what’s new and hot in the caribbean

July 23rd, 2010

What’s new in the Caribbean? LOTS! Our hot list includes new villa rentals in Turks & Caicos, a glamorous new hotel, authentic Farm Dinners and Reggaelates (the new fitness craze) all happening in Jamaica, as well as moonlight yoga classes in Mexico, and an exclusive jazz-themed Caribbean cruise itinerary. Read on to find out more…

Parrot Cay

Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos

Escape to a private paradise and rent one of Parrot Cay’s two new three-bedroom villas. Just three minutes from the main resort by buggy, each villa has its own stretch of white sand beach and lush landscape, creating the perfect secluded retreat, equipped with personal butler service. Designed by Cheong Yew Kwan, the villas are spacious and airy with soaring 20 foot ceilings and a great room for lounging and dining. All have three bedrooms and three bathrooms, along with a study, kitchen, and separate pantry.

What’s New? Live in the lap of luxury for a week as the villas are not only for sale but now are part of the Parrot Cay rental pool.  Parrot Cay’s COMO Shambala Retreat now offers Guinot signature Hydradermie facials.

Rates: Rental rates start at $5,808 in autumn (November 1-December 20).  Villas can be purchased for $10 million.

 

GoldenEye Hotel & Resort

Oracabessa, Jamaica

The new GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, nestled on Jamaica’s North Coast, will open on 10.10.10. GoldenEye was originally the home of author Ian Fleming and the location where he penned all 14 James Bond novels. In 1976, the now Island Outpost property was purchased by Chris Blackwell, Jamaica-raised founder of Island Records.  Following a two-year complete overhaul, the 52-acre property opens this October.

What’s New? Eleven new Beach Cottages and six new Lagoon Suites have been added to the hotel’s accommodations. The original Fleming villa (

where Fleming’s own desk still resides) and the five villas built by Blackwell in the 70s have all been artfully refit. Two new restaurants and the new lagoon-side FieldSpa at GoldenEye round out the offerings, as well as an array of fun, fitness, and wellness experiences – ranging from Jet Ski Leg and Ab workouts to Stretch and Snorkel classes, which will be lead by Jamaican Olympic athlete, Iona Wynter. GoldenEye’s Beach Cottages and Lagoon Suites are also available for purchase. An added perk – private planes can easily land on newly extended runway in Oracabessa (only a quick 8 minute drive from the resort).

Rates: Introductory rates start at $536/per night, valid from 10.10.10 through 4.29.11, excluding blackout dates and based on availability. Rates are based on double occupancy and include full breakfast. Tax and service charge are additional.

 

Jakes

Treasure Beach, Jamaica

Jakes, a boutique bohemian resort, located in the quaint fishing village of Treasure Beach offers a collection of vividly decorated villas, suites as well as spacious cottages. The hotel is just a few barefoot steps away from the Caribbean Sea, where guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, fishing and canoeing on the private beach. Jakes also offers interactive cooking lessons and tile mosaic class, led by the artist who is largely responsible for most of the unique design found throughout the properties.

What’s New? Farm Dinners are now offered monthly on the Saturday closest to the full moon and feature savory organic dishes prepared and served on-site at local farms. The program supports the small independent farmers of Jamaica’s “breadbasket, the Pedro Plains.

Rates: Room rates start at $95/per night based on double occupancy and does not include tax and service charge.

 

The Caves

Negril, Jamaica

Perched above Negril’s natural formed volcanic caves, the hotel offers thirteen exclusive accommodations including cottages, suites and one distinctive villa overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Although the resort is located near Jamaica’s central hub, the ten-acre property is well secluded and feels like a tropical castle set above a vibrant town center. Quaint stone pathways wind through the limestone cliffs dotted with palm, sea grape and dogwood trees.

What’s new? One word: Reggaelates – A unique Jamaican fusion of Pilates and reggae music. The hotel will also offer adventure excursions to nearby attractions such as YS Falls and Appleton Rum Estate in the fall.

 

Rosewood Mayakobá

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Rosewood Mayakobá offers lush comforts in the Riviera Maya. The resort spans a large part of the 1,600 Mayakobá enclave, nestled in the Yucatán jungle and along the Caribbean coastline.

What’s new? The boldly romantic can now take moonlight Tantric Yoga classes as part of the “Honeymoon Mayan Romance” package.  Follow a private yoga session for two with a romantic moonlight massage on an in-suite terrace, then DIY after a couple’s massage tutorial with 30 minutes of “alone time”.  Unwind with an aroma bath for two, including champagne and chocolate, indulgences the Mayans would approve of.

Rates: Rates start at $1152 per night inclusive of a daily buffet breakfast for two, and tax and service, until December 15, 2010; minimum 5-night stay.

 

Crystal Cruises

 “Jazz Exploration” Caribbean sailing

Crystal Serenity’s “Jazz Exploration” itinerary, with visits to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Bart’s, and Grand Turk.  From soft and soulful to bright and boisterous, the vibrant sounds of jazz musicians, expert and novice, permeate the ship on a relaxing voyage through idyllic Caribbean isles. Escape the crowded malls, jam-packed streets, and general pre-holiday stress with this jazz-themed sailing.  The bonus? Duty-free shopping in the islands – beats the in and out from cold weather to over-heated stores!

R/T from Miami, December 11-21.

What’s New? 2-for-1 fares on the 10-day sailing!

Rates:  Rates start at $3575/person based on double-occupancy

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