spa Maison, and all meals at The Cliff at Cap and Naked Fisherman, among other treats. Then, guests will head to Ladera for three nights in a suite on Paradise Ridge, where they’ll enjoy breathtaking pool views of the Pitons, a visit to The Spa at Ladera, dining at Dasheene, and more.

And, somehow, the Ultimate experience makes it all even more unbelievable. At Cap Maison, a couple will sip champagne on the suite’s rooftop terrace while admiring the ocean views from their private pool. When it’s time to head to Ladera, a boat will be waiting to make the transfer, and then guests will check into their Luxury Suite atop Paradise Ridge, the location for which this resort has earned its sterling reputation. 

The only drawback of either experience? They’re only available through December 19. But don’t panic too much—the deal will return in 2023 as well.

The post Ladera and Cap Maison Offer the ‘Ultimate’ St. Lucia Experience appeared first on Islands.

From the Caribbean and Mexico to Spain, South Africa and even Utah, there’s a host of luxurious hotels with private pools perfect for the most relaxing, most romantic getaways. Isolate yourselves at Amangiri in the seemingly remote landscape of Utah; there are sunsets and gorgeous horizons all around. Prefer something more tropical? Visit St. Lucia and Jade Mountain for vistas overlooking the island.

If you’re looking for hotel rooms with a private pool, read on for our list of the best 14 locations.

Jade Mountain – Soufriere, St. Lucia

The 24 suites, aptly called sanctuaries at Jade Mountain, are stacked atop each other on a hillside, all with heart-stopping views. As you open the door, get ready to be wowed: Organic architecture blends curved stone walls with exotic hardwood floors, and the open plan means you’re never without a view, from the king-sized bed draped with mosquito netting to the sans-walls bathroom with its sexy whirlpool tub.

But the stars are the pools. Sized from 400 to 900 square feet, each is lined with iridescent glass tiles in shades like sapphire, jade, magenta and bronze. The effect is so mesmerizing you won’t mind that there’s no TV (or air conditioning, as the lofty locale provides cooling breezes). Just pour yourselves some bubbly, and slip into your infinity-edge paradise.

Royal Davui Island Resort – Beqa Lagoon, Fiji

Each romantic “vale” is nestled into hillside foliage with plunge pools facing out toward the lagoon for ultimate privacy at Royal Davui Island Resort. Trading up from the island or deluxe categories to premium earns you the largest and most private oasis with its own refreshing rock waterfall.

Inside, a 20-foot netted canopy hangs from the ceiling to cocoon the king bed, which floats mid-room on a sea of polished Fijian-wood flooring adjacent to a large bathroom with a whirlpool tub and outdoor shower. A separate living room has sliding glass walls and a sunning patio with twin chaise lounges.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya – Playa del Carmen, Mexico

This 539-room all-inclusive is definitely abuzz, but the quiet Grand Class section perfectly combines luxe amenities with honeymoon privacy. All 90 suites in this section have ocean views, spa tubs and oceanfront balconies with private plunge pools. There’s even room for a massage table, should you prefer your spa treatment in suite. Top-floor rooms boast vaulted ceilings and the best views.

Hermitage Bay – Antigua

Yes, Hermitage Bay has cottages set right on the beach. But if it’s privacy and plunge pools you seek, request one of 17 hillside-cottage suites. You have to trek up a steep stone path to get there, but your effort is rewarded with the treehouse-like enclave, boasting sexy extras like a king bed, outdoor shower, wraparound sun deck and infinity-edge plunge pool with views that stretch all the way to neighboring Nevis and Montserrat.

The Resort at Pedregal – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Each of the 66 rooms and suites features a private terrace with a plunge pool, but, for the most indulgent ambience, book one of the eight Capella rooms at the Resort at Pedregal. These oversized havens have carved, wood-beam ceilings, a separate sitting area and a driftwood-back king bed positioned opposite a fireplace. The terrace door opens to an infinity-edge plunge pool with stellar sea views. More watery revelry is on tap inside in the rainforest shower for two.

Cavo Tagoo – Mykonos, Greece

Cavo Tagoo stays true to the stark-white Cycladic architecture Mykonos is known for, but the whitewashed interiors are refreshingly modern. Classic rooms on the lower level have private terraces and refreshing plunge pools while the upper-level deluxe rooms come with infinity-edge pools overlooking the Aegean Sea. A free shuttle runs between the hotel and Old Town five minutes away.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

All of the resort’s plush, overwater bungalows offer dive- or step-in access to the lagoon, but couples who book an overwater bungalow with a plunge pool can also take a freshwater dip on the lanai right outside their room. It’s perfect for a relaxing rinse after a snorkel session or a sunset soak complete with champagne.

Inside, contemporary Polynesian décor is equally seductive, especially the oversized tub with lagoon views. The glass panel in the living room floor lets you spy on multicolored reef fish below.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Riviera Maya, Mexico

For a romantic respite, book a bilevel spa-pool villa at Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Here, your rectangular H2O oasis is the perfect relaxation spot after a massage in your private treatment area. The décor is Asian spare meets Mexican spice. Think minimalist architecture that blends into the landscape and a neutral color palette accented by touches of orange and red.

Your outdoor terrace has twin chaise lounges and a dining area. Round-the-clock room service ups your incentive to stay put, too.

Ladera – Soufriere, St. Lucia

St. Lucia oozes romance, and the 32 treehouse-style rooms at Ladera match that vibe perfectly. Situated on a ridge 1,100 feet above sea level, the three-walled suites boast panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Pitons (two mountainous volcanic plugs) and the town of Soufriere. Each terrace has a private plunge pool surrounded by lush landscaping. Many also have waterfalls and teak swing sets hanging from the ceiling.

Spice Island Beach Resort – St. George’s, Grenada

This all-inclusive, 32-room boutique resort on Grenada’s southwest coast is on prime real estate, steps away from expansive Grand Anse Beach. The resort’s 1,200-square-foot Anthurium pool suites are located on the lower level, and each has a private courtyard terrace where gardens and chaise lounges surround a supersized 12-by-16-foot plunge pool.

Uma Ubud – Bali, Indonesia

There are just three Uma pool suites at COCO Uma Ubud. They’re constructed in an open, airy Balinese style with separate lounging, dining and sleeping areas. Each bedroom features a four-poster king bed and gleaming terrazzo floor that leads to a light-filled bathroom with a sunken tub for two. Outside, a pair of chaises flanks a sapphire-blue infinity plunge pool embraced by the solitude of the Balinese jungle.

Belmond La Residencia – Majorca, Spain

The isle of Majorca is classic Mediterranean: olive groves, quaint towns and seaside cliffs. Within the sleepy artists village of Deià is Belmond La Residencia, a pair of stunning stone houses that have been converted into a 67-room Orient Express retreat. Here, guests lounge around the grounds, hike to the nearby swimming cove or hole up in a Tramuntana suite with a tiled garden terrace and private pool.

Amangiri – Lake Powell, Utah

The stunning Utah landscape is best experienced at Amangiri, a 34-room oasis surrounded by stark plateaus near the Arizona border and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Six of the hotel’s suites have spacious plunge pools and private, candlelit sky terraces accessed by staircase and furnished with a daybed. It’s perfect for evening stargazing.

Earth Lodge – Mpumalanga, South Africa

Spend your mornings spotting lions, giraffes and elephants from a Land Rover while on safari around Kruger National Park. Then, return to Earth Lodge for afternoons staring out over the bush from the pool on your private terrace. The lodge’s 13 suites were made from stone and built low to the ground. While they appear minimal on the outside, inside, they’re an interior designer’s dream.

Each suite is filled with rich metallic art and funky, locally sourced furnishings, such as handmade twig chandeliers.

The post 14 Romantic Resorts with Private Plunge Pools appeared first on Islands.

The bewitching beach scene of The Landings Resort and Spa in the Caribbean paradise of St. Lucia, with the shapely Piton Mountains in the background, offers an enticing path to self-care, attracting sunworshippers to her healing shores. Situated on the eastern edge of the Caribbean chain, the lush volcanic island is part of the Windward Islands. With expressive hands, a local resident described how the string of Caribbean islands resembles a necklace—pointing out that St. Lucia’s location is near the necklace’s “pendant” of Barbados.

To better understand the character of the island, though, think of St. Lucia as female—rippling with charm, power and feminine mystery— because she’s the only island named after a woman, the patron saint of Syracuse, Saint Lucy, a name meaning light. Flexing her female muscles, she’s a personality-rich island with diverse attributes, offering many choices for a rejuvenating itinerary. 

You’ll want to clock-in long hours reclining on the beach overlooking turquoise water while also spicing things up with enriching adventures. From visiting the volcanic mud baths to stargazing with an astronomer, here are ways to fully experience The Landings and surroundings so you depart authentically refreshed and satisfied—mind, body and soul. 

Rejuvenation Starts at the Resort

The Landings is a 5-star gem nestled in Rodney Bay at the northern part of the island requiring a quick helicopter transfer from the main international airport in Vieux Fort on the southern tip, a service arranged through concierge. If weather interferes, as it did with us, sit back and enjoy the scenic 2-hour taxi ride which takes you through the middle of the island, densely covered by rainforest.

Feel like a VIP with the resort’s sit-down check-in experience—complete with island punch and cool washcloths—before being whisked away via golf cart to your villa. From 1-3 bedrooms, with a roomy 950-square feet to 2300-square feet living space, you’re going to feel pampered. The water view—whether marina or ocean—connects you to your surroundings but when it’s time to do more than looking, choose from the stunning private beach or four pools to cool off in.The Beach Club makes a cheery setting for breakfast, served buffet-style with international cuisine. The restaurant has a split personality, however, because at night it comes to life, providing a vibrant outdoor dining experience with live music and dancing. For special celebrations, head to The Palm which offers seasonal cuisine channeling an “East Meets West” theme. Tip: Order the scallops risotto and pan seared striped sea bass—but save room for the chocolate tart.

You can’t help but become a regular at The Coffee Shop—guilty!—located off the lobby, convenient for all the in-between times when you feel peckish or need a caffeine boost. With picnic tables shaded by umbrellas, the breezy beachfront café Callaloo near the water sports desk (chock-full of snorkeling gear, paddle boards, kayaks and more), is where I encountered my first Smooth Operator, a divine cocktail with pineapple juice, coconut cream, Blue Curaçao, and Bounty White, the island rum. 

Helping to flush away stress, the resort spa is a 7,000-sq.-ft. wellness kingdom featuring a full menu of massage, waxing and hair salon treatments. I opted for the signature 60-minute Lucian Paradise massage. Tadifa started my treatment on a balcony where birdsong filled the air, and I enjoyed a refreshing wintergreen essential oil foot-soak before moving indoors for my massage, which used pure coconut oil and a locally produced kukui-rose-water cream.

Ever feel like you haven’t had a real vacay because the basic to-dos are still on your plate? The Butler Service helps with various tasks, from executing the mundane—such as doing laundry, stocking the refrigerator or arranging tours and dinner reservations, to designing the super specific wedding proposal. This service is available as an add-on amenity if your villa doesn’t come with it— because who doesn’t need a butler in their life? 

Stargazing Experience Opens Up the Heavens 

The Landings delivers a slice of heaven with the newly-launched Stargazing Experience—two-hours on a private boat equipped with a telescope, personal astronomer and of course, snacks. A picnic basket with fresh culinary delights from the resort kitchen plus a blanket injects luxury into your starry excursion. Whether you hope to master the constellations or simply enjoy a star-studded night, this singular activity will be a highlight of your stay. 

Sulphur Springs and Mud Baths 

Previously the island’s capital, Soufrière is situated on a caldera— making its harbor one of the deepest in the Caribbean at 600-feet. Soufrière translates “sulphur in the air” referencing the rotten egg smell from the volcano. Some areas are off-limits due to smoldering 340-degree water temperatures, but the Sulphur Springs tour gets you safely up-close-and-personal. 

As we headed to the adjacent Mud Baths, our guide said to expect the healing waters to make us look 10-years younger. Alas, one dip didn’t do it for me—but my skin felt remarkably smooth.

Take a Walk Back in Time 

Steps from The Landings, experience island history on Pigeon Island—best appreciated with a guide by your side. Though a popular destination for hiking, picnics and events, it’s a national landmark, so significant that British royalty recently visited. The island features ruins of the old British military base from the many battles fought against the French in the 1700s, who occupied the nearby island of Martinique—about 25-miles away. 

We shadowed our guide Dalton at Morne Coubaril Estate a 18^th century plantation which combines history and adventure, passing a cluster of bamboo, the island’s national plant and the calabash tree, the national tree. The island has a long-established reputation for chocolate production and Dalton invited us to try a fresh cacao bean. True, it looks a bit unappetizing and tastes slightly bitter but is totally worth experiencing on an island known for their cacao. 

Up the road, try the delicious national dish of saltfish and green bananas at the Fond Doux Eco Resort restaurant before strolling the hushed grounds which vibrate with spiritual energy. The hidden-gem resort and cacao plantation adopted eco-friendly practices long before ecotourism emerged—a must-see unspoiled sanctuary. 

Enjoy a Boat Tour 

Sometimes the ride is as instructive as the destination—something we experienced aboard Happy Dayz, the boat which took us along the gorgeous western coastline. Our guides shared their island, pointing out the celebrity-favorite Marigot Bay, breathtaking with bobbing yachts. Scenes from movies like Doctor Dolittle and Pirates of the Caribbean franchise have been filmed in the quiet picturesque bay, which is dubbed “Hurricane Hole” because boats in the area shelter here when storms are approaching. We viewed the famous Jade Mountain from a distance, the most opulent resort of the island and setting for The Bachelor. 

When pointing out Gros Piton and Petite Piton, our loquacious guides said the locals think of the renowned twin peaks as St. Lucia’s breasts—harkening back to the island’s female identity. It made me smile because the island’s motto, Let Her Inspire You, evokes an enchanting and bedazzling siren—so fitting for an island which inspires, whether you’re on the beach sipping a cocktail or out exploring. 

The post The Landings Resort and Spa in St Lucia Helps Strengthen Mind-Body-Soul Through Rich Experiences appeared first on Islands.