Juliet Kinsman, editor-in-chief of Mr & Mrs Smith, tempts boutique hotel lovers to the most stylish stays in the Caribbean.
Neon turquoise ocean waters and talcum-powder sandy beaches fringed by verdant vegetation -- the charismatic Caribbean is as alluring as vacation destinations get. But its love shacks aren't all dripping with chic, so here we signpost you to its hippest honeymoon-worthy hotels fit for discerning style seekers...
11 Most Romantic Caribbean Getaways
Amanyara, Turks & Caicos(01 of11)
Sleek pavilions, teak terraces and an infinity pool fashioned from volcanic rock - -the luxury Asian resort group has excelled when transposing its magic formula and architectural flair to these coral-fringed isles. Rooms 40, including 20 three-, four- and five-bedroom villas Rates Low season, $1,100-$1,700 (villas $3,950-$9,750); high season, $1,450-$2,050 (villas $5,200-$12,000) -- including non-spirit bar drinks. Excludes breakfast, 10% service charge and 10% tax.
Cotton House, Mustique(02 of11)
This boutique retreat combines French West Indies architecture with Caribbean charm on a private Grenadine island. Order a rum punch from a bar fashioned from the island's original sugar mill, then relax by the boot-shaped pool flanked by manicured gardens and the azure Caribbean sea. The surrounding waters beg guests to take advantage of the Cotton House's dive center and free-to-use snorkeling gear.Rooms 20 -- including three cottages, seven suites and one two-bedroom villaRates Low season, $520-$2,710; high season, $815-$3,680. Excludes 10% VAT and 10% service charge. Breakfast and dinner can be included for a daily half-board supplement of $100 per person.
Eden Rock, St. Barths(03 of11)
The silky sands of St. Jean have hosted many a Hollywood great and Eden Rock hotel remains a must-stay for holidaying luminaries. Perfectly positioned beside one of St. Barths' most beautiful beaches and with fine wines and luxurious spa treatments on tap, it is a sybarite's dream.Rooms 31 -- including four beach housesRates Low season, €490-€2,500; high season, €685-€3,155 -- including buffet breakfast and airport transfers.
Hermitage Bay, Antigua(04 of11)
Romantic wooden cottages with private infinity pools are nestled in the lush green hillside at the private tip of this island. White-curtained day-bed terraces set the tone of laid-back luxury and relaxation.Rooms 25 Cottage SuitesRates Low season, $700-$850; high season $900-$1,650 -- includes all meals, snacks and most drinks. Guests staying three night or more get free airport transfers. Additionally, there's a 10.5% government tax and 10% service charge.
Hotel Guanahani & Spa, St. Barths(05 of11)
A rainbow of bright- and pastel-shaded cottages on a slender isthmus of golden sand, the vibe is laid-back and easygoing. For all-out pampering, book the Ocean View Wellness mini-suite. As well as panoramic ocean views, this butler-serviced, loft-style hideaway above the spa includes private spa access and a free treatment for each guest every day.Rooms 68, including 35 suites (14 with private pools)Rates Low season, €360-€2,800; high season, €595-3,900; Christmas, €915-€5,700. Includes transfers and Continental breakfast in your room, or American breakfast in the Indigo restaurant. Excludes 5% tax.
Geejam, Jamaica(06 of11)
Geejam's cabins are the color of coconuts -- hewn from dark wood, dazzling white inside -- with spectacular rainforest-meets-sea views. This sun-kissed retreat -- owned by two music producers -- even has its own recording studio, beloved by No Doubt and Grace Jones. The laidback Bushbar is equally cool, serving up fragrant curries and fruity cocktails.Rooms Seven rooms: three one-bedroom cabins, a studio suite and one three-bedroom villaRates US$495-US$1,795 -- highest rate is for the three-bedroom villa -- including Continental, Jamaican or English breakfast. Excludes tax -- 18.25-20% depending on the time of year.
Jade Mountain, St. Lucia(07 of11)
A curvaceous coast-hugging architectural feat of walkways, pillars and pools, Jade Mountain's spacious suites have one side open to an incredible view of the great outdoors. Although the five Jacuzzi suites -- the Sky Suites -- are the height of luxury, a Sun (the largest), Star or Moon Sanctuary boast private infinity pools that jut out over the bay.Rooms 29 suites, 24 with infinity poolsRates Low season, US$850-US$1,350; high season, US$1,100-US$1,650 -- excluding 18% tax and service. The breakfast, dinner and drinks meal plan costs $180 USD a day and is compulsory over Christmas and New Year.
Laluna, Grenada(08 of11)
A romantic retreat run by the ebullient Wendy and Bernardo Bertucci, the 16-suite hotel not only has a beach-side yoga pavilion and a sea-view Indonesian-inspired spa, but some delicious Italian enhancements such as melt-in-your-mouth bresaola, prosecco on tap and the best lasagna.Rooms 16 cottages Rates Low season, $415-$664; high season, $775-$1,240, excluding tax and service at 18%. American breakfast, $25.
Little Good Harbour, Barbados(09 of11)
This Barbados boutique hotel captures the essence of island life of yore, and has also opened one of the most impressive restaurants in the country. The Fish Pot is one of the most celebrated spots on Barbados, serving a delicious medley of fresh seafood and pasta dishes, accompanied by a wide selection of wines chosen by the expert owner, who's something of an oenophile.Rooms 21 suitesRates $249-$940, room only, excluding 10% service charge and 7.5% tax.
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos(10 of11)
This untouched white sand of this once uninhabited island now houses a glamorous Como hotel and wellness retreat beloved by honeymooning celebrities.Rooms 65, including Parrot Cay Estates -- six privately owned villas available to rentRates Low season, $525-$10,000; high season, $760-$10,000. Includes breakfast, yoga classes and non-motorized water sports. Excludes 10% tax and 10% service charge
READER PICK: St Lucia Akasha(11 of11)
Surrinder Chahl:
Golden sunsets, awesome views, far from the crowds but close to the action
Golden sunsets, awesome views, far from the crowds but close to the action
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