“A change of latitude will help my attitude.”
The ocean is calling, so let’s pack our bags and visit some amazing countries with a tropical vibe. These are my favorite pieces of paradise that I have been fortunate enough to visit. They are all beautiful places, each with their own culture and special features. I hope that this will inspire you when you are choosing where to go next.
1) Belize – Set on the Northeast coast of Central America, this tropical paradise offers gorgeous beaches and a lush rainforest. Guests can visit the jungle and see jaguars, toucans, monkeys and much more. The Great Blue Hole of Belize attracts scuba divers from all over the world. This “jewel in the heart of the Caribbean Basin” is a must for adventurous travelers.
Where to Stay:
Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort (where we stayed)
My husband and I honeymooned at this resort, and it was truly outstanding. The treehouses we stayed in were well-appointed, clean and had lovely tropical décor. The service was excellent and the people were super friendly. And we loved the excursions we experienced.
Other Recommendations:
Cayo Espanto
This private island houses 5-star villas surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. Each luxuriously appointed beachfront villa has its own private plunge pool. A new award-winning menu is created daily to cater to your tastes. Guests can also enjoy the spa and many watersports and excursions.
Things to do in Belize:
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Canoeing, Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
Cave and Jungle exploring
Bird Watching
Touring Mayan Ruins
2) British Virgin Islands
For my big birthday, we went sailing with two other couples to the British Virgin Islands. What a fantastic experience! My husband is a sailor, so this was as much a dream trip for him as it was for me. The islands are spectacular and getting to hop around to each one was a dream vacation.
Where we stayed:
On a Catamaran with Sunsail
Other Recommendations:
The Sailing Collective
This travel group creates custom sailing voyages offering many different sized boats from monohull to catamaran. The boats are fully-equipped and guests can enjoy time at sea with a full crew or on their own. Take advantage of the trade winds in the most beautiful sailing spot in the world.
If you don't sail and want to stay in the British Virgin Islands:
Little Dix Bay
Little Dix Bay is a Paradise offering intimate surroundings, exceptional cuisine and spectacular beaches with completely refurbished and renovated accommodations. This gem offers tranquility and attentive service found nowhere else in the Caribbean. Little Dix Bay was developed by Laurence Rockefeller in the early 1960s- and is presently managed by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts. The hotel offers 3 restaurant options, a Rum bar, and a spa.
Things to do in BVI:
Sailing, Snorkeling, Boating
Stargazing
The Baths
Foxy's, Soggy Dollar, Willy T's
Drive a Jeep/ATV around island
3) Barbados
Crystal clear water, friendly people and a vibrant culture make this a fantastic destination. Known as the birthplace of rum, Barbados offers plenty to do and see.
Where to stay:
Sandals Barbados (where we stayed)
This all-inclusive, adults-only resort is a fantastic place to unwind and relax. With pristine landscaping, dozens of pools, and superb service you cannot help but fall in love with Sandals. There are 21 restaurants (includes next door Sandals Royal), countless bars, and 14 different room categories. Activities abound at the resort including DJ nights, volleyball matches, live entertainment, and much more.
Other Recommendations:
Fairmont Royal Pavilion
This magnificent resort presides over 11 acres of heritage tropical gardens and Caribbean beachfront. The white sands of Alleyne’s Bay are steps away from your light-filled room, suite or villa – all of which include a furnished balcony for dreamy afternoon siestas, spa treatments and evening sundowners. With non-motorized watersports included in our rate, prepare to discover the area’s vivid coastal beauty by kayak, paddleboard or sailboat, or spend your days lounging by the pool instead.
Cobblers Cove
This small exclusive resort on the renowned west coast of Barbados. The all-suite hotel and its enchanting gardens offer the feel and warm hospitality of an English country house- but are situated on a stunning Caribbean beach. The chirping of small tropical birds and subtle fragrances of exotic plants drift through the open bay windows to awaken the senses. Cobblers Cove undoubtedly offers some of the finest food on the island. The hotel welcomes many guests back time and time again thanks to its excellent- friendly service and lovely atmosphere. As one might expect- the afternoon tea-served every day at four o clock sharp is legendary.
Things to do in Barbados:
Visit the Wildlife Reserve and see the monkeys, tortoises, and more
Explore the island in a Jeep (beware the roads are bumpy)
Watersports
Scuba diving and snorkeling
Sunbathing
Barbados Fish Festival (a weeeky event)
Sunset Cruises
4) Hawaii
Famous for the fabulous coastlines, huge volcanoes, and exceptional marine life, Hawaii is perfect for anyone looking for variety in their vacation. With many islands to choose from, you can hop around and explore each for a few days.
Best time to visit: Winter
Where to stay:
Hotel Wailea
This adults-only Maui hideaway has 72 suites, each with soaking tubs and lanais. The 5-star resort features breathtaking mountain scenery, and 15 acres of Zen-inspired landscaped grounds comprised of tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls and winding pathways.
Turtle Bay Resort
Experience the natural beauty of Oʻahu in your own private oceanfront bungalow, lavish suite, or ocean view room. With nine different dining areas (including a Hawaiin luau), a luxurious spa, a championship golf course and a beautiful beach, guests are sure to enjoy their stay.
Ko'a Kea
Snooze just steps away from the surf and sand in oceanfront rooms and suites that reflect the lush, exotic nature of Kaua`i. Ko'a Kea has four dining options, a gorgeous pool and spa and lots of activities to choose from.
Thins to do in Hawaii:
Scuba, surf or snorkle
Horseback ride by the sea
Golf
Enjoy a Luau
Shop
Tour via ATV, Helicopter or Catamaran
Ziplining and Kayaking
5) Jamaica
If you are looking for a beautiful, laid-back island country, Jamaica is an excellent choice. The culture, the music and its people are fantastic. Natural wonders abound in this vibrant country. The turquoise water laps against white sand beaches, the rhythmic sounds of reggae rock the island, all while the vibrant culture of Jamaica lifts your spirit.
Best time to visit - Spring
Where to stay:
Sandals Ochi (where we stayed)
Sandals Ochi has the best of two worlds, a serene and tranquil setting and a beachside club feel on the other. With a 100-acre Garden of Eden full of private escapes and the elite Butler Village is a lovely place to relax and unwind. Designed to bring you closer to the water’s edge than any other, you’ll enjoy a total of 11 unique bars - including the Caribbean’s first speakeasy - 16 trend-worthy eateries, and challenging greens at the nearby golf club. Either way you go, there’s unsurpassed privacy when you want it, and thrilling activity and nightlife when you don’t. Ocho Rios’ premier luxury destination is unforgettable.
Jamaica Inn
With a legendary history (Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller toasted their honeymoon here. Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond 007, sipped martinis at the bar, Noel Coward, Errol Flynn, Katherine Hepburn, and many more greats often graced the lounge), The Jamaica Inn is a secluded retreat offering a luxury resort in a Caribbean paradise. It boasts an all-inclusive meal plan and a luxurious spa with rooms right on the beach or more private bungalows if you choose.
The Caves Hotel
This natural preserve turned traveler’s nirvana is located just minutes from Negril’s stunning 7mile white sand beachfront. The Caves is the ultimate getaway for relaxation, revitalization and pure romance. The Caves features 12 idyllic cliffside cottages, a grand villa, 2 dining gazebos, private caves and the signature Blackwell Rum Bar. There’s also a Spa, jacuzzi, sauna, private hot tub and saltwater swimming pool, all just within steps of the glittering sapphire sea.
Things to do in Jamaica:
Watersports and Scuba Diving
Golf and Land Activities
Catamaran cruise
Horseback Riding on the beach
Bamboo River Rafting
Cannibis Experience
Hiking
Reggae tour
Dunn's River Falls
Ziplining, ATV and more
6) Mexico
There are many places to go in Mexico; I've picked 3 different places that are known for vibrant culture and a relaxing stay. Mexico is known for its white sand beaches, rhythmic city nightlife and Mayan culture.
Best time to visit - Winter or Spring
Best places to stay:
Hotel Xcaret Arte - Playa del Carmen
Hotel Xcaret Arte pays homage to the best Mexican artists. It has 900 adults only suites inspired by artists of Mexico´s culture, 10 gastronomic experiences, a spa and wellness retreat and incredible architecture.
Waldorf Astoria Pedregal - Cabo San Lucas
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is an immersive experience that celebrates the heritage of Mexican culture and cuisine, nestled between the cliffside and the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean. Relax and unwind in your own spacious, room. suite, villa or casita, each with a private plunge pool and ocean views.
Las Ventanas al Paraiso - San Jose del Cabo
Sun, sand and sea meet in Cabo San Lucas among the desert coastline at Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort. This amazing resort is distinguished by exquisite design amist a breathtaking landscape. With eight beautiful resort pools, stunning suites/villas, and an incredible spa, guests are sure to love their stay at Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
Things to do in Mexico:
Ocean and Land adventures
Golf and Tennis
Pool and Beach
Parks and Land Tours
Boating Adventures
Culinary and Art Excursions
Beach and Desert ATV outings
7) St. Lucia
With the amazing Piton mountains, St. Lucia combines beauty and mystique welcoming visitors with her soothing waves, warm beaches, and hospitable people. The only sovereign nation to be named for a woman, the island offers many adventures, history and culture and endless beauty.
Best time to visit: Winter or Spring
Sandals Halcyon (where we stayed)
The most quintessentially Caribbean of all Sandals Resorts, Sandals Halcyon Beach, is considered a true Garden of Eden with lush tropical gardens along pristine white-sand beaches. Guests can choose from six palate pleasing restaurants and seven creative bar concepts. Golf lovers will enjoy free greens fees and complimentary transfers at two challenging golf courses. You can also visit the two other Sandals resorts (Grande and La Toc).
Zoetry Marigot Bay
Perched atop a quiet hillside with panoramic marina views liesa secluded, tropical paradise nestled in nature. This AAA Four-Diamond boutique resort is exclusively located on the island’s most desirable marina, Marigot Bay Yacht Haven, complete with swaying palm trees, anchored yachts, and a nearby volcanic white-sand beach, offering both tranquility and easy access to St. Lucia’s top attractions like the nearby Pitons. A stay in one of 124 spacious, Caribbean-chic suites is accompanied by warm hospitality, pampering amenities and devoted service where everything is included. Explore the onsite Rum Cave offering local tastings with connoisseurs, relax at the world-class spa or glistening pools, and immerse in the unspoiled beauty, romance, and authenticity of Zoëtry Marigot Bay.
Ladera
As a premium all-inclusive resort, Ladera is perfect for families, honeymooners, and couples. This hillside resort features spacious accommodations, sparkling swimming pools, an array of motorized sports, and world-class dining experiences. There are plenty of kids activities, spa treatments, and the tranquil in-water hammocks. And Ladera's view of the Pitons cannot be beat.
Things to do in St. Lucia:
Watersports and Beach activities
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Golfing, tennis and other land activities
Adventure Tours
Visit the Waterfalls
Tour the Springs
Hike the Pitons
8) Bahamas
Another beautiful Caribbean destination, the Bahamas has over 700 islands. Its white sandy beaches and turquoise water make it a gorgeous place to visit. Bahamians are known for their friendly, hospitable culture. The Bahamas have the world' third largest Barrier Reef and the second largest Blue Hole, which makes for great scuba diving and snorkeling.
Best time to visit: Winter to Spring
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort - Paradise Island
Since opening in 1962, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas has been a playground for celebrities and luxury travelers set along a 5-mile stretch of natural, white-sand beach on Paradise Island. With remarkable seclusion, low-rise buildings are immersed in 35 acres of Versailles-inspired lawns and gardens. Wake up to breakfast on your private balcony, then indulge in a restorative treatment in one of our Balinese-style spa villas or head out for a round of golf at Ocean Club Golf Course. Enjoy the award-winning cuisine, the Martini Bar and the Lounge for a nightcap.
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
This luxury oceanfront resort and casino offers authentic Bahamian service, spectacular experiences and tantalizing cuisine. Our kid-friendly beachfront resort provides eight pools, water sports, a unique wildlife sanctuary and kids club. Adults can escape to stunning golf and tennis facilities, a poolside retreat or indulge in high-end shopping and the glamour of the largest casino in the Bahamas. Set on 15 lush beachfront acres, this resort offers waterslides, a lazy river and much more.
Kamamale Cay
This incredibly secluded resort sits on its own island. Known for hosting celebrities, guests are sure to enjoy their stay in one of 22 lovely cottages. Enjoy fine dining, tropical dining, and pristine deserted beaches on this 96-acre cay off the coast of Andros Island.
Things to do in the Bahamas:
Charter a boat
Scuba Dive or Snorkel
Golf
Visit a Spa
Shop or peruse the art galleries
Visit a National Park
Goto a Wildlife Sanctuary
Swim with the pigs
8) Bermuda
Bermuda is known for its pink-sand beaches with a warm island vibe unlike anywhere else.
With 21 square miles of natural wonders, stunning turquoise waters, blended cultures, and vibrant architecture, Bermuda is breathtaking whether you are there for the golden hour or the morning blue hour.
Best time to visit: Spring
Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa
Steeped in tradition and Bermuda history, Cambridge Beaches has been a treasured destination for oceanfront escapes since 1923. With authentic cottage accommodations, dedicated service, and a wealth of amenities – there’s truly no better way to experience the luxuries of Bermuda. Whether you seek activity or tranquility the resort beckons with a wealth of amenities from the indulgent Ocean Spa and four private beaches to an onsite marina-kayaks-croquet and putting greens-tennis courts and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Rosewood Bermuda
Defined by pink sand beaches, epic golf and the stunning coastline of Castle Harbour, Rosewood Bermuda possesses an all-enveloping atmosphere of charm and refinement.
Rosewood Bermuda serves inventive local and global cuisine and libations across seven distinctive restaurants and bars. Each of the 88 guestrooms and suites includes a full bath with a deep soaking tub, fine natural finishes, and a full array of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Additionally, discover a soothing escape from the "every day," with a complete wellness destination offering dynamic fitness facilities, and curated spa treatments inspired by Bermuda's rich culture and natural environs.
Hamilton Princess & Beach Club
Discover an island getaway of spectacular luxury and relaxation at Hamilton Princess & Beach Club – A Fairmont Managed Hotel in Hamilton, Bermuda. Set in an idyllic locale with a full-service marina, our iconic "Pink Palace" hotel has its place in history, attracting such legendary guests as Mark Twain and serving as a WWII intelligence station. Memories are made by the water at our stunning infinity pool overlooking the majestic harbor, and at the Princess Beach Club, a destination of unparalleled serenity in a private cove with gorgeous sandy shores, sun loungers, and over-water hammocks.
Things to do in Bermuda:
Boating
Golf and Tennis
Sun Bathing
Water sports
Island tours and land excursions
Visit the Crystal Caves
Dominican Republic
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, this lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles of coastline, 250 miles of the world’s top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Feel the pulse of the merengue music, relax in luxurious and diverse resorts, explore ancient relics, delight in delicious Dominican excellent cuisine or adventure in the Dominican Republic's national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches.
Best time to visit: Winter or Spring
Club Med Punta Cana (where we stayed)
Club Med Punta Cana is located on a stunning and pristine, palm-lined beach and sets the stage for 100 acres of amenities. Dive into a beach vacation packed with enriching Children’s Club programming, wellness offerings, an array of culinary experiences and more than 25 included sports and activities, including the trapeze at our Circus School, tennis, yoga, sailing and so much more. Moments of secluded relaxation are balanced with thrilling activity, making for a vacation that truly offers fun for everyone.
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
Discover the ultimate escape at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. Dive into the clear waters of Juanillo Beach, lounge by a swim-up bar in one of our infinity pools, and dine in style at 12 restaurants and bars within the resort. Explore our gated enclave of Cap Cana to find golf courses and deep-sea fishing excursions close by.
Dreams Punta Cana
Perfectly situated on a palm-studded beach in Cabeza de Toro in Punta Cana, Dreams® Flora Resort & Spa offers the perfect getaway for the whole family. Immersed in beautiful natural foliage, this all-inclusive sanctuary offers luxuriously appointed rooms/suites with a private terrace or balcony. Savor cuisine from around the world at eight dining options while sipping limitless top-shelf drinks and cocktails from thirteen bars and lounges Spend the day relaxing poolside, at the beach or riding the waterslides at the on-site waterpark.
Things to do in Dominican Republic:
Boating Excursions
Scape Park
Safari and Monkey Tours
ATV adventures
Zip lining and Horseback Riding
Spa days
Sunbathing and Pool Lounging
Resort Activities
What's next on your bucketlist?
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