The Dyson Way

Exploring the Dyson Way

Best warn the kids beforehand those pesky mermaids can be elusive. But even on the nymphs’ off days, the enchanting rock pools overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from English Harbour are well worth a visit. Take a snorkel because they’re teeming with intriguing sea life. The easiest way to reach the pools is the short hike from Galleon Beach. There’s little shade so don’t forget the sunscreen.

IT’S NOT ALL WORK, WORK, WORK. AND NEITHER IS IT ALL BEACHES AND SAILING. FROM WOODLAND WALKS TO DELECTABLE DINING, ANTIGUA OFFERS A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES TO GET ACTIVE, COOL OFF OR PIG OUT. THESE ARE SOME OF OUR FAMILY’S FAVOURITES.

FLIT OVER TO NOBU

Yes, there’s a Nobu. The Japanese restaurant co-founded by Robert De Niro is just one reason to visit our beautiful sister island of Barbuda. It’s one of few Nobus where you can dine with your toes in the sand – on Princess Diana Beach no less. If you’re splashing out anyway, may as well take the helicopter for the 30-mile trip from Antigua. Plus, after a lychee martini or two, it’s a smoother ride back than the ferry. Phone: +1 268 720 6628

PUSH THE BOAT OUT WITH A LUXURIOUS GAIA DAY CHARTER

Channel your inner James Bond by stepping aboard Gaia’s 72ft Sunseeker Predator yacht. For a fee, she’s yours for the entire day. We can think of few better ways to enjoy a martini in the sunshine. Throw in first-class service and spectacular food and this is where bucket lists begin. After all, you only live twice. Phone +1 268 728 6190. Email gaiacharters@gmail.com

CHOW DOWN AT GATHER STEAKHOUSE

Did someone mention New York strip with chimichurri sauce? Gather is one of the hottest new places on island and all of its Black Angus steaks are aged for at least 28 days for ultimate taste and texture. That’s assuming you still have room after one of Gather’s incredible appetisers like jalapeno poppers, pull-apart bread with honey butter, or smoked cheddar tots. They’re billed as great for sharing but we won’t judge if you keep it all to yourself. Phone: +1 268 771 6299

Photos: visitmontserrat.com

ENJOY THE CRAIC IN MONTSERRAT

You don’t have to be a leprechaun to appreciate a daytrip to the Caribbean’s ‘emerald isle’ – the only other country aside from Ireland to mark St Patrick’s Day with a national holiday. Its historical ties to Ireland mean you even get a shamrock stamp in your passport. Plus, where else can you explore a capital city half buried in volcanic ash, drink water from a natural spring and visit the former home of a Beatles producer all within the confines of 39 square miles?

CHARTER A PRIVATE YACHT

OK, so it won’t put Abramovich’s amphibious wonders to shame but the spacious Jabberwocky sailing boat is a fabulous way to soak up the scenery on the high seas. The cushioned cockpit can accommodate lunchtime dining for eight with plenty more deck space for your sun-worshipping chums. Careful not to miss the turtles by falling asleep in those luxurious beanbag cushions. www.adventurecaribbean.com Phone/WhatsApp +1 268 764 0595 info@adventurecaribbean.com

BRUSH UP ON YOUR HISTORY AT RUM IN THE RUINS

Learn all about daily life in the 18th century and the history of sugar and rum amid the ruins of Dow’s Hill fortification. The spectacular sunset views over Nelson’s Dockyard are the perfect backdrop to the colourful and candid tales delivered by expert historians Dr Christopher Waters and Desley Gardner. They go all the better with a planter’s rum punch. Go easy – the second punch thrown in with the ticket price can deliver a wallop.

Fridays, 5pm. $20USD/$50XCD per person inclusive two drinks.

Phone +1 268 481 5052 Email info@nationalparksantigua.com

SIP AND SHOP AT WINSTON’S

Browsing the home décor, resort wear and handcrafted gifts at Sea Island Trading can get exhausting. Luckily the owners thought of that and created a deliciously airy lounge space to cool off afterwards. We love the cushioned window seats for people-watching with a coffee in hand – or better still, a bottle of bubbly. And if you find you really, really like it here, you can rent it out for a private party. Phone +1 268) 720 5771 Email seaislandtradingco@gmail.com

EXPERIENCE LA DOLCE VITA AT SAMSARA

Ooh la la, some of the finest tastes of the Med are waiting to be sampled at this cool new eatery at Sugar Ridge. Head chef Michele Giordano promises gastronomic rapture with dishes like foie gras with caramelised apples, lobster paella, black squid tortellini, and mushroom lasagne. If you’re a Buddhist, you’ll know ‘samsara’ means to be reborn. We can think of few better places from which to emerge renewed and fully satiated. Phone/WhatsApp +1 268 775 5721