There has never been a more exciting time to explore our Caribbean neighbours. After a long period of region-wide recovery, 2020 will see a significant number of brand new resorts opening their doors to the public along with some much-loved Caribbean favourites which have taken their time to rebuild stronger, better and just as beautiful as before. The BVI’s own Little Dix Bay in Virgin Gorda welcomed its first guests in January.
From the all-inclusive resorts opening in the Dominican Republic to small boutique hotels on the lesser-crowded islands, the Caribbean will welcome a host of new properties in 2020. Read on for our top picks of the hottest new hotels and resorts.
Caerula Mar Club, South Andros, Bahamas
When HGTV Canada’s “Fixer Upper” couple discovered an abandoned resort in the south of the island of Andros in the Bahamas, how could they resist the challenge to convert it into a stylish and design-focused new resort? Bryan and Sarah Baeumler were on a family holiday in the Bahamas when they discovered an old resort dating back to the 1960s and immediately saw the potential for creating something rather special.
Opened in February 2020, Caerula Mar Club is situated in the south of Andros, the largest of the Bahamian islands and also the least inhabited. The resort is hidden in 10 acres of powdery white beachfront and consists of six private villas and 18 Clubhouse Suites. Each building has been constructed with sustainable, natural materials and rooms feature breezy, outdoor living spaces. The island’s first-ever fine dining restaurant Lusca makes up one of the three dining experiences on offer. Whether you are seeking complete relaxation or an active break, Caerula Mar offers something for everyone including an oceanfront pool, hammocks, spa, fitness centre, complimentary non-motorised water sports, bicycles and local excursions to explore the island’s incredible diving, snorkelling, fishing and boating.
For reservations visit www.caerulamar.com.
Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski, Dominica
Dominica has long been renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and has attracted adventurous visitors keen to immerse themselves in the waterfalls, lakes, wildlife and flora that the island has to offer. What Dominica has lacked until now is a truly luxurious world-class resort to unwind at the end of a hard day’s exploring. Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski opened its doors late in 2019 and is the prestigious group’s first resort in the Caribbean. Situated in the north of the island, the resort lies on its own peninsula bordering the Cabrits National Park.
Comprising 151 rooms, suites and villas the Kempinski boasts a signature spa, fitness centre, tennis courts, four restaurants, pool and meeting facilities. The luxurious accommodations have either mountain or sea views and many have their own private pools. The resort is committed to supporting Dominica’s local communities and source farm-fresh produce and locally caught fish to create the Creole and international cuisine served at the resort’s restaurants. Eco-adventuring has never been so glamorous!
CARICOM rates start from US$215.00 for single or double Superior room per night, including entry to the wellness area and Wi-Fi, excluding 20% tax and service charge. www.kempinski.com/en/dominica
The Morgan Resort & Spa, St Maarten
Slated to open later this year, The Morgan Resort & Spa is bringing luxury to Simpson Bay on the Dutch side of St Maarten. The sophisticated and sleek modern design is an architectural dream. All 124 rooms and suites have been luxuriously appointed with views of the ocean or even runway views to experience the famed Princess Juliana airport takeoffs – a resort experience like no other!
Indulge yourself from the menu at SALT restaurant, designed by celebrity chef Ron Duprat, featuring French Caribbean cuisine using locally-sourced seafood. Relax by the sand-edged infinity pool or enjoy a speciality cocktail at the swim-up bar. Party like a VIP in a private poolside cabana, which are available for advance booking. Pamper yourself in the spa and let the stylists at the salon-perfect your night-out look. With the shopping and nightlife of Maho Bay and Philipsburg just a short taxi ride away, The Morgan is the ideal destination for a weekend break or celebration trip.
For reservations visit www.themorganresort.com
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