By Ava Rosales
Lovango Island, The United States Virgin Islands
Envelop yourself in glamping on Lovango Island. The new, elevated experiences are bound to capture the discerning naturalist’s heart – it’s been a while, 30 years in fact, for these new additions – but wait no more. If Robinson Crusoe and the Swiss Family Robinson reinvented an upscale version of their time spent in their secluded paradise, Lovongo Resort and Beach Club would be the result. Shoes? Who needs them to traverse soft, white sands to one of six new glamping tent accommodations for singles or duos. If you’ve never tried “glamping”, here’s what you’re missing – -being one with nature in luxurious 800 to 1000 square feet of established luxurious indoor/outdoor tented comfort. Camping couldn’t be better than when you’re glamping (glamorous camping). Looking for a more solid construction, there’s always the Treehouse option, now your Treehouse accommodations are complemented by the new Treetops Lounge. Just imagine the spectacular views as you delight in morning delicacies or afternoon cocktails in the lounge. Cast your gaze across pristine waters and the surrounding nature – hello! Yep, it’s the perfect place to greet nature or your fellow overnighters. On Deck provides the ideal venue to strike your favorite yoga pose while viewing nature’s splendor.
Wander through the Village to shop and dine. Meet a few new friends along the way or during the season, the resort’s Lovango Social happens every Sunday where guests and day visitors mingle to enjoy food, beach games and a DJ on premise. There’s also a romantic escape with the new landing craft afternoon service to Honeymoon Beach – nothing beats a secluded rendezvous on white sands with a private chef, champagne, and a massage — that’s just the start.
If that private island resort situated on 45 acres of undisturbed nature and unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea are the vibe you are trying to attain, and whether your preference for accommodations is glamping, treehouses or a luxury villa, then look no further. Private charters, an extensive shopping village, an oceanfront beach club, and a dedicated concierge for daily activities and trips await your arrival at Lovango Resort + Beach Club.
Palm Beach, Aruba
While at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino, the welcome cocktails are just the beginning of a swoon worthy stay–indulge in one or all of their new experiences for 2023. Cuddle up, as romance is in the air with the Couples Escape Package – snuggle in your private tent with a picnic on the beach, pop the bubbly, then sail away on a romantic getaway for two. You even have a “romantic concierge team” to ensure that everything is planned and executed to your heart’s desire. After an exhilarating casino play with your $100 credit, relax and reconnect with a couples massage at the newly enhanced ZoiA spa. End the day with a three-course date night dinner at Ruinas del Mar.
You don’t have to be a couple to partake in the excitement that 2023 ushers in, there’s Blackjack and Roulette 101 courses for guests, led by professionals in the resort’s world-class casino. For a more all ages friendly stay, the Family experience may be the perfect fit – with premium pool and beach seating offerings, it’s ideal to be together and close for the abundant beach activities for kids. Special note – there’s access to the adults-only pool for parents. If you really want to detach, for just a little, there’s even a full, one day at Camp Hyatt included for up to two kids. While the little ones are frolicking under supervision, that might be the ideal time to slip away and indulge in a sensuous offering or two at the ZoiA Spa, complete with a $150 credit. Get the family back together again and be sure to take advantage of the $150 credit at the Shoco Market Café. There is so much more to explore at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino.
Saint-Barths, Gustavia
Sitting on the picturesque island of St. Barth’s, Le Carl Gustaf boasts 21 luxurious rooms, suites and bungalows surrounded by serene turquoise waters and semi-private beaches. Accommodating a party of 12, there’s ample room to roam through the five bedrooms at Villa Diane, complete with lounging around your own infinity pool. Imagine a chef created four-hour dining experience in the comfort of your villa, serving the expansive tasting menu from the renowned Fouquet’s restaurant, then dance the night away with your private DJ. Spend the day wine tasting on the villa grounds or private shopping from local boutiques.
As difficult as it may be to leave the lure of the villa, opt to dine at the famed Fouquet’s restaurant. You will certainly enjoy the revamped offerings by newly hired Chef Sidney Gordon who brings his expertise from some of the world’s best restaurants including the French gastronomy of Le Relais Bernard Loiseau in Saulieu and the Asian flavors from his residency at the Kobe Kitano Hotel, one of Japan’s three-Michelin-starred eateries.
Your own culinary experience can also be created with the new Cook My Fish excursion. From reel to table, guests sail out to sea to hook your catch of the day. Bring it ashore and learn the steps to prepare your lunch from scratch with exclusive Caribbean recipes featuring local flavors. Don’t worry, a chef is on hand to guide you all the way. Want a closer look at where your catch originates? Try the Yellow Submarine one-hour, glass bottom tour that uncovers the underwater flora and fauna up close. A truly special treat for the family. Continue your boating experience with the new Catamaran Excursion Around the Island. No work to be done here, other than enjoying a calming sail that takes you on a scenic voyage of the island’s iconic beaches, complete with a picnic – this time, prepared by the resort’s chef. Spend half a day, a full day or just wind down on a sunset cruise – the choice is yours and there are so many wonderful ones at Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf
Grenada
If you’re going to Grenada – go grand! The Calabash Hotel has begun upgrading their suites with an initial focus on their two-bedroom Penthouse Suite. Clean, sleek, crisp, and inviting are the neutral tones and materials that welcome you to a timeless luxury. If you can pull yourself away from the king size sleeping accommodation, the feeling of Zen continues outdoors when you take a dip in the plunge pool. Reward yourself with a treatment at The Spa at Calabash, then saunter down to some of the best restaurants in Grenada, found right on property –Rhodes Restaurant, The Beach Club or Izakaya. A stroll about the 8 acres of Eden-like gardens facing the white sands of L’anse Aux Epines beach will remind you of why you chose a respite in the Caribbean. Tear yourself away from all this relaxing splendor to explore the culture, events, and excursions the island has to offer. For those who may have limited their chocolate indulgence recently, the aroma permeates the air and cravings are satiated at the on-island Chocolate Festival, May 17 – 21. You may need to put a little distance between you and this sweet temptation, and the decision of where to stay in exclusive luxury is obvious. The luxury resort Calabash Hotel promises that the standard has been set, so return over the next couple years, as all the other suites receive their makeover.
Nassau, Bahamas
From your newly renovated guestrooms and suites in the Royal East Tower, as far as the eye can see, the inviting stretch of white sand beckons a stroll (no worries, Royal West Tower is close behind and the Bridge Suite is also slated for a complete renovation, as well). One can only be drawn away from your residence by the mouthwatering Italian cuisine awaiting you at the latest addition of Paranza at The Cove – wow or should I say, “Ciao!” Now, there are three Michelin star rated chefs in the region, a feat only accomplished by Atlantis Paradise Island. Guess what though? For the simpler palate, Shake Shack is making a debut to indulge in made to order American classics. Little ones have their own new and exciting adventures too with 40 new water play elements in a 30-foot tall, 9-000 square foot water play fort at Poseidon’s Playzone – bid farewell to the resort’s Splashers pool in Aquaventure and scream hello to big fun! There’s also grown-up excitement to be had, as well, as the world renowned Atlantis Casino is undergoing a refresh with new, modern finishes, along with the expansion of lounges and gaming salon. If you like to pull the levers, there will be the new high limit slots lounge. You won’t have to go far to whet your appetite on more than libation at the lively bar and lounge Bar Sol, even the Moon Bar has elevated its menus. Come on over and let the “good times roll” for the family at Atlantis Paradise Island.
