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Canary Islands

Top Choices for an Uncrowded Spring Getaway

 

Sitting halfway between the New Year holidays and summer vacations, spring is a great time for a getaway. Popular winter destinations are getting into the shoulder season and dropping the rates a bit but still enjoy milder temperatures. Meanwhile many places popular with the summer crowds are starting to warm up but haven’t yet filled every room and beach chair.

Of course, there are weeks when spring break equates to crowds, whether it’s families on Easter week holiday or collegiate revelers letting loose. The trick to avoiding this flurry of travel madness is finding a lesser-known destination with all the right vacation elements, fewer visitors and is still relatively easy to reach. Here are seven great options for escaping the crowds.

La Palma Island, Spain

The Canaries are one of Europe’s favorite escapes. Each year more that 14 million holidaymakers descend on this archipelago of sun-soaked volcanic islands. The most popular is Tenerife, which sees almost 5 million arrivals. Close behind are the resort-heavy islands of Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. At the other end of the spectrum, remote El Hierro and La Gomera see few outsiders and are almost completely lacking in hospitality infrastructure. Sitting comfortably in between is La Palma, which has a respectable range of accommodation choices and welcomes around 80,000 visitors each year — still less than one percent of the Canaries’s total tourist trade. Add in the fact that early spring is right at the start of vacation season, and you have a formula for an uncrowded escape.

Canary Islands La Palma

Green rolling hillside landscape below the mountains in La Palma, Canary Islands. Photo: Eric Gevaert/iStock

There is a lot to like on La Palma. It is the greenest island in the chain, known as La Isla Bonita — the beautiful island. Rugged peaks cloaked in alpine forests rise to heights of more than 7,500 feet, and the entire island is a designated a UNESCO Biosphere and a Starlight Reserve where the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory is home to one of the largest arrays of telescopes in the world. There are good beaches, refreshing tide pools, picturesque fishing villages, and a port city steeped in Colonial-era charm. In the fall of 2021, the earth opened up and spewed hot ash on a swath of the island as a new volcano was born. Tourism came to a two-year halt as locals cleaned up the cinders, but all is back to normal. The vast majority of the island wasn’t affected by the eruption, and Europe’s newest volcano has now become an additional point of interest.

La Palma Hotel Hacienta De Abajo Canary Islands

Evening at the pool at Hotel Hacienda de Abajo in La Palma. Photo: Hotel Hacienda de Abajo

La Palma is mercifully free of high-rise beach resorts, and the emphasis is on smaller properties with bespoke personal services and authentic experiences. A choice that attracts an elite European clientele is the Hotel Hacienda de Abajo (https://www.hotelhaciendadeabajo.com). This grand dame of island hospitality and fine dining occupies the grounds and manor house of a former sugar estate. Upper-end rooms and suites are exquisitely furnished with original antiques, artwork, and tapestries from the 17th and 18th centuries. A more adventurous experience awaits at the Faro Cumplida (https://www.floatel.de/en/hideaways/faro-cumplida), which is a functioning 150-year-old lighthouse set on the island’s rugged northeast shore that accommodates just eight guests. But small doesn’t mean basic, as there is a spectacular rooftop infinity pool and a panoramic ocean view deck for wine service and personally catered meals delivered by local chefs.

Cyprus

The Republic of Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Size is a good thing because this easternmost outpost of the EU is highly sought after, drawing more than 3 million vacationers each year. The overwhelming majority arrive in the summer months, when sapphire waters, sunny days, and temperatures in the mid-90s are a given. It’s also the time when room rates are at a seasonal peak, and there’s always a waitlist at the best places. Come in as early as March, and you’ll not only enjoy balmy 80-degree spring days, but you’ll also escape the crowds, and even the most popular beaches have plenty of room to pitch an umbrella.

Cyprus Kyrenia Streets

Stone houses with balconies and restaurants in the town of Kyrenia on Cyprus. Photo: 123ducu/iStock

When it comes to beaches, Cyprus delivers more than 400 miles of coastline that includes long stretches of sand, compact coves tucked between rock headlands, and wild strands that see few footprints. Travel bloggers compose endless “Ten Best” lists of Cyprus beaches but still fail to capture the full scope of the island’s offerings. Shorelines aren’t the only thing that lures travelers. Cyprus is rich in history dating back to pre- Hellenic times, and island landscapes are dotted with a wealth of historic sites from Greek temples to Byzantine monasteries and medieval fortresses. Nature lovers are rewarded as well, as the forested slopes of the Troodos mountains rise to heights of more than a mile. In summer, this region is a mecca for walking tours that pass through river valleys and climb terraced hillsides to reach traditional villages. Each winter, these highlands receive enough snow to support several small ski resorts. On a good snow year, the chairs might still be open in early March, representing a rare opportunity to make a downhill run in the morning and snorkel in the afternoon.

Cyprus Limassol Hotel

Gaudi-like exterior and gardens at Hotel Limassol in Cyprus. Photo: Hotel Limassol

As one of the Mediterranean’s most popular holiday destinations, Cyprus has a thriving hospitality industry with more than 800 hotels and at least 80 five-star options. Quite a few of these upper-end choices are expansive oceanfront properties that include spas, multiple restaurants, expansive pool decks, and in- house casinos, all catering to guests who prefer an all- in-one-place vacation that’s big on mass market indulgences. For those seeking a more authentic and memorable stay, there are also quite a few delightfully eclectic boutique inns and guest houses. One of the most colorful is the Euphoria Art Land (https://allaboutlimassol.com/en/euphoria-art-land) book at: http://euphoria-art-land-the-earth- house.hotelinlimassol.com/en/ with wonderland gardens and Gaudi-like rooms hand- crafted by a local artist using recycled materials. Equally colorful in a more traditional vein is the Stratos Art Deco House (https://stratosartdecohouse.com/), which is a boutique four-suite inn occupying a historic manor home dating back to the 1600s. Of the numerous wellness destinations scattered around Cyprus, a top choice is the Secret Forest Wellness Retreat & Healing Spa (https://secretfo.rest/en). Set in a mountain valley among hundred-year-old trees, this modern 64-room retreat includes a massive spa complex that centers around historic thermal sulfur water pools.

St. Vincent, St. Vincent & The Grenadines

St. Vincent is among the Caribbean’s lesser-visited islands. On top of that, a substantial percentage of the 300,000 or so tourists who fly in each year make a short stopover before transiting to the smaller islands of the Grenadines. Those who do make St. Vincent their final destination are rewarded with pristine landscapes and uncrowded beaches. Forests still cover half the island, and farms and orchards cover much of the rest. Small villages are scattered along the coast, and even the capital city of Kingstown is compact, with no traffic lights and few buildings higher than a palm tree.

Kingstown View St Vincent Grenadines

Coastal view from Kingstown of Buccament Bay on St. Vincent. Photo: atosan/iStock

Given St. Vincent’s bucolic nature, it’s not surprising that eco-themed activities dominate. The island is home to the oldest botanical garden in the western hemisphere, has a historic fortress to explore, boasts a good collection of accessible waterfalls, and has miles of shaded walking trails to wander — favorites include the Mount Pleasant Nature Trail, Mount Royal Hike, Vermont Nature Trail, and Union Island Coastal Trail. For a more challenging trek, visitors can take on the 4,000-foot climb to the summit of La Soufrière volcano. On the island’s western coast calm Caribbean waters lap volcanic black sand beaches. By contrast, the Atlantic side of the island offers refreshing trade winds and surf-washed shores.

Young Island St Vincent Grenadines

Aerial view of Young Island Resort and beach. Photo: Young Island Resort

Vacationers seeking ultra-luxe accommodations will need to transfer to one of the Grenadine islands such as Canouan, Petit St. Vincent or Palm Island, where five-star properties draw A-listers and one-percenters. This is not to say that the big island is devoid of good choices. Sitting on the island’s southernmost point overlooking a surf-washed cove, The Milligan (https://the-milligan.business.site/) is a boutique 4-star hotel with just five guest rooms and an emphasis on personal service. The hillside and beachfront cottages of Young Island Resort (https://youngisland.com/) sit on a private 13-acre island that’s reached by a two- minute water taxi ride from the Kingston waterfront. The Blue Lagoon (https://bluelagoonsvg.com/) offers upscale water-view rooms and fine dining, and the island’s newest upper-end property, LaVue (https://lavuehotel.com/), lives up to its billing with ocean-view rooms and sweeping 360-degree vistas from an elevated pool deck.

Uvita, Costa Rica

Costa Rica delivers a rewarding combination of beaches and jungles that set the stage for all manner of water sports and eco-adventures. One of the most popular places to mix rainforest hikes with Pacific Ocean frolics is the town of Manuel Antonio, which has one of the country’s best beaches and is the gateway to its namesake national park. It’s easily reached by direct flights into the city of San Jose, followed by a van transfer to the coast. Just don’t expect to have the place to yourself, as Manuel Antonio Park has become so well-known and popular that rangers have started limiting the number of daily visitors to prevent crowding on the nature trails. An alternative that often slips below the travel radar lies less than 20 miles to the south near the town of Uvita, which is the starting point for trips to Marino Ballena National Park.

Uvita Costa Rica

Landscape with the mountains and coast of Uvita in the province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Photo: Salvador- Aznar/iStock

Marino Ballena takes its name from the unique whale tail-shaped sand spit that joins a pair of scenic beaches within a marine reserve. It’s an appropriate landmark for a coastline that is known as the best place in Costa Rica to view migrating humpback whales. March is near the end of the winter whale migration, but there’s still a good chance of sightings, as the whales often come quite close to shore. Getting to the whale tail formation involves a mile-plus walk along a palm-fringed beach, which further enhances the sense of serenity. In addition to beach time, the park is a favorite for wildlife viewing. Several additional national parks and an assortment of scenic waterfalls are a short drive or van ride away, and the Caño Island Biological Reserve is the best option for snorkeling.

Uvita Costa Rica

View of pool and villas at the Oxygen Jungle Villas in Uvita, Costa Rica. Photo: Oxygen Jungle Villas

The town of Uvita is a low-key destination populated by small cafes and backpacker-friendly guest houses, along with a reasonable selection of mid to upper-end options. For the full resort experience, the area’s top choice is the Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa, which is set in a 30-acre hillside garden between the ocean and rainforest. Uvita also offers several boutique villa resorts that edge into the five-star range, with two standouts being the Vista Celestia (https://vistacelestial.com/) and the Oxygen Jungle Villas (https://oxygenjunglevillas.com/).

Koh Lanta, Thailand

With the COVID tourism slump long past, Phuket and the islands of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay are once again one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. The small beach flanked by the world-famous rock formations of Koh Ping Ghan — aka James Bond Island — draws such a crowd of daily excursion boats that there may be standing room only on the sand. Things couldn’t be more different on the other side of the Bay, where the island of Koh Lanta offers sparkling clear waters and miles of golden sand beaches that are mercifully free of day trippers.

Koh Lanta Kantiang Bay

The stunning tropical paradise of Kantiang Bay, Ko Lanta, Krabi Province, Thailand. Photo: Elaine Ross/iStock

Though not the hidden gem of years past, Koh Lanta remains one of Thailand’s best destinations for a crowd-free beach destination. First, because it takes a bit longer to get there. A trip to Koh Lanta begins either with a 45-mile open water ferry crossing from Phuket or a connecting flight into the town of Krabi with a two- hour van ride and a pair of ferry crossings from the mainland. Patient travelers are then rewarded with an island destination that is 95 percent forested, with low- key beach resorts spaced along a 13-mile stretch of the western shore, leaving numerous stretches of beach entirely undeveloped.

Koh Lanta Layana Resort

Infinity pool overlooking the beach at Layana Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta, Thailand. Photo: Layana Resort

Koh Lanta offers everything that lures visitors to Phuket’s shores — minus the hordes that descend on landmark sites such as Patong Beach and the Phi Phi Islands. The snorkeling is exceptional at sites within Koh Lanta National Marine Park, which is known for vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of colorful tropical fish. As is often the place with up-and-coming destinations, it was the backpacking crowd that first discovered Koh Lanta and the island’s popularity with this group is reflected in dozens of budget-friendly beach lodges. Fortunately for those who enjoy air conditioning, room service, and a spa visit, the island is now on the national electrical grid, and several upper- range properties have recently popped up along the shores. Two of the standout choices for a luxury beachside vacation experience are the adults-only Layana Resort and Spa (https://www.layanaresort.com/) and the award- winning Pimalai Resort (https://pimalai.com/), which is the island’s first five-star destination.

Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia is a trending destination, and nowhere more so than Cartagena. Once known as the “Jewel of the Indies” and “La Heroica” (the Heroic City), it is a destination steeped in an intriguing past yet alive with a vibrant cultural awakening and an increasingly sophisticated culinary scene. Fortunately, visiting in the spring puts travelers just past the peak of winter tourism and still within the comfortable climate of the late dry season. That said, it’s best to avoid the Holy Days of Easter Week, which is a busy time in this predominantly Catholic country.

Cartagena Colombia Plaza

Plaza at night in Cartagena Colombia. Photo: Starcevic/iStock

As a coastal city, Cartagena has its share of beach resorts. There are also sleek modern hotels downtown, guest houses flanking tree-lined squares, and the lively Getsemani district, which is gaining popularity with the digital nomad crowd. But for many visitors, the preferred choice is the Colonial-era Old Town. Within its fortified walls are churches, monasteries, plazas, palaces, and mansions, among the finest examples of preserved colonial architecture in the Americas. Today, many of these ancient edifices have been lovingly restored and transformed into boutique hotels and an eclectic mix of cafes, shops, and clubs. It’s a setting tailor-made for after-coffee walking tours, midday horse-drawn carriage rides, sunsets enjoyed from atop the city’s fortified walls, and evenings spent in random wanderings on cobblestone streets that once echoed to the sound of marching conquistadors.

Hotel Quadrifolio Cartegena

Interior guest room at Hotel Quadrifolio in Cartagena. Photo: Hotel Quadrifolio

In addition to its many other historic and cultural charms, Cartagena’s Old Town boasts an impressive collection of boutique hotels. With so many exceptional offerings, narrowing the choices might seem like a daunting task. And while there are dozens of good choices — and almost no poor ones — there are several worthy of a special mention. These include the Casa Pestagua (https://casapestagua.com/), a 16-room Relais & Chateaux property set in an 18th-century mansion once called the most beautiful house in Cartagena. Also on the shortlist is the romance and understated traditional elegance of the 8-suite Quadrifolio (https://www.hotelquadrifolio.com/) manor house and the courtyard ensconced terraces of the Casa De Alba (https://hotelsalbagroup.com/casa- de-alba-2/) which was once the 16th century home of the famous pirate Sir Francis Drake.

Lord Howe Island, Australia

The great thing about Lord Howe Island is that despite its popularity, things never get crowded. That’s because the Australian government has designated this UNESCO World Heritage site as a Permanent Park Preserve, which, among other things, limits tourism to no more than 400 visitors at any given time.

Lord Howe Island Australia

Lord Howe Island from Malabar lookout with peaks of Mt. Lidgbird and Mt. Gower at the island’s far end. Photo: photosbyash/Getty Images

Unspoiled nature is what lures visitors to this 3,600- acre oasis of green, which lies some 350 miles east of the Australian mainland in the Tasman Sea. The surrounding waters support the world’s most southerly coral reef, and the land is home to more than 70 endemic species of plants and birds. These natural attractions lure bird watchers, divers, snorkelers, windsurfers, and fishermen, as well as those who come simply to seek relaxation and solitude. The northern half of the island offers narrow tree-shrouded lanes that access boutique guest houses and lead to secluded beaches and surf-washed bluffs. The entire southern end of the island is a nature preserve dominated by twin peaks of Mt. Gower and Mt. Lidgbird, with trails leading to the summit for stunning vistas rewarding those willing to take on the four-hour trek.

Lord Howe Island

Loft with deck and tub at Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island. Photo: Capella Lodge

For an island with extremely limited tourism, Lord Howe offers a surprisingly good range of dining choices, with some ten restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. The island’s social center is the Lord Howe Bowling Club, which welcomes visitors with a pub-like atmosphere as well as one of the island’s best dining experiences. Accommodation choices tend towards self-catering apartments and small guest houses. A favorite in the upper-end market is the nine-room Capella Lodge (https://capellalodge.com.au/), which offers spa services, bespoke menus, and stunning views of the ocean and mountains through floor-to-ceiling windows. Also on the short list of luxury properties is the 12-suite Arajilla Lodge (https://www.arajilla.com.au/), which includes a day spa and Ayurvedic wellness center.

Sunrise Kauai

7 Romantic Islands to Escape the Crowds

 

There’s nothing more romantic than strolling a quiet beach hand-in-hand or enjoying a favorite libation while watching the sun set across clear tropical waters. While there are any number of places where this scenario might play out, some destinations stand out not only for their scenic beauty but also for offering crowded spaces where couples can truly get away from it all. Here are seven islands at the top of the list.

Kauai: A Natural Attraction

Couples looking beyond Hawaii’s high-rise resorts and beach-and-luau scene turn to Kauai for a romantic escape that’s small on crowds and big on natural beauty. Kauai is loved not only for what it offers but also for what’s missing. There are no high rises, as local ordinances dictate that no building can be “taller than a palm tree.” Ditto for shopping malls, traffic lights, and traffic in general.

Napali

Coastal landscape of Na Pali coast, Kauai. Photo: Mari- dav/Shutterstock

Kauai’s nickname is the Garden Island, and this lushest member of the Hawaiian chain lives up to its billing with landscapes rich in orchid and hibiscus blooms, fragrant candlenut groves, hala thickets, and the sprawling canopies of mahogany and monkeypod trees. It is a land where lush valleys are framed by emerald cliffs and cascading waterfalls, with wild beaches cloistered in surf-washed coves. The legendary NaPali Coast is a mecca for hard-core hikers willing to trek into challenging landscapes far from the road. But the island also has its share of four and five-star properties that have long been a favorite with honeymooners, couples enjoying some alone time and celebrities seeking a quiet escape from the spotlight.

Bora Bora: Birthplace of the Bungalow

With its iconic thatch-roofed bungalows set in a sparkling lagoon encircling an emerald-green volcanic peak, Bora Bora is the epitome of a romantic South Pacific escape. And there’s nothing more romantic than a private aquatic oasis perched above a tranquil lagoon, with breathtaking vistas of sea and sky seen from a private terrace and colorful coral reefs beckoning in the gin-clear water just below.

Bora Bora

Overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, French Polynesian Islands. Photo: Alexandree/Shutterstock.

Bora Bora is the island credited with launching the overwater bungalow trend that has since spread to tropical destinations around the world. It all began in the 1960s when a trio of pioneering hoteliers known as the “Bali Hai Boys” placed some simple rooms on stilts to provide lagoon access in a location lacking a sandy beach. A decade later, the Hotel Bora Bora raised the bar with a collection of luxurious overwater accommodations that lured a steady stream of Hollywood A- listers. Fast forward 50 years and more than a dozen resorts offer world-class collections of overwater accommodations with added touches such as private infinity pools, spa baths, glass observation floors, in-room massages, and meals delivered by outrigger canoe.

St. Barts: The Caribbean’s Côte d’Azur

Imagine blending the romance of Paris with the glamour of the French Rivera and the allure of a postcard-perfect Caribbean beach. That’s the magic of St. Barts, and it’s not lost on the rich, famous, and beautiful people who frequent this small piece of French Caribbean. Fortunately for the rest of us, there’s no velvet rope blocking entry, and the vibe is relaxed and inclusive rather than elitist and exclusive.

St Barth's

Gustavia Harbor in Saint Barthelemy, FWI. Photo: Christian Graugart/Shutterstock

With nary a mega-resort in sight, St. Barts’ shores instead feature eclectic guest houses and small to mid-sized beachfront resorts offering understated luxury with an emphasis on service and views rather than over-the-top amenities. And it’s not surprising that St. Barts is a favorite with foodies. There are more than 70 restaurants where classic French fare shares menus with an inspired range of fusion cuisines that incorporate inspirations from West Indian, Creole, Italian and Asian cultures. Wine lovers are equally rewarded with dozens of cellars that represent all regions of France and beyond.

Koh Lanta: Thailand’s “Just Right” Island

From the towering limestone spires of James Bond Island to the pristine beauty of Leonardo Di Caprio’s cinematic strand in The Beach, the islands of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay deliver some of the world’s most stunning and romantic beachfront settings — just don’t count on having them to yourself. Each year more than 10 million tourists board tour boats from the nearby resort mecca of Phuket for day trips that can fill these Instagram-worthy sands to standing-room-only capacity.

Ko Lanta

A secluded beach on the island of Koh Lanta, Thailand. Photo: Getty Images

Couples looking for some scenic and private beach time can travel to the bay’s eastern shore and catch a boat from Krabi Town to Koh Lanta Island. This less-developed island offers a just-right mix of unspoiled nature and a more upscale but still low-key vacation experience. The island’s western shore offers dozens of soft sand beaches tucked between limestone headlands — some totally wild, others supporting a smattering of casual beach bars. Couples looking to splurge can choose from a handful of four and even five-star properties scattered along the island’s west coast, while the majority of lodging options fall in the mid-range category but at prices less than half that of Phuket.

La Digue Island: The Most Romantic

The votes are in, and for the fourth year running, the World Travel Awards have named the Seychelles Islands as The World’s Most Romantic Destination. Few would argue that face given the chance to walk hand-in-hand on Anse Source d’Argent beach. Located on the western shore of La Digue Island, this stretch of dazzling, powder-soft sand is transformed into a giant Japanese Zen Garden by the monolithic granite boulders punctuating the palm-shrouded coastline. It is a setting that has inspired comparisons to the biblical Garden of Eden and moved this beach to the top of many best-in-the-world lists.

La Digue Island

Anse Source d’Argent Beach at La Digue Island, Sey- chelles. Photo: Fokke Baarssen/Shutterstock

Of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles group, La Digue is more accessible and developed than the sparsely populated outer islands but far less busy than the principal island of Mahé, which is home to 80 percent of this island’s population and many of the larger resorts. La Digue is a destination that can only be reached by boat. It is home to fewer than 4,000 people and musters a limited but world-class collection of boutique luxury resorts. And with 18 spectacular beaches riming the island, couples will have no trouble finding their special place on the sand.

Pemba Island: Spice and Solitude

The name Zanzibar conjures romantic visions of an exotic and far-flung land. This island, located just off the coast of Tanzania, is known for Its ancient port of Stone Town, once home to the Sultan of Oman and a hub of the spice trade. But as a secluded romantic escape? Not so much. Today, the cargo comes mostly by air in the form of a half-million sun seekers who arrive each year lured by the promise of crystalline waters. To meet this ever-growing demand, the island’s shores are now lined with some 200 beach resorts, and the streets of the thousand-year-old city reverberate with club music at night.

Zanzibar

White sand beach of Pemba Island, Zanzibar. Photo: Robin Batista/Shutterstock.

For a step back in time to what Zanzibar was 50 years ago, couples can take a short flight some 60 miles north to Pemba Island. Though about the same size as Zanzi- bar, Pemba is far less visited. To this day, it remains a land of verdant green hills, coconut groves, and clove plantations. The island’s true rewards are the beaches — miles and miles of pristine white sand that rarely see a footprint. Limited tourism has resulted in a “just right” amount of development, with a sampling of small upscale properties to choose from on the island’s north-ern shore and a handful of smaller guest houses in qui- et fishing villages to the south.

 

Culebra Playa Flamenco

Caribbean Escapes without the Crowds

 

There are dozens of glorious sands, but those with fewer people are getting harder to find. These five options require an extra flight or boat trip to reap the rewards of some privacy and solitude with no long lines or crowds.

Anegada, British Virgin Islands

The anticipation of sighting the flat coral island from a sailboat is the highlight of any journey. The isle appears like a mirage in the distance, shimmering in the middle of the sea. Anegada has always been the remote outpost of the British Virgin Islands, lying 12 nautical miles north of the hub. Today, a well- marked channel invites more sailors to navigate past the countless wrecks and around the reef. But still, the island remains quiet and not overrun with visitors. There are a handful of flights and ferry service from Tortola, with day-trippers longing for grilled lobster. Days are spent walking the long stretches of glistening sand, snorkeling the patches of reefs, kiteboarding, or just communing with nature and drinking in the relaxed, solitary island atmosphere. Once evening comes, there’s not much happening except a few iguana crossings to watch out for.

BVI Anegada

The ubiquitous bench on Loblolly Beach, Anegada. Photo: Kathleen Tyler Conklin/Flickr

Beach: Miles of white sand stretch along the northern coast where Loblolly Bay attracts snorkelers to the multi-colored reefs, and those craving grilled lobster line up at The Big Bamboo, now a rite of passage. The sands are equally white and fine over at Cow Wreck Beach, where the bar of the same name sits with picture-perfect sea views, picnic tables rest in the sand, and hammocks are strung between palms.

Stay: You’ll only find small guest houses and inns on the island, so you can expect plenty of quiet time wherever you stay. Anegada Beach Club takes it to the next level with a location on the northern shores of Keel Point. The sea views are non-stop, snorkeling is a worthwhile pastime, and dining with toes in the sand on lobster, conch, or fish is de rigueur. Here, you’ll stay in a palapa-style retreat, delivering beachfront glamping at its best.

Anegada Beach Club

View from the deck at Anegada Beach Club: Photo: Anegada Beach Club

Bequia, The Grenadines

With 32 islands in the archipelago of the Grenadines, Bequia is a delightful stop on a bareboat sail throughout the chain. It’s seven square miles of the verdant hillside, ringed in turquoise water, is the most visited and charming. That said, it’s still off the radar for most. Port Elizabeth in Admiralty Bay is all about yachts. Water taxis buzz visiting cruisers to shops, chandleries, and markets. Storefronts and cafes are adorned with island do-dads drenched with a hefty nautical theme. Over a century ago, whaling was introduced, attracting boatbuilders and sailors. The tradition of boat building permeates today, and local artisans build small replicas for display and full-size vessels for sailing island regattas.

Grenadines Bequia

Princess Margaret Beach is the most visited strand on Bequia. Photo: Debbie Snow

Beach: Sailors find safe and quiet anchorage in the waters that front Princess Margaret Beach. The beach is one perfect stretch of golden sand fronted by the razzle-dazzle water of the Grenadines. Those staying on the island eventually find their way over to walk the beach, snorkel, snooze under the shade of sea grapes, and grab a bite at Jack’s Beach Bar.

Stay: A touch of elegance abounds at the Bequia Beach Hotel. This boutique beachfront inn has all the amenities of a larger resort but the charm of a small inn that is heaped with stories, legends, and history. Wander the 10 acres of tropical gardens overlooking Friendship Bay Beach, a perfect curve of soft sand where Mustique and the Grenadine archipelago fill in the horizon. Palms and sea grapes back the beach to ward off the sun during an afternoon nap.

Bequia Beach Hotel

The reception with library is where guests congregate for cocktails at Bequia Beach Hotel. Photo: Debbie Snow

Culebra, Puerto Rico

It’s no secret that Puerto Rico’s serpent-shaped island is famous for its stretches of sand. The island is a small village that maintains a slow pace, unchanged even though development is on the horizon. Sanjuaneros have come to open shops and restaurants and exchange the fast-paced city life for more laid-back culture. Culebra is friendly and approachable, as you’ll soon find out after a couple of icy Medallas at Mamacita’s, the hangout that serves a hefty plate of local chatter. You’ll be part of the community after a few days.

Culebra PR

Sands of solitude at Playa Flamenco on Culebra. Photo: Shakzu/iStock

Beach: Bone white sand fringe the iridescent blue waters around the island’s dozen or more beaches. Playa Flamenco ranks as one of the top beaches in the world. It is surrounded by empty green hills where frigate birds soar overhead, and offshore corals provide a mosaic of blues and greens. You’ll find fewer people at Zoni Beach, another idyllic spot for snorkeling and swimming.

Stay: Serenity and panoramic views of Luis Pena channel are front and center at Aleli Cottages. One- of-a-kind bungalows trimmed in stone, glass, and tile offer hammocks on decks, outdoor showers, and plenty of privacy. Sunrise and sunset are celebrated daily from the mountain view balconies. Step into nature and listen to the sounds of waves and birds while strolling the 33 acres.

Culebra

Viewpoint of the keys off Culebra. Photo: Aleli Cottages

La Sagesse, Grenada

Grenada is lush with rainforests and waterfalls and ringed with creamy white sands. Grande Anse, the queen of the strands, is an obligatory stop for most, but this comes with crowds. La Sagesse is just thirty minutes away, where the scene shifts to quiet solitude. Home to the La Sagesse Nature Centre, where several ecosystems provide sanctuary for birds and wildlife, days are filled with nature hikes and beach walks where there are only a handful of people.

La Sagasse Beach Grenada

The perfect crescent of beach for strolling and lazing at La Sagesse on Grenada. Photo: Debbie Snow

Beach: A crescent of smokey grey sand lines the sheltered bay where shallow and calm aquamarine waters welcome swimmers. The spot exudes solitude and calm, backed by palms, sea grapes, and tropical vegetation.

Stay: La Sagesse Boutique is a timeless small hotel set in perfect harmony with nature, where rooms are only steps from the sea. An on-site al fresco restaurant serves local cuisine and plenty of fresh seafood. Birders will find the quiet preserve around the property offers sightings of herons, egrets, and mockingbirds.

La Sagasse

The manor house at La Sagesse Hotel remains as it was built in the 1970s. Photo: La Sagesse Hotel

Playa Coson, Dominican Republic

The seaside town of Las Terrenas is the entry point to the Samaná Peninsula. This once quiet fishing village turned bohemia enclave attracts its share of expats from Europe and North America. Guesthouses, restaurants, and patisseries line the streets where a hustle of multicultural shopkeepers, restaurateurs, and chefs cater to the new arrivals. A 15-minute ride down the beach and the sea’s mesmerizing sounds replace the town’s honking horns. Playa Coson is tucked away from the outside world, and the atmosphere is totally relaxed. In this small village, beach lovers come for moments of isolation, an unspoiled coastline, and private picnics between the pristine beach and the coconut groves.

DR

Playa Coson curves the Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic. Photo: Debbie Snow

Beach: It’s not just the surfer that appreciates this beach at Playa Coson, where towering palms line the narrow strip of sand. The tan ribbon stretches for 12 miles of naturally wild coastline, folding into Playa Bonita, where wind and wave junkies gravitate. Sunsets and afternoon skies are particularly striking. Find your spot on the beach to watch the afternoon sky streaked in pink and purple as clouds stack up like pillows of cotton.

Stay: An Italian couple runs the pristine and quaint Casa Coson, offering a handful of rooms, two casitas, and one villa. Set among palms and the beach, visitors come to have lunch at the cozy on- site restaurant serving local seafood delicacies and Italian fare. Soak up the sea air in the alfresco patio with a cocktail overlooking the pool.

Playa Coson

Casa Coson is a favorite spot for cocktails and lunch on the patio overlooking the grassy yard. Photo: Debbie Snow

Sobe Food & Wine

Florida Food Festivals

 

Gastronomic adventures in the Sunshine State run the gamut in flavors from Latin American to Southern comfort classics. A diverse melting pot of cultures, abundant locally grown produce, and availability of fresh seafood converge to create sensory delights. Foodies, wine connoisseurs, and home chefs looking for the latest will find plenty to taste and learn at these events.

Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival: January 8-14, 2024

The first festival of the year to take place in Ft. Lauderdale makes stops along Las Olas Boulevard, the favored street for strolling, shopping, and tasting in the city. The week-long event features renowned and emerging local chefs as well as restaurants and bars in the culinary arena of South Florida. Showcasing some of Broward Country’s hottest chefs and mixologists, the week is filled with cooking, tasting, and dining experiences with spotlights including A Wine SmackDown comparing New World and Old World wines, a BBQ, and the Grand Tasting event taking place at Las Olas Oceanside Park. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. For more info: https://vlfoodwine.com/

Fort Lauderdale Food And Wine Festival

Seafood sampling from Ft. Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival. Photo: VLFWF

Florida Keys Seafood Festival: January 13-14, 2024

This two-day event celebrates the sea’s bounty at Bayview Park in Key West. The 18th Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival is about enjoying freshly caught seafood from fried fish, conch ceviche, smoked dip, and conch fritters. The grills will be hot with spiny lobster and pots boiling with conch chowder and lobster bisque. The two days are all about eating and listening to music from rock to steel pan. The proceeds benefit sustainable fisheries management programs and youth scholarships in the Keys. For info: https://floridakeysseafoodfestival.com/

Lobster Florida Keys Seafood Fest

Lobster on the grill in Key West. Photo: Florida Keys Seafood Festival

Key West Food & Wine Festival: January 24-28, 2024

Spain is the star of this year’s food and wine collection of tastings. Over 20 unique events will highlight regions of Spanish cuisine, wines, and olive oil. The annual festival’s theme of España 2024 will center around events inspired by famous Spanish artists. You’ll enjoy food and drinks from regions where Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Francisco de Goya, and Diego Velázquez were born. Taste Valencia paella, roast suckling pig, and plenty of tapas. Enjoy diverse wines from every region, including Albariño from Rias Baixas, Galicia, and the Tempranillo’s from Rioja. For more details: https://keywestfoodandwinefestival.com/

Key West Food & Wine Dinner

Garden dinners at the Key West Food & Wine Festival. Photo: KWFWF

South Beach Wine & Food Festival: February 22-25, 2024

Considered the event of the year where local restaurants and hotels host a star-studded four-day extravaganza sponsored by the Food Network showcasing their chefs and culinary personalities. During the four days, there will be 105 events with over 500 experts surrounding the booths, cooking, and teaching. You might enjoy a dinner with three stars, including Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, and Mario Beabraut, under the 100-year-old banyan tree at Bourbon Steak. There’s an Asian Night Market, featuring pad thai and sushi, and a late- night party, Noche Cubana, hosted by Michelle Bernstein, David Martinez, and Giio Gutierrez. Net proceeds benefit the Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. Get your tickets at: https://sobewff.org/

Sobe Food & Wine Desserts

Trays of dessert are ready to taste at the South Beach Food & Wine Festival. Photo: SOBEWFF

Grant Seafood Festival: March 2-3, 2024

The small Intracoastal town of Grant puts on a seafood extravaganza year after year to celebrate its heritage as a fishing village. Now in its 57th year, the community event brings in loads of freshly caught seafood prepped and prepared by locals using generations-old recipes and techniques. The event is run by volunteers with proceeds that are help the community, including the Grant Historical House, Grant Community Center, and the scholarship fund. Enjoy steamed clams and oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, grilled fish, clam chowder, fried scallops, and more. The two-day event includes live entertainment and an arts & crafts fair with over 100 exhibitors. For info: https://www.grantseafoodfestival.com/information

Grant FL Seafood Festival

Behind the scenes serving visitors to Grant’s Seafood Festival. Photo: Grant Seafood Festival

Aruba Eagle Beach

Why You Should Visit Aruba in 2023

 

Aruba hasn’t missed a beat in the past few years. During and after the pandemic visitors have continued to arrive on the One Happy Island with no signs of interruptions. Friendly people, ideal climate, global diverse cuisine, and beachfront resorts keep visitors coming back.

High Wind

This year’s Aruba Hi-Winds competition comes early in May and draws water sports enthusiasts from around the world and the Caribbean to compete and watch the action. What began as a windsurfing event has evolved and grown to include the latest version of wind-powered sailing craft–the foil. Both kiteboarders and windsurfers have added this version for speed and distance sailing. The event includes several categories like big air kiteboarding, kite foiling long-distance, and long- distance windsurfing: there are youth categories and even a sunfish sailing race. This popular event began in 1986 when two local windsurfers, Anthony Blok and Ruben Croes decided to share the secret winds of Aruba with the world. At that time, windsurfing was one of the hottest sports worldwide with top athletes like Robby Naish, Stephan van den Berg, and Natalie Lelièvre competing on a professional basis at the Aruba Hi-Winds. Today’s event is minus the big purse but a total of $20,000.00 will be handed out to winners along with trophies and other prizes. The action will take over Fisherman’s Huts where the sand converts into a collage of colorful sails and boards and on the southern end of the island at Boca Grandi where competitors catch big air. The five-day competition runs from May 17 to May 22, 2023. To register: https://www.arubahiwinds.com/

Aruba Windsurfing

Hi-Winds is the largest amateur windsurfing and kiteboarding competition in the world and takes place every year in Aruba. Photo: ARTN Photography/Aruba Tourism Authority

Global Cuisine

Peruvian food is in the spotlight and while Lima is one of the hottest culinary destinations in the world Aruba is chiming in with several hot spots featuring seafood in a range of Peruvian cooking styles. Peru’s cuisine incorporates some of the most biodiverse crops and hundreds of varieties of corn, potatoes, and quinoa endemic to the country appear in menus in Peru and around the world. Order up a selection of ceviche accented in roasted corn and sweet potatoes along with a Pisco cocktail fashioned with brandy, lime, and simple syrup with egg white foam afloat and you’ll be transported to Peru. Family- owned and run, Delimar is located in Oranjestad and serves tasty and unpretentious meals. Lunch and dinner offerings include a collection of ceviche dishes, which are the cornerstone of Peruvian cuisine. Order the dish with just fish or explore more layered textures and tastes with a combo including shrimp, squid, and octopus. For more details: https://www.delimararuba.com/

Así Es Mi Peru also in downtown Oranjestad came on the scene in 2016 and gets plenty of kudos for its authentic cuisine. Dining is a tad upmarket with white linens accented with colorful table runners and meticulously designed plates. The team of Peruvian chefs prepares dishes like, pescado a lo macho (fish filet with creamy seafood sauce and Peruvian spices) and lomo saltado (pan-seared steak al la Peru ) and a long list of appetizers with various renditions of ceviche. Don’t pass on the Peruvian Cuzqueña beer. Deserts include arroz con leche and picarones– sticky doughnuts dripping in honey and cinnamon. See more at: https://asiesmiperuenaruba.com/

The latest on the scene is Lima Bistro which opened in June of 2021. The spot is on the marina at the Harbour House Condominiums in Oranjestad. Inside, a hanging star guides the way for patrons to tables or the bar, a tribute, and designation to the North Star. The open kitchen invites insights to preparation and ingredients and a sneak look at the components in the daily spontaneous creations the chef dreams up. Take a table outdoors and dine as they would in Peru overlooking the Pacific. Chef Teddy gets plenty of accolades for his combinations and creative flavors inspired from his home in Lima. After culinary school and a journey around the world to glean his culinary techniques and tastes and a final stop in San Sebastian, Spain he returned to the New World. His menu is well-rounded with seafood, duck, pork, beef, lamb, and even a veggie dish. As with most Peruvian establishments, the list of ceviche is extensive, after all, it’s the national dish of Peru and becomes a point of pride in the kitchen. Sweets combine Peruvian and Aruban comfort foods. Visit them at: https://www.limabistro.com/

Aruba Lima Bistro

Cozy and colorful interiors of the Lima Bistro in Aruba. Photo: Call Me Petit/Lima Bistro

Room Updates

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba has completed its new look, not that the old one was so bad. Keeping in tune with the local ambiance, the rooms are now using locally inspired designs and motifs. Colors and textures reflect an ocean motif with flowing waves. A color palette of beige, blue and green replicates the Aruba landscape and coastal area, and new artwork showcases aloe plants and succulents found in the natural environment. https://www.ritzcarlton.com/

A brand new all-suite property opened its doors across the street from Eagle Beach, the best, most photographed and widest beach on the island. Embassy Suites by Hilton debuted its 330 rooms evoking a homier experience. The idea is to offer a place you might live, which is right in the middle of all Aruba has to offer. Oranjestad is nearby along with a slew of restaurants, bars, and shops. Eagle Beach is just a walk across the street and Palm Beach is a short ride. https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/auajmes-embassy- suites-aruba-resort/

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, also in Eagle Beach has undergone major renovations to all studios and suites that include using bright Dutch Caribbean colors which the hotel’s architecture has embraced over time. You can’t miss the brightly painted golden yellow buildings showcasing Dutch colonial architecture. Passions on the Beach and Horizons Bar both got a jolt of energy and some sprucing up. Certified by EarthCheck, the resort is working on water, energy and land usage. Monthly beach cleanups, a reduction in single-use plastics and a program to protect Aruba’s flora and fauna are part of their green imitative. https://www.amsterdammanor.com/

Aruba Amsterdam Manor

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba is located in the heart of Eagle Beach. Photo: Amsterdam Manor

Art Movement

Aruba has its share of local artists and with a diverse ethnic community, the art scene is fueled and influenced by techniques and media used around the world, and in Aruba, that world is constantly evolving. There are three art schools on the island and numerous galleries and museums. You can find primitive art, multi-media productions, textiles, traditional oil on canvas, and murals that continue to materialize overnight. Art shows and pop-up galleries appear at a minute’s notice. There is an organized art show that takes place in San Nicholas in November. San Nicholas, the island’s second largest town has transformed from the oil refinery community of the mid-1900s along with its red-light district (which is still active) into a thriving art community where murals welcome arrivals and spontaneously appear on dilapidated buildings brightening up the Sunshine City.

Legendary Charlie’s Bar is considered a piece of art on its own merit with a multi-layered décor of license plates, flags, plaques, and novelty items dangling from the ceiling. It’s become a subject for local artists to interpret. The family-run bar is still going strong with the third generation now manning the storefront. Today people come to San Nicholas from around the world not just to have a beer at Charlie’s but for the art. It’s the place to be if you are an artist or art lover. The fifth edition of the Aruba Art Fair takes place November 4 to 6, 2023, and promises to be a celebration and an inspiration with various art disciplines including fashion, mosaics, murals, and more. There were 150 exhibitors at the last show in 2019 so expect a big turnout. For more information: https://arubaartfair.com/

Aruba Art

Taking shots of the murals from the streets of San Nicholas, Aruba. Photo: Aruba Art Fair

Music & Comedy

Long time music festival celebrating 21 years running brings in internationally known musicians and celebrities for a long weekend of concerts. Talent at the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba this Memorial Day weekend will include Jill Scott, Lucky Daye, The Roots, Deon Cole, Tiffany Haddish, and more. The kick-off party happens Wednesday eve May 24 and features guest DJs. Moomba Beach is the venue during the day on Thursday and the evening concerts run from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. A comedy concert is set, and more main stage concerts run for the consecutive nights until the finale which is Memorial Day Cool Down when it’s back to the beach for the day with DJs hosting the party and barbeque. Dates are May 24 thru May 29, 2023. For tickets: https://soulbeach.net/2023/

Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival

The lineup of past talent at the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba included Mary J. Blige. Photo: Soul Beach Music Festival

Anguilla

Why You Should Visit Anguilla in 2023

 

This long skinny coral island surrounded by white sands and electric blue water is a top choice for many. Receiving constant awards and top ratings from travelers and the press it’s hard to pass up a trip here. Immersed in beachside elegance with posh resorts, small boutique properties, and one-of-a-kind luxurious villas the island is packed with hospitality. With a selection of superb eateries, friendly beachside bars, and arguably the best sand beaches in the region, Anguilla is ready to explore.

Culinary Journey

Roadside barbeque chicken and ribs with johnnycakes to five- star culinary dining experiences are what you’ll find on Anguilla. A long-time favorite, Blanchards may have set the bar high when the stateside couple moved to the island opened their restaurant, and published their book, A Trip to the Beach which put the island on the map with foodies. Five-star resorts brought in five-star chefs and today the island is bursting with multilayered flavors and menus you might find in faraway lands. Tasting menus whet the appetites of gastronauts and neophytes will find they can pick up a recipe or two at a cooking class. At Aurora Resort & Spa, formerly Cuisinart you’ll take part in crafting an authentic Anguillian lunch with johnnycakes, bush tea marinated fish, coconut lime rice, and jerk butternut squash. A visit to the hydroponic farm which supplies 90% of the produce used in the menus followed by a farm-to-table garden dinner is tops on the list. The changing menu incorporates the freshest ingredients from the garden and the distinctive dinner takes place twice a month. The ultimate dining and cooking experience is now an annual event that takes place in early May. The Anguilla Culinary Experience brings in chefs from the States and Europe who cook alongside local talent. Dinners, cooking demonstrations, and hands-on classes are all part of the event.

Plated Fish Anguilla

Plated fish from the first year’s Anguilla Culinary Experience. Photo: Zuri Wilkes/Anguilla Culinary Experience

Celebrating Summer

One of the biggest festivals and most popular on the island takes place over ten days during the late summer. This idyllic and quiet island cranks up the energy where everyone is engaged in some aspect of the Anguilla Summer Festival. Lazy days along the seashore change up and turn into energetic beach parties bustling with music, food, and boat racing. The Anguilla Summer Festival is part Carnival with parades, street dancing, calypso competitions, and beauty pageants and part emancipation celebration with maypole and Moka Jumbie dancers. The celebratory first Monday in August originated to observe the abolition of slavery in the British Colonies. Today the date is the driving force for a series of parties that combine historic aspects, customs, and activities influenced by African descendants with contemporary celebrations and music. Boat racing begins at Sandy Ground and Meads Bay with an around- the-island race where spectators follow their boat of choice with binoculars in hand. The Valley, the capital, sits mid-island and is where parades begin, some make the six-hour march to Sandy Ground. Plan on eating plenty of barbeques and local seafood, johnnycakes, and tamarind balls. The annual Anguilla Summer Festival runs from July 30 to August 7, 2023.

Anguilla Summer Festival

Women wear elaborate and intricate sequin and feather costumes during the Anguilla Summer Festival. Photo: Anguilla Tourism

Penthouse Views

Lovers of luxury flock to Anguilla, after all, there are several five- star properties to choose from. When it’s time to find that private space where the view is all yours a penthouse vista is the answer. Treat yourself to the ultimate privacy and exclusivity offered on the top floor. These three properties are small enough to give that home away from home feel but with all of the amenities of a grand hotel. At Quintessence Hotel, you’ll stay in a mansion fashioned after the original Mallihouana Hotel. The hotel lobby doubles as a museum and art gallery showing the largest collection of Haitian art outside of Haiti, owned and curated by the hotel owners. The top floor of the nine-room hotel is the exquisite Joseph penthouse suite overlooking the white sands of Long Bay. From your private terrace and the expansive windows, you’ll have the turquoise sea as your view. Turkish marble baths, Roman soaking tubs, a fully equipped kitchen, 24/7 butler service, and a grand living area are part of the setup. Over on Meads Bay, the 15-room boutique property of Tranquility Beach offers three penthouses. These three- bedroom villas each have terraces with private hot or cold tubs, full kitchens, and plenty of space to take in the ocean and beachfront views. Frangipani Beach Resort also sits along Meads Bay and offers a grand penthouse with 3,000 square feet for friends and family members to have their own space. Comforts include an indoor and outdoor shower and tub, a fully equipped chef’s kitchen, a spacious living area, and an expansive balcony overlooking the turquoise waters of Mead Bay.

Joseph Anguilla

View of Long Beach from the balcony of Penthouse Joseph at the Quintessence Hotel on Anguilla. Photo: Quintessence Hotel

On the Sand

Once the site for boats loading up salt from the flats behind the strip of beach, Sandy Ground today is the island’s hotspot for nightlife and beachside dining. Boats continue to drop anchor offshore but today they load and unload visitors from nearby islands and day-trippers heading out for snorkeling and fishing trips. It’s the spot to socialize, mingle and wander from bar to restaurant and now there are some new spots to explore. During the day most people head for the sugary soft sand and the views but in the evening the place with the best nightlife wins out. The latest newcomer on the strip is Sandbar, a toes- in-the-sand place offering tapas and craft cocktails. Owners Carrie and Jerry Bogar already know the ins and outs of running a restaurant; their first spot is Veya restaurant. Sandbar is the place to share plates, listen to live music, and snag front-row seats for the festivities that take place on Sandy Ground. Island local and favored chef Dale Carty has expanded his spot up on the bluff to include an outside bar and dining spot that takes in the view of Sandy Ground below. Tasty’s POV allows patrons to have that Point of View of the crescent below while enjoying grilled lobster or chicken. Another local chef, Vincia Hughes is heading up the kitchen at Vincy on the Beach which opened its doors in the summer of 2022. The menu includes barbeque chicken and ribs, a staple on the island.

Anguilla Sandbar

Dining at Sandbar along the sands of Sandy Ground involves sharing tapas. Photo: Sandbar

Islands and Cays

Island hopping is the thing to do while on Anguilla. Scrub Island, Scilly Cay, and Sandy Island are three of the more popular isles in the collection of ten coral isles under the Anguilla umbrella. Scrub remains privately owned and is reachable by boat for days of picnics and bird watching. Birders know the isle as an important area for nesting seabirds; laughing gulls and royal terns are common sightings. Once a drop-off point for drugs back in the day, today is just the goats and lizards that patrol the innocuous sands. You can’t visit Anguilla without taking a trip to Scilly Cay, the most enjoyed and tastiest trip yet. Board the boat in Island Harbour and set off for a fabulous lunch of grilled crayfish, lobster, ribs, fish or chicken and their wickedly strong rum punch. Bring your snorkeling gear and sun protection for a beach day. You could almost swim to Sandy Island from Sandy Ground as it’s just two miles off the coast. This private isle is the most photographed with its white sandy beach surrounding a tuff of greenery with today’s restaurant in the center. The low- lying spit of sand has come and gone over the years with one hurricane washing it away and another building it back up. Order the lobster, chicken, fish, or ribs and you’ll be fully satisfied as the cuisine is as tasty as any main island high-end restaurant. The restaurant is open until hurricane season when they board up with fingers crossed that they can return in the fall. This island escape is popular with locals as well as the rich and famous who come to dine, snorkel and sunbathe.

Anguilla

Aerial view of Sandy Island, one of the most photographed islands off Anguilla. Photo: cdwheatley/iStock

 

Maui Wailea

Hawaii Celebrates Earth Day

 

The islands are all about to need to preserve and renew and this April the Aloha State will be hosting several activities, events, and exchanges in honor of Mother Earth.

 

Island-wide Earth Month

More than just a day, Hawaii celebrates Earth Month. The entire month of April is now on the calendars as a volunteer month. Passed by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Ige in 2022, the campaign is now in its second year. The organization Kanu Hawaii is the largest state-level celebration in the United States. Sign up at: https://www.kanuhawaii.org/volunteer-month-hawaii/ You can search for needs on the island of your choice at: https://www.kanuhawaii.org/needs/ There are beach cleanups, forest plantings, wildlife rescue and care, gardening insights, and galas.

Maui

Kiai Collier of Hawaii Land Trust and volunteers walk out of the water in west Maui after a clean-up. Photo: Heather Goodman/Hawaii Tourism Authority

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts, Island of Hawaii

Stop by the resort to swap your harmful sunscreen for reef-safe products. To honor Earth Day, Honua Hawaiian Skincare is partnering with Mauna Lani’s Kainalu Ocean Sports team to host the SPF Swap on April 22. Residents and visitors are invited to stop by the resort that day to exchange sunscreens containing harmful chemicals such as Oxybenzone and Octinoxate for Honua Hawaiian Skincare’s reef-safe MALU Day Cream, broad spectrum SPF 30. A percentage of proceeds from MALU sales benefits Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, a nonprofit dedicated to keeping our oceans clean and inspiring communities to practice coastal stewardship. For more information, call (855) 550-5008.

Mauna Lani Hawaii Island

Mauna Lani Beach along the Kohala Coast on the Big Island is the location of the Mauna Lani Resort. Photo: ekash/iStock

Haleakala National Park, Maui

National Park Week kicks off on Earth Day on April 22 with no entrance fees to Haleakala National Park for all visitors. Sunrise reservations are still required to enter the Summit District from 3 a.m. to 7 a.m. Contact recreation.gov. There’s a volunteer clean-up from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Help clean up the House of the Sun and participate in a drop-in trash clean up at the Haleakala Visitor Center at 9,740 feet. Join a park ranger for a special Earth Day program at Hosmer Grove to learn about your role in protecting the planet. The program starts at 2 p.m. If you can’t make it to any outings then you can explore the park online with Earth Day everyday activities, and learn more about endangered forest birds in the short film The Heart of Maui.

Haleakala Crater Maui

The rare and sacred landscape from the Haleakala National Park in Maui. Photo: iStock

Waikiki Aquarium, Oahu

The Mauka to Makai Environmental Expo takes place on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Presented by the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Facility Maintenance, the Hawaii State Department of Health Clean Water Branch, and the Waikiki Aquarium will promote the importance of keeping Hawaii clean and free of pollution, from the mountaintops to the ocean. It’s a free, family-friendly event. For info: https://www.waikikiaquarium.org/interact/annual- events/mauka-to-makai-earth-day/

Butterfly Fish Waikiki Aquarium

A beautiful Copper Band Butterflyfish swimming in the Waikiki Aquarium in Oahu. Photo: Wirestock/iStock

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, Oahu

Join the Bishop Museum of Science & Sustainability Festival which brings together museum scientists, educators, cultural practitioners, and community partners to highlight the ongoing work needed to protect biodiversity and build a sustainable future in Hawaii. For more info: https://bishopscience.org/

Oahu Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum on Oahu has exhibits on the cultures of the Pacific region of Hawaii and Polynesia. Photo: 7maru/iStock

 

Punta Mita W

Mexican Resorts Celebrate Earth Day

 

With Earth Day just around the corner, some of the earth- friendly resorts along the coastlines of Mexico are commemorating the day with celebrations and beach cleanups. There’s still time to book a trip to participate in one of these activities and honor Mother Earth in Mexico.

W Punta de Mita

You’ll find the W Punta de Mita perched above one of the best beaches in the Riviera Nayarit area of Mexico. It’s certainly not your typical monochromatic decorated resort, here you’ll find vibrant colors and bold architecture, and locally inspired furniture with a nod to the indigenous Huichol. Traditional patterns combined with local bohemian surf culture prevalent in the Pacific Coast of Mexico come through in artwork and furnishings. Each guest room is unique and accented with vintage photos and murals of historical figures. 

W Punta Mita Pool

The 450-foot-long blue and green mosaic walkway is meant to mimic the Pacific Ocean, it runs from the hotel out onto the pool area. Photo: W Punta de Mita

To celebrate the connection between Mother Earth and Mayan ancestral roots a Cacao Ceremony will be held on April 21, 2023. Nature lovers and wellness seekers are welcome to gather at the resort’s pristine sand beach where an altar of flowers lit by a sacred fire will cleanse and make space for new energies. Cacao experts Alba López and Montserrat Limón will take participants through the rituals as guests drink ceremonial cacao and absorb sound and healing frequencies. Geared to align one’s emotional, mental, and spiritual levels with the Earth’s magnetic vibrations, the ceremony also activates blood circulation and boosts overall energy and well-being. Learn more at: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pvrwh-w-punta-de-mita/overview/

Cacao Ceremony Punta Mita W

The cacao ceremony on the beach in front of the W Punta de Mita promotes self-reflection and spiritual awakening. Photo: W Punta de Mita

Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

This coming Earth Day visitors can recognize some of Mother Nature’s best work in Cabo San Lucas. One of the world’s most popular vacation spots where stunning desert landscapes contrast the deep blue seascapes is blessed with 320 days of sunshine a year. The area deserves to be cared for so future generations can enjoy the natural beauty. Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa is doing its part to make that happen.

Beach Club Corazon Cabo

One of the largest beach clubs in Cabo San Lucas and the largest on Medano Beach offers private cabanas and a restaurant. Photo: Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

To commemorate Earth Day, on April 21, guests can participate in a hotel beach clean-up along the shores of Medano Beach, the most popular beach in Cabo. Protecting and maintaining the beach helps keep the sparkling blue waters pristine for the amazing sea life that calls the Sea of Cortez home. After the beach healing, visitors can head to Aleta for an Earth Day green menu, centered around organic produce and local ingredients that support small farms in the area. For tequila lovers, Corazón is offering a special Earth Day Tequila Tasting, featuring Tequila Herradura, a premium tequila brand committed to sustainable practices like utilizing solar energy, reducing water usage, and recycling waste. Learn more at https://www.corazoncabo.com/

Aleta Corazon Cabo

With spectacular views and the freshest fish in town showcasing sushi and a raw bar, you can’t beat Aleta at Corazón. Photo: Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa

Turtle hatching season which takes place from June to December is punctuated with sea turtle releases along the coastline around Banderas Bay. The area beaches are the most important in the world for protecting the Green Ridley turtle. The tortuga (turtle) is the spiritual symbol of the Huichol people native to the majestic Sierra Madre Mountain range. These creatures are credited with assisting the rain goddesses and protecting the quality of the springs and replenishing underground water sources. From June to December, guests staying at Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa can share in the local belief and pay respect to Mother Nature in the release of newly hatched turtles at the resort’s beach. In addition to playing a role in the resort’s turtle protection program guests will learn the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and taking care of the environment so that species like these can thrive.

Puerto Vallarta Marriott

Guests staying at Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa are just 30 minutes from the town of Puerto Vallarta. Photo: Marriott Puerto Vallarta

2023 marks the 20th anniversary of this family favorite program and children staying at the resort will be able to name their turtles and gather at sunset to wish them luck and set them free to return to the ocean. In 2005, the Ridley Sea Turtle was in danger of extinction. The Marriott Puerto Vallarta donated a portion of its beach to create a permanent nursery. The resort employs a biologist to oversee the program, patrol during the night, and educate the hotel’s staff and guests about the species. Today, the Ridley is now a vulnerable species with an increased survival rate due to programs like these. The activity is offered every day during turtle season and as Mother Nature permits. www.puertovallartamarriott.com

Puerto Vallarta Marriott Sea Turtles

Baby sea turtle ready for a journey to the sea. At Marriott Puerto Vallarta turtle specialists oversee the sendoff. Photo: Marriott Puerto Vallarta

JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa

Cancun is known for its year-round turquoise blue waters and 80-degree temperatures. This year, the JW Marriott Cancun is hosting a meaningful Earth Day activity. Located on the white sand beach steps away from the Hotel Zone, the resort offers ocean views from every room. This year, the resort is inviting guests, visitors, and associates to give back to Mother Nature by participating in a beach cleanup followed by a ceremony at an “Earth Commitment Wall,” where participants can pledge their promise to take care of the planet. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/cunjw-jw-marriott- cancun-resort-and-spa/overview/

JW Marriott Cancun

JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa makes it easy for you to pledge your commitment to Mother Earth. Photo: JW Marriott Cancun Resort

Guests looking for a once-in-a-lifetime activity may want to see the gentle whale sharks that frequent the waters off Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Isla de Mujeres. During spring and summer, guests can swim and snorkel with Cancun’s population of these gentle giants. While they are considered sharks, they have no teeth and take in nutrients by gathering water that flows out and over their gills leaving behind plankton and small fish to be digested. Massive, they are between 18 and 32 feet long on average, and they swim slowly at just three miles per hour so just floating in the area will give you plenty of opportunity to see them. There are many trips to choose from; research well and choose an ethical and eco-minded outfit for this nature sensitive adventure.

Cancun Whale Sharks

Gentle whale sharks flock offshore near Cancun between spring and summer each year. Photo: JW Marriott Cancun Resort

Pier House

Key West Deals for Spring 2023

Closer to Cuba than Miami, Key West is full of history and cultural influences from Havana and the Bahamas. Architecture, cuisine, and diverse cultures are represented in Old Town Key West and many resorts reflect the Caribbean style with outdoor spaces, balconies, and porches. Here, you’ll find warm tropical nights and days filled with nature, outdoor activities, and plenty of on-the-water sports. Now that the snowbirds are gone, it’s time to take advantage of these deals and enjoy this subtropical paradise before the summer rush moves in.

Pier House Resort & Spa

This iconic Key West charmer sits right in town close to everything yet feels far removed from the sometimes- boisterous streets of downtown Key West. When guests are out on the deck facing the beach and water, there is a relaxed vibe you would have found throughout Key West years ago. It’s the only spot in town with a sandy beach and the luxurious resort is full service with a spa, fitness center, pool, two restaurants, and one of the best and most eclectic bars in Key West. Save 10% on Dockside Suites and Harbor View rooms. For more info: https://www.pierhouse.com/

Pier House Bar Key West

The nautical-inspired bar at the Pier House; a stop at Chart Room unveils tales and memorabilia. Photo: Pier House

Southernmost Beach Resort

Situated along the southern limit of the famed Duval Street in Key West, the award-winning resort features a tropical, warm, and cozy feel, while ocean views abound. Recently renovated, the resort features a modern sleek design and classic coastal charm. Amenities include a full-service spa, group fitness classes, three heated pools, two white sand beaches, and live entertainment. There are also cocktail tastings and painting classes to round out your time at the Southernmost Beach Resort. Book the April Fools’ Sale and save up to 35% off plus receive a $35 food and beverage credit. Good for travel in 2023 but with a limited time for booking. For more info: https://www.southernmostbeachresort.com/

Southernmost Hotel Key West

Southernmost Beach Resort is close enough to the ocean for endless sea views and sandy beaches. Photo: Southernmost Beach Resort

The Perry Hotel & Marina

Set in the Stock Island Marina Village, this boutique waterfront hotel combines a touch of Old Key West with an upscale and ultra-modern vibe. There are two dockside restaurants. Matt’s Stock Island and Salty Oyster, the relaxed come-as-you-are outdoor restaurant and bar. Beyond the waterfront pool, guests have water sports and bike rentals on-site, and if you need a ride to town, there’s a scheduled shuttle. Save 25% when you book at least 14 days in advance or for that long weekend away with a dose of sunshine you can save up to 20% for three nights or more. To book: https://www.perrykeywest.com/

Perry Hotel Key West

Some rooms at the Perry Hotel have wrap-around balconies overlooking the pool and marina. Photo: The Perry Hotel

NYAH

With spaces created to encourage mingling and modular rooming options that can handle singles, couples, and groups, this is certainly Not Your Average Hotel (NYAH). Bring some friends (adults only) and you can split the cost in a variety of bedded rooms from a room with six single beds, a king and two singles, or book the cottage with one king bed. There are three pools and one Jacuzzi and plenty of lounging chairs. A daily amenity fee of $34.99 includes Continental breakfast, Starbucks coffee, and tea 24 hours, and WIFI. Guests can also take part in a happy hour from 4:20 pm to 5:20 pm or head out to explore, a bike rental is on site. Stay for four nights or more and save 20%. For more info: https://nyahotels.com/

NYAH Key West

The entrance to NYAH was built in the traditional Key West style with a large front porch. Photo: NYAH

Havana Cabana

You’ll be immersed in Cuban Culture—the spirit, the art, the music, the cars—when you vacation at Havana Cabana. Choose between rooms with either a pool view or gulf view or the larger Havana rooms. When hunger strikes there’s Cuban cuisine at the Floridita Food Truck where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served under a thatched roof patio. Visit the Mojitos Pool Bar if you’re needing your minty mid-day mojito. The resort offers a variety of daily activities like morning happy hour or off-site excursions. Book the Spring break special offer by April 16, 2023, and save 25% off your room rate. To book: https://www.havanacabanakeywesthotel.com/

Havana Cabana Key West

Interiors of rooms at Havana Cabana showcase décor and paraphernalia you might find in Cuba. Photo: Havana Cabana

Anse Chastanet Resport

2023 Spring Deals in St. Lucia

 

If you want a true Caribbean experience saturated in St. Lucian charm and natural beauty these five hotels will deliver just that. Amazing views of the Pitons, the sea below, the mountains, and the natural reserve as a backdrop are what they are all about. Unique and distinctive decor, traditional and international cuisine, and impeccable service- it couldn’t get any better than this. Here are five to choose from, one better than the next.

Anse Chastanet

For more than 25 years, Anse Chastanet has reigned as one of the most noted and award-winning eco-luxury resorts in the Caribbean. This expansive coastal estate is located next to the World Heritage site, with two palm-lined beaches fronting the waters of a marine reserve. Waterfront and hillside rooms feature open floor plans, with large louvered windows and flower-draped terraces that usher in trade winds and coastal views. On-site amenities include three restaurants and two bars, two beachside boutiques and an art gallery, the Kai Belte Spa, a full-service water sports center, and Scuba St. Lucia. Take advantage of a sixth night free along with a $150 per person food and beverage credit and book your 2023 dates. For info: https://ansechastanet.com/

Anse Chastanet

The tropical retreat of Anse Chastanet is one of the Caribbean’s most colorful and unique resorts. Photo: Anse Chastanet

Jade Mountain

A sister property to Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain takes full advantage of its lofty setting and panoramic views. Perched high above the Caribbean, hillside accommodations remove the fourth wall to open sleeping and living spaces that showcase the Caribbean far below. Private infinity pools perched on the outer edge of elevated terraces seem to hang in mid-air. Along with outstanding spatial features, each sanctuary comes with private butler service, catering to guests every need. Out of the sanctuary and into the wild, the resort offers ample amenities and excursions for loungers and adventurers alike. This spring, take advantage of the fifth night free if you book a Sky Whirlpool Suite or Star or Moon Infinity Pool Sanctuary. For more information: https://jademountain.com/

Jade Mountain St Lucia

Tucked away within the luscious greenery of St. Lucia the Jade Mountain Resort has a backdrop of the endlessly blue Caribbean Sea. Photo: Jade Mountain

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

The setting couldn’t be better, nestled between the Pitons and the white sands of Sugar Beach the resort is spread out on a 100-acre parcel that was once a working plantation. The 79 rooms sprinkled throughout the hillside are decorated with a classic and minimal approach bathed in white linens. At the private beach, guests can join in sailing, kayaking, and scuba diving. A wooden treehouse spa specializes in chocolate or coffee scrubs and other Caribbean-inspired treatments. Three bars, dining at the Great House or down by the sea, and afternoon tea at the Palm Court Lounge are there when hunger strikes. Take advantage of the Caribbean Escape and save up to 25% on cottages, villas, bungalows, and guestrooms. The minimum stay is 3 nights. Valid for stays through December 18, 2023. Visit: https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugar- beach

St. Lucia Sugar Beach Resort

The Hillside villas at Sugar Beach come with private infinity pools and offer that pristine vantage point of sea and mountain. Photo: Sugar Beach

Ladera Resort

If you read what guests have to say about the experience of waking up to the sound of birds, the views of the sea and the Pitons, and the privacy, you’ll want to make your reservation as fast as possible. Set on the UNESCO World Heritage site on a ridgeline 1,000 feet above the sea the grounds provide stunning views from the 37 rooms and suites. You’ll find spaces created from local tropical hardwoods, stone, and tile. Each suite comes with a private plunge pool and one wall open to views of the Pitons. This adults-only resort is the ideal romantic escape in paradise. Book in the Romance & Wellness and linger for six nights or longer and receive up to 30% off. Or book the 4th-night free package that includes a $200 resort credit. Both offers run through December 19, 2023 https://www.ladera.com/

Ladera St Lucia

The open wall concept at Ladera Resort replaces the fourth wall with unobstructed views of the Pitons; it’s also ideal for nightly stargazing. Photo: Ladera Resort

Rabot Hotel

Set 1,000 feet above the sea Rabot Hotel from Hotel Chocolat, the luxury British chocolate firm offers a unique eco-minded option. Home to St. Lucia’s oldest working cacao farm in the middle of the lush rainforest, guests can take a Tree to Bar tour during their stay. With just 25 private lodges, some with private balconies or terraces there is plenty of space and quiet for a retreat from the outside world. The open-air restaurant and infinity pool all have gorgeous views of the Pitons, and the grounds have a network of estate trails to explore. Time is running out for the April package. Book the April Escape which includes breakfast and offers 40% off during the entire month of April. To book: https://www.hotelchocolat.com/uk/rabothotel.html

Rabot Hotel St Lucia

Lodges at Rabot Hotel are set around lush courtyards and have open-sky rainforest showers and louvered wooden doors with views of the Pitons. Photo: Rabot Hotel