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It’s all the solitude and bliss any private island lover could ask for: at the southern end of the Grenadines belonging to St. Vincent, and just 400 yards offshore from Union Island, Palm Island is a 135-acre private island resort where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic Ocean. From the air, it invites with offshore waters of pale aquamarine indicating the shallow and calm conditions to enjoy.
 (credit: Elite Island Resorts) How the Palm Arrived There:
This islet was first known on maps of the region as something quite different. It began as Prune Island, but then the former owners renamed it the more attractive and appropriate Palm Island when they physically transformed it by planting hundreds of coconut trees around its perimeters. The current owner, Rob Barrett, has continued to make it over into an idyllic small island hideaway that gives private access to the surrounding nature along with residential-style luxuriant amenities.
What You Find There:
Palm Island is fringed with five white sand beaches. Its finest beach is reckoned to be Casuarina Beach, which spans the entire length of its western coastline. Its interior includes nature trails and indigenous wildlife.
This palm-covered oasis property consists of 34 roomy beachfront stone cottages. The all-inclusive resort, which is the only establishment on the island, also features two restaurants for guests – the Royal Palm, for elegant dining on cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs, and the more casual Suset Bar and Grill, with its “Friday BBQ Night”.
Guests at Palm Island can be as active or relaxed as they please – from lounging on the beach or in a hammock to playing tennis, swimming, bodysurfing, windsurfing or piloting a sunfish sailboat. Also available are day cruises to go scuba diving in the Tobago Cays. Slower paced activities include walking along the ribbon of soft white-sand beaches that ring the island, taking time for four o’clock tea on a private patio, shopping for hand-crafted Grenadies items at the Sandy Feet Boutique.
How to Be There:
A private boat will meet and ferry you over to Palm Island. Visitors are also welcome provided that arrangements are made in advance.
 (courtesy - Barbados Tourism Authority) In addition to its classic resorts, world-class shopping and pristine beaches, Barbados is also worthwhile to explore off the beaten path – both coastal and inland – for its one-of-a-kind encounters with the island’s past and present. The roads are generally excellent in connecting you from one end or side of Barbados to the other, so wherever your accommodation may be, here’s just a few Bajan specialties that should be within easy reach to visit:
Active
There’s something for everyone when it comes to land and sea adventuring around Barbados, but two activities that get you off the beaten path are firstly, catamaran cruising – try it aboard Excellence or Tiami, including a delicious Bajan lunch, and snorkeling with the turtles. One can party with pirates on the Jolly Roger, or go rollicking on The Harbor Master. Contact Tall Ships to arrange this experience. Then for land-based exploration, why not put it all in the expert hands of an outfitter like Adventureland 4 x 4 Tours – it’s the effective way to get off of the beaten track with stops and visits in many cultural and hstorical points of interest including Welchman Hall Tropical Rainforest and the Chalky Mount village.
Culture/Lifestyle
Oistins Fish Market – happening on a Friday or Saturday night, enjoy the excitement and buzz of Barbados’ most popular market place. Enjoy partying with locals to the strains of calypso music coming from the dance hall in the middle of the markets. When the dancing builds up the appetite, head for the food and beverage stalls to sample traditional Bajan fare such as fish cakes, Jug-Jug (guinea corn and green peas) fried fish and Pudding, all washed down with a cool Banks Beer. On the sidelines, browse the local arts and crafts by local craftsmen taking the opportunity to display their wares.
Earthworks Pottery – This out-of-the-way art studio in St. Thomas that’s expanded into a thriving pottery is definitely worth the visit. Watch the production of dinnerware and decorative pieces by onsite artists – even come away with something useful or memorable for home from your Barbados travel.
Dine/Drink
Barbados has a huge number of both international and regional dining spots, but don’t forget to seek out the places where you can taste the local Bajan fare in some of the alfresco settings. Two such are The Beach House in Holetown, which offers up Bajan dishes with an eclectic twist in a fine outdoor covered area with wonderful vistas to also drink in; popular also for its affordable prices and Sunday buffets. Then there’s Al Fresco at Treasure Beach Hotel in Paynes Bay, a split level indoor/outdoor restaurant that excels in Spanish and Med dishes prepared with some Bajan techniques.
 (courtesy - USVI Dept. of Tourism) Many come for the entertainment or shopping, but St. Croix has a coastline providing plenty more to do just offshore.
Scuba and snorkel: A popular destination for diving is small Buck Island. It’s actually Buck Island Reef National Monument. There’s just one authorized dive operator, Caribbean Sea Adventures, but you may notice other local operators advertising reef dives in the area at your hotel activities desk.
Kayaking, windsurfing, jetski and sailing: If you’re staying in or near the capital of Christiansted, take advantage of the multiple activities offered by The Beach Shack on the Cay – they offer kayak, windsurf boards, and jetski rentals.
Many of the leading hotels will have an activities desk or direct arrangement with scuba, sailing and other water sport providers. The leading properties with their own beachfront access will often have the widest selection of aquatic activities to choose from – for instance, Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort and Spa along Davis Bay Beach has great snorkeling on the east end amongst the colorful coral and awesome sandy bottom on the west end for swimming. Over on the southeastern end of the island, Divi Carina Bay Resort has an on-site PADI five star dive operation and activities center.
The dual island nation of Antigua and Barbuda has long been home to the most high-end accommodation in the region. Recent additions to that have expanded the choice for discerning travelers open to anything from a large-scale luxury inclusive guest room to their own private villa.
 (courtesy - Jumby Bay) On Antigua, existing leading properties have been expanding, renovating, enhancing. Jumby Bay, for instance, the private island along Antigua recently unveiled one newly built Estate Home for sale, called Sandpiper, as well as one additional Estate Home, V’oile d’or, and two Jumby Bay Beach Homes, Mariposa, and Kairos, into the rental pool bringing the total of privately owned luxury properties available for rent on the island to 14.
Nestled on the northeast corner of Antigua, edged by secluded white sand beaches, the 110-room Blue Waters Hotel, known in particular for its luxuriously appointed suites, is an example of a simple 16 room guesthouse in the Sixties to its present larger but still intimate mix of classic Caribbean style along with contemporary amenities.
For the eco-conscious traveler who appreciates the finer things, Galley Bay Resort & Spa offers a refined yet unpretentious experience – an all-inclusive, adults-only, beachfront resort situated on 40 acres of private paradise, surrounded by a bird sanctuary and a three-quarter-mile-long stretch of beach on the sunset side of Antigua. A Green Globe
Certified resort, Galley Bay recently opened its third dining room, Ismay’s. All accommodations were upgraded with mahogany furniture, flat-screen televisions, 400-thread-count sheets and fresh, bright colors.
At Barbuda’s Lighthouse Bay Resort. Situated on its own private island upon a narrow stretch of land between 17 miles of unspoiled pink sand beach and the Caribbean , privacy is guaranteed as the property is only accessible via boat or helicopter. With only nine beautifully appointed suites, guests enjoy unparalleled pampering and comfort with virtually no interruptions making for a very private retreat. Opened just in 2007 by Barbuda native Mike Branker and his associates on the site of Branker’s grandparents’ one-time beach house, Lighthouse Bay continues to evolve and improve. New developments include an organic garden providing locally grown ingredients, a tennis court and basketball court adding to the activity options and private villas opened in 2011.
 Planning a big Spring getaway or just some time off from a hectic schedule? Sulu Collection tunics are the perfect added touch to your spring wardrobe, to ensure you stay chic and casual. Whether you’re looking for an easy beach cover-up, a casual and stylish daytime look or an elegant evening top that features hand embroidery, there is a Sulu tunic that will make you look and feel Spring chic.
Inspired by Indian tradition, the Sulu Collection is a gorgeous line of fine hand-embroidered cotton tunics, dresses and resort pieces. After living in Europe for 16 years, designer Sulu moved to Westport, Connecticut with her family. She founded Sulu Collection in 2005 to pursue her creative passion for designing traditionally inspired clothing which can comfortably and elegantly meld into a distinctive western wardrobe.
The Sulu Collection is designed for luxury and versatility. Handcrafted to have the perfect, slimming fit, Sulu Collection tunics feature stunning bead work, metals, leather, appliqués, tie die, and hand block prints. These one-of-a-kind pieces are chic, versatile and easy-to-wear for all women.
The tunics range from sizes 2-20 and offer everything from casual cotton to hand-beaded, silk chiffon styles. The Sulu Collection is handcrafted in India and sold at select high-end boutiques in North America, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Sulu has garnered a celebrity following with Stacy Keibler, Maria Menounous and Katie Couric all recently seen wearing Sulu Collection. Stacy Keibler was seen in the Juliet tunic in a Rose color on her vacation in Cabo with her beau, George Clooney. Extra’s TV host Maria Menounous wore the Stella tunic in Beige on her holiday getaway last month. Katie Couric wore a white Sulu Collection tunic during a photo shoot on the beach.
 Trunk Bay (credit: USVI Dept. of Tourism) What do you look for in your beach experience when you travel to a small Caribbean island like St. John? This very quiet corner of the U.S. Virgin Islands has something for everyone – sun worshipper, active outdoor and water sport fans. Knowing what you might expect at the accessible beaches lets you plan your days out on the shore more effectively.
St. John actually has several fine beaches to choose from depending on how active you want to be and what kind of activity that is. Leading the list are Trunk Bay, Caneel Bay, Hawk’s Nest Bay, Salt Pond Bay, Maho Bay and Cinammon Bay.
One of the most popular athletic activities in the USVI, snorkeling is a favorite at Trunk Bay, where the Virgin Islands National Park offers an underwater snorkeling trail. Visitors will interact with extraordinary flora and fauna while guided by underwater placards placed along the trail to describe the surrounding ecology. For more information, visit www.stjohnbeachguide.com.
There is also good snorkeling to be had at Cinammon Bay and Maho Bay. Cinammon Bay has basic facilities – showers, restrooms, restaurant, grocery store. There are also sailboards and kayaks to be rented. Hawk’s Nest Bay is idyllic for those who plan to just soak in the sights and sun on the sand – the bay here consists of a circular indentation between small hills.
One spectacular way to stay in luxurious but understated style right by the beach is at Caneel Bay resort. The property’s set within the Virgin Islands National Park and remains faithful to the vision of its founder Laurance Rockefeller and his passion for preserving nature. Situated on 170 lush acres of land and surrounded by seven breathtaking beaches, Caneel Bay blends in naturally with its surrounding landscape. Its 166 spacious guest rooms feature digital in-room climate control, open-picture windows and ceiling fans to allow guests to take in St. John’s plentiful trade winds. All rooms feature either a patio or balcony with views of the beach or tropical gardens. The famous ‘Cottage 7’ has housed celebrities and political figures who enjoy its secluded location and its five individually designed bedrooms, some featuring Dutch-style, four-poster beds.
 (credit: Anguilla Tourist Board) It’s become one of the best places to hear Caribbean and international musicians displaying their talents – Anguilla has something to savor any time of year, with events and ongoing performances from both resident and visiting artists.
The musical diversity throughout the year brings in both Caribbean and international music styles. Things get underway with the Moonsplash Music Festival at the Dune Preserve - Bankie Banx’s annual showcase of Caribbean and international talent under the first full moon of March.
Towards the end of the year, an international draw for music fans comes with the Tranquility Jazz Festival in November – a three-day homage to pure jazz with some of the genre’s leading artists performing at various venues around the island.
The music may start right where you’re staying – since most hotels during high season will feature live music ranging from piano to jazz to calypso bands. Explore further afield to find your own musical preference at popular live music venues such as Elvis’ Beach Bar – a beach bar made from a grounded boat where live music plays on Wednesdays through Sundays in high season. Or try the landmark Pumphouse in Sandy Ground, where the like to mix it up with sounds ranging from merengue to reggae to calypso-soca.
It wasn’t all that long ago that the tinyVieques just off Puerto Rico‘s eastern seaboard was making big headlines for being a target practice for the U.S. Navy. Nowadays, things have changed dramatically – and Vieques has become a target for the uber-hip traveler drawn by this hideaway’s combination of small island charm and barefoot luxury options.
Timeless Sides
Affectionately been known as La Isla Nena – “Little Girl Islands” – but Vieques has grown up into a more sophisticated young lady that hasn’t lost her quiet and unspoiled side. The beaches here remain awesomely pristine, the pace of life and sense of small community are intact. The place to be when it comes to beach is at Playa Sun Bay, which has picnic facilities, also the beaches at Navio and Half Moon.
One of the most unusual natural attractions on Vieques is Mosquito Bay. Gorgeous by day and positively radiant by night, the bioluminescent organisms living in Mosquito Bay cause the water to glow at night when it’s splashed in the moonlight. One way to easily experience this stunning marine phenomenon is with local operator Island Adventures Biobay Eco-Tours, who offer nightly excursions that include swims amidst the glowing waters. Back on land, don’t forget to check out the latest developments in the vast area that’s been transformed into the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.
New, High Style and Hip Sides
Within the past few years, Vieques has experienced steady growth, and several trendy inns and restaurants have developed near the shore. Unique indoor and outdoor lofts are scattered around the 15-acre Hix Island House. This environmentally-sensitive hotel provides a peaceful, private experience that is perfect for couples (787-741-2302). Another great option is the Bravo Beach Hotel which boasts modern, stylish guest rooms complete with Frette linens and Aveda products (787-741-1128). Those with a taste for world-class opulence may prefer the amenities to be had at W Vieques Spa & Resort - designer suites, a sensational spa, extensive water sports, gym and tennis, fine dining all here.
Around Vieques, casual diners will love Bananas (787-741-8700) for its traditional American food, or Bilí (787-741-1382) for Puerto Rican food with flair. Travelers looking for a more upscale, trendy experience will enjoy the Caribbean and fusion cuisine of Uva, (787-741-2150) located in the town of Isabel Segunda.
 (credit: Rojer Gibbs for the Curaçao Tourist Board) While Curaçao shares much in its foods and their preparation with other islands across the region, it also has its own dishes and recipes that make a meal here a distinct experience from its neighbors. Along with that, the island offers much in the way of memorable dining settings – from inside the capital of Willemstad to other seafront and countryside venues. A few of the most notable classics and more recent arrivals to savor:
International:
Fort Nassau - if the ambiance of another era is an essential ingredient for your overall dining experience, then your other senses will be truly as gratified as your palate when you have an evening of dining at Fort Nassau. This gourmet fare restaurant is located within an authentic 18th century fort that also affords a commanding view of the nearby harbor. The menu is strong on local seafood specialties such as mahimahi, shrimp, and grilled octopus. Reservations required.
Gouverneur de Rouville – often just referred to as “De Gouverneur”, is located at the Otrabanda waterfront, and its culinary direction is both international and Caribbean – so try the local treat on the menu here called Keshi Yena, or the fish stew on leeks. You can choose to sit out on the veranda and take in a vista of the waterfront, or just enjoy something from their extensive wine list at the bar.
Landhuis Daniel Restaurant – Lunch and dinner are served on the cool and shady terrace, in front of the plantation house property that is the site of this bistro-style restaurant. You can dine from the frequently changing a la carte menu, on daily specials or leave the choice to the chef who will prepare his famous multicourse surprise menu for you. Other than that, the menu draws on a multiple and global range – French, Italian, Japanese – all prepared with a Caribbean interpretation that often relies on local ingredients; standout recipes include those for lobster au gratin, curried pumpkin soup, shrimp teriyaki, or tuna on past with olive sauce.
Seafood:
Fishalicious – Delicious seafood in a cozy environment, where culinary connoisseurs can find a new home. Since it opened in January 2009, Fishalicious may be relatively new but under the inspiring leadership of Michelle and her partner Auke from Urk (a well known fishermen’s village in The Netherlands), who like no other knows everything about fish. Besides various fish, our menu offers also a few meat dishes. And of course we have a large variety of selected wines and champagnes from all over the world from various countries that matches perfectly with our excellent food
Scampi’s – Also located at the old fort in Willemstad, this fresh fish restaurant emphasizes creole style preparation of its local catch. Select from such entrees as lobster, salmon, shrimp or “carco”, the local shellfish pan-fried with fresh garlic, onions, bell peppers and herbs. The restaurant also offers sandwiches, salads, and steaks.. For lighter fare, they also have sandwiches and salads. Enjoy it all against the backdrop of their outdoor dining terrace with an ocean panorama.
Curaçao as a singular dining experience: other local highlights to sample while you are here include krioyo, a lively fusion of Caribbean and Latin flavors of such dishes as their cactus soup, fresh fish stews and a polenta-like favorite called funchi. You can encounter these island specialties at any number of fine dining establishments in Willemstad or stop by a roadside snek and enjoy your krioyo with a tropical drink from the bar.
 Gustavia harbor at evening A honeymoon, an anniversary, or just getting away from the ever present media glare; there’s any number of reasons that celebrities of screen and entertainment keep making their way to little St. Barts. In fact, it’s a longtime tradition for performers of all kinds to make this a favorite getaway, or even a permanent one with a local villa of their own.
This French-speaking island is only eight square miles in size but receives considerable amounts of mention in the media worldwide thanks to the constant flow of visiting and resident celebrities. Gustavia Harbour sees yachts docking from all over the world, bearing such names as Sean Paul, Jay-Z and Beyonce Knowles, Uma Thurman and her kids, talk show legend David Letterman or Alicia Keyes jogging on the beach. Others from the world of entertainment, fashion or music who have made their way to St. Barts in recent years – whether by private yacht or private plane – include Italian designer Giorgio Armani, Harrison Ford, Sarah Jessica Parker, Mariah Carey, Rod Stewart, Billy Joel, Julianne Moore, Woody Allen, Steven Spielberg, Carlos Santana, Naomi Campbell, famed chef Alain Ducasse, among others.
What keeps them returning to St Barts? It offers style and sophistication in a friendly and casual island environment. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and put on the map for high-end tourism by the Rockefellers in the late 1950s, St Barts remains distinctly French in feel and has charmed countless visitors with its innate beauty, unique character and authentic charm. For things to do, it offers watersports, wining and dining in the island’s superb restaurants, shopping in Gustavia’s trendy boutiques – with designer names present such as Hermes, Armani, Cartier, La Perla, Prada and more – and a variety of cultural events throughout the year.
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