Our Caribbean impressions
Published 01 September 2019
Our views on the Caribbean and our luxury hotel holiday suggestions
Perhaps choose to visit some of the smaller islands - Grenada, Mustique, the Virgin Islands, Nevis, Saint Kitts, and Petit Saint Vincent. Visiting places such as Grenada, Mustique and Nevis will leave you in no doubt that each island has something very different to offer visitors to the Caribbean.
Below we describe what is special about each of these very different islands and some of our hotel highlights. Here are our Caribbean impressions.
Barbados
The first thing that strikes you when you get off the plane in Barbados is the warm welcome you receive, both from the beautiful Caribbean breeze that greets you as soon as you get off the plane and from everyone you meet from the moment you arrive. Certainly one of the most appealing rooms here are the Luxury Cottages at the Coral Reef Club. These cottages ooze traditional Barbadian charm, whilst providing spacious accommodation set amongst the property’s lush gardens. We would highly recommend visiting the restaurant at Cobbler’s Cove one evening. The food and the service is some of the best in Barbados and the general ambience in the restaurant is second to none.
Antigua
Antigua, with its unspoilt country side and traditional harbour towns, has its own unique charm very different to that of Barbados. Antigua is the perfect place to get away from it all, as many of the resorts enjoy such beautiful and remote locations. Nonsuch Bay Resort, for example, offers breath taking views over a secluded bay perfect for sailing and water sports. The accommodation that stands out is the Ocean Suites at Carlisle Bay. From these luxurious rooms, guests have the perfect spot from which to watch the sun set over the ocean. A trip to Shirley Heights is also highly recommended for the most stunning panoramic views you will see on the island.
St Lucia
Words cannot describe the natural beauty that St Lucia has to offer. From quiet fishing villages and luscious rainforests to the iconic Pitons in the south of the island, St Lucia really is unique. Jade Mountain stands out, with its Sanctuary rooms all offering private plunge pools with views of the Pitons. East Winds Inn is also an excellent choice for its welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.
Nevis
We recommend Nevis as the island has a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and because it’s so small, it is very easy to explore and get around. We would recommend doing an island tour to anyone staying on Nevis.
St Vincent and the Grenadines
We don’t think there is anywhere quite like Mustique. The island seems to be very unspoilt and a short ride in a mule takes you to beautiful beaches slightly more off the beaten track. Watch out for the tortoises though – they seem to outnumber the people on the island and don’t seem too concerned by traffic! Another island destination in St Vincent and the Grenadines is Petit Saint Vincent, which is just a short boat ride from Union Island. Much like Mustique, the island is very unspoilt, and the managers of the resort are very concerned with sustainability and looking after the natural environment, both on and around the island. The beach at Petit Saint Vincent is definitely a contender for one of the best beaches we have visited in the Caribbean.
Grenada
One of our favourite destinations has to be Grenada. Most places you go in the Caribbean, the locals are very warm and welcoming, but we find Grenada to be an exceptionally friendly island. Grande Anse Bay is a great area to explore, and the market in St George’s on a Saturday morning is well worth a visit.