It’s not uncommon for friends and family to reach out and ask for an amazing vacation setting. However, my response often comes with a warning: I’m not going to merely settle for amazing; instead, I am going to offer concepts that redefine that word. After all, why choose a vacation experience that thousands of other families are either planning at the same time or have already done? Instead, go bigger than big and choose a resort and destination that will make every family’s collective jaw drop.

For example, let’s head to Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa and check out the unbelievable Overwater Reef Residence. Now, we’ve seen some spectacular overwater bungalows over the years, but those that exist in the Maldives are legendary for raising the bar time and time again. Still relatively new, this option is the latest to change the game, and we just cannot help appreciating the thoroughly impeccable design job.

As many as eight guests can stay in this masterpiece, as it boasts a master with oversized king, another master king bedroom, and one twin bedroom, which is undoubtedly where the happiest kids in the world will sleep after a long day of adventure. Each accommodation has its own ensuite bathroom, while the beautifully subtle décor will have everyone wishing they could call this place home forever.

The centerpiece is obviously the private 16-meter infinity pool and terrace that offers sunken loungers, as parents can kick back and relax while the younger guests explore the house lagoon reef in guided snorkeling sessions or even embark on a journey to several locations around this vibrant atoll.

Even the most extravagant villas are still mostly defined by the intimate aspects and the personal touches that are conceived to ensure the family vacation of a lifetime. The Overwater Reef Residence offers a full kitchen and spaces for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as an outdoor BBQ area for anyone who understandably doesn’t want to be inside at any point during this journey.

And for anyone whose only goal is ultimate rest and relaxation, the sprawling private terrace also boasts a whirlpool and in-villa spa treatments. If that’s not enough, the views will take care of the rest.

The post Inside the Extraordinary Overwater Reef Residence at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa appeared first on Islands.

On any given day, Baha Mar can seem like it is hosting the party of the year. For example, anyone lucky enough to be spending a long Labor Day weekend at this popular Nassau property should be hyped for the Aperol Spritz Pool Party Bash that will take place at SLS Baha Mar. Or, for something a little more educational, informative, and delicious, guests at Rosewood Baha Mar can take part in the “In the Kitchen” series, which offers hands-on learning experiences with the resort’s magnificent culinary staff.

Basically, there’s no such thing as a boring day here.

But if food is on a traveler’s mind, there’s no better time to visit this sprawling resort complex than late October, because that’s when Chef Marcus Samuelsson and his celebrity friends will once again gather for one of the biggest and best celebrations in the Bahamas: the Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival. After last year’s massively successful event, hosting an encore was a no-brainer.

“Building off last year’s success, we are thrilled to bring back The Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival. This event holds a special place in our hearts as it showcases Baha Mar as the leading culinary and artist-driven destination in the Caribbean,” said Graeme Davis, President, Baha Mar. “Last year’s event was a must-visit weekend, and we can’t wait to commemorate this year with even more celebratory experiences and innovative programming hosted by an all-star roster of tastemakers.”

“Must-visit” is a bit modest. The party was absolutely sensational. In fact, there was so much going on that it was practically impossible to see and do it all. Heck, I was exhausted after the opening festivities with Boys II Men, but fortunately the man behind Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House and the other visiting chefs provided more than enough food to keep everyone fueled throughout the three-day affair.

This year’s event takes place October 27-29, with Katsuya Uechi of Katsuya and Dario Cecchini of Carna joining Marcus for hosting duties, while Food Network superstars Amanda Freitag, Carla Hall, Geoffrey Zakarian, Scott Conant, and Michelle Bernstein ensure there won’t be an empty stomach in the house.

There will be an even bigger emphasis on art this year as well, with FUZE ushering in talent from seven Caribbean nations, as if Baha Mar’s art gallery wasn’t already terrific enough. In addition to the culinary master classes led by the celebrity and resort chefs, the artists will also lead discussions, guided tours, and even demonstrations, which is a brilliant next step from last year’s showcase.

The only remaining mystery is which musical act will get this party started, but that will be announced soon enough. In the meantime, Marcus and Co. have their work cut out for them.

“This year’s Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival is going to be an incredible convergence of culinary and beverage talents and artists together for an epic weekend at this very special property,” the star chef explained. “This is an incredible opportunity to experience the flavors and soul of the island with our Bahamian friends and visiting guests.”

The post Baha Mar Once Again Set to Host the Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival in October appeared first on Islands.

The first time we arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, my wife and I instantly declared it our favorite Ritz property in the continental U.S. Clichés be damned, there’s just something different about the look and aura of this property, almost as if it transports guests to another era without sacrificing the creative, spoiling luxuries that travelers have come to covet from this brand. It’s hard to sum it all up with one quick, clever phrase, but here’s what really matters: our son absolutely loves it.

So much so that he’s never stopped talking about that first visit. This is surprising because the average child’s attention span changes to the next thing before I finish this sentence. Just when I think I’ve learned enough about Minecraft to engage with his favorite game, he informs me that it’s all about Pokemon now, and I’m sure that by next week all my Charizard research will be worthless because he’ll be into Yu-Gi-Oh.

It turns out, though, that no imaginary cartoon character can hold a candle to a simple little bass. Two years after that first visit, my son still occasionally shows me his favorite vacation souvenir: a photograph (yes, we still print them) of him triumphantly standing with a fish barely bigger than his own foot. And every time he hands that picture to me, I know what he’s trying to say: “Let’s go back.”

Fortunately, this time, we all agreed. As alluring as our favorite Caribbean resorts may be, sometimes you just need a massive lake, some fishing rods, and an infinity pool. And some fabulous new amenities don’t hurt.

Pump Your Brakes, Parents

What I love the most about The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, is that you don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn to force the kids to get dressed for the pool and lake, cram breakfast into your mouths without enjoying a single bite, and then race the other families to claim any chairs, let alone the best ones in the house. Pace of play isn’t just for the amazing golf courses here, as everyone is so laid back that there’s no reason to rush.

When my son wanted to bounce on the giant inflatables in the lake, there were always open chairs waiting for us on the sand. If my wife and her sister wanted to escape to the adults-only pool for some of the best cocktails in the Peach State, they didn’t have to search for hours to find new chairs. But the biggest relief was the seating availability at the family pool, which was added shortly after our last visit.

We assumed this would be the busiest spot on the resort property, with families hoarding as many loungers as they could by placing every towel, hat, toy, and Croc across them. We were gloriously wrong. Seating is ample at all times of day, and while kids are splashing in their own pool, parents can enjoy a variety of fun snacks and drinks at the Splash Shack, another terrific addition.

Those Summer Camp Vibes

Watching the kids run wild here reminded me of the vintage ‘80s summer camp vibes from my childhood, aside from today’s children enjoying far more superior and thrilling lake toys. Keeping a cautious dad’s eye on them as they bounced on the pair of massive inflatable trampolines and slide headfirst into the water from the floating platform, I was honestly a little jealous of how good they had it made. And that’s before we gathered at the campfire for s’mores and watched all the younger guests reunite to plan the next day’s adventures.

Now, I realize the phrase “run wild” might give the wrong impression. This isn’t an Orlando theme park hotel, nor is it the bargain Cancun all-inclusive or the deck of a crowded cruise ship. Here, the kids can play for hours and cause nary a distraction, while adults—both parents and childless romantics alike—can have their fun as well. I don’t know how this Ritz pulls that off so well, but it’s truly splendid.

But if we’re focusing solely on the children, there’s no better item to add to the agenda than an afternoon at Ritz Kids. This is a blanket statement for Ritz-Carlton properties worldwide; however, there’s so much adventure and nature to appreciate at Reynolds Lake Oconee that its’ thrilling for both the children and parents to know that the informative, entertaining staff members are providing an educational element in addition to letting the smaller guests win at air hockey.

It’ll be a long time before I forget how much fun my son had on his Ritz Kids retreat, because he’s still talking about it a month later. Especially the fishing. It turns out that when dad struggles to pull the hook from a fish’s mouth but the “camp counselor” (his words) can do it with the flick of a wrist, it means you’ve been surpassed in the pecking order. The criticism is worth it, though, when it means he has a lifelong memory and maybe even a new hobby to build on for many trips to come.

Something New for the Picky Eaters

One thing that always gets travelers worked up when it comes to their favorite resorts is a new restaurant. So, when we arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, there was already a ton of buzz for the most recent addition to the property’s dining options: Amore Del Lago. A good Italian joint is always an ideal choice on vacation, especially when the culinary team goes above and beyond in making phenomenal butter noodles and sauceless pizza for a 7-year-old whose palate hasn’t quite yet evolved.

Guests were raving about Amore Del Lago throughout our visit, so much so that we had to be flexible with our dinner times because securing a reservation—at least on short notice—was difficult. Fortunately, there are still other terrific dining options here, including Gaby’s by the Lake, which is already about as perfect as can be, and the Linger Longer Steakhouse as an ideal choice for large family meals or simply celebrating a great round on Great Waters with a mouth-watering filet.

Not long after my visit, a friend took his family to Reynolds Lake Oconee and seemed somewhat unimpressed by what he thought was a lack of variety in the dining options. The key, I’ll tell him and anyone else with ears, is to spread it out and visit places like The National Tavern, which has a pecan old fashioned that pairs well with the best pork chops I’ve ever devoured, and the Great Waters Waterview Pub, where the fish tacos are practically a religion.

And Don’t Forget the Golf

It wasn’t until we’d reached the Florida-Georgia border on our drive home that my son caught site of “Excalibur,” my magical new TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver that was custom assembled for me at The Kingdom. To this point, he’d shown hardly any interest in golf, as his set of junior clubs, delivered by Santa in 2020, still has bubble wrap on the irons. But kids do and say the darndest things, and he suddenly declared: “I think I’d like to learn golf.”

You and me both, kid.

When I visited Reynolds Lake Oconee the first time, I was very intimidated by The Kingdom, as I was under the foolish belief that if I took a lesson here, the experts would rip my game to shreds and make me feel worse than I did shooting 106 on The Oconee. But every golfer I know who has visited and taken lessons has told me that this is as much the place for a scratch golfer to manage imperfections as it is for an average shlub to begin anew.

This was confirmed when I spent time with Sean Cain, whose simple methods instantly reshaped my short game and helped me shave at least 10 strokes off my round the next day. I was so impressed with the patience of these instructors that I’d send my son to them in a heartbeat if he really wants to learn this maddening yet wonderful sport.

And just as the Ritz Kids program blended adventure with education, Little Rippers (ages 4-7) and Rippers (8-10) will enjoy an experience that merges golf with fitness to help them get accustomed to the physical movements us older golfers have been desperately trying to master for years, if not decades. Perhaps best of all is that parents can save money on sending multiple junior golfers to The Kingdom.

They’ll receive the lesson of a lifetime and parents will enjoy a little extra quiet time at the adults-only pool. It’s a win-win at a place that knows how to make guests of all ages feel victorious.

The post Even on the Busiest Days, Time Stands Still at the Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee appeared first on Islands.

Situated on the former site of the Gold Blossom Estate, a 1930s-era British colonial property, the oceanfront Goldwynn Resort definitely has the feel of old Nassau—with modern touches. Since the resort opened its doors on February 1, staff has welcomed guests drawn to this accessible paradise just off the Florida coastline. While not an adults-only property, it also doesn’t have a kids’ club or lots of activities, the Goldwynn is organically evolving to draw in anybody who’s looking for a laid-back beach vacay.

The short hop has always made the Bahamas a draw for East Coasters, but a new nonstop once-weekly Saturday flight on JetBlue from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Nassau’s Sir Lynden Pindling Airport (NAS) starting this fall will also open the tropical playground to a wider swath of beach lovers. No matter your origin, here are eight reasons to love this shiny new gem on Cable Beach.

The resort is in a private yet prime location

Some beachfront areas are so overbuilt with hotels and high rises that they feel cramped and crowded. But the Goldwynn, located on Goodman Bay, is flanked by just a few private homes and small inns on one end, and a hotel complex with the Baha Mar, Rosewood, and SLS Baha Mar resorts at the other end. The resort is also adjacent to the bay’s namesake park, with lots of trees and green space. It all translates to a serene vibe with minimal foot traffic or noise.

If you’re a beach person, you’ll be right in your element

The sand here is powdery and pristine, with few rocks or shells and none of the seaweed that constantly washes ashore and plagues other destinations. The color of the water is a mosaic of light turquoise and deep cerulean, since the developers decided to preserve the limestone and plant life rather than blast it away (making it easier to spot fish and turtles with your snorkeling gear).

Thanks to a reef located offshore, the water stays placid and wave-free, so it’s easy to navigate one of the free kayaks or SUPs at the watersports center for guests’ use. For a less active experience, lay back on one of the round tethered floats that dot the water; the centers are mesh, so you can stay cool, and half submerged while lounging.

But you might choose to while away the day by the pool

From your beach-facing balcony, you’ll notice that the freshwater infinity pool is shaped like an eye; from the poolscape, you’ll see that the resort’s floor-to-ceiling windows reflect the ever-changing hue of the water as the sun hits it throughout the day. There are ample pool chairs, an ice water dispenser, and a pool bar. You can also rent one of the six cabanas, which include butler service; though truth be told, they could use a bit of a tweak, as their surrounding striped sunshades don’t allow for enough airflow, so if you crave privacy you might sweat.

The soundtrack is somehow always what you’re in the mood to hear, from disco and soul, to 80s to ambient lounge vibes. And the beach is just a few steps away, so you can pop down for a walk, swim, or lounge, then sink back into your shady poolside lounger.

You’ll find Bahamian influences throughout the property

The photos of bathers in retro suits and swim caps on the hotel’s home page are a hint to the throwback feel and local touches you’ll encounter at Goldwynn. Just off the lobby is a collage of photos dating back to the mid-1900s and earlier. Throughout the hotel, you’ll find works by local artists, including a massive relief sculpture with pink flamingos—The Bahamas’ national bird—over the coffee bar at Atria.

High on the adjacent wall, a series of shells, flowers, and sea life is imagined in varying shades of blue to mimic the varying color of the sea. Rooms and floors are also decorated with pieces from Bahamian artists—and no two are alike. Next to Rhizophora Spa are plaques with dozens of native slang terms like “All Kerpunkle Up,” which is how you might be feeling after throwing back too many Bahama Mamas.

Speaking of the spa, it’s named for the indigenous mangrove trees called rhizophora that protect the Bahamas from storms and erosion and keep the ecosystem healthy. And the team partnered with the Nassau-based Titan Hospitality Group for its dining concepts, owned by Bahamians of Greek descent.

There’s not a bad room

Every one of the 81 energy-efficient studios and suites has refined interiors with muted shades of sand and teal, and balconies that face the ocean or the golf course. (The Goldwynn is the only resort in Nassau with golf course-facing accommodations.) Sprawling balconies in the larger one-, two- and three-bedroom suites are accessible from the living room and bedroom(s); oceanfront Edge suites are corner-facing and offer the best views of the water. (Remember to bring bug spray if you plan on hanging outside, as the mosquitos are rabid in the early morning and at dusk, especially after a rain shower.) 

All accommodations have either a kitchenette or a full kitchen with high-end stainless steel appliances and a separate ionized and filtered tap for drinking water (guests are gifted with reusable water bottles). Kitchens can be stocked with groceries before arrival, and the resort can arrange for an ensuite private chef. Bathrooms have rain showers, dual sinks, and full-size products (two suites have bathtubs), and all rooms have king-sized beds with luxury linens.

The food is fabulous

Like many other properties in Nassau, the restaurant concepts are spendy—but the food is definitely one of the highlights. OIA is the signature restaurant, open for breakfast and dinner, with Mediterranean and Asian fusion and incredible sunset views. Standout starters include grilled shishitos in an umami-rich preparation that tosses them in miso gorgonzola, bonito flakes, shoyu, sesame seeds, and honey, and heirloom tomato and burrata salad smoked tableside and served with Thai basil air.

On the raw bar menu are well-executed surprises like a cracked conch roll and chilled local stone crab claws. Sweet soy-shellacked sea bass arrives with a “mosaic” of braised leek slices, and tender grilled lamb chops arrive atop yuzu tzatziki espuma. For lunch, you can either grab a table by the water at Amara, or have your food delivered right to your lounge chair on the pool deck. The lobster roll is drizzled with brown butter with just a slather of Japanese mayo, and the crispy grouper gyro is wrapped in pita bread made in the property’s Basement Bakery. Atria is an all-day grab-and-go spot for coffees, freshly pressed juices and smoothies, pastries, and power bowls.

While the culinary options are plentiful, since there is only one option for each meal, you might want to venture off-property and switch things up if you are staying for more than a few nights. The aforementioned resort complex is literally a 10-minute walk up the beach (or 15 minutes if you don’t want to get your feet sandy.)

One swank spot for an off-property dinner is Cafe Boulud at the Rosewood Baha Mar. Like chef Daniel Boulud’s other concepts, this one is heavy on dishes from his native France—but the most interesting ones also have a touch of Bahamian influence. Thin slices of snapper and conch crudo come with crunchy watermelon cubes, Fresno pepper slices and tapioca pearls that mimic caviar, and cassava dumplings are an unexpected accompaniment to scallop and prawn Caribbean curry. Food-friendly Loire Valley wines pair with everything, and the Caribbean Sour shakes cinnamon-infused rum with lemon juice and orange vanilla syrup.

The bars will keep you jonesing for a tasty libation

Right next to OIA, Bar Paul shakes and stirs craft sips with classic and modern ingredients and techniques. The Top Tier Negroni shares some DNA with the Martini, with Grey Goose Citron, Riesling, lavender bitters, and Italicus, a fragrant bergamot liqueur. The Bar Paul Exclusive is a Whisky Sour on steroids, with Matsui Totori Japanese Whiskey, cherry liqueur, coconut syrup, lemon, egg white, Port, and orange bitters. Staff at OIA is eager to pair your plates with global pours. And you can also savor a well-made drink from Amara’s menu after a dip.

The namesake sip is a spa in a glass, with Hendricks gin, peach liqueur, lemon, and cucumber, topped with Prosecco, Passion Project gets its mouthwatering tang from passion fruit liqueur and muddled passionfruit, and Pink Skies is in essence a watermelon Margarita with limoncello. And don’t even think about heading back home without trying Sky Juice, the Bahamas’ answer to the Pina Colada, with gin subbed in for rum.

Spa-aaahing here is serious business

Rhizophora Spa is the resort’s newest offering, just having opened June 1, with three treatment rooms (including a couple’s suite), a nail and hair salon, and an outdoor cabana for relaxation. Treatments use local botanicals as well as Biologique Recherche products and those from VOYA, made with hand-harvested seaweed from Ireland.

During several of the body treatments, a mud mask is painted on the body before being wrapped in long strips of that seaweed, lending long-lasting hydration and elasticity before being cocooned; they can be combined with a massage, facial, or both. The spa’s director is a local aesthetician who believes in a holistic approach and is working on wellness options that focus on women’s health issues including menopause, as well as dreams’ effect on the body and mind.

The post 8 Things We Love About the New Goldwynn Resort in Nassau appeared first on Islands.

As much as we love having the opportunity to play some of the most beautiful golf courses in the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, and beyond, the experience can be very intimidating for the average golfer. For example, when I played El Camaleon in Mexico last year, the staff had just begun preparation for the PGA’s upcoming tournament, so the mere aura of the bigger spectacle haunted me as I tried to avoid some of the course’s subtle obstacles.

What I wouldn’t have given for a few pointers from an expert on that hot but beautiful September day.

In fact, it was an especially poor performance at this Mayakoba landmark that inspired me to add golf lessons to my resort itineraries whenever it is available. And it turns out that some of my favorite properties also offer some of the best pro tips I’ve ever learned.

Reynolds Lake Oconee

Anyone who is familiar with The Kingdom knows this is beyond obvious, but until you have actually experienced the expertise from the exceptional staff here you have no idea how helpful it can be. There’s never a wrong time to visit The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, but anyone who wants to get some pointers and play the incredible courses should be booking immediately, because the Blake Adams Kingdom Experience started as the best possible Father’s Day gift but will now run indefinitely.

This three-day masterclass in fixing your game begins with a club fitting at The Kingdom, and having just completed my first session here, I can say with certainty that this was the single most important thing I have done to get better at golf. (And the second was spending an hour working on my short game with instructor Sean Cain, which shaved at least 12 strokes off my recent round on The Oconee.)

Day 1 concludes with a round of shooting clays with Adams at the Reynolds Lake Oconee Sporting Grounds, and then Day 2 begins with fishing followed by a round of golf with the PGA pro. Finally, Day 3 will feature a morning round to hopefully put it all together before the family heads back home (or stays a few more days—no one will blame you).

PGA National Resort

My biggest fear when heading into my morning lesson with PGA National instructor Brad Robinson was that he would contradict or even undo the things I’d already been working on with my teacher back home. Fortunately, the best instructors are already in tune with this, and the first thing Brad asked was for a detailed list of what had already been addressed. Quite the relief.

For the next hour, instead of messing up my novice brain with a lot of new information, he worked on supplemental methods and exercises, allowing me to combine what my regular coach was teaching me with little things that would inevitably reinforce the routines that will take me from “Most Average Golfer on Earth” to “Not Being the Worthless Fourth on the Scramble Team.”

While I felt terrible about breaking the pool noodle, that session helped build confidence with my irons, which I later learned would be the key to my survival on The Champion. Still featuring professional touches from this year’s Honda Classic, that course was as mean as it could be to a novice like me, but fortunately my Takomo 101s and Brad’s tutelage were able to get me out of a lot of trouble that steamy South Florida afternoon.

Casa de Campo Resort and Villas

If you’re already planning to play the iconic Teeth of the Dog or marvelous Dye Fore courses at Casa de Campo Resort and Villas, you probably have a good idea of what you’re doing out there. Still, even the best of us needs to shed a little rust, and our scores will always benefit from time on the Trackman system. And if you are just a casual golfer enjoying a round or two in paradise, well, even a 50-minute private lesson at the Golf Learning Center is a great way to prepare for these immensely challenging designs.

What’s especially wonderful about this facility is that not only do the experts offer a variety of lessons, but they’re also comparatively affordable to instructions at your local courses. However, I have never met nor played with someone as intelligent and relatable as the pro, Parker La Pointe, who not only offered friendly, easy-to-understand advice throughout our round, but he also played more like a friend than a coach. That goes a long way in increasing the comfort level, because I have played and taken lessons from no-nonsense instructors who are more intimidating than they are helpful.

While I highly recommend the Ultimate School, which features a morning at the learning center and range before lunch and an afternoon round, no golfer can make a bad choice, even if simply opting for 50 minutes in one of the hitting bays. The pointers you’ll pick up here are way better than any souvenir in the pro shop (even though the Johnnie-O selection is astounding).

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Perhaps we should have started with the most important question: Just how much golf do you want on your tropical vacation? If you’re planning a huge getaway that involves passports and digital entry forms, the last thing you might want is extra baggage to lug from the carousel to the resort and everywhere in between. But if you want a little bit of everything, leave the passport at home and head to Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Puerto Rico, where guests are spoiled with one of the best settings on the island, as well as arguably the best experiences anywhere in the Caribbean.

While the kids are having a blast on The Watermill’s awesome slides, the golfer(s) can head to the Tournament Players Club, where the East Course boasts phenomenal ocean views and the Sugarcane Course’s larger fairways will make novices feel like they’re at the top of their games. But don’t mistake forgiving designs for a pass on lessons, because the team here can deliver one of the best souvenirs from paradise: confidence.

Have multiple golfers in the crew? The semi-private lessons are great for duos that want to knock the rust off before playing 36 holes. Otherwise, a one-hour lesson is a terrific choice for the casual golfer who wants to focus on a specific element of the game, while those of us who need to get better at the whole shebang can work with the experts to develop 5- or 10-hour personalized plans. Finally, travelers who want the whole trip to be all about the game can enroll in the two-day golf school, with sessions running from 9 am through noon and including video analysis and attention to every little aspect of our games.

Silvies Valley Ranch

Some golfers can work in a training facility, watch real-time analysis on a Trackman setup, and immediately recognize changes that need to be made. Others take that advice to the course and instantly forget it and then spend 18 holes mumbling profanity and wondering why it never works. For the latter, on-course learning is a great way for us average golfers to see the changes in action, so why not choose a uniquely stunning setting that feels like it’s thousands of miles away from the rest of the world?

Silvies Valley Ranch offers way more than golf, as it the ultimate outdoor playground for adventure-loving travelers. However, the golf at this celebrated Oregon property is always front and center in the spotlight—mainly because it’s the only place where you can play with a goat as your caddy. No, not Bones Mackay. An actual goat will carry your clubs on McVeigh’s Gauntlet, a delightful (and sometimes frustrating) 7-hole challenge course, and the selfies alone are worth the trip.

As for the lessons, golf pro Dave Lewis and his crew can host individual sessions on the range or group instruction on the courses, and plenty more in between. Again, seeing the advice in action is sometimes the only way some of us can build momentum in this mind-boggling game, so having the chance to do that on courses as beautiful and celebrated as the Craddock and Hankins will make a great vacation downright phenomenal.

Orlando World Center Marriott

When you live in or merely visit “The Golf Capital of the World,” your choices for instruction are seemingly limitless. But very few properties offer golfers the chance to get better and play a beautiful course in between visits to the best theme parks on the planet, and that’s why I always recommend Orlando World Center Marriott as arguably the friendliest Central Florida resort for families.

For starters, the brand-spanking-new waterpark is out of this world, head and shoulders above even the more luxurious resorts. As for the culinary offerings, this is a premium example of a place that has something for everyone, and even the original pool—with its own upgrades and renovations—is one of the coolest spots in all of Orlando for hanging out and enjoying a hot Florida summer day. And then there’s the golf.

Hawk’s Landing Golf Club is a fun, challenging experience for any level of player, but anyone who needs to brush up on fundamentals before teeing off can benefit from a lesson or two at the Orlando Golf Academy. Award-winning instructor Brian O’Neill and his staff excel at helping everyone from beginners to aspiring pros find their comfort zones on the course, which is a big relief to those of us with brains cluttered by years of bad lessons and terrible advice.

The post 6 Amazing Resorts Where Average Golfers Can Learn a Few New Tricks appeared first on Islands.

Hyatt Hotels will soon be opening Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, which will offer guests a premium experience in Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The property will be the first Hyatt hotel in Montenegro. Set against the backdrop of majestic cliffs and the Adriatic Sea, the contemporary property is ideally located on the outskirts of Kotor, one of the country’s most charming cities celebrated for its preserved old town.

Seamlessly blending urban convenience with breathtaking vistas along the Montenegrin coastline, guests will be surrounded by a picturesque fjord-like landscape of unparalleled beauty. With this new addition to the Hyatt Regency portfolio, the brand’s intentional growth further showcases Hyatt’s commitment to offering travel experiences in places that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members.

“The Balkan region serves as a driving force for the rapid growth of the hospitality industry, and our Hyatt Regency brand is strategically positioned to enter emerging markets,” said Takuya Aoyama, vice president of development for Hyatt. “We are honored to work with Krolbay d.o.o. Podgorica to bring our resort experience to one of Europe’s most rapidly developing destinations.”

After the finishing touches are completed, Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort will be comprised of 205 guest rooms, offering an upscale experience inspired by the sophisticated allure of its coastal surroundings. Embracing natural hues and incorporating tastefully subdued blue design accents, the resort creates an inviting contemporary atmosphere for its guests. The property will also feature two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, and private waterfront access.

Guests of the resort will have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, a dedicated space for yoga and pilates, and expansive spa facilities. Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort is also expected to feature six dining venues.

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Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island has opened as the first Texas beachfront resort in the Margaritaville portfolio. Set on a prime location in South Padre Island, the destination uniquely offers all-ocean view rooms and condos with a fun, relaxed “no worries” vibe.

“We are thrilled to bring Margaritaville to the South Texas coast, allowing locals, guests, and visitors alike to experience a one-of-a-kind oasis,” said Rone Middler, General Manager of Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island. “An easy drive or plane trip from the major metro areas of San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston and convenient access to Mexico, Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island provides the perfect getaway for guests of all ages looking for fun, relaxation, and adventure.”

Highline Hospitality Partners invested more than $30 million to completely transform the Pearl Hotel South Padre into a Margaritaville resort that reflects the quintessential laidback lifestyle.

Guests are immediately transported to a vacation state of mind in the island-inspired design of the resort’s 200 guestrooms and 50 beachfront condos with one, two, or three-bedroom configurations.

Dining options include three restaurants and bars, including LandShark Bar & Grill, which offers indoor and outdoor patio seating overlooking the Gulf of Mexico; the Salty Rim Bar & Grill, a swim-up bar, serving signature cocktails and bar bites; and Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions, a grab-and-go destination for bold coffee drinks and quick bites.

The area’s largest hotel pool, heated all year round, is surrounded by private cabanas and a separate area for kids. Nearby Hammock Row allows guests to swing and sway in the gulf breeze under towering palm trees while outdoor fire pits encourage guests to unwind while gazing at the Texas night sky.

Adjacent to the resort is the Sapphire Spa, offering guests the opportunity to rejuvenate with an array of blissful treatment options and a full hair and makeup salon as well as a fully equipped fitness center.

Those interested in beachside adventures can conveniently schedule activities, including windsurfing, banana boat rides, parasailing, offshore fishing, dolphin watching, or wave runner rentals at the resort’s concierge desk.

The resort hosts meetings, special events, Quinceañeras, family reunions, and weddings of every size, offering 8,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space with access to the latest audio/visual equipment and other convenient amenities.

For more information about Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island, visit here.

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• Ritz-Carlton Naples Reopening Following Huge Refurbishment

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Following a major refurbishment and extension that started in 2021 and takes the venerable resort’s guest experience to new heights, The Ritz-Carlton Naples reopens on July 6, 2023. The storied resort on Florida’s Gulf Coast will open the Vanderbilt Tower, which has three new dining options, a large new Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, and more than 70 club-level guestrooms. 

The newly redesigned resort has newly designed outdoor areas, such as new pools, bungalows, and cabanas, in addition to major renovations to each of the 474 guest rooms and suites. 

“We are thrilled to announce our opening date and look forward to welcoming back our Ladies and Gentlemen soon as we prepare for our first guests to check in this July at our new resort,” said Ritz-Carlton Area General Manager Mark Ferland. “Our goal was to create an even more exceptional guest experience, and we are confident that our new additions will exceed expectations.”

The Vanderbilt Tower is the resort’s Club Level tower with enhanced amenities and direct views of the Gulf of Mexico, is one of the renovation’s standout features. The new Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, which has a dedicated full-service bar, a video room, unique programming, and five daily gourmet presentations, is the gem of the new tower.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples’ freshly renovated entrance experience includes an elaborate lobby bar that draws inspiration from decades of festivities. The bar offers a selection of more than fifty carefully chosen champagnes and sparkling wines, along with a Signature Champagne Tasting Experience created by Master Sommelier Elyse Lambert.

The three new dining options accessible to visitors, including Sofra, a new restaurant that emphasizes vegetables and is inspired by the shareable, savory meals of the Eastern Mediterranean, will delight foodies. Additionally, Moka will make its debut with a broad selection of coffees crafted from carefully chosen beans chosen in collaboration with a third-generation roasting family.  The resort’s popular restaurants, such as The Grill and Gumbo Limbo, will be further complemented by a third restaurant concept, which will be unveiled later this year. 

The resort’s family pool, adult pool, lap pool, and hot tub are all included in the renovated poolside experience that will be available to guests. The utmost in poolside relaxation and elegance is offered by ten fully enclosed, air-conditioned bungalows with cascading doors, each with its own private bath, television, entertainment system, and service bar for refreshments. Ten new cabanas with plush seats, ceiling fans, and televisions will also be built to the pool area, providing an opulent foundation for outdoor enjoyment. 

The resort’s 474 guestrooms and suites have all been refurbished, and each one now emanates a timeless, informal elegance that pays homage to the resort’s history of coastal refinement. The luxury resort can now accommodate groups and leisure guests in more than 90 multi-room suites thanks to the installation of more than 60 suites, including Royal Suites with three bedrooms and bathrooms for families and prolonged stays.

The iconic coastal luxury experience, sunsets at Gumbo Limbo, and the unmatched level of service and hospitality of the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton are just a few of the core experiences and traditions that guests can look forward to at the re-opening.

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Following a $120 million investment over the past three years, RLH Properties has announced the extensive renovation of Mayakoba, a 595-acre ecologically diverse resort and residential destination home to four upscale hotels, including the Andaz Mayakoba, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Fairmont Mayakoba, and Rosewood Mayakoba, as well as the championship golf course El Camaleón Mayakoba.

Mayakoba, a pioneer in environmental stewardship and one of the original high-end, low-density resort developments in the Mexican Riviera, offers significant renovations to Banyan Tree, Fairmont, and Rosewood as well as the opening of a new Dive and Water Sports Center with the Mayakoba Dive School.

“This comprehensive, destination-wide enhancement project represents the largest investment in Mayakoba since the resort’s inception,” says Borja Escalada, CEO for RLH Properties. “With these renovations, we are confident that Mayakoba will only continue to exceed expectations for leisure travelers who have come to know and love the property, while introducing new amenities and offerings to further cement its reputation as a leading luxury destination in the Riviera Maya.”

Improvements to the entire Mayakoba destination include the completion of Banyan Tree Mayakoba’s resort-wide restoration and the debut of its floating lagoon villas, which are only a few steps from the beach. These seven villas each include one bedroom, a two-story design, and a heated rooftop plunge pool. As part of the improvements, the resort also launched 34 brand-new beachfront pool suites and a completely revamped beach club last year. A larger interactive Rangers Club for children, an extended oceanfront pool, a restaurant with a raw bar next to it, a beachfront lounge, and massage rooms with Banyan Tree Spa unique treatments are all available to guests at the new Sands Beach Club.

Fairmont Mayakoba guests may now take advantage of the resort’s extensive, multi-million dollar property-wide restoration, which is highlighted by the spectacular new beach club Maykana, one of the biggest in the area. Five different eating options can be found at Maykana, along with the only rooftop bar in Mayakoba with views of the Caribbean and an infinity pool with five separate cabanas. A sophisticated new guest experience is provided throughout the resort by updates to 188 guest rooms and suites, the opening of two new restaurants (the Italian trattoria Bassano and the Mexican-inspired La Laguna), and significant renovations to the Tauro steakhouse.

Late in 2019, Rosewood Mayakoba unveiled the complete renovation of its 129 on-property accommodations, adding eight specialized wellness suites and fully upgraded three- and four-bedroom Presidential suites. A private salt treatment pool, outdoor tranquility pavilion, reflexology fountain, improved sleeping aids like a circadian light, a wellness station with alkaline water, and a devoted wellbeing butler are all included in each loft-style Wellness Suite. Aqu Me Quedo, an adults-only beachfront oasis with a lively and playful atmosphere, and Zapote, an open-air hacienda-inspired bar devoted to the deep culinary traditions and agave spirits of Mexico, were also added to Rosewood Mayakoba during the resort’s renovations. The resort introduced an opulent, 16,300 square foot Founder’s Villa in early 2022 for the pinnacle of exclusive luxury rooms.

Andaz Mayakoba, the most current resort to operate in Mayakoba, launched in 2016 and provides some of the culinary destination’s most avant-garde programs over five different outlets. VB (Vegan Bar), an all-vegan concept serving wholesome juices and smoothies during the day and a range of fresh and seasonal foods for lunch, is a recent addition to the property. VB joins Andaz Mayakoba’s other noteworthy dining establishments, which also include Sotavento, which provides a toes-in-the-sand dining experience with a casual ambiance, wood-fired preparations, and Mediterranean flavors, and Casa Amate, a sophisticated concept serving a variety of Latin American cuisine in a distinctive space created to resemble the eclectic home of a passionate traveler. Gua México Gastronómico has listed Sotavento and Casa Amate among the Top 250 Restaurants in Mexico.

Mayakoba continues to prioritize outdoor activities in addition to the improvements made at the numerous resorts with its new Dive and Water Sports Center, Mayakoba Dive School, and a sizable beach restoration project. Mayakoba’s Van Dutch Yacht offers all the luxury, exclusivity, and power a 55-foot yacht can offer guests wishing to explore the Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters and the second-largest barrier reef.

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The first annual Summer of Music event will take place at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun, and Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya beginning in June. Margaritaville Island Reserve is a collection of all-inclusive resorts operated by Karisma Hotels & Resorts. The nearly four-month-long celebration offers nonstop musical events, food and drink promotions, and pop-up spa treatments to encourage guests to enjoy the sun and fun.

“We’re excited to introduce the first-ever Summer of Music to our all-inclusive Margaritaville Island Reserve locations,” said Frank Maduro, President of Premier Worldwide Marketing, the global sales and marketing representative for Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “These resorts are the perfect destinations for music lovers to enjoy the sounds of summer while kicking back in laidback luxury, margarita in hand.”

The Summer of Music will feature free, unique events like daily live performances from regional musicians bringing favorite musical genres to life, dance lessons, Cheeseburger in Paradise parties, and musically-themed activities like fan favorite musical trivia and “finish the lyrics” game shows.

At Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun, there will be silent discos in addition to karaoke, fiestas with live mariachi bands, Aqua Rock performances poolside, tiki beach parties, and other custom programming at each all-inclusive resort. There will be Margarita Madness pool parties, Cheeseburger in Paradise foam parties, nightly live music at the Salted Rim bar, and daily live music at LandShark Brewery & Grill at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana. Rocking pool parties with live performances, DJ sets, pool games, live music in the Entertainment Village, live music at The Punch Bar, and daily dining with live music at each of the 10 restaurants are all available at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya.

The dates for this year’s Summer of Music celebrations are May 27 through September 9, 2023, with announcements of special headline events for July and September to come soon. With rates that include all accommodations with tax, premium food & beverage options, 24-hour room service, Island Ambassador personal concierge service, and more, guests can save up to 50% off their all-inclusive stay.

Margaritaville Island Reserve welcomes visitors to an all-inclusive experience of casual luxury at its three locations in Riviera Cancun, Mexico; Riviera Maya, Mexico; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. These Island Reserve Inclusive® ideas provide world-class food, unmatched service, opulent amenities, breathtaking entertainment, and year-round immersive experiences and activities. Visitors may anticipate seasonal events all year long in addition to Summer of Music, such as Oktoberfest in the fall and Margarita Month in February.

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