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Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
I flew 4,600 miles to a Jamaican resort that offers more than just 'fly and flop
I had rather hoped to leave the dreary English weather at home when I'd travelled 4,600 miles from London to Jamaica. Instead, I found myself on a balcony, sheltering from the tropical storm that's gatecrashed my Caribbean escape. The downpour posed a question: what is there to do besides lounge around and sun yourself at an all-inclusive Jamaican resort? Holed up at Sandals Dunn's River, a sprawling hotel on the postcard-perfect northern coast, I was in Jamaica at an opportune moment. The tourism industry is enjoying an extraordinary surge, with visitor numbers soaring thanks to investment in sustainable initiatives that benefit both locals and visitors. From paddleboarding and pina coladas to chicken shacks and waterfalls, here's how I made the most of my trip — and how you can too, whatever the weather. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Inclement weather be damned, the Caribbean coastline has plenty to keep you occupied, hail, rain or shine. Sandals Dunn's River offers a range of watersports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, scuba diving and something called Hobie Cat sailing, which, from I gather, involves manning your own mini-catarmaran. For me, the highlight was paddleboarding, which offers a reverse-view of the palm tree-flanked sands. I can see why the location of the resort was hand-picked by Sandals' late founder, Gordon 'Butch' Stewart, for its pristine stretch of beach. He used to fish there as a boy. Daily boat trips (including glass-bottom ones) also run from the resort – typically twice a day, but these do depend on the weather. If dry land is more your bag, Sandals has teamed up with Island Routes, a travel company that offers a whole host of experiences across the island. They'll hook you up with a Mini Cooper that serves as a valiant steed for a four-wheel adventure. I was relieved to learn that Jamaicans drive on the left, but I needn't have worried. A guide has got you covered: you convoy behind the car in front, with the history of the area delivered via a walkie-talkie in your ride. I recommend cruising from Ocho Rios to Falmouth along the north coast, making scenic pit stops at places such as Turtle Bay Pier and Reynolds Pier (often referred to as James Bond Pier) along the way. You can choose either a half or full-day tour, depending on how much driving you want to do. Every Jamaica first-timer should stop by Dunn's River Falls, which is something of a national treasure. The falls empty into the sea at Little Dunn's River Beach, making the attraction one of the few travertine waterfalls in the entire world. It's one of the stops on the Island Routes excursion, but standalone tours are also available daily. Getting to the good stuff is easier said than done. You'll be scaling a 180-foot high waterfall, made up of three levels and lagoons, while rapids crash down towards you. In total, the climb takes around an hour, depending on the ages and mobility of the group. Our guide warned us that 'you will get wet' — he wasn't wrong. One thing is certain, you won't go hungry at Sandals Dunn's River. With 12 restaurants to choose from – covering Italian, French, Latin American, Asian Fusion and more – you're spoiled for choice. However, no trip to Jamaica is complete without trying out the local cuisine. More Trending I beelined for the hotel's beachfront Jerk Shack most days. With crashing waves in the background and a tropical breeze flowing through salty hair, friendly waiters serve up classic jerk chicken and pork as well as curry goat, and traditional fish in foil (white fish cooked with okra, pepper and chilli), a new favourite of mine. If you prefer to explore outside the hotel walls, Miss T Kitchen's in the centre of Ocho Rios – a 10-minute drive away – comes highly recommended. On two visits, I tucked into a feast of Stamp and Go (traditional saltfish fritters) followed by melt-in-the-mouth Oxtail stew, classic curried goat, and rice and peas, all washed down with pina colada and rum punch. It's comfort food at its best, the type that leaves you full and feeling good. If you want a week relaxing and nothing else, we're not here to judge. This hotel has plenty to ensure your stay is as luxurious and care-free as possible. Skypool rooms I've never had a pool in my hotel room before. The Butler Suite, located in the Tufa Terrace building, really is a showstopper of a space and comes with its own Skypool built into the balcony. You can spend sunset gazing out to the ocean from the privacy of your pool. The spa The Red Lane Spa offers Caribbean-inspired treatments with local products and tailor-made services, including massages, facials and body treatments. Butler service As a concept, this can feel bizarre and a little uncomfortable. But every Skypool suite comes with a dedicated butler who is available to you throughout your stay. They're just a text or a call away through a phone provided. A top tip would be to use your butler to reserve your sunbeds around the pool or beach in the mornings. You'll also need to reserve certain restaurants at the resort, which can be done through your butler. A gym with a view Lying around at the pool all day can make you feel like you need to work up an appetite for dinner. I can honestly say the resort's gym blew me away. It beats the concrete view I get on the treadmill at my North London PureGym, any day. A seven-night stay for two adults at Sandals Dunn's River, Jamaica, staying in a Travertine Luxury Room costs from £2,059 per adult. Price includes all-inclusive accommodation, return economy class flights with British Airways from London Gatwick Airport and resort transfers. Price is date-specific and valid for travel on 19 September 2025. Includes a £150 saving per booking when booked via UCHL by Tuesday 29 July 2025, quoting the promocode 'SUMMER'. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: I stayed in one of the world's biggest Four Seasons resorts — it was the ultimate reset MORE: I spent five days in the less-crowded Canaries alternative that's closer to the UK MORE: I tried Heathrow's £3,177 VIP terminal — how the other half fly
The Independent
17-03-2025
- The Independent
The celebration destination: Enjoy life's biggest moments in the Caribbean
With its turquoise-coloured waters, reliably blue skies, and unparalleled natural beauty, the Caribbean is one of the most desirable destinations for a special getaway. From Antigua to Saint Vincent, St Lucia and Barbados, each island offers something a little different – whether you're looking for a romantic honeymoon retreat, the perfect place to celebrate a milestone birthday, or a fun spot to enjoy a week (or two) of active pursuits with family and friends. Sandals' all-inclusive, adult-only resorts are the perfect way to enjoy the islands in luxurious surroundings. Dotted across the Caribbean, each resort has its own unique identity while staying true to the five-star Sandals ethos. But which one do you choose for your own personal celebration? Here we look at a range of celebrations worthy of an unforgettable holiday and the perfect Sandals resorts to enjoy them in. Active adventures for every occasion If you like your holidays to be as adventurous as they are relaxing, you're sure to love the many activities offered at Sandals Grande Antigua and Sandals Saint Vincent. Explore the ocean bed with Sandals's very own comprehensive PADI® Certified scuba diving programmes, and see beautiful reefs and shipwrecks up close alongside the professional supervision of PADI® certified staff and Newton dive boats. There's also a wealth of water sports available including kayaking and paddleboarding or, if dry land is more your thing, why not spend your days playing beach volleyball, croquet, and tennis? All activities are included at either resort making your trip hassle free and flexible. Grown-up family celebrations and couple's getaways If you're looking for somewhere to make a real occasion of a celebration or simply hide away on a romantic getaway, the Royal Barbados resort is one of Sandals's most elegant options. The resort offers an extra level of extravagance that makes every day an unforgettable experience – from swim-up suites, Rolls Royce transfers from the airport when you stay in select suites, to a rooftop pool and restaurant, and catamaran cruises. There's even a bowling alley if you fancy some good old-fashioned fun, or an alternative option for a date night. Anniversaries and milestone birthdays On the beautiful island of Curaçao, lies the Sandals Royal Curaçao resort nestled within the heart of Leeward Antilles. The resort has plenty of opportunity for more intimate stays in its seaside butler bungalows complete with private pools and soaking tubs, while private cabanas and local tours leave you plenty of options for making an anniversary or birthday feel extra special. The parties around the pool or on the beach also make this a fun destination for celebrating a loved one. Jamaica plays host to a number of Sandals resorts that make the perfect destination for honeymoons and group trips alike. The Sandals Royal Caribbean, for instance, offers over-the-water private villas complete with glass floors, hammocks and butler service, on the resort's own private island. Ocean-view and swim-up rooms also offer a first-class experience for groups and friends spending time together. Alternatively, it's hard to imagine a more romantic stay than at Sandals South Coast, where you can stay in spectacular, luxurious overwater villas arranged in the shape of a heart, offering an unmatched connection to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and rich marine life below. Meanwhile, the Sandals Ochi resort in Jamaica offers the best of both worlds for honeymooners and party goers (or those wanting to enjoy both) with private butler villas, white sand beach, and 11 unique bars. Its vibrant atmosphere is ideal for those wanting to relax and party during their stay. Luxury splurges While every Sandals resort offers a luxurious experience, if you're really looking to splurge and treat yourself, the re-imagined Sandals Royal Bahamian should be on your wishlist. Located in Nassau in the Bahamas, it has everything you could dream of from a holiday destination. Swim-up suites with butler service will help you leave the stresses and strains of everyday life behind, while pristine-white beaches, an award-winning Red Lane spa and 10 specialty restaurants will make your stay as enjoyable as it is relaxing. A short trip by boat will also take you to the Sandals private island with its own bar, restaurant and pool. Luxury adventure tours around the island will also make exploring the rest of the island easy and convenient. Nature-Filled retreats for Mother's and Father's Day St Lucia is one of the most beautiful and picturesque islands of the Caribbean, and our top destination for visiting with parents. Resorts such as the Grande St Lucian sit on their own peninsula with 360 degrees of volcanic mountains and crystal-clear ocean views to enjoy. As such, it's the perfect place for making mum or dad feel truly appreciated. In addition to five grande pools, there's also a Cap Estate Golf & Country Club for serious parental bonding time, not to mention a range of outdoor activities including reading road trips where guests meet children from the island, Catamaran sunset cruises, and carnival experiences.
The Independent
17-03-2025
- The Independent
Caribbean hidden gems: Find secluded beaches, lush rainforests and rich culture in these less-explored islands
Idyllic beaches, diverse culture and welcoming locals, it's no surprise that around 30 million travellers visit the Caribbean every year. But away from the buzz of the major holiday islands, lie some unspoilt gems, offering the same paradise with an extra helping of serenity… Saint Vincent and The Grenadines This archipelago of 32 islands and cays in the eastern Caribbean is blessed with countless untouched and secluded beaches. The largest island, Saint Vincent is just one of nine that are inhabited, and is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the Caribbean. One of the most spectacular is La Soufrière, the active volcano responsible for the island's varied terrain – hike the scenic route up to the highest point on the island to gawp into its giant crater. Staying in the north of the island, cool off at the magical Owia Salt Pond, a crystalline natural pool that sits calmly amid crashing waves, or take the trail up to Dark View Falls, for a colder dip in the twin waterfalls. For something a little less taxing, but still submerged in nature, head to the capital of Kingstown to visit the Botanical Gardens. Established in 1765, and believed to be the first such gardens in the Western Hemisphere, it's home to 10,000 species of flora and the St. Vincent Parrot – the island's national bird. Stay in the capital for the colourful buildings and wooden street stalls selling everything from fruit and pastries to sunglasses and trinkets and soak in the Caribbean culture as you meander through the markets, local cafes and BBQ stalls selling local delicacies. Bakes (savoury donuts served with salt fish), fresh conch, and Callaloo stew, made up of green leaves, are all must-tries, washed down with the island's own Sunset Rum. For the best views of this port city and the Grenadine islands, visit Fort Charlotte, a British-colonial era fort built 601 feet above sea level. Not far from the capital, rest your head at one of Sandals Saint Vincent's overwater villas, perched above crystal-clear waters in the secluded cove of Buccament Bay, or opt for a beach front villa, complete with private pool and ocean views. The all-inclusive resort is the newest addition to Sandals' portfolio of 17 resorts across eight different islands, having opened the first resort in Jamaica back in 1981. Set amidst 50 acres of lush greenery leading to cerulean waters, this stunning resort offers relaxation, watersports and is a foodie heaven with 12 dining concepts and nine bars. Each restaurant, masterfully showcases the natural bounty the island has to offer and serves locally-inspired dishes. Try island flavours at Buccan, where you'll be guided through 'Vincy' ingredients from the sea and local farms or opt for the freshly caught fish at Japanese eatery, Gatsu Gatsu, for dock-to-dish cuisine. While Saint Vincent has an array of stunning white and black sand beaches, make sure to fit in a day of island hopping, via local sea ferry or a chartered boat, to taste the glory of the Grenadines. Soak in the chilled vibes of Bequia Island, go celebrity-spotting on Mustique, snorkelling in the uninhabited Tobago Cays, join the carnival fun of Carriacou, meet the locals on Union Island and go partying in Mayreau – there's something for everyone. Curaçao Set off the coast of Venezuela, Curaçao is part of the ABC Islands along with Aruba and Bonaire. All three share ties with The Netherlands, which explains much of the Dutch influence in the place names and architecture of Curaçao. This is most present in the colourful and cosmopolitan capital of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site and melting pot of brightly-hued colonial buildings, souvenir stalls, food markets and vibrant street murals. Join an art walk to tour the many galleries and modern sculptures, including the Instagram-friendly female figure of ChiChi, considered the 'older sister' of the island. Another must-visit is the Queen Emma Bridge, a completely floating structure that connects the capital's main historic districts of Otrobanda and Punda, both great spots for shopping and eating. Try restaurants or food trucks for local dishes such as Piska ku pan (grilled fish and bread), Bitterballen (beef or veal balls) and the cheese and meat-stuffed national dish of Keshi Yena. For a real slice of island culture, head into Punda on a Thursday evening for live music and the island's famous Blue Curaçao drinks. While history buffs should add the Kurá Hulanda Museum, Curaçao Museum and Rif Fort in Otrobanda to their list. Exploring Willemstad is made easy with the complimentary Convertible MINI Coopers that guests have access to when staying in select suites at Sandals Royal Curaçao – the luxurious all-inclusive resort, which is another recent addition to the Sandals family. Set on a private beach, with a breathtaking infinity pool that reaches out to the sea, the property embodies Curaçao culture, from the tropical surroundings – complete with native birds and iguanas, to colourful interiors and even on-site food trucks. The resort accommodation is some of the most impressive in the Caribbean, with a staggering 25 room types. Highlights include the one-bedroom, ocean-view Amante Butler Suites with swim-up pools and the Awa Seaside Bungalows, which sit right on the water's edge – for sea swimming as an alternative option to the private pool. Like all Sandals resorts, the dining options are impressive and completely included. Eight restaurants serve everything from Latin fusion and Italian to sushi, with a special shout out to the grilled fish kebabs at the Toteki food truck – giving guests a true taste of Curaçao. Nature lovers should head to the Shete Boka National Park, where you can enjoy stunning sea views and explore the coast before hiking inland. Or make a trip to Sint Willibrordus Flamingo Sanctuary to see flocks of these beautiful birds in their natural habitat. Beach hopping is a must in Curaçao, with Cas Abao Beach named one of the best in the world – high visibility waters and an abundance of sea life make it a hotspot for snorkelling. Not far behind for paradise feels and spotting turtles are Playa Piskado, Grote Nip, Playa Grandi and Kokomo Beach. Or take a catamaran trip to the stunning, uninhabited Klein Island for pristine coral reefs, hiking to the old lighthouse, and a fully above-water shipwreck. Grenada Dubbed the spice island, Grenada has more spices per square mile than anywhere else in the world. The tropical weather and volcanic soils make it perfect for not only growing nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, mace and cloves, but also for chocolate and rum production. Visit The Belmont Estate in the north of the island to get a taste – the 17th-century plantation guides visitors through a tree-to-bar chocolate experience, where you can make, taste and buy more for the road. Cocoa fans can also head to the capital of St George's to explore the House of Chocolate museum. Afterwards, get lost in the pretty streets of this city, explore the market, visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, before heading to the harbour to meander through the colourful shops and houses and watch fishermen in action. Try the national dish of oil down (a breadfruit, meat, vegetable and spicy coconut stew) or other local favourites such as spice-filled goat curry or crabback (baked crab shells stuffed with crab meat). The port can also be used as a base for day trips to some of Grenada's many beauty spots. Start with Grand Etang National Park, 3,000 acres of protected forest in the centre of the island, which is home to wild monkeys, exotic birds and an impressive crater lake. Hike the park's popular Seven Sisters Falls trail, a 1.3 mile track to the double falls that collect in a perfect pool of water for swimming. The island has an abundance of waterfalls, with one of the most accessible being Annandale Falls, high up in the mountains but just a ten-minute walk from the road. Or Mount Carmel Falls, thought to be the highest on the island, falling over 70-feet. Want more water? Head to the north of the island for a dip in Clabony Sulphur Hot Spring, considered to be the best of the hot springs on the island, or go snorkelling or diving amongst the eerie looking statues at the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park. If you'd prefer not to get wet, take one of the glass-bottom boat trips. Grenada has over 45 beaches, with the largest and most famous Grand Anse, boasting two-miles of white sand, picturesque palm trees and calm waters. Other idyllic beaches include Bathway, Magazine, Levera, Sandy Island, Morne Rouge, known locally as BBC Beach, and Pink Gin Beach. The blissful sands of Pink Gin Beach are also home to the laid-back, luxury hideaway of Sandals Grenada where you can check into Skypool Suites with balcony infinity pools and the uber private Rondoval Cottages. Its location on a picture-perfect beach with tranquil, clear waters, means watersports and snorkelling are a must, the resort makes this easy with access to complimentary equipment, including free scuba diving trips for certified divers. Just as sacred is relaxation time, be that at the tranquil sanctuary of the exclusive Red Lane® Spa, where the signature Himalayan Salt Stone Massage encourages rejuvenation or a private session at the yoga pavilion for increased mobility and spiritual oneness. For foodies, 11 dining options await, don't miss Teppanyaki dishes at Kimonos or Caribbean flavours in the tropical setting of Spices restaurant.
USA Today
09-02-2025
- USA Today
What happens when you bring your son on an adults-only vacation
'Only for Adults' is a six-part series showcasing the best experiences and destinations tailored for adults seeking tranquility, adventure and indulgence. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form. I went to an adults-only resort with my grown son, and it was one of our most memorable family vacations. It was our first mother-son trip, our first time traveling abroad together, and his first all-inclusive stay. We visited Sandals' newest destination, Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It may not seem like the most obvious choice since Sandals Resorts is known for romantic getaways, but as the company's Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, told USA TODAY, 'Everyone's welcome.' Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. Here's what we experienced. What I liked Nestled between verdant mountains and the bluest waters I'd ever seen, the whole resort was stunning. 'It's all about finding the absolute perfect site,' Stewart said, adding the company had been in talks with the Vincentian government for more than 20 years before opening Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 'We've never been motivated by doing anything except building the most extraordinary resorts, and if that means waiting 10, 15 years to enter a destination, to find the right land to develop and then put the most amazing real estate on it, we've done that over and over.' My favorite activity was riding beachcomber bikes across the sprawling property dotted with palm trees and pools. I was a little wobbly initially, but my son stuck close by until I got the hang of it. He enjoyed the resort's snorkel and kayak tours, as well as exploring on his own with the wide variety of water sports equipment available to use for free. Because he's an adult, I didn't have to worry like I would with my younger kids, but that didn't stop me from reminding him to make good choices and wear sunscreen. Mealtimes were another highlight, marked by tasty food and unhurried conversations at a variety of restaurants on property. Our favorite was Buccan, which serves farm-to-table Vincentian cuisine. The rice was so good, I sheepishly went back the next night to ask for more. Equally memorable was our server, Chareez, whose warmth could fill a room. All the resort staff were so friendly. 'We hire attitude and we train skill,' Stewart said. 'That's like the magic formula of Sandals.' What surprised me I was surprised by how much was included in our stay. I knew lodging, food and drinks would be covered, but I imagined there would be a la carte fees for various activities, like on cruises. With the exception of spa treatments, pretty much everything on property is included, even gratuities. That includes free PADI-certified SCUBA diving and the ability to ask water sports staff to take you tubing or wakeboarding on demand, pending availability. 'My father's famous saying was don't nickel and dime the customer,' Stewart said. His late dad, Gordan 'Butch' Stewart, founded Sandals. Because everything was included, all my son and I had to worry about was what to do and when to eat. 'We don't do mass tourism':Get off the beaten path in St. Vincent and the Grenadines What I would've liked Because so many guests are couples, most rooms only have one bed. My son and I shared a one-bedroom with a separate media room, where he slept on the couch. He probably would've been happy sleeping on the floor just to be at the resort, but I wish there were more room configurations for non-couples. There is one two-bedroom villa suite at Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which books up quickly. Sandals also just introduced its first two- and four-bedroom villas at Sandals Ochi in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, which is being touted as 'the ultimate friends' getaway.' 'And we're building rooms that have twin beds,' Stewart said. 'You can connect them, they'll slide together. We actually have a model room being built right now in our big design studio in Miami, so more flexible accommodation.' Is it worth it? It depends on what you're looking for. If you're looking for the cheapest possible Caribbean vacation, no. 'We're never going to be the cheapest date, so to speak,' Stewart said. However, if you're looking for a luxurious all-inclusive in a postcard-perfect setting, it may be. 'We will ensure that no one outperforms us in value,' he added. 'On average, expect the cost of a Sandals vacation to end up somewhere between $4,000 and $7,000 for a 7-night stay, per couple (two adults) – excluding flights,' according to Sandals' official blog. Prices will vary widely by destination, trip duration, choice of accommodation, and time of year. The reporter on this story received access to this experience from Sandals. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.
