DECEMBER 2011
Blue & Borrowed – Selling Romance in the Caribbean
By Melanie Reffes
Whether you’re still smitten with an old flame, igniting sparks with a new one, or getting a jump on Valentine’s Day, a bouquet of allures tempt in the Caribbean. Graced with mountain-coddled coves and tie-dyed sunsets, selling passion in the Caribbean is a breeze.
“With cupid’s arrows pointing toward these islands in the sun,” smiles Hugh Riley, incurable romantic and secretary general of the Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization, “the pressure on creativity is heating up with planners thinking of more innovative ways to satisfy the demands of couples from weddings underwater and in palm-fringed gazebos to the always romantic sunset backdrop by the soothing Caribbean Sea.” From Anguilla and Aruba to St. Lucia and St. Maarten, the Caribbean is paradise found for brides and grooms saying their “I Do’s” on the beach, honeymooners in search of a hammock in the shade, anniversary celebrators, vow renewal takers and couples just wanting to get away from the nine-to-five.
A Suite Dream
Dinner on the beach at sunset is the big draw at 34-suite The House (/www.thehousebarbados.com), on the gold coast of Barbados. With a star-studded guestbook that includes homegrown hero Rihanna and musical superstars Diana Ross and Kool and the Gang, newlyweds are treated like royalty. “We pamper our guests as soon as they arrive,” smiles Marco Pavone, general manager. “The property is small, we serve breakfast on the beach, no wish is too big and we’re adults-only.”
At the nearby Tamarind (http://www.tamarindbarbados.com), nothing says romance sweeter than a watermelon martini at the bar facing the sea, a local saxophonist playing tunes during dinner in the 246 restaurant (named after the island’s area code), massages with candles and rose petals and sunset viewing from Room 202. “The romance market is an important priority for us,” says Andy Howard, general manager. “We’re upgrading our beachfront to include gazebos, hammocks and comfy pod chairs and on December 1, we’ll launch parties on the widest stretch of our fabulous beach.”
In Aruba, the “One Cool Honeymoon” program seduces with island-wide discounts and a bottle of champagne on arrival. At the Aruba Marriott (www.arubamarriott.com), the “Tradewinds Club Honeymoon” package impresses with a team of concierges who check guests in and unpack their bags, so couples can spend their time on more pleasant indulgences like a warm Frangipani Body Wrap. “Barefoot on the beach is the most popular wedding, but we do only one a day because there is only one sunset,” says Abigail Van der Linden, wedding coordinator. A dedicated website (http://www.weddings.arubamarriott.com) allows brides and grooms to plan their wedding online.
Chew Love
In Barbados, Daphne’s is the sister eatery to the legendary Daphne’s in London. Wowing foodies with a classic Italian menu, Chef Marco makes pasta perfect with his scrumptious linguine, chockablock with fresh seafood while unapologetically sinful desserts like green apple and ginger sorbet are guaranteed couple pleasers. http://www.daphnesbarbados.com
Waking up to the breakfast buffet at Oliver’s at the Spice Island Resort (http://www.spicebeachresort.com) in Grenada is a delicious affair with goodies made with the island’s signature nutmeg. Weddings are plenty spicy at the resort with a plethora of honeymoon and vow renewal packages that include couples massages at Janissa’s Spa and unlimited moonlight strolls along the beach.
Something Blue
The only resort in St. Lucia to offer night snorkeling, Jalousie Plantation entices with nocturnal underwater tours where couples use waterproof flashlights to swim with parrot fish as they weave their cocoons, and octopus as they venture from their daylight hideaways. http://www.jalousieplantation.com
In clear shallow water dappled by sunlight, the Underwater Sculpture Park in Grenada’s Molinere Bay is a must-see for snorkeling twosomes. Created by British sculptor Jason de Caires Taylor, the park is really a reef where tropical fish and lovebirds cavort side by side. Tours are sold by The Dive Center on Grand Anse Beach (http://www.divegrenada.com) and Aquanauts (http://www.aquanautsgrenada.com).
Leather & Lace
The perennially-popular, adults-only Hedonism II in Negril is tempting newlyweds with wicked wedding packages that include rubdowns for two at the Blue Mahoe Spa and his and hers red satin bathrobes. For the vampires in the crowd, the “Twilight and True Blood” wedding entices with blood orange champagne cocktails, bouquets of black or red roses and fangs for the bride and groom for the full effect. For couples who prefer risqué and not ghoulish, the “Leather & Lace” package invites brides to walk down the aisle in lingerie and stilettos while a dimly lit boudoir draped in white lace is honeymoon-central with a set of handcuffs for the brave and brazen. On a plank decorated with skulls and crossbones, swashbuckling couples can say “I Do” during a “Pirates & Wenches” ceremony that includes a private treasure hunt for happily ever after goodies. http://www.hedonism.com
Worth the Splurge
Sultry strolls on salmon-colored beaches are a daily ritual in Barbuda. Sandy sister to Antigua, the sandy sliver boasts one five-star resort, 360-degree panoramic views from the Lighthouse Bay Bar and the largest frigate bird sanctuary in the world. Welcoming same-sex couples (and everyone else), privacy is guaranteed at the plush nine-suite Lighthouse Bay Resort (http://www.LightHouseBayResort.com) as the only access is via small plane or helicopter. Nightly rates with meals start at $1,199 per room, per night through Dec. 17. “Couples who venture to Barbuda may want to stay here forever,“ says Terrence Linton, general manager.
Wedding Customs in the Caribbean
The High Five
1. A shiny dime placed inside the bride’s shoe brings wealth and prosperity.
2. If the wedding bouquet falls on the ground, the groom will cheat.
3. A sliver of rum-soaked wedding cake kept under the pillow guarantees fertility.
4. Bridesmaids wearing white chase away evil spirits. (Kate’s sister Pippa was dressed in white for the Royal Wedding.)
5. Shoes tied to the back of a car show the father of the bride that the new husband is financially responsible for his daughter. Courtesy: http://www.marrycaribbean.com
SEPTEMBER 2011
Dive Ten in the Caribbean
by Denise Mattia
Recreational travel that includes scuba diving is lucrative for agents and attractive for clients as well. This appealing market calls for reliable information about the destinations that offer quality diving. Some Caribbean locations that present such a product are:
Anguilla
Although known primarily for its beaches, the island’s seaward edge is a natural buttress for the surf, making the fringing reef – corals that have grown on the rocky surfaces of coves – a haven for fish. Turtles are often seen resting beneath overhangs in the reef. Cuts in the barrier allow divers to experience the wall beyond – a colorful backdrop for shipwrecks. Shoal Bay Scuba, a full service PADI facility at the west end of the island, offers three- to seven-day dive packages Visit http://www.shoalbayscuba.com
The Bay Islands
Coral and sponge-coated volcanic walls, fissures and pinnacles hold sufficient excitement to bring travelers back to the three major islands of Roatán, Utila and Guanaja and to Cayos Cochinos, one of the largest islets that form the Honduran Bay Archipelago. The largest black coral forest can be found off the coast of Utila as are migratory whale sharks. The activities these islands offer range from hiking, kayaking, fishing, mangrove tours to massage and spa services. Visit barefootdiversroatan.com and http://www.deepblueutila.com
Belize
From jungle adventures and Mayan ruins (Caracol, Cerros and Lamanai) to water sports, Belize offers vacationers more than they could possibly want. The country faces a reef system that starts at the tip of the Yucatan and continues to Honduras. South of Dangriga at Hopkins, the barrier parallels the coast in a series of vertical and sloping walls, some of which plummet to 3,000 feet. Fringing reefs, shallow ridges, hundreds of cays, incomparable coral atolls and even a flooded sinkhole, lie inside the underwater palisades. Big fish abound. The Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort receives accolades from publications and guests yearly. http://www.hamanasi.com
Bonaire
Renowned as a dive destination, this island boasts a sanctuary preserve, historical landmarks, museums and a sunny clime year round. Markers on the shore indicate the easiest access to the reefs, and divers have only to wade a short distance through calm water to the terrace, where the reef slants gently down. Sea horses, frogfish and innumerable brilliant-hued species swim among pagoda-like coral structures. In addition to scuba training and certifications, sports centers offer daily boat excursions to the reefs, where only one boat is permitted per mooring. Visit http://www.diviresorts.com
The Cayman Islands
For vacationers who want to enjoy their holiday retreat diving and socializing, Grand Cayman’s resorts’ bars line the famous Seven Mile Beach. Sandbar and Stingray City are special dives where divers can feed stingrays. Off the beaten track, the Cobalt Coast (http://www.cobaltcoast.com) on the Northwest coast provides affordable spectacular diving from shore. Notable sites are North Wall and Turtle Reef at Lighthouse Point. There’s little else to do but dive on Little Cayman, the smaller kin of the three islands, and on the Brac (bluff in Gaelic) a slow-paced, peaceful and quiet island with old world charm.
Cozumel and the Riviera Maya
It’s easy to see why Cozumel and the Riviera Maya are expected to attract 50 million visitors during 2012. Acknowledged as a world-class dive destination, Cozumel’s dramatic reefs continue to awe novice and experienced divers. On the Yucatan coast, the Riviera Maya boasts dive sites, a breathtaking underwater cave system, Mayan archaeological ruins (Tulum, Coba and Chitzen Iza), a nature reserve and a theme park with weekly shows (Xcalac). Airline and ferry service to Cozumel is available from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. In Cancun visit http://www.scubacancun.com.mx, in Cozumel and Playa del Carmen visit http://www.intercontinentalcozumel.com, http://www.prodivemex.com, http://www.scubadu.com and http://www.realresorts.com
Dominican Republic
Plenty of history was created after Columbus stopped here in 1493. The birthplace of Spanish culture in the New World, Dominican Republic has a colonial district, historic churches, a figure of Christ on a mountain, baseball, mountain hiking, river rafting, cavern and cave diving, wreck, reef and wall diving and humpback whale watching. The resorts at La Romana and Bayahibe have dive centers that offer PADI training and guides. Sightings of the indigenous Antillean Manatee are rare, but it’s not unusual to see eagle rays, nurse sharks and hundreds of fish while diving here.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Unspoiled ecosystems span virgin coral reefs, rare oceanic rain forests, dormant volcanoes and unique flora, fauna and birds populate these little island gems. Development is slow and yet the islands are easily accessible from most cities via American and US Airways. The water is turquoise clear and deepest closer to shore making game fish common. Hot water vent holes make for unusual dives – lobsters like a good hot tub. Ships sunk over the centuries and more currently on purpose are a haven for every marine life imaginable. Visit http://www.marriott.com/StKitts and prodiversstkitts.com or http://www.fourseasons.com/Nevis and http://www.scubanevis.com
Turks & Caicos Islands
The appeal of Providenciales (Provo), one of the 40-odd islands some 600 miles from Miami, are investment opportunities, accessibility to the island by air, lively resorts and restaurants and a picture-perfect sea, which attracts divers year-round. Ocean Vibes is a full-service PADI facility. Visit (oceanvibes.com and thesandsresort.com). Dive operations moor at South Caicos (one resort and one dive shop), Grand Turk (inns and guesthouses predominate this quiet island) and Salt Cay (http://www.saltcaydivers.tc). From January to April Humpback Whales are seen around the islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay.
The British and U.S. Virgin Islands
Like Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke (BVI), the USVIs attract divers to underwater caves and tunnels, shipwrecks, ocean pinnacles and seamounts, all of which are located between 15 and 45 minutes from the islands’ shores. Additionally, you can walk into the water and encounter southern stingrays and tarpon swimming among crimson colored gorgonian fans. For those who’ve never been underwater, the Sea Trekkin’ course in St. Thomas is a fun beginning. In St. Thomas visit Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villas (http://www.bolongobay.com). In St. Croix visit Anchor Dive Center Salt River (http://www.anchordivestcroix.com). In St. John visit The Westin Resort, (http://www.westinresortstjohn.com).
Don’t miss DEMA (Dive Equipment Marketing Association) this year in Orlando, Florida, November 2-5, 2011.
AUGUST 2011
Teeing Up in the Caribbean
By Melanie Reffes
“Summer afternoon, summer afternoon,” Henry James once observed, “to me, those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” All about lazy summer afternoons, the Caribbean is also a mecca for golfers who flock to the many green courses for a sunny afternoon of play that morphs a great vacation into a grand vacation. Even if you can’t tell a 9-iron from a waffle iron or a birdie from a bogey, teeing up with a calm breeze at your back and sinking a putt from twenty-five feet is what golfing bragging rights are made of.
No Holes Barred
The Bermuda Department of Tourism has partnered with Bermuda Premier Golf to launch an online system (http://www.bermudapremiergolf.com) that makes it easy to select a course, book tee times and pay online with a credit card. Each participant receives a tee time voucher by email, which is encoded with a bar code to eliminate fraud. “We feel this new system will help further cement an already outstanding reputation as one of the world’s most desirable golf destinations,” said Patrice Minors, Minister of Tourism. Courses participating include Belmont Hills, Fairmont Southampton Golf Club, Ocean View Golf Course, Port Royal Golf Course, Riddell’s Bay Golf & Country Club and Tucker’s Point Golf Club.
Inviting with a trio of meticulous courses, GPS-equipped golf carts and a 450-yard driving range, Sandy Lane in Barbados is golfing par excellence. With five lakes, flawlessly cut fairways and a Tom Fazio design, The Country Club is a demanding 72 par, 7,060-yard course with postcard-perfect views of the Caribbean Sea. Also Fazio-designed, The Green Monkey is an ultra-exclusive 72 par; 7,343-yard course carved from an old limestone quarry and the legendary Old Nine meanders through the Sandy Lane estate with 3,345 yards, par 36 and snug fairways. The Golf and Spa Escape package includes two rounds at The Country Club and one Sandy Lane Body Massage. Visit http://www.sandylane.com
Leaders of the Tee World
Barcelo Bavaro in Punta Cana re-opened the P.B. Dye course that sits pretty in the middle of a rainforest. For the shoppers in the crowd, the Golf Store is a gigantic emporium of all things golf. Visit http://www.barcelo.com
Also in Punta Cana, Cap Cana Las Iguanas is an 18 hole, par 72 on one of the most luxurious resorts in the Dominican Republic. Managed by Troon Golf and designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course offers undulating fairways with a mix of ocean, inland and natural-wetland holes. Three back-nine holes along the windswept coastline provide plenty of photo ops. The Golden Bear Lodge, the world’s first Nicklaus-designed luxury condominium village, sits between Las Iguanas and Punta Espada, Cap Cana’s first Nicklaus course in the D.R. Visit http://www.capcana.com
In St. Kitts, Tourism Minister Richard (Ricky) Skerritt knows a good course when he sees one. A member of the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club, the Senator is also an avid golfer. “I like peace and quiet but I also like competitive and outdoor activities, so my ideal vacation has to have a golf course, the sea and plenty of sunshine.” The St. Kitts Marriott Resort (http://www.stkittsmarriott.com) has rolled out the Super Escape package, through December 18, with rates starting at $329 per night, including dining at the on-property restaurants, playtime at the Royal St. Kitts and an après play rubdown at the Emerald Mist Spa. http://www.royalstkittsgolfclub.com
Across the channel in Nevis, and surrounded on three sides by the golf course, Four Seasons is steps from the shore and canopied by coconut palms. Coveted by golfers who come to play the Robert Trent Jones II course, the swishy property offers gratis weekly clinics and a 9-hole guest versus manager scramble each week. Good for travel through October 31, the “Grip It and Rip It’’ package includes three rounds of golf and a fifty percent discount on club rentals for each paid 18-hole round. Visit http://www.fourseasons.com
Grand Golf Galore
With courses that evoke the island’s history, Jamaica is tops with golfers. The White Witch Course at Rose Hall—named after Annie Palmer, one of Jamaica’s most famous legends—has a unique mountainous terrain with dramatic elevation changes and numerous well-placed bunkers. The Fairways & Greens package at the Ritz-Carlton includes an ocean view suite, breakfast for two at the Horizon Restaurant and one round of golf for two per day. For travel through December 22, rates start at $399 per night, per room. “The allure of the White Witch Golf Course provides the perfect backdrop for couples to play or simply take in the view,” said Mike Cole, Director of Golf Operations. “The White Witch restaurant offers panoramic views of Jamaica’s lush greenery and turquoise waters which is an idyllic location for couples to watch the evening sunset over the Caribbean.” Visit http://www.ritzcarlton.com
A wind-swept front nine that gives way to a trap-filled back nine is the appeal at the Cinnamon Hill course, situated on grounds that used to be a sugar plantation. Honoring times past, the former house of Annie Palmer can be seen from the second hole. The course also overlooks the setting for James Bond’s “Live and Let Die” film, a home owned by the late Johnny Cash, and the very spot where Elizabeth Barrett Browning penned “How do I love thee, let me count the ways.” http://www.cinnamonhilljamaica.com
Stretching over fifty acres of rolling hills near the town of Mandeville, the Manchester Club is the oldest course in the Caribbean. Founded as a country club in 1865, the course is still in operation with sand traps and bunkers at more than 2,000 feet above sea level. With breathtaking vistas from many of the holes, the Club also has tennis and squash courts. Go to http://www.visitjamaica.com
Mark Your Calendar
October 18 – 19: Bermuda hosts the PGA Grand Slam at the Port Royal Golf Course. http://www.pga.com
December 1– 8: Sandals is playing with Greg Norman at the week-long Champions Golf Academy at Sandals Emerald Reef Golf Club in Exuma, Bahamas. Four PGA pros will be on hand to teach three, two and single day programs including full-swing analysis on a V-1 computer. Visit http://www.sandals.com
JULY 2011
Say Si to the Spanish Caribbean
By Melanie Reffes
Like a stew with a potpourri of flavors, the Caribbean is a tasty melting pot of cultures from around the world. From English and Dutch to French, African and Spanish, diversity is the treasured ingredient in the most popular warm weather destination in the world.
Offering more than margaritas and mariachis (though there are plenty of those), Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Riviera Maya pack a spirited Spanish punch with an impressive array of resorts, convenient airlift from the U.S. and enough fun in the sun to beat the merengue band.
Make a Date in the D.R.
Welcoming more than four million visitors, the Dominican Republic set a new record in 2010 with a 3.3 percent increase over 2009 with the US market recording 27 percent of overall visitors.
Following a brand upgrade, the Hard Rock Hotel (http://www.hardrock.com), formerly the Moon Palace, is the first all-inclusive in the chain of hotels. With 1,780 rooms, the mega-resort boasts the largest casino in the country, 48-suite spa and 18-hole golf course. Iconic music memorabilia from Elton John’s piano to Sammy Hagar’s 1926 hot rod is eye-candy for music fans. “This first all-inclusive property marks a major milestone for our brand that started with just a single cafe in 1971,” said VP Michael Shindler. “As we celebrate Hard Rock’s 40th anniversary in 2011, we look forward to our growth, while staying true to our music vibe and rock ‘n’ roll roots.”
Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana (formerly NH Royal Beach) and the Now Larimar Punta Cana (formerly NH Real Arena) next door are offering introductory rates as low as $139 at Secrets and $99 at the Now resort. The all-inclusive brand is slated to open a Zoëtry Gems Cap Cana, Secrets Gems, Now Emerald and Now Pearl by 2013. “We have a strong, vested interest in expanding within the D.R. as we keep to our promise to provide our guests with the ultimate luxurious vacation experience in attractive destinations,” said Alex Zozaya, President, AM Resorts. Visit http://www.amresorts.com
Delta Vacations (http://www.deltavacations.com) reported substantial growth following increased access to air seats and product enhancements. The percentage of passengers on each Delta flight who booked through Delta Vacations has doubled and on some routes, such as Minneapolis to St. Paul to Punta Cana, 60 percent of flyers are Delta Vacations customers. “In the last year, we have expanded our business in the Caribbean by 32 percent, with an increase in room nights in the D.R. by 82 percent to date,” said Elizabeth Moriarty, VP of product development for MLT Vacations. Three new destination-wedding hotels were added to the Lifestyle Collection including Hard Rock Hotel, Secrets Sanctuary Cap Cana and Ocean Blue and Sand. Delta Vacations sells air and hotel packages to four resorts in La Romana, thirty-six properties in Punta Cana and four hotels in Santo Domingo.
Once a sleepy fishing village, Samana is the next hot spot with untouched beaches, jungle-draped mountainsides and five thousand hotel rooms expected by 2015. Viva Residence Las Terrenas (http://www.vivaresidence.com) opened with 76 units while the adjoining Viva Bahia Estela offers 42 seaside suites each with two large bedrooms. Close to the charming town of Las Terrenas with shops selling amber jewelry and spirited corner bars pouring plenty of Presidente beer, Balcones del Atlántico (http://www.balconesdelatlantico.rockresorts.com) is the latest hotel to join the Rock Resorts portfolio. Tour operators selling Samana include Liberty-Gogo, Travel Impressions and Vacation Store.
For more info about travel to the Dominican Republic, visit http://www.godominicanrepublic.com
No Passport Needed
Tourism to Puerto Rico is on an uptick thanks to a new marketing initiative that is making quite a splash with travelers. “I attribute our new ‘Just Think Puerto Rico’ campaign, coupled with efforts by our tourism industry partners to the growth in tourism we are seeing this year,” said Mario González-Lafuente, Executive Director, Puerto Rico Tourism Company.
The recently-launched promotional website (http://www.mypuertoricoexperience.com) offers easy access to a plethora of packages, deals, discounts and value-adds. Through October 30, hotels participating include Hotel El Convento, La Concha, Isla Verde Beach Resort and Doubletree by Hilton San Juan.
The San Juan Marriott launched “The Big Dig” incentive program (http://www.bigdigsanjuan.com) that awards the five agents who confirm the most room nights. As part of the adventure, winners will hunt for treasure totaling $10,000 buried underneath Condado Beach. “Travel agents are the hotel industry’s most prominent advocates and we have created this program to thank them for their great support over the years,” said Hans-Georg Roehrbein, GM.
Celebrating the opening of the Suite Tower at La Concha (http://www.LaConchaResort.com), “Luxe at the Suites” includes $195 nightly rates, $50 massage credit and discounts on tours. Retro in design, La Concha offers five restaurants and a casino.
The Condado, east of Old San Juan, now synonymous with condo towers and shopping galore, was once a beach community where wealthy families kept second homes. A few of the historic buildings remain, including El Canario Inn (http://www.canariohotels.com) with rates from $90. During the day, Plaza del Mercado, south of Condado, is jam-packed with plantains, avocados and folks cooling off with coconut water. When the sun sets, the bars that line the plaza throw open their grates to a lively crowd that morphs the square into an energetic block party. And for a pick-me-up with a pedigree, Caficultura brews a delectable ‘cortadito’ or espresso with a touch of hot milk. With wooden doors propped open for easy people-watching on the Plaza de Colón, this is the hippest café in the city.
For more info, visit http://www.seepuertorico.com
Eat, Drink and be Merry in Riviera Maya
From Cancun to Belize, Riviera Maya snakes along eighty-one miles of coastline. With 40,000 hotel rooms, eco-adventures, archaeological sites and the Great Mayan Reef, the Mexican Caribbean is the top choice for three million travelers annually. Hot spots include Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres and the Tulum ruins high atop cliffs overlooking the sea.
Honored for its dedication to the environment, Rosewood Mayakobá resort (http://www.rosewoodmayakoba.com) was awarded the ‘Sustainable Standard-Setter’ prize by the Rainforest Alliance. “We strive to provide our guests an unparalleled experience, but do so without sacrificing the environment and its natural resources,” said Pablo Graf, VP.
In the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone, JW Marriott Cancun (http://www.marriott.com) is now an AAA Five Diamond resort. With big brand appeal, the 448 room property excels with a Mayan -inspired spa and 20,000 square feet of meeting space. Sister property CasaMagna Marriott Cancun also received high marks with a Four Diamond rating for the 18th consecutive year. “Comparing the number of properties that are evaluated each year with those that actually receive the Four and Five Diamond rankings truly showcases the quality of our resorts,” said Christopher Calabrese, General Manager of both properties. For more info on the Riviera Maya, visit http://www.rivieramaya.com
JUNE 2011
Stay & Play in the Caribbean – A Family Affair
By Melanie Reffes
With kids in tow, the challenge of a summer vacation lies in maximizing the fun and minimizing the meltdowns. Any resort worth its tot-sized robe can call itself kid-friendly, but a bona fide family-oriented property should cater to the entire brood, with options that go beyond having chicken fingers at the end of the buffet table and a swimming pool that looks like a daycare center. From splash pools to Big Bird on the beach, the Caribbean is rolling out the red carpet for families this summer.
Let Good Times Roll
St. Lucia is offering the “Go Bananas” promotion where kids can tap their inner pirate with treasure hunts, play in the mud at the Sulphur Springs and zip line through the rain forest without their parents having to take out a second mortgage to pay the bill. Incentives include an express immigration line at the airport and discounts at hotels and restaurants. From June 1 to September 30, participating hotels include Almond Morgan Bay, Bay Gardens Beach, Bay Gardens, Bay Gardens Inn, Coco Palms, Cotton Bay Village, Smugglers Cove and Coconut Bay Beach which has the largest water park on the island. “Whether it’s horseback riding, visiting the world’s only drive-in volcano or taking a sail on the brig featured in Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean movie, there is no shortage of family-friendly activities on St. Lucia,” says Nerdin St. Rose VP marketing and sales, St. Lucia Tourist Board. “The “Go Bananas” name incorporates our rich history with bananas and encourages families to really relax and just have fun.” Visit http://www.stlucianow.com
Family-owned for more than five decades, The Buccaneer is the only hotel in the USVI recognized by the National Trust as a Historic Hotel of America. Founded in the 17th century, the St. Croix property is a seashell away from the historic town of Christiansted and overlooks both the ocean and the golf greens. The Summer Family Vacation package – through August 31 - includes connecting rooms, Kids Club, scuba lessons, breakfast, party with steel drums and Mocko Jumbie stilt walkers, beach toys and a car to explore the island. Visit http://www.thebuccaneer.com
In Grand Cayman, Cotton Tree impresses with a treasure chest of family fun from sand castle building and scouting for shells along Barkers Beach to bikes, hikes, art classes and plenty of perches for mom and dad to take five. “We love to pamper our guests and watch their stress melt away,” says owner Heather Lockington. Indulgences include complimentary local calls and a chef who whips up gourmet meals in the comfy cottages. Low-season nightly rates – through October 31 – start at $470 for a garden view and $625 for an oceanview. Visit http://www.caymancottontree.com
Suite ‘N the Deal
Crowning a limestone cliff overlooking a pink sand beach, The Reefs in Bermuda is wooing families with 64 suites, a spa and three on-site restaurants. “The Reefs has long been a popular gathering place for families to celebrate special occasions,” says Nagma Walker, General Manager. “We’re now seeing an increase in multiple generations of families in our two and three bedroom Club Suites.” For travel through October 31, the Ultimate Friends & Family Celebration package includes a 15 percent discount on a five-night stay, breakfast, gourmet dinner, snorkeling gear and a $100 per person voucher for the spa or a round of golf. Visit http://www.thereefs.com
In Jamaica, families rule at the Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay. A Rock Resort set on 400 acres; villas are discounted by twenty percent for travel through November 17. Dubbed the ‘Royal Summer ‘ promotion, add-ons include poolside barbecues with spicy fare for the grown-ups and plenty of burgers for the wee ones as well as a 24/7 medical center for those pesky insect bites, sunburns and other vacation boo-boos. “This promotion allows families of all sizes to stay like royalty in our luxurious villas while enjoying all the family-fun that Half Moon has to offer,” said Aram Zerunian, General Manager. “With the Equestrian Center, Dolphin Lagoon, water sports and children and teen centers, there is something here for every family.” Visit http://www.halfmoon.rockresorts.com
Sea turtles and parrotfish are the big draws for families at the Ocean Club Resorts in Turks & Caicos. The on-site diving operator, Provo Turtle Divers, organizes scuba lessons for first-timers and kayaking trips to spot JoJo, the family-friendly dolphin mascot. Suite rates through December 15 start at $167 per night and include modern kitchens, gratis Wi-Fi, bicycles and washer/dryers. Visit http://www.oceanclubresorts.com
X-Box or Bread Box
High-tech gizmos and gadgets are the great levelers for families. While resort game rooms are standard-issue these days, it’s the state-of-the-art stuff that keeps tweens and teens entertained. The Xbox 360 Game Garage at Beaches Boscobel and Beaches Negril in Jamaica and Beaches Sandy Bay in Turks & Caicos features the latest and greatest ‘Kinect for Xbox 360’ that comes with a voice and motion-activated system. For the die-hards in the crowd, Xbox 360 video games are complimentary. “We are thrilled to be the first within the travel industry to offer the most up-to-date forms of entertainment to our guests and demonstrate that we will continue to raise the bar within the teen and tween market,” said Adam Stewart, CEO Beaches Resorts. Ratcheting up the family appeal, Scratch DJ Academy, created by hip-hop legend Run DMC; Liquid nightclub for teens; Trench Town game room where adults aren’t allowed; and the Red Lane Spa Teen Spa are guaranteed crowd pleasers. For travel through December 2012, the Family Reunion package includes a catered picnic, souvenir photograph and concierge whose job it is to take care of the varied whims of each family member. Visit http://www.beaches.com
In the Bahamas, CRUSH club at the Atlantis water park resort is a fan favorite with teens who keep up with their Facebook pals in the internet lounge and get down on the gigantic dance floor with uber-cool video walls. The all-inclusive resort also caters to the younger set who bake with Cookie Monster or read with Elmo while parents soak in the adults-only hot tub. Note to agents: suggest the Reef Tower with en-suite kitchens and a nearby grocery store. Visit http://www.atlantis.com
Just a short drive from Nassau/Paradise Island International Airport and the historic forts guarding Nassau Harbor, Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort welcomes families with a 1,000-foot beachfront and an abundance of activities and water sports that are sure to please the whole crowd. The ‘Family Time in Paradise’ package – available through April 2012 – guarantees connecting rooms or suites and includes $100, $50, or $25 resort credit per room per day to be used at the Discover Kids club, spa or recreational activities. With the SPG Kids Pass program, children ages 12 and younger can enjoy all-inclusive dining privileges for a flat rate of $25 per day. Visit http://www.starwoodhotels.com
In Jamaica, Breezes Resort & Spa – Trelawney will keep kids and their parents afloat with a watery complex that boasts four swimming pools, splashing waterspouts, a swim-up bar for grown ups a 124-foot waterslide. The kids program ensures the little ones will be well supervised if Mom and Dad wish to have a little time to themselves, and sunfish sailing, basketball and tennis courts, beach volleyball and an 18-hole golf course offer plenty of options for the whole family to enjoy together. Visit http://www.breezes.com
MAY 2011 FEATURE
Mother Nature Rocks
Top Natural Attractions in the Caribbean
By Melanie Reffes
Away from the swank resorts, gourmet eateries and glittering casinos; the sunning, swimming and surfing, the Caribbean salutes Mother Nature with a spectacular display of natural attractions. Although many of the natural wonders can be explored on your own, organized tours are advised for expert guidance in climbing mountains, kayaking rivers and photographing a riotous array of wildlife from vervet monkeys to predator birds. With a nod to ensuring the environmental sustainability of the region, the Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC) organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) was held in April in Bermuda and attracted leading tourism planners and policymakers who focused on ways to maintain the new green economy. From bays that glow in the night and dark caves that are home to ancient bats, to mineral baths and marine parks, get off the beach chair and discover a truly magnificent region under the tropical sun.
Wild Blue Yonder
The crown jewel of the U.S. National Park Service, El Yunque or The Caribbean National Forest is the most visited natural site in Puerto Rico. An hour southeast of San Juan towards the Luquillo Mountains, the 28,000-acre bonanza of biodiversity is the only rainforest in the U.S. Forest system and is chockablock with hundreds of animals including the endangered green parrot and the two-note chirping coqui frog, whose iconic image is on virtually every souvenir sold in the gift shop. While it is advisable to hike the forest with a tour guide, nature buffs can do it alone with a sturdy pair of sneakers, a water bottle and a good sense of direction. When the clouds lift—even for a minute—the big rock called El Yunque is the most visible point on the horizon. Learn more at http://www.elyunque.com
Carpeted in brilliant hues of green and rising dramatically from the sea, the Pitons are St. Lucia’s treasured twin peaks. Formed from lava and rock, these volcanic cones have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and are the most photographed image on the island. A formidable challenge for even the most experienced climber, a hike up the peaks at sunrise is well worth the effort. Visit http://www.stlucianow.com
Despite its small size, St. Kitts is Eden for bird watchers who, with binoculars in hand, covet glimpses of a variety of birds dressed up in blue, purple, yellow, and green. Water birds including herons, brown pelicans and oystercatchers can be spotted in the salt ponds and lagoons of the southeast peninsula, while towards the lower mountains, hummingbirds, doves and hawks are a feast for the eyes. Visit http://www.stkittstourism.kn
Off the Deep End
Opened in December, St. Maarten now lays claim to its first marine park. Named the Man of War Shoal, the park includes the popular Proselyte Reef dive site named after a 32-gun frigate that sunk in 1801. Sightings of migratory whales and dolphins are already a big hit with tourists. “By creating the marine park, St. Maarten is taking steps to preserve the local environment as well as enhancing sustainable tourism,” said Franklin Meyers, tourism minister. Visit http://www.vacationstmaarten.com
First protected by the U.S. Government in 1948 to preserve one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean Sea, Buck Island off the north coast of St. Croix was declared a national monument in 1961 by President Kennedy. Expanded by President Clinton to include much of the water that surrounds the island, the park in the USVI is snorkeling nirvana with sherbet-colored angelfish and eagle rays. To the delight of nature buffs, leatherback and hawksbill turtles nest on the beach from March through August. Visit http://www.stcroixtourism.com
A mecca for scuba fans, Bonaire’s National Marine Park surrounds the tiny island that sits in the sea east of Curacao. From the shore to the point where the water reaches two-hundred feet deep, the park is one of the best protected reef systems in the Caribbean. Although closely monitored, humans are allowed to swim, kayak and windsurf. Visit http://www.tourismbonaire.com
Jamaica’s most visited natural site, Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios is a full-day affair with a jogging beach, crafts park, barbecue pit and cafeteria—dishing up spicy snacks from jerk chicken to curried goat—and the magnificent falls which rise to six-hundred feet above sea level. Visit http://www.dunnsriverfallsja.com
Gone Batty
The highest point in Trinidad’s central range, Mount Tamana is also an awesome bat cave. After a steep climb to the summit, hikers are spellbound by thousands of bats who live in the first chamber. More adventurous travelers can explore farther into the second chamber where the bats have a wingspan measuring one foot in diameter. It’s hard to imagine, but estimates put the total number of bats living in the chambers at half a million—including twelve different species. Visit http://www.pariasprings.com
The largest of its kind in the Caribbean, Harrison’s Cave in Barbados is a trip back in time through caverns of crystalized limestone and centuries old stalagmites. Recently revamped, modern trams take visitors into the subterranean chambers for an up close look at cascading waterfalls and pools of clear water. Visit http://www.harrisonscave.com
Night Magic
In Puerto Rico, Island Adventures Biobay Tours offers nightly adventures aboard electrically-powered double-pontoon boats that take nocturnal tourists through the waters of Puerto Mosquito on Vieques Island. One of three bioluminescent bays on the island, Mosquito Bay is full of single-celled organisms that emit a flash of blue-green light at night when disturbed by predators or swimming tourists. For a unique experience, the boats park in an area of high bioluminescent concentration where brave souls get the rare chance to swim with millions of these glowing critters. Visit http://www.biobay.com
With one of the healthiest coral reef systems in the world, it’s no wonder scuba diving at night is increasingly popular with tourists visiting Bermuda. Triangle Diving offers three-hour night-diving excursions for a spooky look at crabs, eels and octopus. The one-tank dives are offered every two weeks on Tuesday’s starting in June and continuing through October. Visit http://www.trianglediving.com