The five-star Margaritaville Beach Resort at The Pointe, the highly-anticipated beachfront resort coming to the Bahamas’ capital in Spring 2021 will be an integral part of Margaritaville at The Pointe, an exclusive $250 million, seven-acre luxury development located on Nassau Harbor in the Bahamas.

Visitors will instantly escape to the Margaritaville state of mind with signature brand décor elements in the lobby such as a larger-than-life flip flop sculpture. In addition to the 150-room Margaritaville Beach Resort, Margaritaville at The Pointe will feature luxury residences at One Particular Harbour at The Pointe, a deep-water marina and boardwalk, a waterpark, entertainment center, upscale shopping, and signature Margaritaville food and beverage concepts. Guests will be able to splash around the lazy river or test their balance on the FlowRider surf simulator at the Fins Up Water Park, work their way up the climbing wall, or explore the high-tech entertainment complex, including virtual-reality sports, karaoke, bowling, billiards, and even a private movie theater. The St. Somewhere Spa provides a space for relaxation for adults, while the younger guests hang out at Parakeets kid’s club.

(Credit: Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board)

The post New & Noteworthy Bahamas appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

Following a multi-million-dollar transformation, this resort is ready to welcome guests, in style. New & Noteworthy and en Fuego! The resort is tucked away in the pristine tropical paradise of the northeast coast of the island. Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico offers all-suite, bungalow-style accommodations, featuring private balconies and terraces, and five distinct food and beverage experiences – ranging from authentic Puerto Rican fare to Asian fusion cuisine.

There are also four expansive swimming pools, including Puerto Rico’s largest lagoon-style pool and swim-up bars serving innovative and refreshing cocktails. Would it really be a tropical escape without a fabulously revamped 12,000-square-foot Rainforest Spa and two world-class Tom Kit-designed 18-hole championship golf courses? We don’t think so. This oceanfront oasis is the closest full-service luxury resort from the San Juan International Airport. They’re ready for you!

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Trade the frigid and icy roads this season for warm, crystal clear water. Winter escapades
in the Caribbean abound at sea – ‘tis the season to go sailing, and regattas and races are
all the rage. Take the tropical plunge and dive into the Caribbean this winter, where the
weather and smiles are always warm.

JANUARY

Start the month off in Jamaica with a visit to the verdant Saint Elizabeth for a cultural awakening and a taste of history through song, dance and traditional Maroon cooking. Listen to tales of the late hero, Cudjoe, and the battle of the First Maroon War, a freedom fight against the British over 200 years ago, as told by the descendants of these noble warriors at Accompong Maroon Festival, January 6.

By Antigua, crews ready the sails for an exhilarating 54 nautical miles of racing at the Antigua Yacht Club, Round Island’ Race, January 18 /www.antiguayachtclub.com Serious competitors will be equally drawn to Barbados where crews can “win their skipper’s weight in rum” for breaking records – now, there’s a challenge, run light or heavy, for this race, there’s reason for indulgence in more ways than one during Barbados Sailing  Week The opening regatta is now named Round Barbados Sailing Week, which replaces its former title, the Mount Gay Round Barbados Series January 17 – 23.

On Grand Cayman, culinary connoisseurs gather at the Ritz Carlton to create delectable, gastronomic delights. With Seven Mile Beach in the background and world-class faire in the foreground, dining could not be more delicious. Come savor the annual Cayman Cookout, January 16 – 19.
www.caymancookout.com

Close the month in Grenada with rods and regattas. Skippers head back to the azure water for leeward and windward courses that boast, “Two host venues, four days of racing, six nights of parties!” Island Water World Grenada Sailing Week 2020, kicks off the southern Caribbean sailing events January 26 – 31.
www.grenadasailingweek.com

For the expert fishermen, reels are cast at the premiere, competitive sports fishing event 51st Annual Budget Marine Spice Island Billfish Tournament, January 26 – 30.

www.sibt.gd

FEBRUARY

Put the reels away and switch vessels, or simply come observe the masterful sailors from some of the Caribbean’s communities of sailing and boat building heritage hailing from the Sister Islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique at the Grenada Sailing Festival Work Boat Regatta, February 1 – 2.
www.grenadasailingfestival.com

Meanwhile, on St. Kitts, professional and amateur golfers from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and the rest of the Caribbean vie to be the champs of the course. They’ll be swinging in teams of Pro-Am and Am- Am. Catch these golf enthusiasts at the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club & Four Seasons Nevis for Admiral’s Cup Pro-Am Golf Tournament, February 1 – 6. 
www.golfstkittsandnevis.com/admirals-cup-proam

Up for a 52-mile anticlockwise circumnavigation of Antigua? Well, Superyacht enthusiasts are. Boaters entered in the RORC Caribbean 600 offshore classic have the opportunity to ready themselves for this exciting challenge at the Antigua 360 on February 21, just before navigating 600 nautical miles around 11 Caribbean islands during the Royal Oceanic Race Club (RORC) Caribbean 600 race, February 24.

If a good jump-up is more your style, then steel band celebrations, concerts, street faire, Night March, parades and so much more are in store. The whole town comes out for the annual celebration of the first English settlement in Holetown on February 17, 1627. The Holetown Festival is underway February 16 – 23.
www.holetownfestivalbarbados.org/festival-schedule

MARCH

Barbados rings the bell and opens the gates for a prestigious race of the four-legged kind. International jockeys and trainers bring their finest thoroughbreds to the track for the Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup, March 7.

www.visitbarbados.org/sandy-lane-gold-cup
Large boats are still maneuvering offshore for Antigua’s friendly Super Yacht Challenge, March 11 – 15.

Meanwhile, bodies make a splash in clear, turquoise water between Oualie Beach, Nevis, and St. Kitts. Whether you slip on a pair of flippers and goggles to admire the flora and fauna along the way or have that competitive spirit of “in it to win it,” The race draws swimmers from United States, England, Scotland, Ireland, and Brazil. You may even be matching strokes with an Olympian, it’s happened before at the Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim, March 29.

Off the coast of St. Maarten, it’s another race that brings an eclectic group of sailing enthusiasts together on crystal clear waters below the hulls and the northeast trade winds at their sails. Four days at an event sponsored by Heineken can only mean that it’s most likely a lot of work having a lot of world-class fun. The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is “serious fun” March 5 – 8.
www.facebook.com/StMaartenHeinekenRegatta

The post Dates Not to Miss Winter 2020 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

This hidden gem that went unscathed seems to certainly have kismet. Discovered by the couple from House of Bryan and Bryan Inc., the HGTV Canada series, Canadians were able to view the miraculous transformation of the abandoned hideaway from the comfort of their homes. The show chronicled the reimagining of the destination, after the couple stumbled across it while vacationing in South Andros. The visionary duo created spaces that ensured the pristine powder white sand and turquoise sea would always be visible by fashioning open-living and sleeping areas. The Bryans’ commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious tourism is evident throughout the resort.

With only 18 oceanfront suites and six private villas, nestled on 10 acres of lush tropical landscape, guests will feel one with nature while indoors or lounging in outdoor hammocks. A stroll along meandering meditation paths, may lead to one of the three on-site dining establishments. The resort’s appeal for guests to relax and unwind, has equal draw to the destination’s spectacular diving and snorkeling at the famed coral reefs, or even an exhilarating boating or fishing expedition.

The owners are pleased to announce that because the boutique resort was untouched by the recent storms, its December debut remains on schedule. So, head down and lend a helping hand by staying at the soon to be unveiled gem on South Andros the Caerula Mar Club  www.caerulamar.com.

The post New & Noteworthy Fall 2019 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

CANCUN, MEXICO

At The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun, luxury meets renowned gastronomical experiences. Located directly on white sand beaches, the resort is the only AAA Five Diamond Resort in North America with two AAA Five Diamond Restaurants, Fantino and The Club Grill. Perhaps the most idyllic dining available at the resort are the casitas, the only spot in Cancun where private on-beach dining is still available.

Melody Maker a multi-sensory all-inclusive hotel and entertainment venue. The resort pairs the lifestyle and excitement of a beachfront hotel, world-class entertainment and fine dining with the amenities of a luxury resort, creating an unparalleled “Vegas-meets-Cancun” experience. The hotel’s top-tier concert schedule includes David Guetta, Tiësto, Maná, Steve Aoki, Dillon Francis, Elrow and more.  

Offering a sleek, modern design built for a new generation, the 283,000-square foot, all-inclusive resort features a luxury spa, a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, unique, music-driven programming, the world’s largest video projection mapping technology, five renowned restaurants serving global cuisine, 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, a champagne bar, Nespresso Coffee Bar, and the pulsing day-and-nightlife venues, Delirio Day Club and Clandestino Night Club.

https://www.melodymakercancun.com/en/

GRAND CAYMAN

Curio in Cayman! Situated on the edge of George Town, the beachfront hotel boasts 80 suites with spacious floorplans ranging from one to three bedrooms, which will also be available for purchase. Each suite will feature energy-efficient technologies, in-room yoga mats and fitness equipment, and lighting that regulates circadian rhythm. Travelers will also be able to opt for executive and penthouse suites with premier private pools.

Guests will enjoy farm-to-table dining at two of the property’s restaurants and poolside café, offering local seafood, fresh produce, organic wines and craft cocktails. With a fully-equipped gym, rejuvenating spa and conference facilities, the hotel will also provide guests with a refreshing swimming pool complete with a swim-up bar and a fresh juice bar. The hotel will also have electric vehicle rentals and complimentary bicycles for eco-conscious guests to ride along and enjoy Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach.

https://curiocollection3.hilton.com/en/index.html

SANTO DOMINGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Historic Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando Hotel

Santo Domingo offers a cosmopolitan blend of Latin, Caribbean and European cultures and Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando Hotel, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, perfectly encapsulated these elements and offers guests the perfect base to explore the city and the reemerging Zona Colonial, with vibrant art galleries, a hip culinary scene and scintillating nightlife. The 92-room hotel offers luxurious accommodations in a one of a kind historical building housed in the restored 16th century home of the city’s founder and first governor, an archetype of the city’s colonial-style décor. Guests will enjoy an elevated historic and cultural gastronomic experience at 1502 Restaurante, inventive cocktails at the Taberna del Mojito Bar and every modern amenity to ensure a comfortable stay. Rates start at $190 a night. 

ST MAARTEN

The Return of Sonesta St Maarten Resorts

St Maarten is making a speedy recovery after Hurricane Irma last year and coming back “Stronger and Brand New” are the all-inclusive adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort that reopened December 15 and the all-inclusive family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort Casino & Spa, reopening Feb 27, 2019 just in time for spring break. Sonesta Maho Beach Resort will debut a modern new design and guest rooms will receive a thoughtful new layout keeping its signature family-friendly charms, array of restaurants and bars, Kids Club and fun daily activities. Sonesta Ocean Point now features a new lobby and new Casa Blue, a Spanish-style tapas restaurant, that debuted on the rooftop above Azul restaurant. Sonesta Ocean Point rates start at $228 per person, all-inclusive and at Sonesta Maho Resort, rates start at $132 per person, all-inclusive.

For travelers searching to experience Mexico’s famed Mayan pyramids, Hacienda San Jose, A Luxury Collection Hotel provides an intimate, luxurious stay near Chichén Itzá, the Pre-Hispanic UNESCO World Heritage site. Hacienda San Jose embraces its unique past through private tours of this plantation house-turned hotel. Exquisite colors are found at every turn while guestrooms offer 18-foot ceilings with exposed beams, large wooden double doors and an outdoor pool to transport guests back in time.

VIEQUES, PUERTO RICO

Bohemian Eco-Vegetarian Finca Victoria Hotel Opened on February 1st 

From Sylvia Demarco, the owner of the beloved Dreamcatcher hotel in San Juan, comes the debut of Finca Victoria an altruistic bohemian retreat on Vieques, renovated and restored after the hurricanes with respect to the land, food and culture of Puerto Rico. Finca’s newest incarnation will feature a central house with swimming pool, a large communal kitchen and dining area, spacious living room, lounge areas and five guest rooms all done in a colorful and detailed eclectic bohemian style. Finca Victoria opened February 1st and will expand In March with two Baez Haus tree-houses, and by summer will offer a total of 10 rooms and cabins. In addition, complimentary vegetarian breakfast and yoga will be offered, a local artisanal boutique and a vegetarian food store with items made from the hotel’s vegetable and herb garden.The property aims to instate renewable energy and recycled water infrastructure to ultimately become entirely eco-sustainable with zero impact to the land. Rates start at $149 a night.

The post New & Noteworthy Spring 2019 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

New and Noteworthy

By Ava Rosales

Bermuda

Bermuda’s Private Island has the ideal high-end, custom getaway. Imagine escaping it all with a few friends, the family or just a significant other and lose yourselves in 25 acres of rugged, lush landscape with your own private beach overlooking the Great Sound and Harbor Islands. All that is completed with your own private chef. Dine-in or beachside, where a leisurly swim in the turquoise waters may offer a glimpse at a local turtle or two. This intimate paradise can accommodate you and fifteen other discriminating guests between the Main Villa and Guard House at Hawkins Island.

Punta Cana

Rebranded and renovated is the new Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort. For this escape, the kids are a must have, in order to take full advantage of all the new amenities of this all-inclusive. One of the two new buildings houses a Kids Club. The resort also features one of the largest water parks on Punta Cana. Talk about family fun. Before, during or after an active day, a variety of menu options is in order from the new Tex Mex authentic Mexican cuisine or La Gira Rodizio Brazilian-style steakhouse. There is even lighter fare at the new concept eateries such as the health bar, sports bar or ice cream & coffee shop. Foodies, there are options.  So, grab a bite by the pool or take it to the beach picnic areas. All your needs are catered to from burning a few of those new found calories at the fitness center to mentally melting them away with a luxurious spa treatment. There’s even a medical center and pharmacy on property. Whether you’re a first time or repeat guest, the Grand Sirenis Punta Cana promises to offer a “grand” new experience.

Turks and Caicos

Private luxe is in order with a stay in a new collection of four and five-bedroom oceanfront luxury villas each located on approximately half an acre, situated hillside with panoramic views and private pools. Don’t think for a minute that you’ll be land locked though, as you plunge into the turquoise water below your over-the-water swimming platforms with hammock floors.  And that famed Pink Bar that was a popup hit is now a permanent fixture that will feature an array of specialized winter refreshers with a new wine selection and cocktail menu with darker spirit-based pink-hued drinks. See why they call it the Pink Bar? A delicious rosé wine sorbet with an optional prosecco floater is the perfect quencher to accompany fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired fare at the beachfront restaurant. The Gansevoort Villas Turks & Caicos await your arrival   

Cancún, Mexico

The stars are perfectly aligned for discerning singles or couples with Iberostar’s new high-end experience known as Iberostar Cancún Star Prestige. With ocean views along 13-stories, the sight is spectacular while lounging in your personal whirlpool, indulging in 24-hour concierge and room service. It may be hard to tear yourself away from the in-room amenities, cuddling up to melodies from the Bluetooth sound system or the visual entertainment on the Smart TV. The resort does, however, offer exclusive amenities that allows you to enjoy the rest of the resort. Spend select time away from the crowds in the Star Prestige Lounge at one of the numerous social events with premium beverages and complimentary hors d’oeuvres; or just enjoy cocktails at the private beach club open bar, but imbibe just enough to hit a straight hole-in-one at the on-site Iberostar Cancún Golf Club. Hurry! With only 156 prestige rooms available, this adults-only experience is exclusivity at its best and is yours for the taking at Iberostar Cancún Star Prestige,

The post New and Noteworthy Winter 2018 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

By Ava Rosales

The Caribbean is back! Come see for yourself.

Anguilla

Settled on Anguilla’s secluded West End is the uber-exclusive Altamer resort. A work of art in their design and featuring an impressive collection of artwork, the geometrically designed Antilles Pearl, Blue Diamond and African Sapphire villas together can accommodate up to 40 guests.  This slice of heaven eagerly awaits discerning travelers. What does one do in their own 12,000 square feet of luxurious comfort and a 360 degree view to the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and St. Martin? Perhaps bring along some company and totally escape with 24-hour butler service and an onsite personal chef, coupled with the allure of in-villa massages and spa treatments. The added venture to nearby islands on your own charter certainly calls for an extended stay.  The Antilles Pearl villa is yours, as early as November 15. https://www.altamer.com/

Bahamas

Cozy, relaxed and a modern Caribbean feel is the way to describe the appointments in the newly opened Rosewood Baha Mar. Wimberly Interiors has curated spaces that articulate the allure of white and pristine beaches throughout the indoor areas. The entire resort is built with a “residential” feel that is evident from the stroll from the foyer through the “Living Room” and into the inviting “Library”. All this lounging space before finding your way to your guest room. Make a few new acquaintances along the way, especially if a little libation is on the mind – even if it isn’t their bar has that “come hither and stay a while” appeal that makes you want to sit and sip a fine brand of anything. At home in the Caribbean is what Rosewood Baha Mar exudes – the glamour of Caribbean cozy. https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/baha-mar

Dominica

Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica is the latest luxury expansion in Dominica. After opening Cuba’s first five-star resort last year, Kempinski has set its sight on Dominica. Known for embracing the regional culture while intertwining land and water elements, the Dominica destination will prove no different with its heritage of rainforests and hot springs. This luxurious island hideaway is surrounded by Cabrits National Park in the Commonwealth of Dominica. It’s a destination must for eco-tourists.   www.kempinski.com/en/dominica /cabrits-resort-kempinski- dominica/

Grenada

For the love of water and eco-preservation, dive enthusiasts of all levels of experience are lured to Pure Grenada Dive Fest.  Enjoy four days of gratification in sustainable activities, from the eradication of invasive marine species such as Lionfish to removing debris. It’s travel with a purpose, when you join ecotourists and dive into the annual event October 3 – 6.

Jamaica

The iconic Half Moon has the total body relaxed in pure scenic serenity at Fern Tree Spa. October brings a special spiritual retreat when world renowned yoga instructor, Robin Martin brings her “Namaste at Montego Bay” Yoga Retreat for three days of body, mind and soul renewal, October 19 to 21. https://www.halfmoon.com/

Saba

From sea to shore, the Dutch Caribbean island unveils two new conservation projects that reveal and maintain the vibrant and lush biodiversity that makes it “The Unspoiled Queen” with RESCQ (Restoration of Ecosystem Services and Coral Reef Quality) – sound it out, such a clever acronym –  and Hike through History. Dive in and assist researchers in data logging and transplanting back the reef – get your “science” on in an underwater world of Caribbean splendor. On land, one of the oldest hiking trails, the Elfin Trail, has recently reopened. Trek through three ecosystems – woodlands, rainforest, and cloud forest, and pick a berry or banana along the way.  Journey as generations did before you in Saba and indulge in its rich cultural heritage. https://www.seasaba.com/saba-10-coral-nursery and https://www.sabatourism.com/hike.html

Dominican Republic

As difficult as it might be, leave the kids at home, and head for Punta Cana because this fall because Sanctuary Cap Cana reopens, and it’s adults-only. Not just a renovation, but an expansion of two new towers with 140 additional suites. All areas of this 20-acre oceanfront getaway have been reimagined. Pristine, white sandy beaches and lush tropical foliage are just a stroll away and waiting for you and your special someone. https://sanctuarycapcana.com/

The British Virgin Islands

Oil Nut Bay has seven new villas and they didn’t stop there. The property has opened a new boutique spa, resort pool, bar and lounge. The new Bay Suites are nestled mountainside and feature private terraces and the coveted, commune with nature, outdoor showers. In 2019, Marina Village will open its three new villas. In the meantime, come and explore the new luxurious Bay Suites. https://www.oilnutbay.com/

Key Largo

Lush, tropical seclusion on a former pineapple plantation is the home to Baker’s Cay Resort. The cascading waterfall grotto is just the call to quench the heat from sunny days and the delicacies spiced up by the house-made hot sauces from its very own taco and tequila eatery. This pet-friendly resort even features doggie tikis and curated bone menus. Tucked away on 13 acres, this oasis creates a unique environment that also gives back to the environment, from coral reef restoration initiatives to dolphin rehabilitation, boredom is not an option. This laid-back luxury, as only the Florida Keys does, is unveiled this fall https://www.bakerscay.com/index.aspx

Sandals Royal Barbados

Sandals® Resorts’ newest all-suite, all-inclusive resort in the spirited St. Lawrence Gap area – is bringing couples an even more romantic, Luxury Included® vacation experience in the Caribbean. The resort boasts 222 concierge and butler-level suites, including the brand’s signature Rondovals, Millionaire Butler Suites and Skypool Suites, along with an extensive Crystal Lagoon Pool Complex featuring Swim-Up Suites.

Cutting-edge amenities include many Sandals firsts, including the first gentlemen’s only barber shop, the first 4-lane bowling alley, the first craft beer bar and the first rooftop infinity pool. Additional amenities of note include a full-service, 15,000 square foot Red Lane® Spa and “Stay at One, Play at Two” exchange privileges, allowing guests to experience neighboring Sandals Barbados for the ultimate mega-vacation.

Guests will also enjoy 5-Star Global Gourmet dining across six signature dining establishments including Indian, French, Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisines, the acclaimed Butch’s Steak and Seafood restaurant, as well as new American and Asian-fusion concepts. Sandals Barbados’ 11 nearby restaurants are also available for guests’ enjoyment.

For more information, please visit www.sandals.com/royal-barbados/

The post New and Noteworthy Fall – 2018 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

By Ava Rosales

This summer, the Caribbean offers up more than just a “room with a view.” Nevis presents a “home away from home” with panoramic scenery atop and across the Caribbean Sea and St. Maarten provides an eco-adventure that takes your breath away.

Nevis

Greet the morning in Nevis’ new luxury two-bedroom Beach House perched above pristine white sands, overlooking clear blue waters with unobstructed views to the neighboring St. Kitts. The whitewashed bedrooms enhance the Bohemian feel of this well-appointed thatched roofed retreat, nestled on the west side of the island at the end of a foliage filled trail. With only five to select from, Paradise Beach Resort has designed a one-of-a-kind experience for guests on Nevis. With private concierge and private chef, you will be afforded the same luxurious amenities fit for nobilities, after all, the resort boasts an impressive list of former dignitaries such as Prime Minister Trudeau and members of the Royal family. Clearly a testament to the resort’s ability to cater to the most discerning guest and its adherence to privacy for their clientele.

The resort exudes a refined glamour and elegance that is uncompromising in maintaining a tropical tranquility that seamlessly connects the indoors with the outdoors. British interior designer, Naomi Cleaver, cleverly creates the ambiance of the Caribbean within the indoor spaces by strategically placing mirrors that capture sunsets and seascapes from any vantage point, which extends to the architectural genius of the copper plunge pool adorned with tiles of teal, azure, and opal reflections of the sea. Even the wraparound balustrades with carefully placed cutouts provide views with the illusion of hovering far above the sea. As tempting as it is to lounge around in the Beach House for the duration of your respite, you may want to catch a sunrise yoga session, followed by a guided hike. Be sure to be back home though for the spectacular sunset as the backdrop for dining on your private wraparound deck or a romantic sunset swim in your plunge pool. Turn in for the night with a push of a button, as your drawbridge staircase raises until you are ready to head out for the next day’s adventure.

Although the five Beach Houses are the newest addition to the resort, they join seven sophisticated two, three, and four-bedroom thatched villas. With only 12 dwellings available on the entire Paradise Beach Resort property, exclusivity is within the reach of any guest or their families who desire pampered seclusion in a serene, tropical setting.  Beach House rates start at $1495 per night.  https://paradisebeachnevis.com

St. Maarten

Eco-adventures await outdoor enthusiasts and those who want a bird’s eye view of the island and magnificent surroundings. Soar on the world’s steepest zip line at the newly opened Rockland Estate Park. Known for their activities in rainforests across the Caribbean, Rainforest Adventures delivers its signature thrills coupled with a cultural immersion and educational experience for all patrons. Strap your helmet on and prepare for the rush of “zipping” through the jungle with the greatest of ease, without sacrificing speed, on the Sentry Hill Zip Line – a 1,600-foot line that traverses the mountain ridge. Equally thrilling, and also not for the faint of heart, is the Flying Dutchman, an exhilarating flight that spans more than 2,000 feet and takes adventurers to an elevation slightly over 1,000 feet. Without having to defy gravity, grab an inner tube and hit the 657-foot Schooner Ride course, as you sit back and relax along the meandering curves and straightaways. Round out the day with feet firmly planted on the ground for a tour of the Emilio Wilson Museum and discover the customs, traditions and history of St. Maarten. The day’s adventure is bound to work up an appetite. So, it’s back to the top of the mountain to indulge in cuisine and cocktails at the signature restaurant, Emilio’s, where dining with 360-degree vistas allows for a relaxed survey of the dual-nation and surrounding islands.  Dubbed as the “Big 3”, these dynamic experiences in air and on land, at the Rockland Estate Park, will have you viewing St. Maarten from a completely different perspective this time around. www.rainforestadventure.com

The post New and Noteworthy – Summer 2018 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

On March 20, guests will cross the threshold of 96 contemporary accommodations that complement the azure blue vistas of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Laguna del Condado on the other. The minimalist décor stylishly envelopes you in a modern, tropical feel. Become a part of one of the sexiest hotspots on the island as you lounge poolside in your spacious cabana, then slip seductively into the inviting infinity pool, and of course there’s the nearby bar to keep the mood going. Just one of the many venues to whet the appetite, and that’s not the only aspect of the resort that exudes “amore.”

Onsite, aMare satiates the palate with sumptuous, traditional Italian seafood with a Puerto Rican flavor and flair, the perfect final course after partaking in the resort’s Experience the Island concierge service. Indulge in adventurous and exhilarating excursions of kayaking through the bioluminescent bay and hiking through the El Yunque Rainforest – you cannot help but be enchanted by Puerto Rico and its newest gem, the Serafina Beach Hotel. www.serafinabeachhotel.com

The post New & Noteworthy – Spring 2018 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.

Couples cozy up this winter at an all-inclusive that elevates the term inclusive. Couples Tower Isle launches Oasis Spa Villas and sets the standard with a new first for the Caribbean– unlimited, all-inclusive spa treatments. That’s right – travel just got a whole lot more spa-licious! With unlimited massages, facials and mani-pedis, the array of relaxation and rejuvenation techniques are abundant and fully accessible. Luxuriate in the tranquility of the spa or opt to have treatments en suite or even beachside on the pristine white sands. The combinations and possibilities are endless. So, escape with that special someone and rest assured that the mood during your next island stay will be perfectly pampered and sensually soothing, with a reservation in the Oasis Spa Villas at Couples Tower Isle – can you say, “aaah, yes, please”?

couples.com/resorts/tower-isle

Trinidad

Just in time for Carnival – the hottest event in the Caribbean is complemented by the newly renovated Hyatt Regency Trinidad which has fashioned its rooms and suites to reinvigorate the heartiest of revelers. Although a jaunt in Carnival may be a 24 hour escapade, it’s comforting to know that a reimagined guest room with bright white oak wood flooring that enhances the natural light, and ample space to maneuver in, provides for an illuminated quick refresh, just in time to join the next march and beat some pan. Or, simply spend the day indoors and enjoy the festivities broadcast on the suite’s 65-inch television, followed by a visit to the enhanced Spa Esencia, for further calming and reenergizing. With waterfront views and the convenience of a downtown location, whatever the inclination, the Hyatt Regency Trinidad accommodates with its fresh, multifunctional open spaces, to lounge, work or play.

www.trinidad.regency.hyatt.com   

The post New & Noteworthy – Winter 2017 appeared first on Caribbean Living Magazine.