As you stand at the tee box on the first hole at Old Quarry Golf Course, one word comes to mind: impossible. Not in the sense that this is a difficult course with a reputation for being a favorite of pros—particularly the vacationing Europeans—but it feels impossible that such a course exists, so well-hidden from the rest of the world. In fact, I got lost as I scurried along the sidewalks of the new Sandals Royal Curaçao resort, trying to find the pro shop in time for my round during my recent visit to this wonderful island.

Finally on the first tee, which runs along the shoreline and delivers the first of many amazing views of the day, I quickly understood why this course has twice earned the honor of “Best Caribbean Golf Course” from USA Today. This Pete Dye masterpiece exists almost as a tour of the island, as the 18 holes are weaved within the natural beauty of the island’s southern space so well that on at least three occasions I looked behind me, back to the tee box, and wondered, “Why isn’t this course jam-packed?”

Of course, I’m also glad it wasn’t busy that day. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have enjoyed possibly the most fulfilling round of golf I have ever played. Here’s my very average golfer’s advice on how you can, too.

Enjoy the Views

Over the last year or so, whenever friends ask me for travel advice and preferred destinations, my overwhelming recommendation is Curaçao. There’s a variety of reasons, and my love of the food usually dominates the conversation, but I also rave about the island’s natural beauty as a top draw. And nowhere on the island did I experience a sample of the various stunning aspects as much as I did on this course.

Again, teeing off on Hole 1, you have a remarkable resort to your back and waves crashing into the rocky shore to your right, so it is a fantastic debut of the views to come. My favorite sightseeing opportunity came on Hole 4, where you can admire the water and Tafelberg Mountain. A few holes later, you’re staring at (and likely praying not to hit) the beautiful boats in Seru Boca Marina and charming homes of Spaanse Water. And all the while you’re surrounded by lush tropical vegetation…

Straight is Great

… but do not let the beautiful trees and bushes fool you—and do not let your ball trickle into these traps, because you probably won’t get it back. There are so many thorns in the bushes lining each hole, I joked to my playing partner that it was like Old Quarry was designed by Jigsaw from the Saw movie franchise. I can’t even count how many times I spotted balls along the way and tried to develop plans to retrieve them only to pull my arm back before it was shredded.

(Obviously, a ball retriever would be a great option, but I did not have my clubs with me, so that was not an option with the rental set.)

Still, even if you hit the ball perfectly straight, the curves of this course have other plans. On at least four occasions, I smashed what I thought was a dead-ahead drive from the tee box, only to find myself staring at my ball five feet beyond the rough, nestled nicely in the devil’s garden. If this course wasn’t so stunning, I might just call it the meanest in the Caribbean.

Let the Good Times Roll

Speaking of those curves, this is a course that will reward power on several holes, so long as you aim for a safe area. One of my favorite elements about this course from the golf aspect is the ability to put up big yardage from the tee box, because that makes the approach even easier. But nothing is actually easy on this course—just when you think you have a simple iron to the green, the breeze will tell you otherwise.

As a very average golfer, my strategy was set as soon as I teed off on Hole 1 and watched the wind deliver my ball to Poseidon. “Stay left, stay low” is what I told myself on my “real first tee shot” since my first is always for practice, and that carried over to the Par 5 Hole 2, where my slice made me cry out in agony as I watched my ball miss the green by a country mile, as the wind once again forced me to accidentally pollute. From there, runners became my best shot, so long as they stayed clear of the thorns.

Take Things One Hole at a Time

If you have time to hit the practice facility here and get loose, do it. I made the mistake of playing without some warm-up swings and naturally that led to frustration and bad shots early in the round. But it’s not even about the driving range or putting green. Prior to your visit, spend some time at your local course working on your trap game, because the sand here will make a monster of the nicest golfer and missed greens will require better than average wedge work.

Hole 17 was a great example of this, because it’s the shortest Par 5 on the course and makes you believe that you’ve channeled your inner Popeye with a long drive and shorter approach. Of course, the fairway splits, so depending on where you land, you’ll have to make the right choice for the next move. 

A lot of mistakes can be made at Old Quarry, but it doesn’t mean you won’t have fun. Just remember that it’s only a game and you’re lucky to be in the heart of a Dutch Caribbean paradise. Birdies are, after all, just the cherry on top.

The post 5 Things You Need to Know about Playing Curaçao’s Old Quarry Golf Course 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.

Ask anyone who lives in Curaçao which one meal you must try during your first visit and the answer will be either Keshi Yena, the national dish, or Karni Stoba. There’s a better chance, though, that people will simply say, “You have to try them both,” and they’re 100 percent correct. The trick is knowing when to eat them, because the former is a pretty large ball of cheese that is stuffed with meat and other goodies, and the latter is a meat stew. Have them at lunch like I did on one of my visits last year, and you’ll lose a good chunk of your day to naptime.

Now, ask anyone from Curaçao where you should eat and it’s an entirely different conversation. That’s because this destination has been experiencing a creative renaissance, with street art that is transforming the cities into massive outdoor galleries and restaurants serving delicious dishes and cocktails that would have Guy Fieri poking a few new holes in his spiked leather belt.  

The only problem with this much variety? You can’t possibly try it all in one vacation, so let’s start with this collection of joints that I dined at last year—and can’t wait to visit again.

Restaurant and Café Gouverneur De Rouville

For your first vacation or 100^th return trip, you’re going to visit the Handelskade, aka that awesome stretch of colorful buildings that you’ve seen in every ad for the island (and at the top of this article), and you’re probably going to cross the Queen Emma Bridge multiple times to get the right photos and enjoy a little shopping as well. But one of the best places to enjoy Keshi Yena and the view of Willemstad’s landmarks is Restaurant and Café Gouverneur De Rouville.

The first time I dined at “De Gouverneur” I had both Keshi Yena and Karni Stoba, which was great for learning about authentic local cuisine but terrible on my waistline. On my second visit, I had a Caribbean chicken sandwich and for the third experience I had the fettucine truffle pasta, and each meal was highlighted by a different mocktail. The point is that even if this restaurant is considered a little “touristy” it’s still an exceptional part of the real Curaçao, because the food is phenomenal and the variety makes it easy to keep coming back.

BBQ Express Caracasbaai

All I’d heard ahead of my first trip to Curaçao was how much I was going to love the truk’i pans, or food trucks, and how I wouldn’t want to eat anywhere else. Challenge accepted. But when it came time to pick just one, my hosts insisted that it be the legendary BBQ Express Caracasbaai. Many people call it the best of the island’s offerings, and it’s not hard to see why. Give me a heaping plate of steak and fries, and I’m yours for eternity.

However, it’s hardly that simple. For starters, the menu’s variety would make Ron Swanson do a backflip, so I went with a Mix Combo #3 just so I could cover my bases with steak, chicken, and chorizo (if there’s chorizo on the menu, it’s going to be on my plate somehow). But the star of the meal is the sauce, of which there is also a wide variety. Already a huge fan of satay, I went straight for the peanut sauce, but my host stopped me and said, “Mix them.”

“Mix them?”

“Mix them,” she insisted, pointing to the peanut, a creamy garlic, and a mystery sauce I still don’t recall (I only remember being thrilled to sit down and gorge).

I was terrified of such a concept because I am a bit of a picky eater, but then she showed me with her plate, as she drizzled a line from each pump, and it looked like a delicious work of art. My apprehension faded and after three bites I thanked her. Then I thanked the cooks. And I thanked the universe for bringing me here, even as the meat sweats inevitably set in.

Sal the Kitchen

I have a theory that I’ve mentioned before and will perhaps one day turn into a book: any restaurant named some form of Salt and is located anywhere in the Caribbean is going to be great. First, I raved about the pizza and pasta at Salt Pizzeria Napoletana in Turks and Caicos. Then, it was Sale e Pepe in St. Maarten. And now it’s Sal the Kitchen, located in the heart of Willemstad’s energetic nightlife scene, and the walls of this building are built from coral, so this whole place is just salty in the best way.

This is a fantastic place to kick off an evening of bar hopping, as the small plates are ideal for sharing, especially since it means getting to try a little bit of everything. Even as I lean carnivore, the vegan dishes won my heart and I’m still thinking about the mouthwatering cauliflower baklava and habibeh ravioli, as well as the very creative cocktails, almost a year later. 

But what really won me over was the hospitality, and most notably how owners Mauro and Dmitri made the rounds to introduce themselves to guests, explain the menu, and help choose the right items based on personal preferences. Dmitri was bummed that I couldn’t try the karko (conch is also a highly recommended meal across the island), but he guaranteed I’d love the angus neck n’ nopal (grilled cactus with braised beef neck) and he was absolutely correct.

Bklyn

If I had a power ranking of my favorite restaurants and bars in the entire Caribbean, Bklyn would be sitting pretty in the top five just for style alone. Fans of vintage New York rap and hip hop music will love this tribute to the scene that owner Martin has cultivated, from the hit-packed playlist to the wallpaper designed by Mike D of the Beastie Boys (for sale on Flavor Paper, if your home needs a makeover).

Just don’t call this place a gimmick. 

My cohorts made fun of me as I sipped my Lil Kim (a vodka cocktail in a small glass and named for the pint-sized rapper because it is “sexy, fresh, a lil’ sweet and a bit feisty”) but I just kept mumbling her verse from “It’s All About the Benjamins” as I went back and forth between the insanely good pork belly sliders and downright addictive funchi fries. For food, drinks, and enough energy to keep your engine running, this is the joint.

If Sal the Kitchen is the place where you start a night, Bklyn is where you spend the rest of it.

Immanuel Café

As a picky eater who is trying to break out and finally try new things and conquer old fears, having a shellfish allergy is a huge obstacle when it comes to some of the Caribbean’s more traditional dishes. So, when I visit an island for the first time now, I tell them I want to try something more unusual—to me, that is—and when I asked for a recommendation on Curaçao, the answer was quick and unanimous: yuana stoba. 

Iguana soup. Yikes.

Alas, no man can back down from his own challenge, so I asked my hosts to find me the best iguana soup on the island. First, we visited the Old Market, or Plasa Bieu, but it was early that day and the vendors were still setting up. Fortunately, we were heading to beautiful Kleine Knip the next day, and that meant a side trip to Immanuel Café would do the trick.

Chef Rignald Mingeli’s team has created the kind of spot that makes a newcomer feel right at home, and even though they might chuckle as they pour a bowl of iguana soup, you can rest assured that it’s fantastic. Just keep telling yourself that it tastes like chicken.

The post 5 Restaurants Every Foodie Will Want to Try on a First Visit to Curaçao appeared first on Islands.

The islands of the Caribbean are known for their vivid turquoise water, champagne-hued beaches, and verdant green landscapes, but once a year these two-dozen-plus isles reveal even more vibrant personas with the day-to-night Technicolor partying and pageantry that takes place during annual Carnival celebrations. 

Amid the feathers, sequins, steelpan drumbeats, and dance moves, these islands’ history and culture are celebrated with passionate revelry—whether to coincide with pre-Lenten traditions or to mark important historic dates (the abolition of slavery in the British territories, for example) or nature-centric time periods. 

Here’s a guide to when and how each island gets festive, and why you’ll want to experience it all.

Anguilla

Name: Anguilla Summer Festival

When: Late July–Early August

This small island known for its extraordinary beaches and excellent restaurants hosts its annual Caribbean carnival-style celebration, known as the Anguilla Summer Festival, from the end of July through the first week of August to commemorate the emancipation from slavery in the British Caribbean on August 1, 1834. 

Anguilla’s festival features music, dancing, food, pageants, parades, beach parties, calypso competitions, fireworks, and boat races, with an event held almost every night (some are free and others charge a fee).

Antigua and Barbuda

Name: Antigua Carnival

When: Late July–Early August

Waves of music and locals dancing in colorful feathered costumes during high-spirited parades and street parties mark Antigua’s vibrant 13-day Carnival celebration, which takes place from late July through early August on Antigua. Timed to celebrate emancipation from slavery in the British Caribbean, Carnival in Antigua offers a calendar of events that include musical competitions, pageants, food fairs, calypso contests, and cultural shows, with the most important event being J’ouvert (on Emancipation Day), during which brass and steel-drum bands perform.

Aruba

Name: Aruba Carnival

When: February

The Dutch-Caribbean island of Aruba has a month-long Carnival celebration, centered in Oranjestad and San Nicholas, incorporating dozens of lively events, including Torch Light Parades through the streets at night, musical performances, colorful floats, lavishly costumed celebrants, electrifying Jump Ups and multiple parades culminating with the Grand Parade. 

Finally, the Burning of King Momo marks the end of Carnival Season, after which the entire island goes on hiatus, known as Carnival Monday (an official day of rest).

Bahamas

Name: Junkanoo

When: Dec. 26–Jan. 1 

The islands of the Bahamas are widely known for Junkanoo, an annual Carnival-style festival held between Boxing Day (Dec. 26) and New Year’s Day (Jan. 1) that celebrates Bahamian history and culture with street parties and vibrant parades of elaborately costumed revelers. 

The biggest take place on Bay Street in downtown Nassau, but Junkanoo can be enjoyed on all 16 islands. 

Barbados

Name: Crop Over Festival

When: Late July–Early August 

Carnival on Barbados is known as the Crop Over Festival, which last for three months (June through August) and culminates in early August to mark the end of the sugar cane crop season. This uniquely Barbadian festival, which owes its roots to the island’s colonial past when sugar cane was king, is known for its musical concerts, art exhibitions, calypso competitions, and revelry at Foreday Morning Jam. 

The celebration climaxes during Grand Kadooment when costumed bands and masqueraders parade through the streets in St. Michael with a party that continues late into the night with music, food and fireworks.  

Bonaire

Name: Karnaval

When: February (pre-Lenten)

With activities split between the Dutch-Caribbean island’s two main towns, Kralendijk and Rincon, Bonaire’s Carnival celebration, called Karnaval, features week-long revelry with all the usual festive events—musical performances, parades with costumed dancers, and colorful floats and fireworks—that culminates on Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras) in advance of Ash Wednesday.

British Virgin Islands

Name: BVI Emancipation Festival

When: Late July-Early August

With its heritage and ongoing status as a British Overseas Territory, the British Virgin Islands times its annual Carnival festivities to Emancipation Day (August 1)—in fact, the first Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in the BVI are public holidays. The BVI Emancipation Festival is a two-week celebration featuring food fairs, Jam Band music, and J’ouvert parades with floats and costumed revelers with the largest events held on the island of Tortola.

Cayman Islands

Name: Cayman Carnival Batabano

When: May 

The Cayman Islands holds its national Carnival, known as the Cayman Carnival Batabano, annually in May at the start of the turtle nesting season; the festival’s name is derived from the word batabano, a Caymanian term that refers to the tracks left in the sand by egg-laying turtles. 

Carnival on Grand Cayman is a cultural melting pot (Caymanians comprise more than 100 nationalities) of music, dance, and pageantry. There are both Adult Batabano and Junior Batabano parades, held on separate weekends.

Curaçao

Name: Curaçao Carnival

When: February (pre-Lenten)

This Dutch-Caribbean island celebrates Curaçao Carnival every year in sync with Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) and holds a series of festive parades (for children, teens, and adults) in its capital, Willemstad, over the 10 days leading up to the final nighttime Grand Farewell Carnival Parade in the hours before Ash Wednesday. The celebration on Curacao encompasses music, dancing, floats, and beauty pageants.

Dominica 

Name: Mas Domnik

When: February (pre-Lenten)

The small Caribbean island of Dominica celebrates its French and African traditions during its annual Carnival celebration known as Mas Domnik, held to coincide with Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) and featuring calypso music, competitions, and two days of exciting street “jump-up.” 

Dominican Republic

Name: Dominican Carnival (Carnaval Dominicano)

When: February and early March 

Every Sunday during February, parades of brightly costumed and masked revelers fill the streets in cities all around the Dominican Republic, including Santiago, La Vega, Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, and Barahona, for Dominican Carnival (aka Carnaval Dominicano). 

Carnival season culminates on Feb. 27 with the island’s Independence Day celebration and then with the National Carnival Parade on the first Sunday in March along the waterfront in Santo Domingo.

Grenada

Name: Spice Mas 

When: Late July and early August

While colorful Soca and calypso competitions are staged throughout the month of July, Carnival partying on the island of Grenada reaches its climax during the first week or second week of August in St. George’s with the marathon two-day celebration known as Spice Mas. 

Over its 48 hours, lavishly costumed locals dance through the streets, party on flotillas of boats and participate in the pre-dawn J’ouvert (also known in Grenada as Jab), which features chanting, dancing, and defiant symbolism, including the wearing of black body paint and oil to honor their African heritage and the carrying of broken chains to show a breaking away from slavery. 

The culmination is Monday Night Mas and Tuesday’s hours-long Parade of the Bands.

Guadeloupe Islands

Name: Carnival

When: January to March (pre-Lenten)

This French Caribbean paradise begins its annual Carnival celebrations on Jan. 6 (Feast of the Epiphany) and ends on Fat Tuesday (aka Shrove Tuesday), with the major events, such as the Grand Parade on the Sunday before, taking place in its final few days. 

This is a major cultural event throughout the Guadeloupe islands, but especially in Basse-Terre, which hosts the main parades of costumed dancers and musicians. On Ash Wednesday, King Vaval, the symbol of the Carnival, is burned.

Haiti

Name: Carnaval (Kanaval in Creole)

When: February (pre-Lenten)

Haiti’s Carnaval, or Kanaval in Creole, is an annual three-day celebration in February during which the streets of its capital, Port-au-Prince, where the National Carnival is held, and beachside Jacmel are filled with festively costumed locals. Jacmel is particularly known for the over-sized papier-mâché masks depicting animals and demons. Voodoo and historic slavery references comingle with heart-pounding street music and traditional dance performances. 

Jamaica

Name: Carnival

When: April

In Jamaica, a series of Carnival events in early April leads to a week of dozens of festive events in Kingston, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay featuring colorfully costumed bands and dancers, capped off by the grand finale: Carnival Sunday with its Road March–Parade of the Bands in Kingston featuring large trucks blasting music and bands competing for best music and best costumes.

Martinique

Name: Carnival

When: February (pre-Lenten)

In the week leading up to Shrove Tuesday (aka Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras), the French-Caribbean island of Martinique celebrates its own unique Carnival. On Fat Sunday, parades feature locals carrying fantastically dressed puppets known as bwa bwa as well as nègres-gros-sirop (revelers with bodies covered in coal tar and sugarcane syrup). 

On Fat Monday, islanders enjoy burlesque-like “mock weddings” featuring men dressed as brides and women suited up as bridegrooms. Fat Tuesday is Red Devils Day with parades of costumed red devils of all ages, while Ash Wednesday is The Day of She-Devils as revelers wear black and white to close out Carnival.

Montserrat

Name: Carnival (or Year-End Festival)

When: Dec. 26–Jan. 1

The island of Montserrat is one of several Caribbean island nations that celebrates Carnival to close out one year and welcome in the next. While events begin in early December, the main festivities (for Soca Monarch and Calypso Monarch) begin on Boxing Day (Dec. 26) and the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve with Festival Day featuring a gala and New Year’s Day with a Street Parade to mark the closing of Carnival.

Puerto Rico

Name: Carnaval Ponceño

When: February (pre-Lenten)

Timed for the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, the Ponce Carnival (known to locals as the Carnaval Ponceño) attracts up to 100,000 revelers to the historic city of Ponce, located on Puerto Rico’s southern coast. In addition to a masquerade ball and street parades, a highlight of the Ponce carnival is the “vejigantes,” papier-mâché-masked folkloric creatures in colorful costumes and multiple horns that represent the Devil and taunt the crowd. 

Participants also enjoy the appearance of King Momo, the crowning of Carnival Queen the ritual Burial of the Sardine to signify the start of Lent.

Saba

Name: Carnival

When: July 

For a week in late July, the small Dutch-Caribbean island of Saba celebrates with a festive Carnival Village and events that include live musical performances, food stalls, and colorful dance troupes.

St. Barth

Name: Carnival St. Barths

When: February (pre-Lenten)

The tiny French-Caribbean island of St. Barth has a two-day Carnival St. Barth festival with a colorful Mardi Gras parade in the streets of its capital, Gustavia, and a nighttime party. The celebration ends on Ash Wednesday with the burning of Vaval on Shell Beach just outside of town. 

St. Eustatius

Name: Statia Carnival

When: Late July–early August 

Home to the smallest capital city in the world, Oranjestad, the Dutch-Caribbean island of St. Eustatius holds its annual Statia Carnival in late July and early August with vibrant Carnival March parades, musical performances, Youth Night, and more—and Carnival Monday is an island-wide holiday.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Name: Sugar Mas (aka St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival)

When: December–early January

While events on the two-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis actually begin in November with pageants, Soca competitions, and more, the main festivities of the St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival (aka Sugar Mas) kick into high gear just before Christmas with the Festival of Lights Glowfest and continue from Dec. 26 through early January with J’ouvert morning, the National Carnival Queen competition, Calypso Finals, and the Carnival Grand Parade.

St. Lucia

Name: St. Lucia Carnival

When: June–July

There’s a continuous calendar of Carnival events throughout June and July on St. Lucia—including steel-pan and calypso competitions, parties, and parades—but the festivities culminate in July with a two-day street celebration focused on Caribbean history and culture and featuring costumed revelers, bands, DJ music, and more.

St. Maarten/St. Martin

Name: St. Martin Carnival and St. Maarten Carnival

When: February (pre-Lenten) in St. Martin and April in St. Maarten

The dual-nationality island of St. Maarten (a Dutch territory) and St. Martin (a French territory) celebrates Carnival twice, with each side holding their parades and parties in a different month. 

The French side gets things started in February with pre-Lenten jump-ups and colorful parades featuring zouk and reggae music on the streets of Marigot and Grand-Case, while the Dutch side holds a bigger extravaganza that lasts more than two weeks in April. It features Technicolor parades of calypso dancers in Philipsburg and a Carnival Village just outside of the capital featuring booths serving Caribbean culinary favorites.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Name: Vincy Mas

When: June-July 

Preparation for St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ annual Carnival celebration, known as Vincy Mas, spans two months, but its biggest events begin on the last Friday of June and run for 12 days. These include the Miss SVG Competition, colorful Parade of the Bands, Calypso Monarch, and King and Queen of Carnival competition. 

Trinidad and Tobago

Name: Carnival

When: February (pre-Lenten)

Famous for its music and pageantry, the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is celebrated annually on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, although some festivities begin right after Christmas. Carnival Monday on multicultural Trinidad starts before sunrise with J’ouvert as Carnival-goers parade through the streets covered in paint, grease, and mud and party until sunrise. 

Later that day and all day on Carnival Tuesday the streets fill with costumed revelers, energetic dancers and bands playing Soco, steelpan, and calypso. 

Turks and Caicos

Name: Maskanoo and Junkanoo

When: Dec. 26  and Dec. 31

The day after Christmas in Grace Bay on the Turks and Caicos main resort island of Providenciales, locals celebrate the island nation’s West African and Caribbean heritage with Maskanoo (in homage to the 19^th century slaves who would celebrate Christmas by mocking their owners’ elaborate masked balls), which features street parties, music, food, and fireworks. 

Then on New Year’s Eve, it’s time for Junkanoo parades featuring glittering masks and costumes and revelers who dance to drumbeat rhythms until dawn.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Name: VI Carnival, St. John Festival and Crucian Christmas Festival

When: April (St. Thomas), July (St. John) and December–early January (St. Croix)

The three islands of the U.S. Virgin Islands all hold Carnival celebrations—they just do them at different times of the year. To experience it on St. Thomas, you’ll need to visit in late April-early May for VI Carnival, the largest celebration with steel pan bands, lavishly costumed dancers, calypso shows, and more. 

The St. John Festival celebrates the spirit of freedom—July 3, 1848, marks Emancipation Day for slaves who lived in the USVI—and the festivities begin in late June on St. John’s Day and culminate on July 4 in Cruz Bay with parades, parties, and fireworks. 

St. Croix’s Carnival period is known as the Crucian Christmas Festival, with festivities in late December and early January spread between its two cities, Christiansted and Frederiksted.

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From arid and windy to lush and mountainous, the islands of the Southern Caribbean—namely, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Dominica, and Martinique—have a wide range of experiences to offer. And yet apart from Aruba, Barbados, and St. Lucia, they are often overlooked by U.S. travelers.

Here are seven reasons why they shouldn’t be, from their incredible scenery and nature-centric adventure to to their colorful culture and flavorful food scenes.

Natural beauty and adventure

Landscapes in the Southern Caribbean run the gamut from arid and desert-like to lush and tropical, and if you prefer the latter it’s hard to beat the beauty of St. Lucia, Grenada, and Dominica. All three islands are verdant, mountainous, and perfect for anyone seeking back-to-nature adventure.

St. Lucia is home to the Pitons, a pair of UNESCO World Heritage Site volcanic peaks—Petit Piton at 2,438 feet and Gros Piton at 2,619 feet (that latter can be hiked to enjoy stunning views)—that tower over tranquil Jalousie Bay, as well as Sulphur Springs, a “drive-in volcano” offering odiferous mud baths, and Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, where the mineral-laced water of the waterfall changes color.

Mountainous Grenada, whose tallest peak, Mt. Saint Catherine, reaches 2,756 feet, offers energetic visitors hiking trails for all fitness levels amid the waterfalls, large lake and towering mahogany trees of Grand Etang National Park.

Dominica, at just 290 square miles, is home to both natural hot springs and lush rainforests, making it a paradise for nature-loving hikers. Visit Morne Trois Pitons National Park to see 213-foot Trafalgar Falls and the steam-covered Boiling Lake.

The colorful culture

Caribbean culture is by nature colorful—think feather-and sequin-embellished costumes at Carnival time, pastel-hued wooden houses, magenta bougainvillea, and brightly hued artwork—and it all seems especially vibrant on the islands of Martinique and Curacao.

Martinique, a French island that has been shaped by West African and Indian traditions into a Creole melting pot, is known as a place where multicolor madras fabrics mix with pink Provencal rosé and curry-flavored seafood dishes.

Dutch culture on Curacao is evident in its architecture—especially in the rainbow of 16th and 17th century colonial buildings in its capital Willemstad—and to an extant in its cuisine, which thanks to its blend of African, Latin, and Jewish influences features some of the heartiest dishes in the Caribbean. Don’t miss keshi yena (stuffed cheese casserole), stoba (beef stew), and bitterballen (Dutch meatballs).

Golf courses, spas, and other grown-up activities

If teeing up in paradise is your passion, choose from five PGA-standard courses in Barbados—including Royal Westmoreland and Sandy Lane Green Monkey—and two in Aruba: Tierra del Sol and The Links at Divi Aruba, the latter of which is home of one of the Caribbean’s best golf teachers.

Afterwards, relax with a tropically inspired massage at your resort—most properties on both islands have one—and if you have the stamina to continue and check out islands’ nightlife, check out the live music in St. Lawrence Gap in Barbados or one of the dozen casinos on Aruba.

The vibrant wildlife

Only four islands in the Caribbean are home to wild monkeys and two of them—Grenada and Barbados—are in the Southern Caribbean. Brought to the region from Africa as pets in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Mona monkey inhabits the forests of Grand Etang National Park in Grenada, while the Green Vervet monkey (also found on St. Kitts and Nevis) favors the woodlands around St. John, St. Joseph, St. Andrew, and St. Thomas parishes on Barbados.

Turtle lovers can snorkel with several species just offshore in Barbados, while birders are in luck in Grenada, home to 160 species. And you don’t have to be an ornithology geek to appreciate the visual splendor of a flock of pink flamingos; you can see thousands of them at the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary on the salt pans of Bonaire or book a stay at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino to get a close-up view of a few dozen, which inhabit its private island.

The low-key vibes

Looking for an island that cruise ships don’t visit, a place with a pace that’s so relaxed you’re apt to forget what day it is—and perhaps even what year? Consider one of these three mellow islands: Bonaire, if your leisurely passions include diving and snorkeling; Dominica, if you’ll be happy hiking and tropical gardens; and the Grenadines, if your fantasy vacation involves a stay on a private island—this island chain is home to three: Petit St. Vincent, Palm Island, and Young Island.

Those glorious beaches

Yes, the Southern Caribbean is home to some pretty spectacular beaches, which is, after all, one of the top reasons people travel here. Some of them—including Palm and Eagle beaches on Aruba, Crane and Bottom Bay beaches on Barbados, and Sandy Island on Carriacou and Macaroni Beach on Mustique in the Grenadines—often land on lists of the Caribbean’s best beaches.

The flavorful food scenes

It’s hard to have a bad meal in Barbados, where even the local “fast food” known as a flying fish cutter (fried flying fish on Bajan salt bread) is quite tasty. The island is Zagat-rated and there’s a choice of great dining in Holetown—top spots include The Mews and Nishi—and great local fresh catch of the day at The Fish Pot on the northwest coast, but if a special-occasion splurge is in order, book an outside table at The Cliff.

Grenada, known as the Spice Island, is grounded in the flavors of local produce: callaloo, dasheen, pumpkin, papaya, and mango and peppered with the boldness of nutmeg, cinnamon, and curry that lingers on the palate. It’s more about authentic preparation than a restaurant scene, per se, but be sure to check out the 20-course tasting menu at Patrick’s Local Homestyle Restaurant for a meal to remember.

The post 7 Reasons to Visit the Islands of the Southern Caribbean appeared first on Islands.

To be fair and accurate, Curaçao has been a golfer’s paradise for as long as it has had courses. However, aside from USA Today naming Old Quarry the best course in the Caribbean, this slice of heaven (pun intended) has largely remained a hidden gem for travelers who never leave home without their clubs. Now, though, there’s more incentive than ever to visit this island for its epic links, thanks to the Curaçao Golf Pass.

It’s as simple as the name implies: for $295 travelers can play all three of Curaçao’s courses during their visit. Anyone who has paid resort course fees around the world knows that things can get pricey—and that’s before you even factor in rental clubs, snacks and drinks, and all the balls you might lose along the way. 

That last one is especially true at Old Quarry Golf Course, as I learned the hard way on my recent visit. Play the first few holes here and it’s immediately evident why this one is a preferred vacation course for pros. But it’s also as challenging as it is beautiful. Each hole offers stunning views that showcase the natural beauty of the island, from the waves crashing against the rocks along the first and second holes to the various spots adjacent to the marina, where average-at-best golfers will be terrified of smacking their ProV1s into very expensive boats. And all along the way, the fairways are lined with prickly bushes, so watch your arms and legs when you try to retrieve your hooked and sliced balls.

But this is hardly just about one course. Blue Bay Curaçao Golf and Beach Resort and the Curaçao Golf and Squash Club are included in this deal, and each one offers a truly memorable experience. The former is a William “Rocky” Roquemore design that also uses the island’s best attributes as a collective backdrop. Just like at Old Quarry, elevation comes into play here and golfers of all levels will be both delighted with and sometimes frustrated by the bumps and curves along the way. 

Golfers who love a relaxing setting and forgiving fairways will call the Curaçao Golf and Squash Club their home-away-from-home course, as it also boasts breathtaking surroundings that’ll distract even the most frustrated grumps as they search surrounding trees for lost shots. 

All in all, whether for a four-day weekend getaway or a weeklong family vacation that includes some spare time for a round or three, the Curaçao Golf Pass is a bargain that will hopefully inspire copycats throughout the Caribbean. Even if playing three rounds seems unattainable, though, the good news is the pass is good for a full year from purchase. And that means the best thing of all: more trips to Curaçao.

The post The Creative Deal that is Turning Curaçao into a Caribbean Golf Paradise appeared first on Islands.

Summer travel can be full of hassles, especially when canceled flights, overbooked hotels, crowded restaurants, and excessive heat cause major headaches around the globe. If you nixed a summer getaway, fall is actually a terrific time to visit some top island destinations, including sizzling beach locales, historic Mediterranean isles, and temperate beauties swathed in autumnal hues. 

Here are 10 islands we love for a great fall getaway.

Aruba

Located just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela—outside of the Atlantic hurricane belt—Aruba calls itself “One Happy Island” and makes for a great fall Caribbean escape. Whether you’re traveling with your partner, your family, or a group of friends seeking to unwind, Aruba offers great hotel options and plenty of land- and water-based activities. Plus, it’s easy to get there with nonstop flights from major cities such as Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, New York, Charlotte, and Chicago.

Aruba’s beaches are world-famous and, depending on your travel style, you can book a waterfront stay on one of its two most enviable strands. Lively and popular Palm Beach is lined with major resorts such as the Marriott Aruba Resort & Stellaris Casino; Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa and Casino; Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino; and the Radisson Blu Aruba. Super-scenic and serene Eagle Beach is home to Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa and Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, as well as the recently reopened and reinvigorated classic, the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort. For an all-inclusive stay, there are Hotel Riu Palace on Palm Beach or Tamarijn Aruba All-Inclusive on Eagle Beach.

Aruba’s unique culinary heritage means you can indulge in locally caught fresh fish and also try novel Dutch-Caribbean dishes such as cheesy keshi yena, cabrito stoba (goat stew), and polenta-like funchi. The island’s constant trade winds make kitesurfing and parasailing popular pastimes while its arid and rugged interior is best explored on ATV tours. After dark, Aruba ups the energy with more than a dozen casinos and a lively nightlife scene.

Curaçao

The “C” in the ABC Islands (alongside Aruba and Bonaire), Curaçao is another southern Caribbean island that’s ideal for a fall getaway filled with Dutch-influenced culture and superb snorkeling and diving. Its capital, Willemstad, ranks among the most photogenic in the Caribbean with the vibrant colonial architecture of the Punda and Otrabanda districts and the distinctive taste treats (such as red snapper, okra stew, and pumpkin pancakes) at the Old Market-Plasa Bieuw delivering an experience that goes beyond the beach—although the island has some lovely sand, too.

Get away from it all by checking in to the new all-inclusive Sandals Royal Curaçao or immerse in all things Curaçao by staying in or near Willemstad, where hotel and resort options include the Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort, Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, and Baoase Luxury Resort.

In historic Willemstad, one of the most moving sites is the Kura Hulanda Museum. Set right in the harborside city center, where Dutch traders sold human cargo from the 17^th to 19^th centuries, the museum effectively presents the story of the transatlantic African slave trade and relates how African culture has influenced society in Curaçao and across the Caribbean. 

Curaçao is also home to the distillery that makes the eponymous azure-hued spirit Blue Curaçao (tours and tastings are available) as well as 1,220-foot Mt. Christoffel, which can be hiked for panoramic views of the island’s largest national park.

Oahu

Fall is a great time to visit Oahu. It’s after the summer rush when Hawaii’s most-populated island swells to standing room only with vacationing families and honeymooners. September through November offers a chance to experience all that Honolulu, Waikiki, and the dramatic beaches of Oahu’s North Shore have to offer, along with excellent weather and a noticeable dip in hotel rates. Plus, there are nonstop flights to Honolulu from Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Denver, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Charlotte, Atlanta, Boston, Seattle, and a dozen other U.S. cities. And no passports are required.

Waikiki is the place to stay for gentle surf, abundant shopping and fantastic Diamond Head views—along with easy access to the Diamond Head Crater summit should you be inclined to hike it. Top hotel options include the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki, The Royal Hawaiian, and The Laylow. 

Activity-wise, there’s Hawaiian culture to explore at Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum, World War II memorials to visit at Pearl Harbor, and surf lesson or outrigger canoe paddles on Waikiki. Dining options range from traditional Hawaii plate lunches and shave ice to all kinds of international options. Hawaii Regional Cuisine is a local-focused movement developed about 30 years ago by a group of 12 chefs to showcase the islands’ melting pot flavors and you can taste the creations of chefs Roy Yamaguchi, Alan Wong, and Peter Merriman on Oahu.

Moorea

Moorea, one of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia, ranks high on many travelers’ dream destinations and a quick getaway here is easier than you think. It’s just an eight-hour flight from Los Angeles to Papeete on the island of Tahiti and then a 10-minute flight or 30-45-minute ferry ride to Moorea, located just 11 miles away. September to November, the tail end of high season, are ideal months to visit.

With its aquamarine lagoon, two dramatic bays (Cook’s and Opunohu) and majestic green peaks, Moorea is a tropical playland for couples or families. Top activities include snorkel tours, parasailing, shark and stingray feeding, and 4×4 adventures through the island’s verdant interior landscape to lookouts offering panoramic views. At night, Tahitian culture is showcased in entertainment featuring hip-shaking dance performances set to the rhythm of traditional island drumbeats. Don’t miss a chance to try poisson cru, French Polynesia’s signature dish of raw tuna marinated in coconut milk and lime juice.

Moorea offers the chance to stay in an iconic Tahitian overwater bungalow, set above a sea-life-filled lagoon, or a beach bungalow nestled amid palm trees and offering instant access to the sand. Resort options include the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, the Manava Moorea Beach Resort & Spa, and the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort.

Sicily

It’s tough to compete with this Italian island when it comes to the three things: stunning scenery, great food and wine, and fascinating culture and history. As the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is home to legendary cities that include Taormina, Palermo, Syracuse, and Catania—each featuring century-spanning architecture and landmarks—as well as ancient Greek and Roman ruins at Agrigento and other archaeological sites, the infamous volcano Mt. Etna, and miles of beach-rimmed coastline. 

Luxury hotels in Sicily range from the sublimely positioned Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina to the oceanfront Verdura Resort in Sciacca. Other options include the wine-centric Monaci delle Terra Nere, set in a 17^th century monastery, and the seaside Club Med Cefalu Resort for those who prefer an all-inclusive stay.

Sicily’s agricultural bounty is reflected in its cuisine, which is rich in seafood and fresh vegetables. Dishes not to miss include caponata (marinated eggplant with celery, onion, capers, pine nuts, and raisins), pasta con la sarde (bucatini pasta with sardines, anchovies, fennel, pine nuts, raisins, and saffron) and arancini (stuffed and fried rice balls). And for dessert? Cannoli, of course, since they were invented here.

Malta

Summers lure sun-seeking crowds to the hot and arid Maltese archipelago—with many visitors arriving in the capital, Valletta, by cruise ship—but by autumn temperatures here begin to dip into a comfortable range and things settle into a more relaxed pace. There are three islands to explore: Malta, the largest is home to historic, golden-hued Valletta with its incredible harbor and architecture, including the Co-Cathedral of St. John; Gozo is known for its towering sea cliffs, vast array of churches and the pre-historic site at Ggantija; and tiny Comino is home to just two residents but is a popular destination for day trippers looking to hike its rugged landscape or swim in its ethereal Blue Lagoon.

Hotels on Malta range from sophisticated options in Valletta, such as The Phoenicia and the Roselli AX Privilege, to beachside resorts that include The Westin Dragonera Resort and the Radisson Blu Resort Malta. On Gozo, you’ll find the Kempinski Hotel St. Lawrenz, eco-friendly Ta’ Cenc and the Cesca Boutique Hotel.

The Maltese language is derived from late medieval Sicilian Arabic (English is an official language, too) and the islands’ gastronomy incorporates influences from centuries of occupation by its Mediterranean neighbors, so you’ll recognize touches of Italian, Spanish, French, and northern African cuisines. Top dishes include lampuki (dorado/mahi-mahi) baked into a pie with spinach, olives and herbs), timpana (macaroni, meat, and cheese baked in a pie crust) and pastizzi (flaky pastry stuffed with either salty ricotta or crushed peas).

Mallorca

Like Malta, Mallorca is overrun in summer, but this mountainous isle, part of Spain’s Balearic Islands, becomes a lovely spot to soak up autumn’s Mediterranean sunlight from September to mid-November. Its capital, Palma de Mallorca, is home to the architecturally significant sandstone Cathedrale-Basilica de Santa Maria de Mallorca (known as La Seu, it took 600 years to build), 14^th century circular Bellver Castle and a charming old town filled with medieval churches and ornate palaces. There’s also a half-mile-long beach, C’an Pere Antoni, that is walkable from the city center.

Hotels range from boutique Old Town gems, such as Posada Terra Santa, Hotel Cort, and Concepcio by Nobis to seaside resorts that include El Vicenc de la Mar and Hospes Maricel & Spa. For a romantic getaway or milestone anniversary splurge, check out Belmond La Residencia set in the mountain amid olive groves on the island’s northwest coast.

Every visit to Mallorca should include an island tour to discover its many scenic treasures—quaint mountain villages (especially Deia) and photogenic coves and bays along its North Coast—as well as a visit to the Mercat de Santa Catalina in Palma, which is Mallorca’s oldest food market. If you’re in Palma on a Tuesday, you can enjoy Tapas Tuesday, also known as Ruta Martiana, in Old Town for prix-fixe beers, wines, and tapas bites. The island is also home to a Joan Miro Museum housing the Mallorca-born artist’s studios and many of his works.

Nantucket

This U.S. summer playground located just 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts segues wonderfully into fall. Nantucket, accessed via flight or ferry, welcomes visitors seeking a quiet, relaxing getaway offering beach access on clear-blue autumn days, scenic hiking, and cycling and a smorgasbord of fresh-caught seafood. Nantucket’s coastal New England architecture—weathered cedar shingles, bright white trim, covered porches, and patinaed weather vanes—are accented by vivid chrysanthemums and orange pumpkins. Beer lovers can even toss back local autumnal ales at Cisco Brewers, which also now offers Nantucket wines and distilled spirits.

The island’s top accommodations include The White Elephant and The Wauwinet, both heritage properties with lots of character. The Nantucket Hotel & Resort is celebrating its’s 10th anniversary, while the island’s newest additions are 14-room boutique property Life House, located in a former sea captain’s house, and the stylishly curated Hotel Pippa, right downtown.

Downtown is also where you’ll find the sweet stuff—literally, since chocolate-covered cranberries sold by shops such as Aunt Leah’s Fudge are a favorite treat (cranberries have been harvested on Nantucket for more than 200 years)—along with boutiques selling handcrafted and vintage goods and local eateries serving up seafood ranging from fresh scallops (fall is harvest season) to lobster mac ‘n cheese.

Vancouver Island

Rugged and unspoiled Vancouver Island requires just a flight to Vancouver followed by a seaplane or car ferry—and the journey there is just as scenic as the island itself. At 12,079 square miles, British Columbia’s largest island is home to dramatic pine forests, windswept beaches, quiet coves, and a superb botanical garden. It also boasts some of the best dining in the Pacific Northwest. From Ucluelet and Tofino, where adventure awaits on hikes and kayak paddles, to foodie favorite Salt Spring Island and historic Victoria (capital of B.C.), there’s something for everyone.

Vancouver Island also boasts several notable and indulgent places to stay, including the circa-1904 Fairmont Empress, located on Victoria’s inner harbor; the Wickaninnish Inn, overlooking the rolling waves of the Pacific in Tofino; and remote Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offering five-star glamping.

The island is also known for its whale-watching (through October), bear-watching (near Tofino and Ucluelet) wineries (there are around 30), food tours (including by bike), adventure parks (for zip-lining and more), superb bird-watching, a dozen top golf courses, and the stunning 55-acre Butchart Gardens.

Prince Edward Island

Crowds thin and the pace slows in September and October (the tail end of tourist season) on Prince Edward Island, located in Canada’s Gulf of St. Lawrence to the northeast of Maine and New Brunswick. In summer, PEI is a beach-lovers’ playground rimmed with family-friendly stands and photogenic dunes, such as those in Prince Edward Island National Park and Cavendish Beach as well as PEI National Park—Greenwich (home to the island’s largest sand dunes). And through mid-October, beachcombing remains popular. But the island province’s historic capital, Charlottetown, along with literary fame (all things Anne of Green Gables) and incredibly fresh seafood make an autumn visit multidimensional.

Lodging-wise, it’s easy to step back in time at the Great George Hotel, located in Charlottetown historic center (not far from where the 1864 Charlottetown Conference that led to the formation of Canada) and at Dalvay by the Sea, a circa-1895 beachside inn in PEI National Park. And for dining, Charlottetown is full of great options, including the Claddagh Oyster House for casual fine dining featuring seasonal ingredients, convivial Salt & Sol serving a fresh-and-local menu in a waterfront setting, and Churchill Arms for British pub specialties ideal for when temperatures dip. And don’t miss a scoop or two of ice cream at Cows, whose chocolate-covered potato chips (called Cow Chips) are also addictive.

A popular PEI sight for all ages is Green Gables Heritage Place, a celebration of Anne of Green Gables and its author Lucy Maud Montgomery, who lived and wrote her famous book series on the island. For a more spirited adventure, you can also take winery, brewery, distillery, and cidery tours around the island.

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We keep hearing (and writing) that “travel is back,” and the popular themes are wellness, workations, and especially long overdue, rescheduled destination weddings. For some people, the reason never matters, but others occasionally need a little nudge like, “It’s National Margarita Day, so don’t you deserve a few days at the JW Marriott Cancun’s lobby bar?” If anything, it helps us treat every vacation like a holiday.

This came up earlier this summer in a conversation with 11 old friends as we debated dates for our fantasy football draft. As we enter year 21 of our league, I pointed out that we hadn’t had a real, in-person draft party in quite some time, so wouldn’t it be fun if we picked a cool destination so we can all catch up? 

Turns out that’s a little tougher than we’d have thought. After all, most of us have families and careers, so it’s difficult to plan these kinds of trips for just a one- or two-day escape. “So, let’s make a thing of it,” I insisted. Eyebrows were raised and more questions followed. “Let’s pick a resort in the Caribbean so spouses or entire families can come, fun can be had, and vacation days can be used. Let’s put the party back in draft party!”

Well, it’s still a work in progress. This year’s draft was yet another Zoom call, but if I could head somewhere tropical to waste the 10^th overall pick on Alvin Kamara, these are the resorts I’d highly recommend.

Sandals Royal Curaçao

The freshest resort in my mind, the newest property on Curaçao is a great choice for all the best reasons. For starters, the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Curaçao feels like it was designed to entertain groups (adults-only, sorry kids), with dining options and amenities that encourage variety and ensure the word boredom has no meaning. 

Want to go big and have a draft that will possibly go viral but certainly be unforgettable? Book multiple Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows and make your selections in one of the private pools as the waves crash nearby. Or grab a few of the tables at the food truck pavilion so everyone can enjoy a variety of food options and the must-have mango margaritas while you laugh at that one guy who always picks the injured player. 

And perhaps best of all, Old Quarry’s first hole tee box is just steps from those trucks, so everyone can grab a rental set and keep the fun going on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful (and challenging) courses.

(Bonus idea: Draft off-site at Bklyn, a bar inspired by New York City’s rap and hip hop culture that also serves some awesome cocktails and snacks—just don’t be loud or you’ll miss the great music.)

W Punta de Mita

We all know that villas are immensely popular right now because they allow families and small groups to feel like they’re staying in a home away from home. (Also, they’re typically just flat out cool.) Now, if we’re talking about 10-14 adults, chances are it’s going to be tough to find something that large at a resort. Instead, I’d suggest finding the coolest villa from which to draft, and perhaps allowing the league champion to stay there. (That will probably earn some boos.)

A perfect example is the Extreme Wow (or E-wow) Oceanfront Oasis Suite at W Punta de Mita. This two-bedroom suite is one of the coolest accommodations in this popular Mexican destination, with a plunge pool and jacuzzi, as well as large windows that open to make this feel like a wide-open palace. It is truly fit for royalty… or at least a trophy holder.

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort

When friends ask me for Caribbean travel recommendations right now, my first pick is St. Maarten. Often overlooked as “that place you land” when visiting her neighboring islands, this Dutch slice of paradise has overcome serious adversity in recent years and deserves a spotlight for its emerging creativity. And with its size, style, and family-friendly atmosphere, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort makes for an ideal base camp, especially if kids are coming.

That’s because the Aqua Park, with its three slides, is simply awesome, but adults will also be thrilled with the resort’s massive Oasis pool, which will be the best place to relax the brain before all those difficult decisions are made. The draft, however, would take place off property at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, home of the Caribbean’s best beer. 

Leagues that draw draft order on the night of the event could even use this bar’s escape rooms, with the fastest times earning the earliest picks.

The Buccaneer

Perhaps most recognizable to fans of The Bachelor, this resort is a St. Croix institution. Arriving here feels like you’re checking in to a really fun summer camp, as the spacious property includes a variety of outdoor amenities and activities that will make any group entirely pleased with the choice.

What makes The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort (now a part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham) so enticing is easy—the beaches. Want to relax and catch some rays? Grotto Beach. Want to grab a snorkel or kayak and explore the water? Mermaid Beach. Want nothing but seclusion? That’s Whistle Beach, which is also home to the thing that makes this resort such a good choice: The Beach House. This six-bedroom accommodation is as cool as it gets in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the pool is simply begging to be a draft party location.

After the last pick is made, everyone can tee off from the 18-hole course that boasts magnificent ocean views, and also has some very forgiving holes that will make players of all experience levels feel great about their games.

Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

Those of us who have played fantasy football for a long time tend to think about it a lot. Like, sometimes more than anything else. That’s why it wasn’t that unusual that as I enjoyed the incredible Atardi beach dining experience at Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino, I found myself thinking, “Man, this would be quite a draft spot.” To be fair, though, that goes for a lot of spots on this property, which is why it’s such a good choice.

But, again, if this is the destination, I’m tempted to take the draft festivities off-property, because once you’ve had the Passion-Rita and Long Island-Rita at The West Deck, you’re going to want to live there. That’s not to say the food and drink aren’t terrific at Aruba Marriott—definitely among the best on the island—but it’s fun to explore and find those special places.

Plus, once the shuttle arrives back at the resort, the entire crew can hit the casino for some post-draft gaming.

Marriott Cancun Resort

I know a lot of people just want to keep things simple and head to a sports bar for wings and beers while they roast their buddies who chose Kamara over Saquon Barkley and Davante Adams, but you can still do that in a resort setting. Case in point: Marriott Cancun Resort’s Champions Sports Bar, which has TVs in the bar and dining area—ideal for those players who need hints from sports shows while everyone enjoys wings and burgers.

And the bonus is that you’re in Mexico, at one of the most entertaining resorts, so when you’re not drafting, the whole league can eat some of the best quesadillas and guacamole I’ve ever had at the SacBé Beach Shack, or everyone can meet up the final evening for a truly informative and delicious mezcal tasting.

(Yet another bonus is that this hotel is connected to the JW Marriott Cancun, which is home to the lobby bar with 150 margaritas. Even the guy who always finishes in last place can’t complain about that.)

Quivira Los Cabos

If your league mates are bringing families and/or golf clubs, you’ll want to head to the Pacific coast of Mexico and a resort community that is getting better and more exciting by the day. Not only is Quivira Los Cabos home to a course that recently landed on the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses—it should be top 10, in my opinion—but it boasts an ideal range of accommodations and phenomenal dining options.

Couples who leave the kids at home will want to book rooms at the adults-only Pueblo Bonito Pacifica, which looks like a luxurious sandcastle built on one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Step it up and stay at the Towers at Pacifica, where adults are spoiled with 24-hour butler service—the only drawback is the constant noise of other couples celebrating the fact that they’re in paradise with no kids.

That’s not to say this isn’t a place for children. Quite the opposite, as families will love the space and amenities offered at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach. And if you’re in that villa mindset, Pueblo Bonito Montecristo Estates offers three-bedroom units with private infinity pools. There’s not a bad choice to be made here.

As far as drafting, I have two ideas: head to The After at Quivira, a truly fulfilling sports bar setting, or stay outside and enjoy the Cabo evening while grabbing snacks and treats at La Choya Wandering Kitchen. Then celebrate a decent draft with a round at the epic Quivira Golf Club, for which Jack Nicklaus truly outdid himself.

Reynolds Lake Oconee

All this talk about golf makes me think of only one U.S. resort community: Reynolds Lake Oconee. With five courses that guests can play (the sixth is private), it’s already one of the best getaway choices for families and small groups, but there’s an entirely different amenity here that would make for the best fantasy draft setting imaginable. Of course, I mean the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds, which offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities, including archery, fishing, and an off-road course with awesome Land Rovers.

But the reason I’ve included everyone’s favorite southern vacation destination is the sporting clays—aka “Golf with a Shotgun”—which could make for the best draft pick lottery your league has ever considered. Each team manager could meet at the five-stand, which is a compact clay course, and the best scores dictate the draft order. An especially clever league member might even slip resident shooting champion Jasper Copelan a few bucks to make it a little easier.

As for accommodations, the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Lake Oconee exists as one of the most luxurious lodges in the country, but families will definitely enjoy the various cottages in the National Club and The Landing, if they’re available.

The post The Best Resorts for Your Fantasy Football Draft Party appeared first on Islands.

For as many resorts as we visit, it’s hard to keep track of the things we love the most. Stunning infinity pools, classic white sand beaches, and amazing spas… oh yeah, those spas. But the one thing that never fails to get people talking, from strangers on social media to our closest friends and family, is the food. It doesn’t take long after a return or review for someone to ask, “What was the best thing you ate?”

I’ve always thought that the only thing that would make Guy Fieri’s job better would be if he visited the Caribbean (his Hawaii episodes are basically work research for me at this point). In fact, I often (half) joke that my quest in life is eating my way from the Bahamas to Aruba, which does a number on the beach bod, but, boy, is it worth it.

All jokes aside, restaurants and resorts from the U.S. to Costa Rica have worked so hard over the years to create better culinary experiences for visitors and regulars, and great food goes a long way in how we feel about our vacations. To get a better idea of which joints are serving up the best dishes in our favorite locations, we shined our hamburger spotlight into the night sky. The result is an inspirational appetizer for burgers we can’t wait to eat the next time we visit these popular destinations.

The Doughburger

The Restaurant: Johnnie’s Drive In

The Location: Tupelo, Mississippi

Speaking of diners, drive-ins and dives, let’s start with a classic hamburger at a restaurant that makes for a perfect pit stop on the great American road trip. You don’t have to be a geography major to know that Tupelo isn’t an island, but if you’re driving south to escape the cold and enjoy an extended weekend of adventure on Cat Island or Ship Island, then you’ll want to make sure this Mississippi institution is marked on your GPS.

The Doughburger from Johnnie’s Drive In also comes with a great story. A favorite of Elvis Presley, this burger dates back to 1945 and is anything but ordinary, as the patties are made by mixing ground beef with other ingredients like potato flakes and breadcrumbs. The recipe was created from a need to conserve meat, but a funny thing happened: people loved it. And, so, a Magnolia State legend was born.

The Royalton Cheeseburger

The Restaurant: SCORE Sports Bar

The Resort: Royalton Suites Cancun

The Location: Cancun

When it comes to dining at resorts, we’re allowed to be snobby. We’re allowed to expect a little more from traditional menu items, like cheeseburgers, but we also don’t want them to be too crazy. The Royalton Cheese from the SCORE Sports Bar at Royalton Suites Cancun is a perfect example of this concept, because it is still very much a cheeseburger, but with some bonus frills.

For starters, it aces the eyeball test with all the right toppings and a fun red Solo cup full of fries on the side. But it also treats you with herbed goat cheese as an option, and if you haven’t tried that, you need to. Pairs very well with a strawberry margarita on the rocks.

The Umami Truffle

The Restaurant: Umami Burger

The Resort: Baha Mar

The Location: The Bahamas

One of the first travel lessons I ever learned when I was young was you don’t fly halfway around the world just to eat American fast food. Now, Umami Burger should never be compared to the Golden Arches, but when you visit a place like the Bahamas, you’re still not really thinking about eating at a beloved Los Angeles burger joint. That is, unless you know just how good Umami Burger really is.

We’ve highlighted the Umami Truffle because it is as simple as it is extravagant— truffle aioli, truffle cheese and truffle glaze—and you can practically taste this one just by looking at it. But first-timers should probably start with the Umami Classic, which features a burger patty, parmesan frico, shiitake mushroom, roasted tomato, caramelized onions and ketchup. Or, as some resorts and restaurants throughout the Caribbean have realized, beef might not be your preference. Umami Burger’s Original Impossible Burger, with two veggie patties, has gained “cult” status, not just for being a great vegetarian option, but for being an all-around incredible burger that you can take right from Baha Mar’s charming food trucks right to the beach.

Beach House’s Citrus BBQ Burger

The Restaurant: Beach Deck

The Resort: Beach House

The Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

We typically expect a few things from Caribbean dining. For starters, a good view. Sunrise, sunset, a gorgeous beach and crystal waters—they all pair well with a meal. Also, we expect freshness and a little dash of creativity. These are things we’ve certainly come to expect from resorts and restaurants on Turks and Caicos.

The citrus BBQ burger at Beach House’s Beach Deck restaurant in Providenciales checks all the boxes, from the wonderful view of Grace Bay (there’s hardly a bad view of Grace Bay in general) to the in-house sauce for which this burger is named. And if you’re in the mood for a little extra Caribbean flavor, the pineapple slaw should do the trick.

Williwood’s Kabritu (Goat) Burger

The Restaurant: Williwood

The Location: St. Willibrordus (AKA Williwood), Curaçao

One of the reasons Curaçao has rocketed to the top of our must-visit list for the Caribbean is the island’s amazing sense of community. Local businesses and restaurants are relying on charm and innovation to turn the C in the ABC islands into an A+ destination. That’s especially the case for the village of St. Willibrordus Curaçao, which is better known these days as Williwood. It even has its own version of the Hollywood sign.

Visitors who flock to the island’s cove beaches will want to plan for lunch at the Williwood Terras, where the food is wild and the Williburgers are next level. Case in point: the Kabritu Burger, or spicy goat burger. Traditionally a stew, the goat meat was combined with a variety of seasonings and topped with creamy goat cheese to become one of the most unique and presumably delicious burgers in the Caribbean.

Morgan’s Veggie Burger

The Restaurant: Guy’s Burger Joint

The Resort: Planet Hollywood Beach Resort

The Location: Guanacaste, Costa Rica

For almost 10 years, tropical travelers have enjoyed Guy Fieri’s signature smash burgers as a staple of Carnival Cruises. Land lovers and beach bums, however, had to wait until 2018 to grab one of his Flavortown specials in a resort setting, when Guy’s Burger Joint opened at Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica. Authentic regional cuisine it might not be, but Fieri’s dishes are typically otherworldly, and that goes triple for Morgan’s Veggie Burger.

Named for his sister, this vegetarian option is a guest favorite and it’s easy to see why. An all-natural vegetable patty is comprised of three types of beans and topped with Siracha mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles, all stacked atop a toasted whole-wheat bun. You might want to cut it in half.

The Bomber Burger

The Restaurant: The Bay Restaurant

The Location: Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Tucked away in Florida’s panhandle, surrounded by several beautiful state parks, Santa Rosa Beach is the kind of white-sand spot that locals don’t want people to know about. Well, tough luck. Once people learn about this incredible hamburger from The Bay Restaurant, people will be marking the Hwy. 331 bridge on Google Maps and setting course for Choctawhatchee Bay.

A truly amazing burger can be described like this: “Just look at that thing.” The Bomber Burger has achieved that status. Dripping with sauces of the super and street variety, the 8-oz. patty is topped with roasted tomato, caramelized onions and an asiago cheese crisp. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go buy a new keyboard because this one is covered with drool.

Trapper Burger

The Restaurant: The Gate House

The Resort: The Grand Hotel

The Location: Mackinac Island, MI

At a place like The Grand Hotel, where visitors to Michigan’s beloved Mackinac Island are kept busy with a wide variety of activities, a really good burger is a necessity, if not for refueling then simply complementing the area’s sophistication and Americana charm. Fortunately, the Gate House restaurant offers a variety of incredible burgers that are perfect for everyone from golfers who just wrapped up 18 holes at The Jewel to dads who love a good beef-fueled mid-afternoon nap.

Burger snobs might prefer the American Wagyu Beef Burger, which is topped with pancetta bacon, Roquefort cheese and truffle mayo, but locals and visitors alike all agree that the signature Trapper Burger does the trick. A classic bacon cheeseburger topped with BBQ sauce, the Trapper is a great choice for celebrating a pickleball victory.

Goddess Burger

The Restaurant: Charbar Co.

The Location: Hilton Head Island, SC

If you’re the type of burger-loving traveler who has a tough time making decisions, Charbar Co. in Hilton Head Island might make things harder. That’s because this exemplary burger joint’s menu is downright unfair to those of us who want to try it all but only have so many days of vacation time. After all, there are two World Burger Championship Top 20 finishers on this menu, and the Dirty South Burger’s pimento cheese and smoked pork belly have me filling up my gas tank for a southern road trip right now.

So, if you need a starting point, the Goddess Burger should do the trick, despite looking too good to eat. The signature beef patty is topped with Brie cheese, harissa tomato jam, arugula, tomato, crispy prosciutto and the green goddess dressing. Don’t worry, you can have the Wine Jam Wagyu Burger tomorrow.

The Bagger Burger

The Restaurant: The Ryder Cup Bar at the Ocean Course Clubhouse

The Resort: Kiawah Island Golf Resort

The Location: Kiawah Island, SC

Golfers shouldn’t need to be told about Kiawah Island, but it is a barrier island that boasts beautiful beaches and, of course, incredible golf courses. Specifically, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is home to five courses, including the Ocean Course, which hosted the Ryder Cup in 1991 and will host the 2021 PGA Championship. It was also featured in The Legend of Bagger Vance, and that’s why the Ryder Cup Bar’s signature burger is named the Bagger Burger.

Located inside the Ocean Course Clubhouse, where you’ll undoubtedly want to purchase extra balls before your round, the bar features a menu cultivated by executive chef John Ondo, who, as a native South Carolinian, puts his own spin on local cuisine, like the signature Crispy Shrimp. As for the burger, the black angus patty is topped with smoked cheddar and peppered bacon, and it’s all enough to make you forget about the 95 you just shot.

Baby Back Burger

The Restaurant: One Hot Mama’s

The Location: Hilton Head Island, SC

The great thing about hamburger creativity is that when a burger is so over-the-top that it looks like a piece of culinary art, we don’t feel as bad about it being too much. And since vacations are all about letting go and enjoying everything to the extreme, a meal like the Baby Back Burger at One Hot Mama’s in Hilton Head Island is the epitome of a let loose, undo your belt buckle vacation meal.

A former Food Network Star finalist, Chef Orchid’s menu features a variety of burgers and “super” sandwiches, but this burger combines the best of two worlds. An American cheeseburger by itself is great, but slap a 1/3 rack of boneless baby back ribs, red onion, coleslaw and pickles on the patty, and you will know why this restaurant is part of the Official South Carolina BBQ Trail.

The Carpet Bagger Burger

The Restaurant: B&B Butchers & Restaurant

The Location: Houston, TX

We’re cheating again here, because Houston is clearly not an island, but if you’re road-tripping to Galveston Island and need a quick burger fix, little birdies tell us the Carpet Bagger Burger at B&B Butchers & Restaurant is a mindblower. This burger, which showcases proprietor Benjamin Berg’s ability to blend his New York City culinary style with everything we expect from a Texas meat joint, is a wonderful mess of epic proportions.

The thick patty is part filet mignon and part sirloin and is topped with bacon, which is always a good start. But then come the fried oysters, which are smothered in blue cheese crumbles and the homemade hot sauce. So, even if you’re not planning a road trip to Galveston Island, this might be the inspiration you need.

The Los Ranchos Four-Chile Burger

The Restaurant: Steel Bender Brewyard

The Location: Albuquerque, NM

There’s no island near Albuquerque, so the only thing we have to justify including this burger is how good it looks. After all, when you’re the winner of the 2019 Green Chile Cheeseburger Smackdown People’s Choice Awards, well, that’s as big as the Oscars to us hamburger aficionados. The Los Ranchos Four-Chile Burger at the Steel Bender Brewyard looks and sounds so amazing that we will just let the description speak for itself:

A local house-ground patty made with Native American Tribal Land brisket topped with a heaping portion of chopped Bueno Green Chile and Tucumcari cheddar with a house made aioli featuring Thunderhead Farms Paprika, Padron and Bird Chile peppers, local organic tomato, and locally-sourced arugula tossed in house made truffle-onion vinaigrette made from onions sourced from Loose Leaf Farms. Served on a Pastian’s Bakery bun with a side of hand-cut fries.

Looks like our next Mexico trip might be rerouted through Albuquerque.

The post The Best Hamburgers from Some of Our Favorite Resorts and Restaurants appeared first on Islands.

For more than 10 years, the late Gordon “Butch” Stewart dreamed of opening a Sandals property on Curaçao. Who could blame him? Wiser travelers have kept the C in the ABC Islands a big secret for years, but it was only a matter of time before the rest of the world took notice. And it turned out that the only thing stopping the Caribbean’s most recognizable resort brand from starting the party sooner was land. As in, where would it go?

The answer, as many of us learned two years ago, was the Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort, which Sandals eventually took over and spent 2021 renovating and upgrading. And when it came time to officially open its doors on June 1, 2022, Curaçao not only became the seventh island in the brand’s portfolio, but also a sample of what’s to come for this iconic brand.

Few people have been as celebrated for their vision and creativity in tropical hospitality as Butch Stewart, so it’s no surprise that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. His son Adam has taken the lead as Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman, and it’s clear that he not only shares his father’s enthusiasm for innovation, but he also views Curaçao as a place for new beginnings. “Every time we come to Curaçao, we fall more in love with this destination,” the younger Stewart told us during the recent grand opening of his empire’s 16^th property, and it was evident through every step of the festivities that he meant it.

Sandals Royal Curaçao formally rolled out the red carpet several weeks after opening, and immensely loyal guests traveled from all over the world for arguably the most exciting party in the Caribbean this year. Joining Adam in a chorus of glorious praise for this project was a Who’s Who of the island’s most recognizable names and faces. Also, the Blue Man Group, because there simply ain’t no party like a Curaçao party, especially when it’s on a Sandals property. A miniature Carnival celebration even broke out, which was truly a sight to behold, since the island hasn’t hosted its most epic event in two years.

“Our vision for the Sandals Royal Curaçao experience was inspired just as much by the island’s

natural beauty and colorful culture, as it was by our guests and the many ways they can engage

with this amazing destination,” Adam said on June 1, as the first wave of guests marveled at the design and new concepts featured at this sprawling resort. But as we chatted on the day before the spectacular welcome party, he teased at something even bigger ahead.

“Our purpose is to share the four corners of the Caribbean with the rest of the world,” he explained. As we witnessed firsthand the excellence of the company’s debut property in the Dutch Caribbean, it was clearly working. Devout Sandals guests are immensely loyal travelers with a tendency to stick with an island or resort out of familiarity and consistent expectations. Those who answered the call to visit Sandals Royal Curaçao and enjoy this island for the first time were blown away by what they found.

That was very fitting for an event that was all about “firsts.”

Introducing Sandals 2.0

The one phrase that came up more than any other over the course of four days was “labor of love.” Just as Butch sought to bring a resort to Curaçao, Adam and his team have been eager to finally use this chance to answer the most important question any company can ask: “What’s next?”

Calling this a test run would be an understatement, because everything guests experienced during both openings of Sandals Royal Curaçao is likely here to stay. If anything, certain elements will be enhanced or fine-tuned—after all, there are always hiccups and bumps in the road during these occasions. It’s just that this time it felt like there was an extreme eagerness to impress, as if everyone had been aching to unveil the new concepts and changes to the Sandals concept.

“Sandals 2.0,” as Adam called it, was developed as an opportunity to see what the company can do better in terms of its “island-first” approach. “Every single aspect of hospitality will be reviewed,” he declared prior to unveiling new-look uniforms that are as stylish and indicative of Curaçao’s culture as they are functional for that tropical heat (and those delightful ocean breezes). Certainly, he meant that in terms of what will be available and can be expected at the resort, but our favorite part of Sandals 2.0 is what’s happening away from this 3,000-acre property.

The ”Island Inclusive” concept is proof positive that Sandals wants to showcase the destinations now more than ever. For the first time in the brand’s history, the all-inclusive dining options are broadened to include restaurants in Willemstad’s colorful neighborhoods. I cannot stress enough how creative the culinary scene has become on this island, so giving guests the opportunity to borrow one of the resort’s Mini Coopers or hop on a shuttle and visit local restaurants and bars—like the phenomenal Sal, The Kitchen, and BKLYN, which is arguably the coolest spot on the island, if not beyond—is a gift and a blessing.

On Property is Always on Point

Adam and his team clearly knew how creative this island is when they embarked on this journey, because the new accommodations and amenities showcased at this property are right in line with Curaçao’s emergence. Sandals has always been about firsts, dating all the way back to when Butch invented the swim-up bar, but the debut concepts at Sandals Royal Curaçao are certain to make first-time guests reconsider their loyalties. 

With 351 rooms and suites available, guests won’t be disappointed with the variety. They might sweat a little, however, from the stress of committing. After all, every room from the Subi Premium to the Amante One Bedroom Oceanview Butler Royal Suite will provide comfort and subtle luxuries, but to see the Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows and Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows in person is to realize that love at first sight is real. 

It always comes down to personal preference, though, and there’s no wrong decision here, because every accommodation was designed to spoil. Still, it’s acceptable to be jealous of another guest’s bungalow.

And while the Island Inclusive might be my personal favorite, that’s not to say the new dining options here aren’t great enough to make guests wonder why they’d need to go anywhere else. The resort offers eight restaurants, with seven of them being brand new to Sandals, and Vincent and Aolos are undoubtedly highlights. The clear favorite among guests, though, seemed to be the trio of beachside food trucks that are serving great burgers, mouth-watering bao buns, and mango margaritas so sweet that even golfers want to grab a few to go before they start a round at neighboring Old Quarry.

The cherry on top of the firsts emerging from this resort is the elevated, bi-level Dos Awa Infinity Pool, which was a massive hit based on the number of guests who flocked to it each morning—and rarely left until dinner time. 

A Focus on the Island

As this “labor of love” came to fruition, Adam and his team never lost focus on the relationship with Curaçao and her people. Sandals notably provides an incredible number of jobs across seven islands, and that will increase as Adam fulfills his goals of covering the four corners of the Caribbean. But he believes there is more to be done, and that’s where the Sandals Foundation excels.

On Curaçao, the brand’s philanthropic effort has teamed with the Netherlands’ AFC Ajax franchise to support and promote Future Goals, an incredible, impressive endeavor that uses a variety of plastic waste, including fishing nets and water and soda bottles, to create soccer goals to be used by local youth teams. Additionally, the crew here also produces retail items like keychains, trophies and medals, and even little sea turtle toys that kids will absolutely love.

Efforts like these hardly get the spotlight they deserve since we’re usually so excited to take a dip in the infinity pool or get a delicious cut of meat at Butch’s Chop House. Chances are most guests will come and go without even learning about what’s being made from trash on Curaçao or how many kids are receiving free dental work in Jamaica, but what matters is it’s happening.

While people danced and toasted champagne as fireworks exploded above the first of its kind bi-level infinity pool, Adam Stewart, undoubtedly grinning ear-to-ear, had to know that this weekend of firsts was living up to every ambitious hope he, his father, and the rest of their family and company had for when this day would inevitably come. It’s only the beginning at Sandals Royal Curaçao, but it’s safe to say that this is the first of many amazing years ahead.

The post Sandals Finally Comes to Curaçao—and the Party was Absolutely Out of this World appeared first on Islands.