Tag Archives: Plan

Five Tropical Islands Off the Beaten Path

August 8, 2024

Have you ever wanted to get away from it all – as in REALLY get away? If so, we have some islands for you. These small specs of land are among the least-visited places on earth, and they are spread across a vast swath of the south-central Pacific Ocean, ten times the size of the United States.

These aren’t the sort of places you’ll jet away to for a long weekend. Just getting there could take days and several connecting flights. And forget luxury hotels; you’ll be staying in modest guest houses and eating like a local. On the plus side, you won’t be rubbing elbows with holiday crowds, and you might even be the only tourist on the streets. If this sounds good to you, here are five islands you’ve probably never heard of where you can truly get away from it all.

Marshall Islands

At its pre-Covid peak, the Marshall Islands welcomed just under 7,000 tourists a year, ranking 200 in the world for international arrivals. Given this relative trickle of visitors, it’s not surprising that there are less than 200 hotel rooms in the entire island group. Honestly, there’s not much to see on the main island of Majuro, which is crowded and not particularly scenic. It’s more of a stopping-off point after flying in from Guam or Honolulu before taking a boat or commuter flight to an outer island.

An aerial view shows a scattering of gorgeous and undeveloped atolls of the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Photo: Romaine W/Shutterstock

Tourism in the Marshalls is very much a niche thing. Surfers on safari make pilgrimages to remote reef breaks, and adventurous big game fishermen charter vintage vessels to ply blue waters in search of trophy gamefish. The group most familiar with the Marshalls are divers. The inner lagoon at Bikini was the site of a 1946 atomic bomb test that sent a sacrificial fleet of warships to the seabed. Today, diving into the historic wrecks of Bikini’s atomic fleet is considered a bucket-list adventure.

Deserted beaches and coastline of Arno Atoll, one of 133 coral islands in the Marshall Island chain. Photo: andrearenata/iStock

Kiribati

First off, it’s pronounced kiri-bas. Combined, the land mass of these 32 islands is about the size of New York City — but they are spread across more than two million square miles of ocean. So, you won’t be island hopping. About 1,000 visitors a month make their way to Kiribati on twice-weekly flights from Fiji or Brisbane. Government officials, aid workers, and business folk are usually bound for the capital on South Tawara Island. This island gained some degree of notoriety in the travelogue book “Sex Lives of Cannibals,” which details the realities of living on a remote island.

Aerial view of Kiribati beach and coastline, an island nation in Micronesia in the central Pacific Ocean. Photo: RomaineW/Shutterstock

The few tourists who make the trip to Kiribati are likelier to end up on Kiritimati, aka Christmas Island, which sports a modest eco-tourism trade. Back in the day, the US and Great Britain used Kiritimati as a testing ground for nuclear and hydrogen bombs. Fortunately, there’s no radiation danger these days. Now, saltwater fly fishing, birdwatching, scuba diving, and surfing are the main attractions. Don’t expect palm-fringed sands, as the island is a low-lying coral plateau with a huge central lagoon formed by a dense network of natural swimming pools. The island’s modest tourism infrastructure includes a trio of fishing lodges and a couple of small guest houses.

Kiritimati, often referred to as Christmas Island, was discovered by Captain James Cook on Christmas Eve in 1777. Photo: Kyung Muk Lim/Shutterstock

Nauru

Nauru is the third-smallest nation on earth, with only the Principality of Monaco and Vatican City having less land area. It also leads most lists as the least-visited place on earth, with fewer than 1,000 tourists making the journey each year. Yet despite this seeming trickle of visitor traffic, there are surprisingly good air connections that include weekly flights to Brisbane, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, and Fiji. Commerce is the reason for this connectivity.

The oval-shaped island of Nauru is surrounded by a coral reef with a narrow coastal belt, and settlements are located there. Photo: Rafayil Abbasov/Shutterstock

Nauru was once a very wealthy nation, thanks to mining operations that exported millions of tons of valuable phosphate ores. By the late 20th century, some 80 percent of the island’s interior was strip-mined into a lunar landscape of jagged limestone. The Australian government is now involved in reclaiming these areas, and visiting the Nauru Rehabilitation Corporation Nursery gives visitors a glimpse of the future as greenery begins to retake the island. Mining operations aside, there are reasons to visit Nauru, as the coastline still offers plenty of coral reefs, palms, and beaches.

As seen above, the entire country of Nauru shows the barren plateau of jagged limestone pinnacles left after phosphate mining. Photo: M. Torres/iStock

Niue

On average, 9,000 people visit Niue each year. If more people knew about this idyllic outpost, there’d undoubtedly be more visitors. As it is, the only flights arrive from New Zealand, so you’ll need to get to Aukland before catching the three-hour twice-weekly flight onward. Niue is part of the Realm of New Zealand and shares similar cultural traditions that blend English influences with Maori Polynesian roots. The low-key tourism sector includes a dozen small hotels, guest houses, and a respectable collection of local restaurants.

Swimming holes on Niue take the place of beaches on this coral atoll where Avaiki Cave is nestled within the rugged limestone cliffs. Photo: Molly Brown NZ/Shutterstock

The island is an elevated coral atoll with limestone shores. Sorry, there are no beaches. Instead, you get a delightful collection of sheltered coastal pools, natural arches, and semi- submerged grottos that are a swimmer’s and snorkeler’s paradise. Just offshore, clear waters wash over pristine reefs to the delight of scuba divers. Niue is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. From July to October, humpback whales migrate past the island’s shores. Ashore, the island rewards hikers with trails that pass through lush rainforests and lead to limestone caves and elevated ocean bluffs.

Alofi is the capital of the island nation Niue, which is surrounded by a coral reef with only one break to enter. Photo: Izabela23/Shutterstock

Tuvalu

If you make it to Tuvalu, you are a rare breed of tourist. This tiny nation is made up of nine coral atolls, which are basically narrow strips of land, sandbars, and pocket-sized islands surrounding an inner lagoon. The largest atoll in the group, Funafuti, is the only spec of land large enough to shoehorn in a jetliner-sized landing strip. Weekly flights from Fiji bring about 300 visitors a month, and Tuvalu sometimes makes the list as “the least visited place on earth.”

Pristine beaches and coastline are shown in this aerial view of the island nation of Tuvalu, which is composed of three reef islands and six atolls. Photo: Romaine W/Shutterstock

Once you do make it to Tuvalu, what’s next? There are plenty of palm trees, miles of deserted beaches to wander, and lagoons filled with shimmering turquoise waters. It’s a beach lover’s and scuba diver’s paradise without the people. A rental motorbike will get you around the more populated parts of Funafuti, but the only way to reach more distant reaches of the atoll is by boat. A mid-sized hotel near the airport is favored by business travelers, but for a true away-from-it-all experience, there are a handful of guest lodges scattered around the lagoon on picture-perfect small islands.

Heading in for a landing on the island of Tuvalu in Funafuti, the plane’s view shows off the turquoise water and coral atoll that surround the country. Photo: Maximilien Leblanc/iStock

Plan, Thailand

7 Things to Love About Thailand

April 16, 2024

Leave a comment

With stunning landscapes, dazzling beaches, mouth- watering foods, and a warm and welcoming culture, it’s not surprising that Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. In 2024 the country known as “The Land of Smiles” will welcome some 40 million visitors. Here are just some of the things that lure these travelers to Thailand.

A World of Flavors

Thai food is much more than the pad Thais, and the curries are familiar to most Westerners. Distinct regional cuisines draw inspiration from fields, forests, and oceans, tempered by centuries of cross-border commerce with nations across Southeast Asia. There are savory coconut stews, piquant roast meats, tart seafood, noodle yums, fiery-hot green papaya salads, and soothing fruit custards. Bangkok is home to one of the world’s most vibrant street food scenes and offers an impressive range of dining experiences reflective of the culinary traditions of many nations. Another pleasing aspect of dining in Thailand is the social nature of meals, with cooking methods such as suki pots and on-table braziers providing the focal point for meals prepared and consumed leisurely over conversation.

Tradition Northern Thai food is influenced by neighboring Burma, Laos, and southern China. Photo: supatchai/Shutterstock

Supersized Shopping

While visitors seek out bustling street markets and bazaars, another side of the country’s retail scene takes the shopping to the extreme. While malls are becoming a thing of the past in much of the West, they thrive in Thailand and have grown to truly epic proportions. Most mid-sized cities across the country can boast a Central Plaza with multiple floors of specialty shops, restaurants, and cineplex theaters. Bangkok ups the ante with destination malls that are among the largest in the world. The most recent addition to this collection, Icon Siam, features more than a million square feet of indoor retail space with every luxury brand imaginable, more than 100 restaurants serving world cuisines, and even a reconstructed floating market where vendors ply their wares from long-tail boats bob in an indoor artificial lagoon.

Exterior view of Icon Siam at Riverside, one of the largest department stores in Bangkok. Photo: chingyunsong/Shutterstock

Everyone Is Welcome

Thai culture is one of the most courteous and friendly in the world. Attitudes of tolerance, acceptance, patience, and respect are deeply rooted aspects of the Theravada Buddhist belief system embraced by 95 percent of the Thai people. These core values account for the ultimately accommodating and respectfully deferential attitudes of servers, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and guides that are hallmarks of the Thai hospitality industry. But equally important is the concept of “Sanuk,” which is an attitude and way of life that emphasizes finding enjoyment and humor in all things. Thais laugh often and are quick with a smile. Another ubiquitous social phenomenon is the “wai,” the country’s universal greeting salutation made with clasped palms held over the heart.

A beautiful young Thai woman in a customary Thai costume offers the traditional Thai greeting of “wai.” Photo: kikujungboy CC/Shutterstock

Sunset Is Just the Beginning

The city of Bangkok is a night owl’s dream. And while best known for a world-class club scene, there is much more to discover. Sidewalks lined with street food vendors are awash in a tempting aromatic fog of flavors. Night markets crop up in neighborhoods across the metropolis, and tourists and locals descend on festively lit walking streets lined by lively open-air restaurants and cafes. Similar scenes can be found on a smaller scale at cities and villages across Thailand, where outdoor concert stages and county fair-like festivals crop up on a seemingly weekly basis, and vendors stay open late.

Nightlife in Bangkok includes the famous Soy Cowboy, a 150-meter-long street with 40 go-go bars. Photo: TK Kurikawa/Shutterstock

Spectacular Sands

Leonardo DiCaprio’s discovery of Maya Bay in the film The Beach catapulted this strand to international stardom. This and other well-known and Instagram- worth beaches draw crowds to popular oceanfront destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, where sands are lined by laid-back beach bars and vendors hawking all manner of merchandise and food. But these best-known Thailand beaches are just the icing on the cake with many more layers. Resort destinations such as Hua Hin and Pattaya combine beach time with an upscale vibe reminiscent of Miami’s South Beach; less-developed islands such as Koh Chang, Koh Lanta, and Koh Lipe offer comfortable accommodations and relaxations without the crowds, while hundreds of islands accessible only by boat offer the promise of solitude and nature.

Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand, is one of the country’s most beautiful beaches and is surrounded by limestone cliffs. Photo: ESB Professional/Shutterstock

Temple Life

Temples have always played an essential role in Thai society. In addition to their primary role as a place of worship, temples are a cornerstone of village life, serving as social hubs, places of celebration for significant life events, meditation refuges, centers for food sharing, and focal points of community pride. Temples tend towards the ornate, and many of the more spectacular complexes become regional tourism attractions where visitors wander gilded halls, climb to elevated overlooks, and cool off in manicured gardens. To fund improvements and upkeep, many temples will stage week-long festivals that draw thousands to a carnival-like setting of foods, performances, and sporting events.

Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao is located in Chong Mek Sub District and is known as the glow-in-the-dark temple. Photo: Pierce Hoover

Both A Destination and A Starting Point

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport is one of the busiest in Southeast Asia, with hundreds of flights connecting to destinations worldwide. This not only provides for convenient arrivals but also puts Thailand in a prime position for side trips to other regional destinations. Bali, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, and more are just a direct flight away. The bordering states of Laos and Cambodia are easily reached by car, bus, or train, while harbors launch cruises to a range of regional seaports.

Transportation options in and out of Bangkok make it an accessible international city to connect with the rest of the world. Photo: anek.soowannaphoom/Shutterstock

Central America, Costa Rica, Plan

Arenal Volcano Adventures in Costa Rica

April 16, 2024

Leave a comment

Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, with opportunities to witness nature, wildlife, and unlimited outdoor pursuits. Perched along the Pacific Ring of Fire, this Central American country is loaded with volcanic sites that have turned into national parks and protected areas. The most iconic volcano and sought-after area is Arenal, located in the country’s northwest.

The Majestic Arenal

Considered one of the most beautiful volcanoes on Earth, Arenal is the iconic image of Costa Rica. The youngest of the country’s volcanoes, it offers visitors fantastic scenery and a slew of outdoor activities. Towering over the town of La Fortuna, the volcano is still considered active, although there hasn’t been an eruption since 2010. Before that, the night skies were lit with flowing red lava, and rumblings could be heard from miles away. Today, you might catch a glimpse of smoke spewing from the top. The area surrounding Arenal is brimming with natural attractions, including waterfalls, hot springs, hanging bridges, and wildlife sanctuaries, which draw in visitors worldwide.

The volcano and its pristine green countryside are just three hours from San Jose. Photo: Frank Ravizza/Pixaby

The Lake

Sitting at the volcano’s base is the largest lake in Costa Rica, covering over 33 square miles with a depth of up to 200 feet. Once solely a natural lake, today’s manmade iteration is now three times its original size after the construction of the hydroelectric dam. Lake Arenal Dam produces 12 % of the electric energy consumed in Costa Rica. But visitors and locals come for the year-round activities. Lake Arenal is ideal for water and wind sports. Considered one of the world’s top windsurfing locations, sailors have been skimming across the water for decades. When the winds drop off, the lake is a kayaker’s dream, with a backdrop of rolling hillsides painting a stunning arena. Fishing is also famous as the deep waters are hiding grounds for the active and aggressive rainbow bass. Organized fishing trips escort anglers on this exciting challenge.

Lake Arenal provides a venue for the growing eco-tourism that Costa Rica is known for. Photo: Tim Pacariem/Flickr

Hot Springs

There’s nothing like a swim and soaking in the thermal hot springs after a day of hiking and exploring. Visit Tabacón Hot Springs at night when the call of animals is heard off in the distance and crowds are fewer. Thermally heated water pools flow over volcanic rocks where the mineral-rich waters range from 72 to 105 degrees. A stay at the luxurious Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa includes access to the hot springs and the opportunity to experience treatments in outdoor bungalows with the scent of the rainforest and the sound of relaxing springs. Bringing nature into the spa, the philosophy and treatments offered include mud wraps, pineapple exfoliation, honey body treatments, and more. Visitors can always buy a day pass for admission to the springs.

The ideal spot to rejuvenate your mind and body is the Hot Springs of Tabacón. Photo: khuang/Flickr

Hanging Bridges

The best animal sightings are often above ground level, as most animals take to the trees to hang out. What’s better than a park with six hanging bridges to get you up close to wildlife in the Arenal area? Views from the Mistico Hanging Bridges Park include the Rufous Garden, where you’ll have a chance to watch hummingbirds at work collecting nectar as they loop from one exotic flower to another. Another lookout and stopover is Morpho Waterfall, named after the bright blue butterfly inhabiting this part of Costa Rica. The park is home to over 350 species of birds and 700 plants.

Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park offers night walks, birding, and natural history tours. Photo: Boris G/Flickr

Bird Watching

Birding in Costa Rica is a national activity as there are more than enough natural habitats, including rain forests, parks, coastlines, cloud forests, rivers, and private reserves for the 900 species to call home. Long famous among the world’s serious birders, Costa Rica is becoming the place for the neophyte and eager enthusiasts to see these beautiful, feathered creatures. There are dozens of birding trips hosted by experienced nature guides, taking visitors on week-long expeditions or just afternoon outings. The Arenal National Park, where hanging bridges bring observers up close, and the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails are options for joining a group or hiring a private bird guide.

Rufous motmot taken on the Arenal hanging bridges trail in Arenal National Park. Photo: Peter Shaw/Flickr

The Falls

Emerging from the rainforest depths and tumbling over a cliffside, the cool mountain water drops 200 feet into an emerald pool, tempting a dip at La Fortuna Waterfall. The short hike to the bottom of the falls is steep and can be slippery during the rainy season, but invest in a 10-minute walk down and reap the rewards of a refreshing swim in the emerald waters immersed in the jungle. Here, you can soak in nature and disconnect from the outside world before you prepare for your 20-minute hike back up. Come on your own, join a hiking or horseback riding tour, and take in the area with some history and insights. Orchid hiking trails and butterfly gardens are nearby.

The scenic waterfalls of La Fortuna are located outside the town and at the foot of Arenal. Photo: Jackie Czaja/Flickr

Barbados, Caribbean, Plan

Weekend in Barbados

April 15, 2024

Leave a comment

From rum shops and churches to white sand beaches edged in calm seas and rocky headlands with crashing waves, Barbados is a diverse island. Heavily influenced by British culture, which began with the occupation in the 17th century, the island remains more British than any other Caribbean Island. West Indian elements have been woven into the existing culture, and today’s vibrant society showcases music, food, and art, reflecting the rich tapestry of the two distinct cultures. Crediting a multifaceted past, the island is packed with historic sites, monuments, and museums worth investigating. The sweeping interior hillsides and remnants of sugar plantations, along with the craggy coastlines, are the foundations that stage the island’s gardens, nature, and wildlife.

Take a look inside Barbados with this three-day journey and we’ll bet you plan another trip.

Friday Day One

Breakfast of champions, going underground, and the best fish fry in the Caribbean

6 A.M. The Thoroughbreds

Bath time at Carlisle Bay for the horses from Garrison Savannah. Photo: Debbie Snow

Most people find the half-moon-shaped beach at Carlisle Bay a place to chill, enjoy a swim, and grab a bite to eat. Its proximity to Bridgetown makes it easy to join excursions and get in some beach time, all on the same day. When the sun comes up, another set of swimmers and visitors head to the sands; these are the four-legged kind residing in nearby Garrison Savannah. If you arrive early, you can join in and salute the sunrise overlooking Carlisle Bay with these thoroughbreds. Horses from nearby Garrison Savannah Horse Track are led down the street and onto the beach, entering the ocean for their version of water aerobics and some salt water therapy nearly every morning. The groomsmen, trainers, and owners collect their horses; some make the walk, and others come in trailers, but all are eager for the early morning beach time and a dip in the sea. The horses love it, being brushed and bathed in the warm salt water while the adventurous swim out to deeper water with or without their chaperone. The procession begins with sunrise around 6 A.M. and lasts just long enough for a swim, brush down, and a few pics before heading back to the stables. If you missed your early morning coffee, look for the pink PUC sign where Pop Up Coffee sets up a folding table in the sand, selling coffee and tea to the early risers. Hang around long enough after the horses head back to the stables for a fish cutter, a morning sandwich with or without cheese when Cuz’s Fish stand opens up at adjacent Pebbles Beach. The consensus is that “with cheese” is the way to go.

11 A.M. Tunnels and Pools

Fully fueled for the day, the first stop is Harrison’s Cave, a network of limestone caverns and the most visited attraction on the island. It’s a rite of passage for everyone that visits Barbados. Named after the landowner, Thomas Harrison, and first noted back in 1796, the cave sat undisturbed until 1970, when explorations began. Tunnels were carved out, and streams were diverted to explore the underground natural ecosystem. Today, you’ll board the solar- powered tram for the historical background and submerge into the caverns filled with streams, cascading water, and pools that are framed by stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Filled with cascading water, pools, and streams, Harrison Caves is a natural cavern that was opened to the public in 1981. Photo: Debbie Snow

A new addition to the park venue is a zip line running through the tropical gardens and a rum tasting. At the Mt. Gay Rum Lounge & Bar, you’re invited to taste three rums while you learn about the distillery heritage and history of the oldest rum brand in the world, dating back to 1703.

Cooks man the hot grills, preparing orders on the spot at Oistins Fish Fry every Friday night. Photo: Debbie Snow

6 P.M. Friday Fish Fry at Oistins

Another tradition that shouldn’t be overlooked is the Friday Fish Fry. Locals and expats head to Oistins, a historic fishing village on the south coast, for the long-lived spirit of partying, dancing, and eating. This small town is the center of the island’s fishing industry. The adjacent fish market is bustling from morning to night as long as the catch is coming in. You’ll get a full-on picture of what’s cooking for the evening at the open-air grills in front of each of the establishments where smoke rises and lights twinkle. Some pride themselves on bringing in their catch, and others buy from their favorite vendor. Each promises to serve up the tastiest. A handful follow the crowds, agreeing if the line is long, the food must be the best. There’s no wrong choice; once you pick your outlet, select from the options of seafood that include wahoo, snapper, flying fish, and Caribbean lobster with Bajan sides of macaroni and cheese, peas and rice, plantains, and coleslaw; there’s also plenty hot sauces to douse on. Grab a cold Banks beer or rum cocktail, find an empty spot on the community picnics tables, and dig in. Lingering for dancing and more beers while shopping the local vendors is worth a couple of hours of exploration. It’s a good place to pick up jewelry, pottery, ceramics, wood carvings, clothing, and paintings-mostly locally made.

Freshly caught and just grilled lobster is an option at Oistins Fish Fry. Photo: Debbie Snow

Saturday Day Two

Eat breakfast like a local, take in some history, and spend a night on the town

9 A.M. Local Taste and Social Justice

Grab a quick smoothie at Cuppa Café at the Hilton lobby on-the-go coffee shop and start the day out with the ladies of Characters of Town, a sister- operated tour company and colorful hosts of the island. The Callender sisters, dressed in vibrant Creole attire, are a wealth of information, stories, background, politics, and even some local gossip. Tours starting at the Hilton will begin with a history lesson before heading to Bridgetown for a traditional Bajan breakfast of crispy fish cakes.

Bajan breakfast of fish cakes is served outside the Golden Square Freedom Park in Bridgetown. Photo: Debbie Snow

The Golden Square Freedom Park, the second green space in Bridgetown, is where we share some island history. The two-acre park opened in November 2021 and commemorates the uprising of the planter class encouraged by Clement Payne, who demanded better working and living conditions. After four days of rioting in the streets, reforms were implemented on July 26, 1937. Plagues, walls, and benches feature thought-provoking artwork and offer a place for reflection and relaxation.

11 A.M. The Neighborhood and a History Lesson

A stop at Boo & Beagles Bar at the end of Rihanna Drive for a cold drink. Photo: Debbie Snow

The next stop on the tour is the childhood home of superstar Rihanna. A back street located just outside Bridgetown known as Rihanna Drive is where the small green and yellow house sits; two rum shops flank the street, each claiming more drinks with Rihanna than the other. After a peek at the little house, there’s time for a beer and snack at Boo & Beagles Bar before heading off on the tour.

Gun Hill Signal Station logout has the best views of the south coast on the island. Photo: Debbie Snow

Historical sites and landmarks are stacked up one after the other throughout the island’s interior. Worthy of a stop is Gun Hill Signal Station. The landmark entrance is marked by a seven-foot-tall coral stone lion, carved in 1868 and restored by the Barbados National Trust in 1983. Gun Hill Signal Station was built in 1818 and became the most strategic signal station to spot oncoming invaders between Christ Church and St. Joseph stations. Today’s visitors take in panoramic and peaceful views of the south coast and Bridgetown.

A treat for history buffs is St. John’s Parish Church, dating back to 1836, where tombstones date back to 1670. Photo: Debbie Snow

A drive through some of the lushest areas on the island takes you to the next stop at St. John’s Parish Church, where Gothic architecture featuring arched doors and windows showcase the mid-17th century church. Leaving the church, the road is steep and winding with pristine glimpses of the coast until reaching tall cabbage palms and the entrance to Codrington College, the next stop. Founded by visionary sugar planter Christopher Codrington in 1743 it’s the oldest theological college in the Western Hemisphere. It’s time for a quick picnic overlooking the duck pond and a walk through the nature trail before departing.

6 P.M. The Gap

For dinner and bar hopping, we head to St. Lawrence Gap for a stroll up and down the busy streets where bars and restaurants flow out into the sidewalks. Primo Bar & Bistro is the place for dinner and a view. The boardwalk lounge, where tables overlook St. Lawrence Bay, provides an opportunity to share a pizza and a sunset tipple. Or dine inside where tables are arranged for views of the water, and the eclectic menu includes seafood and pasta dishes steeped in a Mediterranean flare. Try the grilled octopus and sweet potato for starters, and finish with a decadent dessert known as “Death by Chocolate.” The Gap is the center of island nightlife, and there are plenty of temptations for a late night.

Entrance and bar at Primo Bar & Bistro in St. Lawrence Gap. Photo: Debbie Snow

Sunday Day Three

Beach time, salute to a famous fort, rest and refuel, and take off

The beach and crystal-clear waters at Needham’s Point are steps from the Hilton. Debbie Snow

8 A.M. Lazy Morning

Final days are best spent chilling. Take in the morning beachside with breakfast at the Lighthouse Terrace at the Hilton, and ask for a table outside overlooking the beach and pool. Breakfast choices include a buffet or a la carte. Then head off to the sand and sea for a last-minute swim, and a dose of Vitamin D. A walk around the corner where the sand juts out will take you to the lifeguard tower, here the lookout point that stretches around the coast is worth a few pics. Mix in a bit of sun and history and check out the fort where massive cannons are still aimed at the sea and stone walls remain intact. Charles Fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the oldest and largest fort in Barbados, which was constructed in 1650 to ward off invaders and pirates.

Strategically placed cannons at Charles Fort were put in place to defend the coast from invaders during the mid-1600s. Photo: Debbie Snow

11 A.M. Bajan Lunch

Have lunch at Pebbles Beach next door to the Hilton and on the south side of Carlisle Bay. Choose from a handful of vendors selling smokey barbeque ribs and chicken or grilled fish. Pick up your order and take a seat on the wall or find a spot on the sand. On weekends, locals come with chairs, umbrellas, and beach towels to spend the day. A final tasty meal of grilled fish, mac and cheese, beans and rice and coleslaw at Gap Burgers before heading off to the airport is a good send-off.

Fresh fish grilled with Bajan sides for lunch from Gap Burger at Pebbles Beach. Debbie Snow

Asia, Caribbean, Central America, Costa Rica, Europe, Islands, Oceania, Plan, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Thailand

Top Choices for an Uncrowded Spring Getaway

March 7, 2024

Leave a comment

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Africa, Asia, Hawaii, Islands, Kauai, Oceania, Plan, Tahiti, Thailand

7 Romantic Islands to Escape the Crowds

January 31, 2024

Leave a comment

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Puerto Rico, St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Caribbean Escapes without the Crowds

January 19, 2024

Leave a comment

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Florida, Florida Keys, Ft. Lauderdale, Key West, Miami Beach, Plan

Florida Food Festivals

January 8, 2024

Leave a comment

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/

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 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/

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/

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

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

Aruba, Caribbean, Plan, Trip Ideas

Why You Should Visit Aruba in 2023

May 5, 2023

Leave a comment

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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

Anguilla, Caribbean, Plan, Trip Ideas

Why You Should Visit Anguilla in 2023

May 4, 2023

Leave a comment

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Marshall Islands

Kiribati

Nauru

Niue

Tuvalu

A World of Flavors

Supersized Shopping

Everyone Is Welcome

Sunset Is Just the Beginning

Spectacular Sands

Temple Life

Both A Destination and A Starting Point

The Majestic Arenal

The Lake

Hot Springs

Hanging Bridges

Bird Watching

The Falls

Friday Day One

Saturday Day Two

Sunday Day Three

La Palma Island, Spain

Cyprus

St. Vincent, St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Uvita, Costa Rica

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Cartagena, Colombia

Lord Howe Island, Australia

Kauai: A Natural Attraction

Bora Bora: Birthplace of the Bungalow

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

Koh Lanta: Thailand’s “Just Right” Island

La Digue Island: The Most Romantic

Pemba Island: Spice and Solitude

Anegada, British Virgin Islands

Bequia, The Grenadines

Culebra, Puerto Rico

La Sagesse, Grenada

Playa Coson, Dominican Republic

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

Florida Keys Seafood Festival: January 13-14, 2024

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

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

Grant Seafood Festival: March 2-3, 2024

High Wind

Global Cuisine

Room Updates

Art Movement

Music & Comedy

Culinary Journey

Celebrating Summer

Penthouse Views

On the Sand

Islands and Cays

Most Popular Articles

The Tropics are Calling

The Tropics are
Calling