If Only Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda by Travel Designers

Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda

Asia

Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands

United States of America

Asia

Reservations: 0141 955 4000 After Sales: 0141 955 4041 Accounts: 0141 955 4042

res@ifonly.net after.sales@ifonly.net accounts@ifonly.net

Milngavie Enterprise Centre Ellangowan Court, Milngavie Glasgow G62 8PH

Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda

2018 & 2019

Please refer to our other brochures for more exciting destinations.

ABTA No.88888

www.ifonly.net

2018 & 2019

Travel made beautiful! Welcome to our world and please feel free to completely indulge yourself whilst meandering through our exclusive portfolio of some of the Caribbean’s premier resorts. At If Only... we have a dedicated reservation team to provide you with the knowledge and expertise to make your dream holiday to the Caribbean, Mexico or Bermuda come true. Yes, I could use this opportunity to wax lyrical about the strengths of If Only... . For example, I could tell you: ..... that our levels of product knowledge are virtually unparalleled ..... that the service we provide is the envy of many of our competitors ..... that we have been the recipient of countless industry awards ..... that our fabulous team are always eager to ‘go the extra mile’ ..... that we provide a very personalised and bespoke service. And a massive ‘yes’ to all of the above! Then again, perhaps it is all too easy for companies to make such claims. But ask yourself why your travel agency has chosen to pass you our brochure. I would suggest that the answer is very simple - they wish to ensure that you are placed in the very safest hands. It would probably be apt if I were to conclude by sharing our mission statement with you: ‘We exist to provide personalised luxury holidays to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations and to ensure that we are the natural port of call for those seeking the ultimate bespoke travel experience. We are passionate about travel. Our mission is to do it better than anyone else’. Why compromise when ‘travel made beautiful’ awaits you at If Only... ? Brendan

Brendan Maguire, Founder and Chairman

Contents Map & Contents.................................................................. 4 About Us............................................................................. 6 Our Other Destinations....................................................... 8 The All Inclusive Experience.............................................. 10 The Wedding Experience.................................................. 12 The Yacht and Cruising Experience.................................. 14 The Caribbean Experience................................................ 18 The Multi-Centre Experience............................................. 20

Destinations Barbados...................................................................... 22-33 Antigua......................................................................... 34-41 St Lucia........................................................................ 42-51 Grenada....................................................................... 52-57 Turks & Caicos............................................................. 58-61 St Kitts & Nevis............................................................. 62-67 Anguilla......................................................................... 68-71 St Vincent & The Grenadines....................................... 72-79 Dominican Republic..................................................... 80-83 The Bahamas............................................................... 84-89 Bermuda....................................................................... 90-93 Jamaica........................................................................ 94-99 Aruba........................................................................ 100-103 Cuba......................................................................... 104-109 Mexico...................................................................... 110-121 The Villa Experience........................................................ 122

Information Our Airline Partners......................................................... 126 Essential Travel Information............................................ 128 Booking Conditions......................................................... 130

ifonly.net

Bermuda

GULF OF MEXICO

The Bahamas Turks & Caicos Cuba

Dominican Republic

Mexico

Anguilla Jamaica

St Kitts & Nevis

Antigua

Guatemala CARIBBEAN SEA

St Lucia Aruba

Barbados

St Vincent & The Grenadines Grenada

About Us General

Price Panels

We are delighted to be able to showcase our stunning selection of hand-picked hotels and resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda. Sit back, relax and luxuriate over some of the world’s finest and most exclusive hideaways. Each member of our reservations team is a destination expert, is well-travelled and will personally deal with your holiday requirements with passion, enthusiasm, professionalism and a friendly manner that is unparalleled.

It is not our policy to provide detailed price panels on each page. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, all of our holidays are tailor-made, specifically for each individual, so clients are able to choose their own airline, itinerary, accommodation, duration and transportation. Secondly, we very often obtain special hotel rates and airfares after the brochure has gone to print and we prefer to pass these on to you. As a very general frame of reference, we would refer you to the hotel classification.

Awards In recent years the quality of our service has been recognised by the travel industry, having been the recipient of a number of national ‘Best Tour Operator’ awards. Furthermore, it has been particularly gratifying to have also been consistently recognised outside our own industry for business excellence.

Peace of Mind You are in safe hands with If Only... . In addition to our wealth of experience, you may rest assured that your holiday is financially protected as we hold all requisite licences and bonds. Please refer to the booking conditions on the inside back cover of this brochure for further information.

Flights Generally we tend to only use scheduled airlines, in keeping with the quality of our overall product. For more detailed information on all our airline partners, please refer to Our Airline Partners pages at the back of the brochure. We are also able to offer competitively priced domestic connecting flights from regional airports. Please ask one of our reservation team for further information. Why not travel in style and upgrade your flights to the more luxurious first and business class cabins? This will also enable you to relax in the airport lounge and enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks prior to your flight. These upgrades are sometimes available on a one-way basis and are probably more reasonably priced than you imagine - an ideal way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon or to simply indulge yourself.

Transfers Where transfers are by land, generally speaking If Only… provide private car transfers. Where appropriate we also offer a ‘meet and greet’ service, as well as helicopter and limousine transfers in some of our destinations.

About Us

Hotel Classification We have chosen to include star ratings for each property. We have been obliged to use the hotel’s own rating if an official rating is not available. It is very important to note that this is not an exact science and standards can vary quite dramatically from one country to another. Nevertheless, we do believe that it will serve as a useful indicator.

What’s New...? Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda is a new region for If Only… For 16 years we only ventured east, however in December 2017, after much demand, we launched our first ever programme to the United States of America. Having successfully operated in Arabia, the Indian Ocean, Asia and Australasia, and after the successful introduction of our USA programme, we are now adopting the exact same formula to bring you Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda. Our Product Department has been hard at work sourcing the best hotels in the region; encompassing top end luxury 5* deluxe hotels and stunning 4 star offerings. Additionally, we have included some sample touring itineraries for Mexico and Cuba. We have also featured a selection of villas and yacht charters. As always, the accent is on offering great locations, superb accommodation, attentive service and fantastic value for money. From an operational point of view we have expanded our reservations, product and aftersales departments, ensuring that clients benefit from the very best advice and experience both pre and post booking. In addition, we have recently invested in a new back and front end computer system enabling us to tailor-make holidays more quickly and accurately and with the most competitive pricing. It also allows us to provide more professional travel documentation. Finally, look out for even more new destinations coming soon.

Our Other Destinations In addition to this Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda offering, If Only… has also produced four stunning sister brochures exclusively dedicated to the United States of America, Arabia and the Indian Ocean, Asia and Australia, New Zealand and The Pacific Islands. The portfolio includes a host of enchanting hotels and resorts, all carefully chosen with our discerning clientele in mind. Be inspired by the United States of America; with vibrant cities, fabulous beach resorts, a melting pot of cultures, towering mountains and the legendary cuisine, not to mention the children’s playground of Florida and the adult’s playground of Las Vegas. Featuring exciting destinations from bustling New York City, to Bohemian San Francisco, and wild National Parks, to thrilling theme parks, our USA programme includes all the highlights from this diverse country. Dubai has something to offer everyone. Having fantastic shopping, amazing beaches, a multitude of activities and attractions as well as stunning desert escapes, it really is a must-visit destination. Other Arabian delights featured in our portfolio include cultural Oman and the ever-developing capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi.

Our Other Destinations

Our Asia brochure features the following destinations; India, Nepal, Bhutan, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia. The brochure showcases the best of each destination and includes train journeys in India and aboard the world-famous Eastern & Orient Express as well as luxury river cruises in Indochina. Asia, a cornucopia of sights, tastes and aromas is a veritable melting pot of cultures, scenery, attractions and experiences. Experience sumptuously luxurious palaces or an understated boutique heritage property. Take in a private guided tour or just laze by the shimmering sea. Our Australia, New Zealand & The Pacific Islands brochure features a wide range of accommodation and touring options for everyone from the first-time visitor to those who have travelled to the area regularly. There are city hotels, remote luxury lodges and private island retreats. Enjoy taking in the ‘must see’ highlights or getting off the beaten track in this diverse region. There are campervan itinerary suggestions, heli-hiking options, fascinating rail journeys and cruises around some stunning lagoons. Be inspired by these intoxicating, diverse continents.

Australia, New Zealand & The Pacific Islands

If you prefer seascapes to cityscapes, then the Indian Ocean awaits you. Mauritius offers renowned service levels, fantastic beaches and a welcoming tropical climate. The seclusion, powdery white sands and sparkling aquamarine ocean of the Maldives is difficult to resist, while the spectacularly scenic Seychelles offer the perfect islandhopping experience. By way of contrast is cultural Sri Lanka, with diverse landscapes ranging from cascading paddy fields to towns rich with heritage as well as a fair share of stunning beaches.

The All Inclusive Experience Increasingly our clients enjoy the comfort of knowing in advance what their holiday is likely to cost – hence the attraction of an all-inclusive package. However, all packages on offer vary dramatically. For example, some offer activities in addition to food and beverage. Equally, some include premium spirits while others offer the local alternative. All-inclusive is a popular dining option in Mexico and many of the Caribbean islands. While many resorts in our brochure offer flexible dining options during your stay, it is worth noting that some packages only allow dining in the hotel’s main restaurant. In this section is a list of the resorts which offer all-inclusive as the standard dining package. There are a number of other resorts where guests can upgrade to an all-inclusive meal plan if it is their desire to do so. Please note that all packages are subject to change by the hotel and that there are additional charges to upgrade to all-inclusive. Look out for our all-inclusive logo denoting which hotels offer this as standard.

Hotels which offer all-inclusive include: Barbados

Waves by Elegant Hotels pg. 31 Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels pg. 32 Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels pg. 32 Mango Bay pg. 33

Antigua

Jumby Bay Island pg. 36 Curtain Bluff Resort pg. 39 Galley Bay Resort & Spa pg. 40 St James’s Club & Villas pg. 40 Blue Waters Resort & Spa pg. 41 The Cove Suites at Blue Waters pg. 41

St. Lucia

Rendezvous pg. 48 East Winds pg. 49

Grenada

Spice Island Beach Resort pg. 54

St Vincent and the Grenadines Young Island pg. 76 Palm Island Resort & Spa pg. 77

Jamaica

Moon Palace pg. 96 Couples Swept Away pg. 97 Couples San Souci pg. 97 Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall pg. 98 Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall pg. 98

Cuba

Iberostar Varadero pg. 109 Royalton Cayo Santa Maria pg. 109

Mexico

Hyatt Ziva Cancun pg. 114 Royal Playa Del Carmen pg. 115 Grand Velas Riviera Maya pg. 117 UNICO 20°N 87°W pg. 118 Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos pg. 120 Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta pg. 120

The All Inclusive Experience

The Wedding Experience Imagine one of the most important days of your life surrounded by complete paradise and absolute luxury - it is a dream shared by most. Tie the knot surrounded by powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear water and lush palm trees, with weather that can be counted on to enrich the photographs that will be with you for a lifetime.

The Intimate Elegance Package

Let If Only... take the stress out of organising your day. We are experts in arranging weddings abroad and can advise on all of the legal and cultural requirements involved and may even be able to offer attractive group discounts. Call the If Only... wedding and honeymoon team today with your questions; our friendly specialists are at your disposal and we will gladly attend to all of the formalities on your behalf, making your special day stress free. We will also be delighted to organise the travel arrangements of accompanying family or friends, leaving you free to attend to your own preparations.

Bridal bouquet and boutonniere

By way of example, opposite is a sample of a wedding package that If Only... are able to offer you in Mexico and Jamaica. Many hotels include free wedding packages when couples and their wedding parties book to stay at the hotel for 7 nights or more. For those people who prefer to have their wedding at home and then honeymoon in one of our exotic locations, many of our featured resorts and hotels have special offers for honeymooners - our reservations team will be able to give you details. A ‘Renewal of Vows’ ceremony is also available at a number of the destinations featured in our brochure for those incurable romantics. If Only... will be able to advise on such matters as: Registrar Fees Marriage Certificates Legal Requirements Affidavits Venue Selection Flowers Champagne and wedding cake

The Wedding Experience

Available at The Royal Playa Del Carmen, Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. Includes couple and up to 10 guests:

· · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Symbolic marriage ceremony and certificate, performed by a bilingual secular officiant Wedding location Sparkling wine toast after the ceremony Wedding cake after the ceremony Room decoration with flower petals and complimentary wine Late checkout up to 3.00pm subject to availability Pre-planning and on-site services of a professional wedding concierge Complimentary online bridal registry and wedding website Access to online wedding planning website Ceremony table with white linen, and folding wedding chairs for guests Sound system for the ceremony Couples massage (wedding couple) Romantic dinner for the couple (wedding couple)

Upgraded packages are available at an additional cost and it is also possible to tailor make your package from a host of optional extras. Please ask for details.

The Yacht and Cruise Experience With so many uninhabited islands, secluded bays and diverse coastlines to explore one of the best ways to experience the Caribbean is by sea. Cruises can easily be combined with a city stay, beach break or even a short touring adventure. There are options available for inexperienced sailors to take to the seas for a more adventurous Caribbean holiday by yacht, or via a more laid back experience on a larger cruise ship. Charter a private crewed luxury yacht, book a cabin within a yacht or join a cruise ship and explore the many islands the Caribbean has to offer.

Crewed Charter Crewed Yacht Charters are the pinnacle of all-inclusive luxury: a private yacht crewed by professionals to cater to every whim. A typical day can start with guests taking an invigorating dip in the crystal-clear water before enjoying a sumptuous breakfast prepared by their personal chef, followed by a day of water sports and relaxation, ending with a tasty dinner on board the yacht. Spend lazy days dozing in a hammock while the captain navigates a tour of beautiful Caribbean islands.

By the Cabin For smaller groups or couples, booking a cabin on a shared yacht is an attractive option. There are a variety of sailing itineraries to choose from and the opportunity to make some new friends over shared adventures. The professional crew manages the sailing, and a cook prepares all meals from fresh local products.

Cruise Ship Caribbean cruises let guests experience the colourful, exuberant and laidback nature of these beautiful islands whilst relaxing in the sun. Packed with facilities, entertainment opportunities and dining venues making days at sea as entertaining as those in port. A Caribbean cruise is ideal for those wanting to visit a new destination every day, before returning to the familiar comforts of their cruise ship in the evening.

The Yacht and Cruise Experience

Caribbean

The Caribbean Experience The Caribbean is a treasure trove of dazzling turquoise seas, pristine sand beaches and glorious deserted islets. The laid-back lifestyle, romance, mystique and Robinson Crusoe appeal go hand-in-hand with the friendly, smiling people to create an atmosphere and experience that is simply enchanting. Sailing and island hopping enjoy a huge following; these are best way to fully explore the Caribbean, with sheltered bays and coves offering up the perfect places to lay anchor. The Grenadines, Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas are island chains and sailing is the only way to see each jewel in these beautiful crowns. Charter a private yacht or book a cabin on a shared vessel. The Caribbean is home to some of the best diving in the world with first-class sites in and around Cozumel in Mexico, Turks and Caicos, Bequia in the Grenadines and Grenada. With dive schools all over the region this is the perfect place to learn or brush up on existing skills. Influences from Africa, Asia, Europe and Arabia combine with Caribbean flavours and are evident in everything from the architecture to the history. But nowhere is this melting pot of cultures more apparent than in the cuisine. Dining out on Caribbean delicacies is an experience not to be missed and is part of what makes the Caribbean so special. Dishes such as salt fish, ackee and jerk chicken are intertwined with Jamaican culture, flying fish is a specialty in Barbados, and Antiguan rum cake is an indulgence not to be missed. Pepperpot, callaloo, conch fritters and fresh seafood are Caribbean staples and will be found on menus across the region. And letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not forget the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous export, rum!

The Caribbean Experience

It is easy to write the Caribbean off as a destination solely for beach lovers, but this would be a huge disservice to these captivating islands. With picturesque mountains, towering volcanos, lush rainforests and valleys, stunning waterfalls, lagoons, mangroves and intriguing cave systems the islands offer endless adventure for those seeking a more active holiday. Try zip lining, kayaking and river rafting or hike to the top of an active volcano. Visitors can also enjoy some of the many sports on offer in the region â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both playing and spectating. The Caribbean is an intoxicating mix of ultimate relaxation, adventure, history and indulgence. Each island has its own unique identity, culture and flavour, encapsulated in the music, gastronomy and charming people. This perfect recipe keeps visitors coming back to the region time and time again.

Special Offers We have not included pricing in this brochure as we tailor make itineraries to your specific requirements. For our best prices and special offers please contact our destination experts or visit ifonly.net.

The Multi-Centre Experience For those travellers who wish to have two holiday experiences in one – the multi-centre holiday concept is ideal. Be inspired by some of our favourite combinations here at If Only… Antigua and St Kitts Why enjoy the delights of just one of the enthralling Caribbean islands when it is so easy to experience two in the one trip. Spend a week basking on any one of Antigua’s 365 tantalising beaches and become immersed in the islands undeniable hospitality and charm before heading across to the small but beautifully formed island of St Kitts. The landscape here is something to behold and visitors can make the most of it by taking the St Kitts Scenic Railway to explore the island. If Only… recommends Carlisle Bay Antigua and the Park Hyatt St Kitts for this itinerary.

Grenada and Barbados A combined holiday with Grenada and Barbados will offer a truly authentic, memorable and treasured Caribbean adventure. From traditional plantation houses, to historic Bridgetown, spectacular botanical gardens and music, colour and delicious aromas flooding the senses at every turn, Barbados really does encapsulate a quintessential Caribbean experience. Skip across to Grenada to enjoy some of the best scuba diving the Caribbean has to offer. Numerous shipwrecks lay sunken on the sea bed off the coast of Grenada, these along with the Molinere Beausejour Marine Protected Area, fantastic coral reefs and an abundance of bio-diverse marine life make for outstanding diving for any level from novice to expert!

San Francisco and Los Cabos Combining two vibrant, quirky and exciting destinations, a three-night visit to the city of San Francisco followed by a week-long stay in the municipality of Los Cabos, located in the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Californian Peninsula makes for a perfect twin-centre holiday. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy a cold beer in one of the cities many speakeasies and vintage saloons or take a boat out to Alcatraz Island for a tour of the infamous penitentiary. Just a short three-hour flight away lies the idyllic destination of Los Cabos where white sand beaches, championship golf courses and world class resorts are just some of the main draws to the area. If Only… recommends Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco and Viceroy Los Cabos for this itinerary.

Bermuda and New York City An inspired pairing, Bermuda and New York City make for a real unique holiday experience. An island retreat with a twist, Bermuda combines laid back luxury with legendary pink sand beaches, thrilling shipwreck diving and traditional Gombey dance performances. Pre-clear US immigration at Bermuda airport before flying into one of New York City’s main gateways making the whole transit experience quicker and easier. The home of shopping, dining out, musical theatre and iconic landmarks, New York is a city like no other and the ideal addition to any holiday! If Only… recommends the Fairmont Southampton and The Plaza New York, a Fairmont Managed Hotel for this itinerary.

If Only… recommends Port Ferdinand Luxury Resort & Residences and Laluna Resort & Villas for this itinerary.

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

A glimpse of Barbados Barbados is a small island with a big personality. At just 166 square miles it is easy to get out and explore; from the rugged coastline and wild surf of the East Coast, to the relaxed luxury and calm Caribbean Sea on the West Coast. In the island’s interior you’ll find old plantation houses, quaint villages with their Anglican churches and cricket pitches, beautiful botanical gardens, and colourful rum shacks. Barbados is home to some of the Caribbean’s best luxury hotels and restaurants, and offers the perfect mix of relaxation, epicurean perfection, historical sites and cultural flavour.

Explore the Island Barbados is an exciting island to explore. Must see sites include the enchanting Harrison’s Cave, Bathsheba on the wild East Coast, historic Bridgetown, the stunning Botanic Gardens, Mount Gay Rum Distillery and the elegant Sunbury Plantation House. The easiest way to see the island is to hire a car.

Destination Data Location: To the East of the Winward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean, 13 degrees north of the equator Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 8 and a half hours from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Barbadian Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 110 volts

World-class sport From test cricket to international sailing regattas, and game fishing to horse racing and polo, sport is an integral part of the identity of Barbados. Whether playing or spectating, the island is a haven for sports fans. It is fast becoming the golf capital of the Caribbean with 5 PGA standard courses.

Gastronomy and nightlife Fresh fish and seafood dominate the menus of beach shacks right through to the exclusive fine dining restaurants that can be found across the island. Flying fish is a specialty and Oistins Fish Fry is one of the most authentic places to sample it. Daphne’s and The Cliff are some of the more famous names for fine dining, and the small towns of St Lawrence Gap and Holetown are two of the livelier nightlife spots on the island. Barbados definitely packs a (rum) punch in the gastronomy stakes.

Festivals and celebrations Festivals and unique cultural events are held throughout the year. Highlights include the summer festival of Crop Over which is celebrated from June to August and has traditionally honoured the end of the island’s sugar cane season. A more recent addition to the events calendar is the Food and Rum festival, held each November at locations across the island. Holetown festival is held in February and Oistins Fish Festival takes place over the Easter weekend.

When to Travel Average daily highs range from 26 to 30 degrees, with slightly cooler temperatures and little rainfall from November to May, and higher temperatures and occasional showers in the wet season from June to October. Trade winds from the northeast mean conditions are generally comfortable year-round. The busiest months with visitors to the island are December to March. To experience the best of the Bajan culture, a visit between the months of June and August will coincide with the festival of Crop Over with its music, parades, arts and crafts and culinary flavours.

Little Good Harbour Port Ferdinand Marina Cobblers Cove

St Peter’s Bay Fairmont Royal Pavilion

Colony Club The Sandpiper

Coral Reef Club Mango Bay

Sandy Lane

Tamarind The House Crystal Cove Waves Hotel & Spa

Turtle Beach

Barbados

Barbados 23

Fairmont Royal Pavilion St James, Barbados

Fully refurbished in 2017 The Fairmont Royal Pavilion, is set in 11-acres with over half a mile of beachfront. It features 72 luxuriously appointed bedrooms and suites. The hotel is inspired by its timeless surroundings and takes its hue from the colour palette of the Platinum Coast. Soothing, peaceful tones are borrowed from the breath-taking seascape, mingling naturally with handcrafted woodwork and subtle local artwork. A tranquil ambience with an uncompromised view of the ocean from every room and suite affords the perfect opportunity to reconnect and relax.

At a glance

Guests are invited to do as much or as little as they please. There are complimentary non-motorised water sports including paddleboards, kayaks and snorkelling equipment. With a nod to its colonial roots English Afternoon Tea is served on the terrace. Gastronomes are well catered for with two restaurants and two bars serving international and local themed menus, alongside delicious rum cocktails.

Children: Over 10s welcomed all year round

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Location: Located on the West Coast, north of Bridgetown Transfer time: Approximately 45 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 72 Restaurants/bars: 4 Water activities: Water sports area Land activities: Spa and fitness room, tennis courts, nearby golf

Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Coral Reef Club St James, Barbados

In a superb location on the on the calm west coast, set within beautiful landscaped gardens, the family owned-and-run luxury resort, Coral Reef Club is renowned for its special ambiance and classic island style. Rooms and suites are traditionally designed colonial-style cottages and small buildings, with beautifully spacious, airy living areas featuring shuttered windows and furnished balcony or terraces. Indulge in cocktails at the piano bar followed by fabulous oceanfront dining overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The elegant Coral Reef restaurant features daily changing Ă la carte menus, offering choices of fresh seafood and dishes combining classical cuisine with Caribbean ingredients and flavours. Set within a tropical garden paradise is the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spa designed for health, relaxation and rejuvenation. With its lovely outdoor spaces, fabulous beach and stunning gardens, this hotel is the very essence of barefoot chic.

At a glance Location: Located on the West Coast, north of Bridgetown Transfer time: Approximately 45 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 88 Restaurants/bars: 2 Water activities: 2 swimming pools, Hobie cat sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling Land activities: Fitness centre, golf and tennis Spa/Beauty Services: The Coral Reef Spa Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Barbados 25

Sandy Lane St James, Barbados

Since its opening in 1961 this prestigious hotel has become synonymous with exclusivity and luxury. Converted from a sugar plantation, Sandy Lane is a truly world-famous resort, renowned for hosting international royalty, celebrities and discerning travellers alike. All of the spacious rooms are elegantly appointed and feature a large private veranda or balcony and marble bathrooms. Rooms and suites are available in a variety of categories, including the palatial 5 bedroom villa, complete with private pool and butler service.

At a glance

Leisure facilities include a spa, blending Caribbean therapies with international techniques. Complimentary non-motorised water sports are on hand whilst diving and deep-sea fishing charters can also be organised. Golfers will not be disappointed, with two 18-hole Tom Fazio designed courses and a shorter 9-hole course on site. Younger travellers can benefit from the kids clubs, whilst a separate program caters for teenagers.

Children: The Treehouse Club

Barbados

Location: Located on the West Coast, north of Bridgetown Transfer time: Approximately 40 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 114 Restaurants/bars: 4 Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Golf, spa, tennis, fitness centre

Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

The Sandpiper St James, Barbados A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, The Sandpiper is tucked away in a peaceful spot on Barbados’ west coast. The 50 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites offer views of the gardens or pool. For that extra touch of indulgence, Luxury Suites are available and feature their own plunge pools, wonderful interior design and a fabulous location overlooking the white sands of St James Beach. Award-winning cuisine is served at the restaurant, with fresh ingredients sourced daily from the local community. Live entertainment is provided in the evenings, and there is a Sunday barbecue. With its own water sports facilities, The Sandpiper is able to offer a wide range of activities including sailing and snorkelling. Guests may also choose to play golf at several local courses or take tennis lessons with the hotel’s tennis pro. Star rating:

Cobblers Cove St Peter, Barbados Cobblers Cove is a boutique resort which is part of the Relais and Châteaux hotel collection. The hotel is centred around the iconic pink and white Great House, originally constructed as a plantation home in the 1940s. The house is home to the hotel’s awardwinning restaurant and bar, both open to the tropical breeze whilst overlooking the palm-fringed beach and poolside deck. Accommodations are spread throughout the lush tropical gardens in two-storey cottages. The gardens are a destination in their own right, home to flora such as bougainvillea and trailing orchids, alongside all manner of birds and green monkeys. The suites are light and airy; several categories are available, including two-bedroomed options, perfect for families. The two signature suites located in the Great House offer private roof top terraces and plunge pools. Star rating:

Barbados 27

Saint Peter’s Bay Luxury Resort and Residences St Peter, Barbados Saint Peter’s Bay offers home away from home style accommodation, in one, two, three-bedroom residences and one five-bedroom penthouse within a luxury beachfront resort. The beachfront residences display traditional Barbadian architecture and finishes, with floor plans that maximise open living spaces, breath-taking views and privacy. Generous terraces with spa pools, fully-equipped kitchens and beautiful en-suite bedrooms. They are accented with marble tiles, white-washed cedar joinery and coral mouldings. All are fitted with air conditioning and ceiling fans. Elevators take guests directly from residences on higher floors to the lagoon style pool and beach. Lounge by the pool and indulge with snacks and cocktails at the adjacent Gazebo Bar & Grill, or dine at the resort’s sister property, Port Ferdinand, in the Quarterdeck Bar & Pizzeria. Bistro dining can be found at 13°/59°. Take the complimentary water taxi between both properties. Star rating:

Port Ferdinand Luxury Resort and Residences St Peter, Barbados Port Ferdinand Marina delivers a stunning selection of one to threebedroom residences designed to allow maximum enjoyment of the unique experiences that this marina resort has to offer. Each beautifully designed residence features over-sized living spaces and relaxing areas, allowing a peaceful yet luxurious haven for a Caribbean family holiday, romantic getaway or a special celebration. The Harbourside Homes feature timeless styling with marble and limestone finishes, coral stone walls, a fully-equipped open plan kitchen, expansive living spaces, luxuriously outfitted grand master bedrooms and lavish bathrooms. These residences open on to a large covered terrace offering panoramic marina and ocean vistas, perfect for outdoor living, dining and lounging. There’s a pool, gym, spa and water sports centre, offering kayaking, paddle boards, snorkels and a golf simulator which allows you to play on any course in the world. Enjoy culinary delights at 13°/59° restaurant or head to the beach for the newest addition to the Barbados social scene, Nikki Beach Club. Star rating:

Barbados

Colony Club by Elegant Hotels St James, Barbados

Set in lush tropical gardens, The Colony Club seamlessly blends old world charm with chic elegance. Converted from a former private memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colonial club, the resort boasts a prime location on the Platinum Coast, famed for its white sand, calm seas and stunning sunsets.

At a glance

The 96 rooms and suites are dotted amongst the gardens and all feature a private balcony or terrace, and spacious bathrooms. Suites are nearer the ocean and feature enhanced amenities.

Restaurants/bars: 4

A variety of activities are available. On land, pamper in the spa or work out in the gym, on water take a kayak or paddle board. Go fishing with the chef and land the catch of the day for it to be prepared in a flavoursome dish that evening. Guests can also enjoy the open-air setting of the Laguna Restaurant, with other options available at sister properties through the Taste of Elegance Dine Around Program.

Children: Kids Clubs (seasonal)

Location: Located on the West Coast, north of Bridgetown Transfer time: Approximately 40 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 96

Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Spa, gym and tennis

Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Barbados 29

The House by Elegant Hotels St James, Barbados

The House is an ocean retreat designed with romance in mind. This 34-room, adult-only resort hosts quiet spaces and an intimate atmosphere, located on the prestigious west coast, The House combines chic and minimalist design to create a tranquil haven.

At a glance

Reside in refined all suite accommodations at The House. Suites provide stunning ocean and lush garden views, plush dĂŠcor and deluxe amenities creating a sanctuary of sheer comfort and are appointed with details of fresh design and modern conveniences to maximise guest enjoyment. Relax and unwind in an incredible atmosphere of laid-back luxury.

Rooms/suites: 34

Location: Located on the West Coast, north of Bridgetown Transfer time: Approximately 40 minutes from the airport

Restaurants/bars: 1 Water activities: Kayaking, paddle boarding, tube riding, banana boats, snorkelling Land activities: In-room spa treatments, fitness room Spa: New for 2018

Champagne breakfast is served daily on The Deck, which also hosts afternoon tea, complete with scones and clotted cream, canapes are served each evening in this airy space. Delicious cuisine is available on site including Caribbean and international dishes, with other options available at sister properties through the Taste of Elegance Dine Around Program.

Barbados

Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Tamarind by Elegant Hotels St James, Barbados With its white-washed buildings and terracotta roofs, Tamarind blends Mediterranean style with Caribbean panache to offer laid-back relaxation. 104 contemporary, spacious rooms and suites delight the senses with modern décor cheerfully designed with vibrant tropical touches. Each room features a balcony or patio with spectacular views of the lushly landscaped gardens or the ocean. Tamarind welcomes seasoned travellers, couples and families alike. The Flying Fish Kids club will delight younger guests, whilst teens have their own dedicated space. Couples can take advantage of the adults only pool and private dining on the beach. A variety of activities are on offer, including a water sports centre, spa and gym. With 3 restaurants to choose from on property and a wide variety of options available at sister properties through the Taste of Elegance Dine Around Program, even the most ardent ‘foodies’ will be satisfied. Star rating:

Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels St James, Barbados Waves Hotel & Spa, is the very first all inclusive wellness resort in Barbados; mindfully designed to enhance well-being and nourish the spirit. Located on the island’s picturesque western coastline where swaying palm trees, secluded white-sand beaches and spectacular nightly sunsets create a stunning backdrop for a tropical mind and body retreat. 70 spacious, chic guest rooms and suites offer ocean and island views. Designed to create a calming atmosphere, they incorporate gentle hues of washed wood and linen. Soothing colours inspired by nature and inviting open-air spaces welcome lounging along the glorious ocean front or resting quietly tucked in among plush tropical greenery. Delicious cuisine is available on site including Asian themed and international dishes, with other options available at sister properties through the Taste of Elegance Dine Around Program. Star rating:

Barbados 31

Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels St James, Barbados Situated on Payne’s Bay on the west coast of Barbados, just 10 minutes from the shops, bars and restaurants of Holetown, Crystal Cove is an all-inclusive resort with a small boutique feel. The 88 contemporary rooms and suites evoke the feeling of a charming Barbados village nestled on a hillside, around a picturesque seaside cove. Rooms feature cheerful modern décor with bright splashes of vibrant colour, plush amenities and sweeping balcony or terrace views of gardens or the ocean. For families the spacious One Bedroom Pool or Garden View Suites are ideal as they feature a second bathroom. An array of complimentary water sports are available for guests, whilst the three-tiered, freshwater lagoon-style swimming pool is perfect for cooling down. Flying Fish Club is the perfect place for children to meet new friends through the variety of games and activities. Star rating:

Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels St Lawrence Gap, Barbados Turtle Beach is a family-friendly, all suite, all-inclusive resort, set on a white sand beach within walking distance of St Lawrence Gap. Spread across four floors, suites offer a balcony or terrace, with views over the ocean, gardens or swimming pools. Airy one-bedroom suites can accommodate larger families with 2 adults and 3 children. The resort is set on a stretch of pristine white sand beach, with two fresh water pools and a children’s splash pool. Various activities are offered each day including beach cricket, Calypso dancing and cocktail making. Guests can also enjoy an array of water sports and tennis. Alternatively, just relax in the Bajan sunshine and let the pool ambassadors take the strain. When it comes to dining, the resort offers cuisine to suit all palates. Dining at the hotel’s sister properties is also an option thanks to the Taste of Elegance Dine Around Program. Star rating:

Barbados

Little Good Harbour St Lucy, Barbados Located in a quiet fishing village on the west coast, Little Good Harbour is ideal for couples, families and groups. Conveniently located just 20 minutes away from the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Holetown and close to historic town of Speightstown. The property offers the best of both worlds; enjoy the exclusivity of a private villa combined with the comforts and service of a hotel. The spacious suites are set in white-washed cottages sprinkled in the gardens, or within the historic fort at the water’s edge. Each suite features Balinese furnishings, airy living space and a fully-equipped kitchen. One Bedroom Garden Suites are split level and overlook the tropical gardens. The Two Bedroom Oceanfront Fort Suite is set on the upper level of the historic fort with incredible ocean views. Star rating:

Mango Bay St James, Barbados Mango Bay is ideal for those seeking the convenience of an all inclusive beach holiday combined with the personal and friendly service of a small intimate resort with only 76 rooms. Perfect for those looking to enjoy both beach life and nightlife, with lively Holetown on the doorstep. The contemporary-styled rooms are set either in the main building or in a separate block surrounded by lush gardens. Guests can upgrade to an ocean facing room giving the chance to awaken to the sound of the waves lapping the shore. Enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from the hotel’s restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serving a mixture of buffet and à la carte options with a Caribbean and international influence. Star rating:

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A glimpse of Antigua and Barbuda Nestled between the warm, gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea on one side, and the rolling Atlantic Ocean on the other, Antigua has a coastline that is made up of 365 beaches; one for each day of the year. The island is muchloved for these fine, white sand beaches and azure waters, and is also a haven for those seeking adventure on the water.

Adventure

Barbuda is one of the gems of the Caribbean; undeveloped with a natural purity and authenticity. With just a small number of hotels, and unspoilt natural beauty, the island is a haven for wildlife, with the Frigate Bird Sanctuary located in the island’s north-western lagoon.

Location: In the middle of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean, 17 degrees north of the equator Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 8 hours from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 230 volts

Antigua is not just an island for relaxation; zip line adventures in the rainforest canopy, horse riding along the beach, scuba diving historic shipwrecks, Segway tours, nature and eco tours, and speedboat trips are some of the highlights for those seeking to add a more adventurous twist to their holiday.

Destination Data

Although famous for their laid-back atmosphere, music is a fundamental part of the culture and all year round the sounds of Calypso and steel bands play out across Antigua, with the chance to see some of the best at Shirley Heights on Sunday evenings. The islands can be seen at their colourful and charismatic best during Carnival at the end of July; with the celebrations stretching for over a week.

When to Travel Temperatures generally range from the low to mid-twenties in the winter, to the high twenties in the summer. Antigua and Barbuda are the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean Islands, with an average annual rainfall of just 45 inches, and low humidity year-round. With cooling trade winds from the northeast, which drop off only in September, the islands enjoy pleasant temperatures and perfect conditions for water sports.

Beautiful beaches With so many to choose from, Antigua is paradise for beach lovers. The best on the island can be found in the northwest. Dickenson Bay is a lively option with bars, restaurants and water sports. Half Moon Bay often has great conditions for surfing. For those searching for tranquillity, Hermitage Bay is secluded and peaceful, Green Island Beach is on a small, private island, and Barbuda offers endless deserted shores.

Carnival is held at the end of July and runs into early August each year, and Antigua and Barbuda Independence Day is celebrated on the 1st November, with parties and celebrations taking place across the islands.

Blue Waters Resort & Spa The Cove Suites at Blue waters

Sailing and water sports Antigua is famed for its sailing conditions thanks to the strong trade winds which pass through the island. Playing host to events throughout the year, the most popular is Antigua Sailing Week, held at the end of April. For surfing, sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, Antigua is practically unrivalled in the Caribbean, with options for complete novices to seasoned sailors.

Hodges Bay Resort & Spa

Jumby Bay Island

Gallery Bay Resort & Spa

Hermitage Bay

Exploring the island Antigua is the perfect island for exploring. Historic forts and sugar plantations offer an interesting insight into Antigua’s past, whilst stunning viewpoints showcase its natural beauty. Key sites to include in any tour of the island are Betty’s Hope, Devil’s Bridge, Fort George, and Nelson’s Dockyard. We can arrange a hire car or a private guided tour.

Antigua & Barbuda

Carlisle Bay

St James’s Club & Villas

Curtain Bluff The Inn at English Harbour

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Jumby Bay Island Long Island, Antigua

Situated on 7km of pristine shoreline and close to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, just a short, scenic boat trip from Antigua. This peaceful island, exclusively for hotel guests, has octagonal-shaped cottages featuring wrap-around terraces with views of the Caribbean Sea, and spacious suites spread across the island. Decorated in traditional, colonial Caribbean style the resort blends luxury with comfort, all enhanced with state of the art facilities.

At a glance

From casual, yet authentic meals on the sand at the Beach Shack, to sophisticated and elegant fine dining at the Estate House, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a menu to suit all. The infinity pool, water-skiing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkelling are all on hand to burn off the calories. On dry land thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fitness centre, tennis courts and bicycles for further exploration of the island, and The Spa invites guests to unwind and rejuvenate with treatments that use local natural ingredients.

Land activities: Fitness centre, tennis and cycling

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Location: Located on Long Island, 2 miles off the coast of Antigua Transfer time: Approximately 15 minutes by boat from Antigua Rooms/suites: 40 Restaurants/bars: 6 Water activities: 1 pool, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling

Spa/Beauty Services: The Spa a Jumby Bay Children: Camp Jumby Kids Club Board basis: All Inclusive Star rating:

Carlisle Bay St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Antigua

Lush hills leading to a perfect white sand beach create a stunning setting for this chic, contemporary resort. A bridge across the lily pond leads to the cool, open plan lobby that conveys the sense of style and service found throughout the resort.

At a glance

The 87 suites, decorated with neutral fabrics and dark wooden furniture, are havens of calm. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide spectacular views of the beach or garden and the sea beyond.

Rooms/suites: 87

Step off the sand onto the wooden deck for that lunchtime drink or snack at Indigo on the Beach, which in the evening becomes a smarter affair, serving seafood and vegetarian dishes. For a sense of occasion, try Japanese and Thai dishes at East. And for Caribbean cuisine and a laid-back vibe try The Jetty for sunset views. The water sports centre, the library, the Yoga pavilion and a movie screening room offer every sort of distraction at Carlisle Bay.

Land activities: Fitness centre, Yoga, tennis, horse riding and screening rooms

Location: Located on Carlisle Bay, St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close to English Harbour Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport

Restaurants/bars: 8 Water activities: Swimming pool and water sports centre

Spa/Beauty Services: Blue Spa Children: Cool Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

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Hodges Bay Resort & Spa by Elegant Hotels Sandy Lane, Antigua With its secluded setting on a white-sand beach, Hodges Bay Resort & Spa is designed to be different from the normal Caribbean offering – a contemporary beachfront development in the north of the island with a trendy ‘South Beach’ style. 87 luxurious and modern guest rooms, with terraces or balconies that enjoy pool or ocean views, are designed in neutral tones with wood finishes and stylish artworks. S.A.L.T offers internationally inspired cuisine and Cielo Tapas Bar and Lounge serves delicious tapas. White Sands, the main dining outlet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, has a Mediterranean inspired menu and serves buffets and casual a la carte fare. There’s a heated ocean-side infinity pool, a state of the art spa, kids and teens clubs, as well as water sports, tennis courts and a daily activities schedule. There are two pools: the ‘adults only’ with private cabanas, and the family pool with comfy daybeds. Star rating:

Hermitage Bay St Mary’s, Antigua This 140-acre haven offers an authentic, relaxed Caribbean experience with 5-star style and service on the south west coast. Unhurried and low key, the resort has 30 suites scattered in the tropical gardens between the white sand beach and the lush hillside. Suites are furnished in rich dark woods and cool white linens to create havens of peace, just steps from the beach or on the hillside with its stunning sunset views. Light lunches and cocktails are served with flair in the Lounge, while the Restaurant presents the freshest local produce. As the sun sets, it transforms into a more formal dining area with live music – all accompanied by the soothing sound of the rolling waves. During the day, take a tour of the local farms and markets, then use their produce in the complimentary cooking class, or simply relax by the pool. There’s also a selection of non-motorised water sports available and a fitness centre. Star rating:

Antigua & Barbuda

Curtain Bluff Resort St John’s, Antigua Curtain Bluff Resort brings a touch of 21st century design to a classic colonial, West-Indian style resort. Authentic and stylish artefacts blend with the white and cream aesthetic in this newly renovated property. Predominantly low rise, the 72 rooms and suites blend luxury and state of the art facilities and each enjoy superb ocean views from their balconies or spacious terraces that lead straight to the sand. At the heart of the resort, The Tamarind serves every style of breakfast and five-course dinners accompanied by candlelight, sparkling terrace lights and the sounds of a different band each evening. The Seagrape, famous for its beach front buffet lunches, regularly transforms into an intimate, torch-lit venue for delicious Italian/ Antiguan dinners. This all-inclusive resort offers something for all ages; try Hobie Cats, paddle-boats, kayaks and windsurfing. On shore there are squash and tennis courts, a fitness centre, putting green and Bocce and shuffleboard courts. Star rating:

The Inn at English Harbour St John’s, Antigua The Inn at English Harbour has only 28 rooms and is positioned on 19 acres of beachfront, offering a true sense of privacy and seclusion. This boutique hotel provides true exclusivity with 5 Star elegance. The resort’s stylish atmosphere combines a Colonial style with contemporary comfort. Guest rooms are large and airy with mahogany floors, with ground floor rooms featuring verandas that lead out on to the manicured gardens. Dining is a memorable experience, with options that will delight even the most discerning of palates; from local Caribbean specialities to Italian dishes. A wide selection of activities are on offer including an infinity-edged pool, tennis courts and water sports. The resort also features a small, boutique spa, which has two treatment rooms. Popular tourist sites are nearby, with Shirley Heights just a five minute drive away, and Nelson’s Dockyard accessed by a two minute water taxi ride Star rating: .

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St James’s Club & Villas St Paul’s, Antigua On an exclusive peninsula in Antigua’s south east corner, this relaxed resort sits between a sparkling lagoon and the calm waters of Mamora Bay. Soothing sea breezes and enticing views of the Reef Deck Pool and the ocean beyond complement the warmest of welcomes and the refreshing cocktails offered at check-in. Guest rooms, some with direct beach access, have private terraces or balconies, dark wood furnishings, terracotta flooring and natural colours. Royal Suites have sunken living rooms with wet bars, floorto-ceiling windows and large bathrooms with his-and-hers showers and deep-soaking tubs. Choose to dine a la carte or buffet style in the airy Rainbow Garden Restaurant. For a more casual option try Coco’s. Elegant evenings can be spent in Piccolo Mondo which is perched above the cascades of the Mamora pool. An array of water sports are on offer, a nearby golf course and the resort’s Tranquillity Body & Soul Spa. Star rating:

Galley Bay Resort & Spa St John’s, Antigua After a true Antiguan welcome in the lobby, guests are transported across the causeway to discover this boutique property which sits on 1.2km of white sand beach with glorious lagoon views. Refined yet unpretentious, Galley Bay Resort & Spa is a relaxing and intimate hideaway in St John’s, where lush gardens create a natural setting for low-rise accommodation that is nestled into the landscape. The focal point of the resort is the white sand beach along the clear, warm Caribbean waters, where guests can while away time reclining in the shade of a palm tree, soaking up the sun or enjoying refreshing swims and complimentary non-motorised water sports. With three open-air restaurants and three welcoming lounges, there’s always an attractive option for dining. And with breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with afternoon tea, evening hors d’oeuvres, by-theglass wines and top-shelf beverages all included, guests might never want to leave. Star rating:

Antigua & Barbuda

Blue Waters Resort & Spa St John’s, Antigua In the north-west of Antigua, the award winning Blue Waters Resort & Spa, sits along a practically private stretch of Soldiers Bay, with the surrounding hillside’s foliage and verdant gardens creating an idyllic, tropical paradise. Spacious and elegant with bright modern decoration, rooms and villas come in all shapes and sizes; from the Superior Hillside Rooms with marvellous vistas to Deluxe Beachfront Rooms just steps from the sand. Flaming torches lead to the candlelit Cove Restaurant, set atop a cliff with breath-taking views. Equally impressive is the Caribbean/French cuisine. For relaxed daytime dining, the Palm Restaurant has a café atmosphere that transforms into a chic dinner venue in the evenings, and is only a stone’s throw away from the Pelican Bar – the ideal spot for sipping cocktails as a steel band plays. Star rating:

The Cove Suites at Blue Waters St John’s, Antigua The Cove Suites are the pride and joy of Blue Waters Resort & Spa, situated in an exclusive enclave at one end of the resort and commanding spectacular views of the beach. Whilst separate from the rest of the resort, Cove guests have access to all of Blue Waters’ award-winning facilities. Each suite, furnished in a bright, modern and airy style, has a wellappointed living area leading to a spacious bedroom and en-suite bathroom. On arrival guests receive a mobile phone that’s connected to the concierge. With additional social spaces and terraces, Cove Suites guests also benefit from exclusive access to the resort’s infinity pools. For even more space in which to indulge, The Penthouses are the ultimate in Caribbean luxury, affording unparalleled views from the huge private balcony. Families and groups will treasure the 275m2 of space, separate living area, dining area, kitchen and three bedrooms that each penthouse provides. Star rating:

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A glimpse of St Lucia Known as ‘The Helen of the West’ and the only country in the world to be named after a female, Saint Lucia is immensely beautiful and rich in natural culture and heritage.

Relaxation

Many islands in the Caribbean lay claim to the best diving, beaches and music – but St Lucia really does have it all.

It is difficult not to feel relaxed when arriving in St Lucia, in part this is down to the warm and friendly nature of the locals. However, the 96 miles of breath-taking coastline, the opportunity to spot over 20 species of whale and dolphin in the surrounding waters, as well as the wonderful bird watching to behold on this bountiful island all cement St Lucia as somewhere to become immersed in nature, beauty and relaxation. For a truly unique experience, visit the Soufrier Volcano where the mud baths at Sulphur Springs are said to detoxify and heal the body as well as making bather’s skin look and feel up to 12 years younger.

Dining and nightlife

Destination Data

The 27-mile-long and 14-mile-wide island offers an abundance of exciting experiences and beautiful palmfringed beaches, majestically overlooked by the magical Piton Mountains.

From Michelin star quality dining to hearty home cooking and the freshest roadside codfish stands, St Lucia’s gastronomic scene is sure to satisfy the most discerning and adventurous of taste buds. Creole, African, British and French influences can be found throughout the island and food is a celebration. Evidence of this can be seen during the Friday night street parties which take place in the fishing villages at Gros Islet, the St Lucia Food and Rum Festival (dates change annually, taking place in September 2019) and the delectable offerings to be found at Rodney Bay. From day to night this area moves from a relaxed and ambient bay where some of the island’s finest, locally grown organic produce can be sampled, to the ideal location to be captivated by the excitement and beauty of the island. With a great choice of restaurants, bars and nightclubs as well as the island’s Treasure Bay Casino, Rodney Bay is a popular hotspot for any St Lucian holiday.

Location: Part of The Lesser Antilles, St Lucia is situated in the eastern Caribbean Sea, bordering the Atlantic Ocean Local Time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 8 hours from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK and Irish passport holders Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US dollar is widely accepted Vaccinations: Recommended for Typhoid, Hepatitis B. Consult your doctor for the most up to date advice Electricity: 220 volts

When to Travel Average temperatures in St Lucia range from 25 to 35 degrees and it is generally considered a year-round destination, however the months of August to November will see the highest rainfall. December to March are the driest and busiest months on the island and it is recommended that flights and hotels are booked well in advance over this period. Cap Maison

Adventure An island of spectacular natural splendour, St Lucia is famous for its lunging valleys and rising peaks. Here the iconic Piton Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tower above the verdant, luscious rainforest which meets the beauty and colours of the coral reef. This diverse landscape lends itself perfectly to a huge range of activities; try ziplining through cocoa and coffee plantations, take a gondola ride through the rainforest canopy taking in panoramic views of the island, explore St Lucia by Segway and learn about the indigenous flora and fauna as well as the island’s thought-provoking history. Visitors can also discover the east coast by bike, cycling along rainforest trails and stopping off for a refreshing dip under a waterfall before continuing back up the coast.

St. Lucia

The Landings East Winds

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa Rendezvous

Marigot Bay Resort and Marina

Anse Chastanet

Jade Mountain Ladera Sugar Beach a Viceroy Resort

St. Lucia 43

Cap Maison Gros Islet, St Lucia

Located in one of the most sought-after areas of St Lucia, Cap Maison offers a luxury, boutique experience perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway. Elegant and spacious, the Villa Suite design also lends itself to families seeking larger than usual accommodations and are stylised with a beautiful blend of Spanish and Caribbean architecture.

At a glance

Enjoy the inviting waters of the pristine beach at Smugglers Cove where guests can enjoy a selection of non-motorised water sports. Relax in the infinity pool with stunning views or unwind in a more private setting at the garden pool.

Restaurants/bars: 3

With a reputation as one of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;foodieâ&#x20AC;? hotels in St Lucia, guests can mingle with locals and enjoy fine dining at The Clift at Cap. For a unique experience, patrons can be served a bottle of Champaign via zip-line going from the bar down to Rock Maison where they can enjoy a secluded romantic meal.

Spa/Beauty Services: Spa Maison

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Location: Located in Gros Islet, a short drive away from the chic Rodney Bay area Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 49

Water activities: 2 swimming pools, kayaking, Hobie Cat, snorkelling, paddle boarding and windsurfing Land activities: Gym, Yoga, hiking and 18-hole golf course nearby

Children: Kids Club during the summer months Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort Soufriere, St Lucia

On the west coast of St Lucia within a designated UNESCO world heritage site lies a land of unparalleled beauty and tranquillity. Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort provides a magical destination for discerning travellers.

At a glance

Marrying 18th Century colonial charm with superb modern amenities and suitable for families and honeymooners alike, the accommodation envelops guests in pampered ease and exquisite privacy. Set amid lush vegetation and soaring trees with breath-taking views of the Caribbean Sea and the Pitons.

Rooms/suites: 96

Enjoy relaxed Ă l fresco meals at the beachside Bayside Restaurant and Caribbean-influenced elegant dining at the Great Room or head to the Cane Bar a speciality rum bar. Private dining experiences are available with tiki torch lights on the beach under the stars for that perfect romantic meal. The indulgent Rainforest Spa set within a traditionally built tree house offers an array of relaxing treatments.

Spa/Beauty Services: Rainforest Spa

Location: Set on the scenic west coast Transfer time: Approximately 50 minutes from the airport

Restaurants/bars: 6 Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Gym, fitness classes, tennis, beach volleyball, pool table and Yoga

Children: Sugar Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

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The Landings Resort & Spa Rodney Bay, St Lucia

The Landings Resort and Spa exudes a sense of luxury and timeless elegance. This all villa resort offers One, Two and Three Bedroom Villas complete with the finest furnishings. Ideal for families and groups of friends, guests can relax on their private terrace with views overlooking the marina or the shimmering beach.

At a glance

Enjoy unique dining experiences with 3 restaurants and 2 bars, offering the chance to sample authentic St Lucian specialties, international dishes and kid-friendly favourites.

Restaurants/bars: 5

The sea can be enjoyed through a variety of water sports, while the magnificent marine life and coral can be appreciated by snorkelling or deep-sea fishing. The Landings has three swimming pools, two Jacuzzis and tennis courts. The impressive Spa offers an oasis of pampering and relaxation treatments, along with a health club. For golf enthusiasts, the prestigious St Lucia Golf Club is only a five-minute drive away.

Land activities: Health Club

St. Lucia

Location: On the north coast overlooking Rodney Bay Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 85

Water activities: Three swimming pools, kayaks, paddleboards and Hobie Cats

Spa/Beauty Services: The Spa at The Landings Children: Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Ladera Resort Soufriere, St Lucia

Situated upon a UNESCO world heritage site and commanding fabulous views, the exclusive Ladera Resort offers unparalleled levels of service. The property has just 37 rooms and suites and offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Uniquely constructed from locally harvested tropical hardwoods, furniture is made on site by St Lucian artisans. Each suite has an “open wall” that gives way to a private plunge pool and magnificent views of the Pitons and Caribbean.

At a glance

Guests can learn the secrets of making one of the resort’s fabulous Caribbean specialties at a cooking class. For a more relaxing affair, savour a dish for every appetite and occasion at Dasheene, or just enjoy an evening sundowner from The Bar.

Land activities: Gym, complimentary beach shuttle

Location: Situated just outside the port town of Soufrière Transfer time: Approximately 45 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 37 Restaurants/bars: 2 Water activities: Swimming pool, hot tubs

Spa/Beauty Services: The Spa at Ladera Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

A must-do experience is to join the popular street party held every Friday night in the small fishing village of Anse La Raye.

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Jade Mountain Soufriere, St Lucia Imagine a chic resort ideally located between sea and mountains in the midst of lush vegetation and with stunning unspoilt beaches. That is exactly what architect and owner Nick Troubetzkoy has created in Jade Mountain - a realisation of building in perfect harmony with Caribbean nature. Each of the 24 Infinity Edge Pool Sanctuaries propose a grand sweeping statement, from the living area to the private infinity edge pool gliding into one another to form an amazing platform floating in space. Savour a diversity of fine recipes at the Jade Mountain Club. Head to Celestial Terrace, perfect for sunset cocktails or stargazing once darkness falls. Kai en Ciel Spa offers a selection of treatments, as well as Ayurveda and holistic services. In addition guests have unlimited access to all restaurants and bars at Anse Chastanet, which are just a short downhill walk or a brief shuttle ride away. Star rating:

Rendezvous Malabar Beach, St Lucia An all-inclusive luxury resort for couples surrounded by tropical gardens and set on two miles of golden sandy beach. Private, peaceful and unspoilt, it’s hard to imagine a more idyllic setting. Each suite at Rendezvous is designed to be a private sanctuary; divided across Garden View or Beach Front Rooms and Suites, as well as eight Beach Front Cottages located only a few short steps away from the Caribbean Sea. All rooms are well-appointed, elegant yet relaxed and furnished with light understated décor. The Trysting Place, is Rendezvous’ most glamourous setting and a must for fine dining. Beachside, Malabar Beach Club offers ‘toes in the sand’ style dining whilst the Terrace Bar offers the perfect place for sipping a cocktail whilst the sun goes down. Overlooking a secluded pool, The Spa is the very picture of serenity. A true sanctuary where guests will find every soothing possibility to help them unwind. Star rating:

St. Lucia

East Winds Gros Islet, St Lucia East Winds is a charming all-inclusive property, set amongst 12 acres of tropical gardens in a secluded cove in St Luciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s north west. The natural beauty of the resort, combined with its 30 Cottages offers an authentic Caribbean experience. All of the well-appointed Cottages come complete with modern amenities. Upgrade to an Ocean Front Cottage to enjoy a special stay in what was once a private residence belonging to the Horlicks Beverage family. Cuisine at East Winds is of the highest standard, the Executive Chef crafts delicious meals, working closely with local producers to create authentic Caribbean meals, together with established international dishes. Meals can be enjoyed alongside the beach in private thatched gazebos, perfect for honeymoon couples or guests seeking a touch of romance. Visit the onsite Garden Spa where the philosophy is to stay attuned to nature by using organic remedies, many of which are grown in the hotel grounds. Star rating:

Marigot Bay Resort and Marina Marigot Bay, St Lucia From the minute guests arrive at the hotel, staff at the resort will be ready to welcome them with open arms and a friendly face. Perfect for couples wanting to enjoy a romantic getaway. The Bay View Rooms offer breath-taking sights of the bay, and The Resort View Rooms overlook the tranquil gardens. Each room is decorated with West Indian influences with rainforest green colour palettes. With an array of cuisines available there is something for everyone, including The Grill that provides the perfect setting for an evening meal, guests can enjoy an authentic experience at the Rum Cave with rum tasting or hang out in the bustling Hurricane Hole serving light bites and refreshing drinks. Recline on a floating lounge chair by the infinity pool overlooking the magnificent bay or discover the benefits of the Auriga Spa, using a selection of treatments to offer indulgent moments of relaxation and wellbeing. Star rating:

St. Lucia 49

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa Gros Islet, St Lucia

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa is an adult only property, situated on St Luciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s north west coast and offering spectacular views of Bonaire Bay. Offering just 26 rooms and suites across three categories. All rooms are decorated using natural materials with a touch of Caribbean colour and feature a terrace or porch. Upgrading to the exclusive Cottages provides an added element of luxury, with a plunge pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor rain shower and hammock.

At a glance

The resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main restaurant, Windsong affords mesmerising views across the turquoise Sea, serving a mixture of local and international dishes. Enjoy a beer or cocktail at the swim up pool bar, whilst the other bar offers a relaxed ambience with a touch of hip elegance. Spa lovers will be delighted by the treatments available at the spa. The resort also offers a 40ft infinity edge pool, fitness centre and a concierge who can assist with any off-site activities.

Land activities: Fitness centre and walking trails

St. Lucia

Location: Located on the northwest coast, close to Gros Islet Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 26 Restaurants/bars: 3 Water activities: Swimming pool

Spa/Beauty Services: Ti Spa Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Anse Chastanet Soufriere, St Lucia

Anse Chastanet is St Lucia’s only resort property with an iconic view of both the Piti and Gros Piton mountains floating upon the Caribbean Sea. The location of the property is unsurpassed, a private estate of 600 lush tropical acres bordering two soft-sand Caribbean beaches.

At a glance

49 individually designed rooms with a rustic Caribbean feel are either scattered amidst the lush hillside or nestled within the tropical gardens. There is a pleasing selection of 4 restaurants and 2 bars available within the resort. Guests can gaze over the ocean from the open-air Treehouse Restaurant offering tropical cuisine or indulge in guilt-free dining at Emerald’s which serves organic vegetarian dishes.

Restaurants/bars: 6

Location: Located 15 minutes from Soufriere Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour from the airport Rooms/suites: 49

Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Yoga and bike hire Spa/Beauty Services: Kai Belté Spa Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Complimentary use of non-motorised water sports including snorkel gear, windsurfing, kayaks and paddle boarding. Kai Belté Spa is the ideal place to harmonise body and soul and escape from the stress and strains of everyday life.

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A glimpse of Grenada Grenada is the spice island of the Caribbean. Friendly and welcoming, it is situated just 200 miles from the coast of Venezuela, and although small, at roughly the size of the Isle of Wight, it has a lot to offer visitors. Serving up scents of cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and its most famous export, nutmeg, this mountainous gem sits in crystal waters and is a real delight for divers of all abilities thanks to the Molinere Beausejour Marine Protected Area and numerous shipwrecks near the island. Grenada is a tri-island state and its sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique are easily accessible by boat and make a fantastic day trip for those seeking tranquillity and authentic Caribbean charm.

Nature and Spice Island One-ninth of Grenada’s landmass is preserved as parks and natural wildlife sanctuaries. Visitors can trek through tropical rainforests filled with a wide variety of flora and fauna and uncover the most magical waterfalls and a dormant volcano. Tours can be arranged to visit Grand Etang National Park and Mount Qua Qua, as well as the island’s spice plantations, rum producers and artisan chocolate factories.

Scuba Diving Grenada has some of the best scuba diving sites in the Caribbean, along with amazing bio-diversity. Over 50 dive sites are on offer here including the world’s first Underwater Sculpture Park and the famous Italian cruise liner, the Bianca C, which sank in 1961.

Destination Data Location: Located at the southern end of the Grenadines island chain, approximately 200 miles north east of Venezuela Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 10 hours from the UK and Ireland, most flights are indirect Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 230 volts

When to Travel Average daily highs of 29 degrees feature year-round, with drier weather and slightly cooler temperatures December to May, and higher temperatures and occasional showers in the wet season from June to November. For those wanting to enjoy rainforest treks and walking tours, the winter months will offer more comfortable conditions with less humidity. Plan a trip in August to experience the Carnival atmosphere on the island.

Beaches With 45 pristine white-sand beaches and endless water sports on offer, Grenada is the perfect choice for beach lovers. Grand Anse is considered one of best beaches in the Caribbean, whilst Sagesse, Bathway and Levera Beach are top of the list for those looking for peace and tranquillity.

Festivals Throughout the year Grenada plays host to some of the most exciting festivals in the Caribbean. Grenada Sailing Festival, Pure Grenada Music Festival and Grenada Chocolate Festival are some of the highlights. For a uniquely Grenadian experience visit during Grenada Spicemas Festival held on the second Monday and Tuesday in August, and Carriacou Carnival which is held in February.

Mount Cinnamon Resort & Beach Club

Silversands

Spice Island Beach Resort Laluna

Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel

Grenada

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Spice Island Beach Resort St George’s, Grenada

Located on world-famous Grand Anse Beach, the resort is owned and operated by Sir Royston Hopkin, KCMG and family. Spice Island Beach Resort offers a fully inclusive Spice-of-Life experience.

At a glance

Many of the suites are situated right on the beach, are beautifully furnished with stylish contemporary Caribbean décor and breezy terraces. Many have private swimming pools or plunge pools. Savour exceptional island cuisine, cocktails and house wines at Oliver’s, casual beachfront lunches at the Sea and Surf Terrace & Bar, and on Fridays enjoy the Caribbean Buffet night with the sound of the steel band playing in the background.

Rooms/suites: 64

Location: Located on Grand Anse Beach Transfer time: Approximately 10 minutes from the airport

Restaurants/bars: 2 Water activities: Swimming pool, snorkelling, kayaking, Hobie Cats and paddle boards Land activities: Golf, tennis, bicycles, gym and Yoga classes Spa/Beauty Services: Janissa’s Spa

Guests of the resort can enjoy complimentary green fees at Grenada Golf Club, explore the local area with the use of the resort’s bicycles, relax by the swimming pool or take advantage of the many non-motorised water sports available on the stunning sandy beach.

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Children: Nutmeg Pod Children’s Club Board basis: All Inclusive Star rating:

Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel L’Anse aux Epines, Grenada

Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. Combing five-star service with a relaxed and intimate environment to create the ultimate Caribbean escape. The 35 suites and villas are set within a two-storey building, arranged around a lush garden facing out towards the secluded white sand beach with a balcony or terrace. Decorated with cool whites and pastels, each suite oozes a sense of style and comfort; creating a relaxing haven. The resort believes that breakfast should be a relaxing experience, guests can climb out of bed and enjoy a freshly-cooked breakfast on their balcony or terrace if they wish. Enjoy an evening meal at Rhodes Restaurant, named after the famous chef Gary Rhodes, serving elegant cuisine with distinct island flare.

At a glance Location: Located in L’Anse aux Epines Transfer time: Approximately 10 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 35 Restaurants/bars: 5 Water activities: Snorkelling, Kayaks, Hobie Cats, paddle boards and pedalos Land activities: Yoga, fitness centre Spa/Beauty Services: The Spa at Calabash Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

The resort offers complimentary non-motorised water sports on the beach a relaxing spa with a full range of treatments – a refuge of wellbeing and relaxation.

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Silversands Grenada Grand Anse, Grenada

Situated on the famous Grand Anse Beach, this brand-new boutique resort offers a sleek and contemporary design thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quite a contrast to other resorts on the island. Open plan suites and villas are designed with an emphasis on clean lines and natural light. For families, the impressive villas offer a luxurious home away from home, with a choice of three or four bedrooms, spacious living and dining areas, fully fitted kitchens, and their own private pools. Dining options include an elegant Thai restaurant with Ă l fresco dining. The stylish Beach Club overlooks the pool and ocean and serves light meals, with an open-air terrace, and a resident DJ to create a relaxed but vibrant atmosphere. There is also a cosy Lobby Lounge with an extensive collection of rums and cigars. Guests can relax and unwind in the spectacular 100-metre infinity pool the longest in Caribbean and the perfect place to cool down.

Grenada

At a glance Location: Located on Grand Anse Beach Transfer time: Approximately 15 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 52 Restaurants/bars: 3 Water activities: Swimming pool Land activities: Fitness centre, spa, hair and nail salon, golf and tennis can be arranged nearby Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Laluna St George’s, Grenada Laluna is a small, stylish, chic hotel set on a gorgeous secluded beach in the south west corner of Grenada, with a distinct Asian influence. The hotel’s 16 cottages and 3 villas are a fusion of Asian elements with West Indian detail, each featuring open-air showers and private plunge pools, a veranda with a daybed, and even Yoga mats. All suites are located on the hillside, which gives dramatic views over the Caribbean Sea. One of the cottages is close to the beach offering a private romantic setting – perfect for honeymooners. The beachfront thatched Italian restaurant offers authentic Italian food with a Caribbean twist. The open-sided sunset lounge and bar is built around the main pool, with comfortable Balinese sofas and day beds and occasional live music. It is the ideal place to watch the sun go down. The hotel’s wellness sanctuary includes an Asian spa featuring professional Balinese masseuses utilising Eastern techniques for massage and spa treatments. Take a sail on the hotels 44ft catamaran, enjoy a game of tennis or workout at the gym. The hotel also offers a selection of complimentary water sport. Star rating:

Mount Cinnamon Resort & Beach Club St George’s, Grenada Nestled amongst the lush greenery, and commanding stunning views over Grand Anse Beach, this boutique, apartment-style resort is great for families or couples looking for laid back luxury with a bit of adventure. 28 suites and villas offering excellent family-sized accommodation, from one bedroom suites through to three bedroom villas. Individually styled with a colourful theme; with interiors which are comfortably contemporary and chic. Offering fantastic sea views, some of the suites also feature fully-fitted kitchens. Mount Cinnamon prides itself on providing some of the best dining experiences on the island, be it a mouth-watering beach-side BBQ at the Cabana Club, or an authentic meal in Savvy’s restaurant, mixing Indian and Caribbean traditions with freshly-grown vegetables from the resort’s own gardens and from nearby plantations. The resort also offers evening entertainment. The Cinnamon Spa provides an extensive choice of luxurious treatments and services to create a unique experience to each guest. Star rating:

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A glimpse of the Turks and Caicos Islands Located in the Atlantic Ocean rather than the Caribbean Sea and just to the east of Cuba, the Turks and Caicos Islands are comprised of 40 islands and cays, only eight of which are actually inhabited. From the bustle of Providenciales, widely acknowledged as ‘Provo’, the most well-known of the islands and the main tourist centre to Middle and North Caicos, habitually quiet and tranquil, to the historic Capital Island of Grand Turk, each one offers a different experience and a unique character. All however, most certainly offer year-round climate, spectacular beaches and thrilling underwater activities.

History and Culture The Turks and Caicos Islands have a long and rich history of seafaring, salt raking and farming which still lingers on to this day. In turn this has bolstered a thriving arts and crafts industry. With fishing and farming comes a requirement for nets, baskets, bags and hats and so the two trades harmoniously and effectively support each other. A passion for shellfish, and in particular conch is another institution. Caicos Conch Farm is now the only commercial conch farm in the world and visitors can watch the process of raising conchs’, see conch pearls and even purchase fresh conch, favoured by top chefs from around the world. One of the most historically significant spots is the Grand Turk Lighthouse. Brought in pieces from the United Kingdom where it was constructed in 1852, this still functioning lighthouse and the lighthouse keeper’s house are protected by the National Trust. The North Creek, which the site overlooks has been argued by many historians to be the closest fitting description given by Columbus of the first island he encountered in 1492 on his voyage to the New World. NORTH CAICOS Como Parrot Cay MIDDLE CAICOS

Gastronomy and nightlife As with many Caribbean islands, the tradition of the fish fry is hugely popular in Turks and Caicos. So much so in fact that the Island Fish Fry which takes places at Bight Park in Provo every Thursday night has repeatedly been voted the ‘island’s best cultural experience’. An absolute must-do for visitors this has become an island institution where each week dozens of local vendors, performers and cultural acts come together for an evening of mouth-watering fresh fish, loaded plates of lobster mac n cheese, homegrown corn straight from the grill, merriment, music and dancing.

Offshore activities The Turks and Caicos Islands have an excellent variety of water-based activities for those seeking a more active holiday. Stand-up paddle boarding tours taken from Provo offer a rewarding physical and visual experience with the chance to see tropical fish swimming beneath the boards, iguanas basking by the side of the water and even the occasional sea turtle swimming along. Explore the beauty of the calm, shallow waters surrounded by mangroves off Grand Turk in a glass-bottom kayak and see the magical marine life living beneath the surface of the Caribbean Sea. Catch unbeatable, birds-eye views of the endless vistas with parasailing options throughout the islands, and of course explore the many uninhabited islands, remote beaches and pristine cays with a huge choice of sailing and boat trips tailored to suit all preferences and skillsets.

Destination Data Location: Located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately midway between the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic Local Time: GMT -4 hours Flying Time: Flights into Providenciales available via the USA and Antigua. Connections may be required onwards. Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: US Dollar Electricity: 110 volts

Amanyara

When to Travel PROVIDENCIALES

SOUTH CAICOS

November to May is a consistently good time to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands with average temperatures of 27 to 29 degrees, very little rain and a pleasant breeze coming from the trade winds. April and May in particular allow for fewer crowds and generally lower prices. Average rainfall will increase the further west travelled and hurricane season runs from June to November. GRAND TURK

December to February are the best months to catch sight of the magnificent display that is the annual migration of humpback whales passing by en-route to their breeding grounds in the Dominican Republic.

Turks & Caicos

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COMO Parrot Cay Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands

For a tranquil, relaxing sanctuary COMO Parrot Cay is a luxury spa retreat on its own private island set amongst 50 acres of extensive gardens. Each of the rooms, suites and villas have a contemporary colonial feel. Furnished with Indonesian teak loungers and four-poster beds, decorated with cool white linens that maximise the natural light, facing either the sea or the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landscaped gardens. Villas have their own private pools, and many have direct beach access as well as the 24-hour services of COMOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acclaimed butlers. The relaxed, poolside Lotus restaurant serves light Caribbeaninspired dishes during the day and Asian fayre at night, while the Terrace restaurant with stunning views of the ocean specialises in modern Mediterranean. After sunset head to the COMO Beach Club for after dark cocktails. Although the ambience of COMO Parrot Cay is one of peaceful tranquillity, energetic guests have a choice of a wide range of activities to enjoy.

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

At a glance Location: Situated on a private island in the Turks and Caicos Transfer time: Approximately 15 minute drive to Leeward Marina, followed by a scenic, 35 minute boat transfer Rooms/suites: 70 Restaurants/bars: 3 Water activities: Infinity swimming pool and water sports on site. Land activities: Yoga, fitness centre, library, games room, running trails and floodlit tennis courts Spa/Beauty Services: COMO Shambhala Children: Play by COMO Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Amanyara Provideciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Set between a marine national park and a nature reserve, Amanyara is a peaceful Caribbean retreat surrounded by white sand beaches offering something for all the family. All pavilions are identical in layout and design yet differentiated by location. Pavilions are nestled in coastal foliage, overlooking the waters of the Marine Reserve. Overhanging eaves shade terraces on three sides of each Pavilion, accessed via floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a combined living area. Some offer private pools and a second bedroom. The villas each sit on oneand-a-half acres, with three to five separate bedrooms, private swimming pools and outdoor showers. Incorporating a simple palette of colours and sand-coloured terrazzo with teak inlays.

At a glance Location: Located on the west coast of Providenciales Island Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 60 Restaurants/bars: 2 Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Gym, library, Nature Discovery Centre Spa/Beauty Services: Amanyara Spa Children: Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities Board basis: Bed and Breakfast

The Restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu is ruled by the local catch-of-the-day and produce grown at the resort, with perfectly paired wines. The Beach Club, hidden amid the sand dunes features a stone hearth oven serving deliciously laid-back dishes and cocktails.

Star rating:

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A glimpse of St Kitts and Nevis St Kitts and Nevis are small yet perfectly formed; the smallest country in the Western hemisphere, the islands are packed with stunning scenery, unspoilt natural landscapes, and historic sites that offer visitors a Caribbean experience with a difference. From historical colonial cities to zip-lining through lush rainforests, and historic plantation houses to championship golf courses, the islands of St Kitts and Nevis offer up activities for all and make the ideal destination for visitors wanting to tailor their holiday to their own interests. The freshest seafood, delicious rum punch, welcoming and charismatic locals, outdoor adventures and fantastic hotels await in these island idylls.

History With a long and varied British and French colonial history the islands offer up plenty of interesting historical sites. Highlights include Brimstone Hill Fortress, Nevis Museum, Fairview Great House, Romney Manor, Horatio Nelson Museum, the historic cities of Basseterre and Charlestown, and the Amazing Grace Experience.

Limin’ Limin’ is a St Kitts word for kicking back and soaking up the island atmosphere, and it perfectly depicts the laid-back beach vibe of St Kitts and Nevis. The beautiful beaches are a given, but bathing in the thermal hot springs at the Caribbean’s first hotel, the Bath Hotel, is something unique to Nevis. Sip cocktails at colourful beach bars, relax in sumptuous spas, or chat to the locals over fresh seafood at the local grill bars.

Exploring and nature St Kitts and Nevis are beautiful islands with rainforests, hot springs and dormant volcanoes offering up impressive scenery which can be discovered by car, bicycle or on foot. Take the stunning St Kitts Scenic Railway for a more unique way to explore the island. Nevis Peak offers excellent hiking and fantastic views, and water adventures are abundant with offshore coral for snorkelling and diving.

Destination Data Location: Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Eastern Caribbean, approximately 19 degrees north of the Equator. St Kitts and Nevis are separated by a 2-mile wide channel accessible by boat. Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 10 hours from the UK and Ireland, most flights are indirect Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 230 volts

When to Travel Average temperatures sit at around 27 degrees, with a constant cooling breeze from the north east trade winds which mean even the hotter days are comfortable. The islands see an average of 12 hours sunshine a day, and with under 55 inches of rainfall each year, there is no distinct wet season.

ST KITTS

Visit during December/January to enjoy the National Carnival, June for the St Kitts Music Festival and July for the annual Restaurant Week.

Park Hyatt St Kitts Nisbet Plantation Beach Club

Mount Nevis Hotel

Four Seasons Resort Nevis

St Kitts & Nevis

NEVIS

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Four Seasons Resort Nevis Charlestown, Nevis

Set on the long, silver-sands of Pinney’s Beach on the sheltered west coast of Nevis, the Four Seasons is a large resort with an impressive array of facilities, and direct access to the island’s only golf course. Charming guest rooms, suites and villas are surrounded by lush, fragrant gardens. Each offer stunning views of the ocean or Mount Nevis. Guest rooms are decorated in a contemporary style with flashes of colour and modern amenities. The villas range from 1 bedroom to 7 bedrooms and are ideal for large groups and families. Choose from six restaurants and three dedicated bars, all featuring mouth-watering dishes and refreshing cocktails, and served up with perfect Caribbean views. Catch spectacular Nevis sunsets from Mango, an open-air restaurant serving West-Indian cuisine, or sip cocktails in the intimate setting of The Library. There’s a lively Kids for All Seasons programme, three infinity edgepools, complimentary non-motorised water sports and a spa.

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

At a glance Location: Located on Penney’s Beach, close to Charlestown, Nevis Transfer time: Approximately 20 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 246 Restaurants/bars: 9 Water activities: 3 swimming pools, snorkelling, kayaks and surfing Land activities: Robert Trent II golf course, tennis, fitness centre, cooking and rum tasting classes Spa/Beauty Services: Spa at Four Seasons Children: Kids for All Seasons Board basis: Room Only Star rating:

Nisbet Plantation Beach Club St James, Nevis

Originally built in 1778, Nisbet Plantation Beach Club occupies the perfect beach front on the Nevis coast, and is the only beach front plantation property in the region. The elegant rooms are in lanai cottages on either side of the signature Avenue of the Palms. Most have traditional high white ceilings, wicker furniture, and modern dĂŠcor. For the ultimate indulgence, opt for an Upper Premier Junior Suite featuring a balcony and ocean views. Three authentic Nevisian restaurants bring to life local flavours prepared by the talented chefs. Dine at Coconuts; breathe in the fresh salt air and listen to the waves lap the shore. At Sea Breeze, guests can dine with the sand between their toes. In the evening, watch the skies change colour and look down the famous Avenue of the Palms from the Great House porch. If total relaxation is in order, The Palms Spa can provide a selection of wellness treatments.

At a glance Location: Located on the north coast of Nevis Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour by car and water taxi from St. Kitts Rooms/suites: 36 Restaurants/bars: 3 Water activities: Swimming pool, water sports Land activities: Fitness centre, Yoga, croquet, tennis and walking trails Spa/Beauty Services: The Palms Spa Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

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Park Hyatt St Kitts Banana Bay, St Kitts

Set within the Christophe Harbour development on Banana Bay, in the most natural and untouched region of this beautiful island, at Park Hyatt St Kitts guests will enjoy the highest levels of luxury. The 126 spacious guest rooms and suites combine contemporary architecture with a timeless, colonial feel that taps into the rich historic roots of St Kitts. Many of the suites feature individual pools with private sundecks, offering unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea and the neighbouring island of Nevis. Three signature restaurants offer dynamic dining experiences, including the Fisherman’s Village; serving ocean-to-plate dining at its best. After a day of indulging in unique island excursions such as a volcano hike or catamaran cruise, embark on a journey of relaxation at the resort’s Miraval Life in Balance Spa with a wide offering of renewing body and facial treatments.

St Kitts & Nevis

At a glance Location: Located in Banana Bay, South East Peninsula, St Kitts Transfer time: Approximately 20 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 126 Restaurants/bars: 7 Water activities: 2 swimming pools, non-motorised water sports and catamaran cruise Land activities: Gym, Yoga and meditation centre and walking trails Spa/Beauty Services: Miraval Life in Balance Spa Children: Island Fort by Camp Hyatt Children’s Club Board basis: Room Only Star rating:

The Mount Nevis Hotel Charlestown, Nevis

Situated on 17-acres of Round Hill Estate, the family-run and family friendly Mount Nevis Hotel offers a combination of warm hospitality and tropical luxury. With elegant and intimate lowrise pavilion style buildings, the hotel comprises of 50 rooms scattered in the grounds of this former lime plantation.

At a glance

Enjoy eating al fresco at Bella Vista Restaurant where guests can enjoy a refreshing cool drink by day, or fresh gourmet local seafood at night. For a more laid-back feel guests should head to the beach bar, Pizza Beach, for a great family atmosphere and tasty pizza classics.

Water activities: Swimming pool and water sports available nearby

A stay at this beloved hideaway feels more like a visit to a friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exquisite island retreat, where sun-kissed days by the swimming pool give way to evenings on the terrace, forever blurring the lines between home and hotel.

Location: Located in Charlestown, Nevis Transfer time: Approximately 20 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 50

Land activities: Golf, horse riding and hiking Children: Babysitting available Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

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A glimpse of Anguilla Anguilla is the most northern of the Leeward Islands, snugly tucked away in the eastern Caribbean. From east to west the island stretches just 16 miles and at its widest point is only three miles across. One main road traverses Anguilla and the general landscape is low-lying meaning the whole island can easily be crossed by car in 30 minutes. There are six dedicated marine parks within Anguillan waters and a long-established programme to protect sea turtles. There is also fabulous flora and fauna and excellent bird watching to be enjoyed from the island’s salt ponds.

Food and wine Anguilla holds itself in high regard when it comes to dining and as such has an award-winning culinary scene. Ranging from sophisticated fine-dining restaurants and casual bistros to modest yet tantalising roadside barbeques, cuisine is a central component of the Anguillan experience for visitors and residents alike. A favourite spot is Veya, one of the most picturesque restaurants on the island. This quirky treehouse setting offers an innovative and exciting menu sure to delight true foodies. Wine connoisseurs are also in for a treat with access to two of the region’s largest wine cellars. Malliouhana’s iconic wine cellar has a collection of over 25,000 bottles, tours are available and are guided by the resort’s Sommelier. Le Dome at Koal Keels cellar is also home to thousands of bottles and is available for private dining and tastings.

Beaches Despite its small size, Anguilla is graced with over 33 stunning beaches and more than 12 miles of gloriously white, powered sand and peaceful, crystal-clear waters. Although all of the beaches on the island are public access, they remain uncrowded and unspoilt. There is a beach day for all preferences here, the vibrant and ambient village beach of Sandy Ground offers dancing, parties and boat-racing and is a great option for those looking for a lively atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the peaceful coastline of Rendezvous Bay or enjoy a Pina Colada in one of the colourful beach bars at Shoal Bay; Tropical Sunsets at the western end of the bay make arguably the best on the island. Those looking for romance should experience the secluded coves at Little Bay or take in the stunning sunset from the coral cliffs at Crocus Bay.

Sailing and boat trips

Destination Data Location: The most northern on the Leeward Islands, approximately 100 miles north west of Antigua Local Time: GMT -4 hours Flying Time: Indirect flights only connecting via the USA or Antigua Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 110 volts

When to Travel The average temperature year-round in Anguilla is a pleasant 26 degrees, however it’s placement at the north end of the Leeward Islands does mean it is subject to frequent Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes. These are best avoided by travelling between midDecember and mid-April.

As the national sport, sailing is extremely prevalent yearround in Anguilla and the island hosts countless regattas. The biggest boat races of the season include August Monday – the first Monday of the month, Easter Monday and Anguilla Day (May 30th). Passion for the sport radiates from the local community and guests who are visiting the island during any of the big events will undoubtedly find themselves caught up in the excitement and festive atmosphere. For those with the urge to try it for themselves, day cruising is one of the best ways to experience Anguilla. Trips can be taken to many of the outer cays including Prickly Pear, one of the top offshore beaches and Dog Island, a firm favourite with divers. Frangipani Beach Resort

Anguilla

Zemi Beach House

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa

Barbados 69

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, is a luxury resort located on the tranquil shores of Rendezvous Bay. Featuring 97 rooms, suites and villas, guest rooms are based in the main building, with Beachfront Junior, Luxury Junior Suites and One and Two Bedroom Suites located at the ocean front. The villas are located at the eastern end of the property. They all boast spectacular views of the surrounding area and the dĂŠcor is bright and airy. There are a selection of dining options to choose from, each offering specialities from around the world. Local ingredients and flavours are used by the chefs to take guests on a gastronomic journey. Guests can soak in mineral-enriched salt water on built-in loungers in the spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing water hydrotherapy pool, or enjoy other waterrelated therapies at The Venus Spa. The hotel also has an inviting infinity pool, idyllic beach, beautiful golf course and a fitness centre. The hotel re-opens in November 2018 after a full refurbishment. Star rating:

Frangipani Beach Resort Meads Bay, Anguilla Located on the soft white sands of Meads Bay, Frangipani Beach Resort provides the backdrop for an exquisite island getaway. With just 19 rooms and suites, plus an exclusive villa for the ultimate experience, the Frangipani Beach Resort offers a truly charming, boutique getaway. Each of the rooms and suites has a unique design, yet all are distinguished by cool limestone flooring, mahogany cabinets and custom furnishings, also featuring a balcony or patio. Guests can enjoy a meal at Straw Hat, serving a selection of international and Caribbean favourites, this is a family run restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere, a recipe for an unforgettable culinary experience. Join a game of tennis surrounded by palm trees, try water skiing or snorkelling or simply unwind in a hammock listening to the sound of the waves. Star rating:

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Zemi Beach House Hotel & Spa Shoal Bay, Anguilla

Nestled around a pristine beach – considered to be one of the best in the Caribbean, and adjacent to Anguilla’s Fountain Cavern National Park, Zemi Beach House Hotel & Spa redefines luxury island living. This intimate boutique hotel has 65 rooms, each of which are beautifully decorated; furnished in soft neutrals, light woods and crisp white bedding, and accented by contemporary fixtures.

At a glance Location: Located on Shoal Bay Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from St Maarten via car and sea-shuttle Rooms/suites: 65 Restaurants/bars: 5

Menus showcasing the flavours of the Caribbean and Latin America are on offer at the beach front restaurant 20 Knots, where guests can dine with their toes in the sand. Seasonally inspired Anguillan cuisine and fine wines can be found at Stone. There are three bars including the Rhum Room with over 100 small batch rums to choose from. Guests can enjoy an array of activities and adventures without ever leaving the resort; from rum tastings to Yoga, there’s something for everyone.

Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Yoga, beach volleyball, tasting classes Spa/Beauty Services: The Zemi Thai House Spa Children: The Zemi Beach House Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

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A glimpse of St Vincent and the Grenadines St Vincent and the Grenadines is a nation of 32 islands of which just nine are inhabited. The largest and most northern of the islands is St Vincent where La Soufriere, a 4,000 ft tall active volcano dominates the island and tempts daring travellers to take the challenging hike to the summit where they are rewarded with aweinspiring views. From St Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lush tropical rainforest full of ecoadventures, to the tranquil beaches, coral reefs and azure lagoons of The Grenadines, this island nation is an idyllic nirvana, perfect for yachting, scuba diving, enjoying nature and relaxing in luxurious hideaways.

Bequia Bequia is a tropical paradise island and one of the most popular in the whole of the Grenadines. Accessible via inter-island ferry, visitors arrive into the magnificent Admiralty Bay where they can then cross the stunning Belmont Walkway to begin exploring the island. Of course, there are gorgeous beaches to behold in Bequia, however the small island has a lot more to it than just dazzling white powdered sands and sparkling, aquamarine waters. A varied selection of accommodation options, a wide range of restaurants, offering everything from freshly caught lobster to traditional rotis, plus vibrant bars with live music and local bands sound like the recipe for a perfect holiday. Those who are looking to be a little more active however should experience the fabulous diving and snorkelling available just a short boat ride from the Leeward Coast. From novices to experienced divers, Bequia is a great place to explore the exhilarating underwater world of colourful tropical fish, mesmerising marine creatures and fascinating shipwrecks.

Peace and tranquillity Less crowded and tourist driven than many of the Caribbean islands, St Vincent and the Grenadines is underdeveloped in a way that simply showcases the unbelievable natural beauty and stunning landscape of the country. For those seeking peace, calm and unrivalled escapism, St Vincent and the Grenadines delivers in plenty. Whether it be the mystical hills and exquisite elegance of Canouan, the tropical gardens and sapphire seas of Young Island or the charming, relaxed and undiscovered beauty of Union Island, the only adversity visitors to St Vincent and the Grenadines will face is deciding which island to stay on.

Sailing With 32 beautiful islands to choose from there is always a new shoreline to discover upon the horizon. What better way to explore them than to charter a yacht and let the trade winds and tranquil turquoise waters guide you to your own private island for the day. Experienced sailors can easily hire yachts for glorious day sails, alternatively, for those who have never sailed or simply want the opportunity to luxuriate aboard, crewed charters are available where the captain and crew will manage the boat and supply food and provisions essential for an unforgettable seafaring day.

Destination Data Location: Part of the Lesser Antilles, 24 miles south of St Lucia and 75 miles north of Grenada Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Flights into St Vincent are available via Caribbean gateways and the USA. Connections may be required onwards. Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 230 volts (Palm Island and Petit St Vincent - 110 volt supplies).

When to Travel The most popular months to visit St Vincent and the Grenadines are between December and May when the climate is not too humid and trade winds provide a welcome breeze. The southern islands of the Grenadines are generally slightly drier and warmer than those of Mustique and Bequia in the north. Officially, the hurricane season runs from July to November, however these tend to not have a significant impact on the islands as they commonly pass over the north of St Vincent.

ST VINCENT

Young Island

Bequia Plantation Hotel The Liming

MUSTIQUE

CANOUAN MAYREAU Palm Island Resort & Spa Petit St Vincent

St Vincent & the Grenadines

Bequia Beach Hotel

Cotton House

CARRIACOU

BEQUIA

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Petit St. Vincent Resort Petit St Vincent, St Vincent and the Grenadines

A luxurious, private island resort tucked away in the Grenadine Islands, this tropical barefoot hideaway has 115 acres of natural woodlands and white sand beach. The resort has just 22 beautiful cottages designed for comfort and privacy built from the native bluebitch stone and local purpleheart wood. One Bedroom Cottages are spacious and take advantage of the stunning Caribbean scenery while ensuring total privacy. Two Bedroom Cottages are ideal for friends and families. Furnishings are modern and contemporary, made from teak, natural materials and fabrics with soft pastel hues.

At a glance

A beach bar and restaurant for a casual lunch compliments the elegant hilltop Pavilion Restaurant overlooking the harbour and surrounded by hanging lanterns. Dine indoors in the main dining room or outside on any one of the beautiful wooden terraces surrounded by flowering frangipani and hibiscus trees. Unwind with a Yoga class or indulge in the Balinese-run luxury spa and wellness centre.

Board basis: Full Board

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Location: Located on the Southern tip of the Grenadines Transfer time: Approximately 20 minutes by boat from Union Island Rooms/suites: 22 Water activities: Kayaking, snorkelling, kite surfing, deep sea fishing and Jean-Michel Cousteau Caribbean Diving Center Land activities: Yoga, hiking and tennis Spa/Beauty Services: Hillside Spa

Star rating:

Bequia Beach Hotel Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Bequia Beach Hotel sits perched on what many consider to be the premiere location on Friendship Beach. Inspired by artist Oliver Messel and surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens, this boutique hotel provides the perfect place to relax and unwind combining luxury, elegance and charm.

At a glance

All rooms and suites are modern colonial style; light, airy and welcoming with neutral tones complemented by a variety of authentic wood furnishings and replete with a balcony or terrace. The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main restaurant Bagatelle is located right on the stunning Friendship Beach with the Bequia Beach Bar just a few feet away and offering sweeping views, and a selection of Caribbean and international favourites. For cool beach vibes head to Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar situated on the pristine Princess Margaret Beach for the famous fried chicken and rum punch!

Restaurants/bars: 4

Location: Located on Friendship Beach Transfer time: Approximately 10 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 57

Water activities: Paddle boarding, kayaks, snorkelling, surfboards, wind surfing and fishing Land activities: Gym, Yoga and library Spa/Beauty Services: Spa Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

With two pools, a reading lounge, full service spa and gym, this hotel has everything for the perfect getaway.

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The Cotton House Mustique Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines The Cotton House has long enjoyed a reputation as an elegant private retreat for sophisticated travellers, celebrities and even royalty. Today, this beautiful 13-acre retreat is recognised as one of the Caribbean’s leading luxury resorts. The Cotton House, formally an old cotton warehouse has a collection of 15 luxurious, light and airy bedrooms, suites and cottages with private verandas and plunge pools, all set in the tropical gardens of the estate and offering complete privacy. Each room is individually furnished with traditional rattan chairs and elegant decorations. From barefoot barbecues at the Beach Café to formal a la carte dining at The Veranda Restaurant, there are many different ways to enjoy the island’s warm hospitality. There are a host of activities for those seeking them, from scuba diving and sailing, to the tennis club and exploring the island on horseback. The Cotton House Spa combines innovative organic treatments from expert wellness consultants. Star rating:

Young Island Young Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines If guests are looking for that true ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience look no further than Young Island. Set on its own private island guests will feel a million miles away from the real world. The heart-shaped island is dotted with 29 Cottages, each nestled into the tropical landscape. Louvered wooden blinds help the cool sea breeze drift through each cottage, wicker furniture, soft fabrics, local artwork and natural sunlight fill each Caribbean hideaway. Upgrade to a Luxury Suite and enjoy a private plunge pool and separate sitting room. Enjoy authentic beachfront dining in the open-air thatched roof hut serving local specialties, including freshly caught lobster and weekly barbecues. Just offshore, guests can take a leisurely swim over to Coconut Bar serving specialty rums and liquors, while gazing at stunning boats gliding across the water. For those who wish to unwind the island has a spa, swimming pool and a selection of non-motorised water sports to enjoy. Star rating:

St Vincent & the Grenadines

Palm Island Resort & Spa Palm Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Palm Island Resort & Spa is a barefoot luxury, all inclusive resort, located on its own 135 acre private island surrounded by stunning crystal-clear waters and magnificent beaches. The 43 rustic guest rooms, suites, and villas are set on or close to the beach, with woven rattan ceilings, bamboo furnishings and private terraces, some also offer deep soaking tubs.

At a glance Location: Located on its own private island close to the southern tip of St Vincent and the Grenadines Transfer time: Approximately 10 minutes by boat from Union Island Rooms/suites: 43 Restaurants/bars: 4

Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at Royal Palm Restaurant serving international favourites or head to the Sunset Grill set right on the beach and specialising in traditional Caribbean fayre. The resort also has two bars to enjoy evening sundowners. For a special occasion guests can relax by the swaying palm trees with a private romantic picnic.

Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Gym, games rooms, tennis courts and nightly entertainment Spa/Beauty Services: Beachfront Spa Board basis: All Inclusive Star rating:

Snorkel through the shallow water reefs alongside sea turtles and colourful tropical fish, or take a trip to the Tobago Cays to explore deserted islands.

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The Liming Bequia Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Discover a new concept of relaxation on the Island in the Clouds, Bequia. To stay at The Liming Bequia is to be immersed in an experience shaped by the philosophy that doing nothing is an art form. Exquisitely designed villas and suites with private pools are set amongst the outstanding natural beauty of the Caribbean, each a masterpiece of modern design, influenced by the serenity of the surrounding nature. The Limingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurant offers diners a tantalising choice of locally sourced ingredients, including fresh island-picked fruit, aromatic vegetables and the ocean to table seafood for which the Caribbean is renowned. With a Personal Concierge service available 24/7, every whim is catered for. This is the ideal location for guests to unwind, switch off and simply enjoy the true beauty of the Caribbean.

St Vincent & the Grenadines

At a glance Location: Southernmost tip of Bequia, Adams Bay Transfer time: Approximately 5 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 14 Restaurants/bars: 1 Water activities: Swimming Pool, diving and snorkelling Land activities: Yoga Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Bequia Plantation Hotel Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Located on the secluded southern end of Admiralty Bay with a prime beach front location is the boutique Bequia Plantation Hotel. Recently refurbished rooms and cottages are perfectly in keeping with the beach surroundings, every room features clean crisp linens with vibrant touches of colour, and the hotel is just a short walk along a scenic boardwalk to the charming little town of Port Elizabeth. Dining is an experience not to be missed, the restaurant is set on the beach serving fresh local ingredients with an added inventive flair, and the hotel chefs create fantastic flavours and creations. Pizzas are made fresh to order in a traditional brick oven, well known across the island!

At a glance Location: Situated on Admiralty Bay on the west coast of Bequia Transfer time: Approximately 10 minutes from the port of Port Elizabeth Rooms/suites: 22 Restaurants/bars: 2 Water activities: Swimming pool, water sports on site Land activities: Yoga, evening entertainment Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Although diving is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world, snorkelling and kayaking are great alternatives and equipment is available from the water sports centre.

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A glimpse of Dominican Republic Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south sits the Dominican Republic, the second largest of the Caribbean islands. This verdant and tropical paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles of coastline, 25 designer golf courses, countless outstanding resorts and hotels plus a great range of sports, recreation and entertainment options. The country’s diverse topography and varying climates combine to create the perfect environment for over 6,000 species of thriving flora and fauna and the many national parks and protected areas are extremely popular for hiking, bird watching and swimming.

Golf Notorious for having the most magnificent golf courses in the Caribbean region, the Dominican Republic is undoubtedly the top destination for golf in the tropics. Expert or novice, there is a course to suit all budding golfers or enthusiasts. From La Romana to Punta Cana, Juan Dolio and Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic’s courses, including 86 sea-facing holes and 39 ocean-side, offer tee time by the sea or along lush inland courses. Many of which are designed by acclaimed golf course architects, including Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio to name just a few.

Nightlife Without a doubt the Dominican Republic has a reputation for a lively and exciting nightlife scene, and rightfully so. Santo Domingo is the island’s capital and the hub of live music, visitors can experience folklore music every Friday and Saturday night at the city’s Plaza De España. Bar hop along Santiago’s downtown area or discover the lounges of Puerta Plata where merengue and bachata dominate. Sophisticated wine bars, glamorous nightclubs and swish restaurants overlooking the marina are a plenty in Punta Cana or for a more relaxed vibe, the resort town of Cabarete has a great range of beach bars along the shoreline.

Culture Perhaps not the first thing that people think of when considering the Dominican Republic, however with the majority of the population being Roman-Catholic, churches play a very important role in the culture and history of the country dating as far back as the days of Spanish colonialists. The Catedral Primada de América is the most significant within the Colonial City and is in-fact the oldest church in the Americas. The Colonial City is filled with countless symbolic and spectacular religious sites to explore. To ensure entry please be respectful and dress appropriately when visiting any of these sites.

Destination Data Location: 19 degrees north of the equator, Dominican Republic occupies two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, the remaining third is the country of Haiti. Local Time: GMT -4 hours Flying Time: Approximately 9 hours from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Dominican Peso, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 110 volts

When to Travel Dominican Republic has a year-round tropical climate, because of this rain can occur at any time but generally the showers are not long lasting. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, the month of September is historically when the Dominican has seen the worst of this weather. Temperatures can vary year-round from lows of 18 degrees in the winter to highs of 32 degrees in the summer. March to May is a pleasant time to visit when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are fewer.

Amanera

Santo Domingo

Punta Cana

Eden Roc at Cap Cana

Dominican Republic

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Eden Roc Cap Cana Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Eden Roc at Cap Cana is a unique and secluded ultra-luxury beachfront property located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic and is part of the Relais & ChĂ˘teaux collection. Villas are located a few hundred metres from the beach, each with their own private pool and golf buggy, built in a colonial style the interiors have high wooden ceilings with a contemporary feel. The suites, located at the Beach Club, are a real home away from home with a full kitchen, large lounge and terrace or balcony with stunning ocean views.

At a glance

Each restaurant features a variety of haute cuisine combined with striking dĂŠcor and an elegant atmosphere. Mediterraneo features Mediterranean cuisine, La Palapa by Eden Roc, specialises in seafood dishes. The Blue Lagoon Pool Bar & Restaurant presents light meals and deli favourites. Solaya Spa is a tropical escape that offers a wide range of treatments to find complete well-being.

Land activities: Gym and tennis courts

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Location: Located in Punta Cana on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic Transfer time: Approximately 15 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 34 Restaurants/bars: 6 Water activities: 2 swimming pools

Spa/Beauty Services: The Solaya Spa Children: The Koko Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Amanera Playa Grande, Dominican Republic

Nestled within more than 2,170 acres of pristine Caribbean jungle, the luxury Amanera resort overlooks Playa Grande beach. Amaneraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25 luxury Casitas dot the lush Playa Grande coastline with unobstructed ocean views. Overhanging eaves shade expansive terraces with outdoor dining and lounging areas, while inside, the floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to rooms specially positioned to maximise the views. All Casitas have a modern contemporary feel, lofty ceilings and warm wooden finishes, while a selection offer private swimming pools.

At a glance

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the restaurant ensure expansive views, and the second-storey bar is the perfect spot for an aperitif. Or choose to dine right on the beach at Club de Playa, with the ocean providing a spectacular backdrop.

Spa/Beauty Services: Amanera Wellness Spa

This resort has something for everyone from a fully-equipped gym, enjoy laps of the 40-metre pool, play tennis with the resident pro or play a round of golf at the adjoining Playa Grande Golf Course.

Location: Located in Playa Grande, Dominican Republic Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Puerto Plata Airport Rooms/suites: 25 Restaurants/bars: 2 Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: Gym, golf, tennis, walking trails and horse riding

Children: Amanera Kids Club Board basis: Room Only Star rating:

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A glimpse of the Bahamas The Bahamas comprises of 700 islands, over 2000 rocks and cays, and 16 main islands sprinkled over 100,000 square miles of ocean. With some of the most beautiful beaches found anywhere in the world, along with the clearest waters, this chain of islands is paradise for those in search of relaxation, tranquillity and a chance to recharge the batteries. So, kick back with a Bahama Mama rum-based cocktail, enjoy a conch salad and relax into the Bahamian pace of life. A colourful blend of cultures, and an interesting colonial history make for fascinating day trips to forts, museums, distilleries and tropical gardens. When the sun sets visitors can enjoy two world-class casinos, trendy nightclubs and dining ranging from casual beach bars to fine international cuisine.

Beaches The Islands of the Bahamas are a beach loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise. From the famous pink sands of Harbour Island, to the pristine white sands over on Cable Beach in Nassau, there are endless beaches to choose from. Some of our favourites include Stocking Islands which are a short boat ride from Great Exuma, Treasure Cay Beach in The Abacos and Gold Rock Beach on Grand Bahama Island. For those hoping to see the swimming pigs, take a boat trip to The Exumas.

Families With warm, shallow waters which are safe for paddling youngsters, family-friendly resorts including the amazing waterparks of Atlantis, fascinating caves to explore, and activities such as horse-riding on the beach, the Bahamas are the perfect destination for families of all ages.

Destination Data Location: Stretching south east into the Atlantic Ocean from the southern tip of Florida Local time: GMT -5 hours Flying time: Approximately 9 hours 30 minutes from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Bahamian Dollar, US Dollar is also accepted Electricity: 120 volts

When to Travel Daytime temperatures average around 26 degrees, although in the summer months they can be much higher and there tends to be more rainfall. The best time to visit weather-wise is November to mid-April. Those seeking a peaceful and relaxing break should avoid visiting Nassau and Grand Bahama during Spring Break, normally in March, as the resorts will be very busy with lots of rum-fuelled revellers.

The Cove at Atlantis The Royal at Atlantis The Ocean Club

NASSAU

Rosewood Baha Mar Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Sports Golfers will find nirvana in the Bahamas with 14 courses, many of which hug the clear-blue ocean. But these are islands, and water-based activities are king. Sailing, kayaking, diving, snorkelling, fishing, paddle boarding; essentially if it happens on or in the water you will find it in the Bahamas.

Island hopping by boat Being an island nation the only way to see the best of the Bahamas is by boat; whether a private charter yacht, speedboat, catamaran or a sailing excursion. With over 700 islands to explore and the clearest water on the planet, time here is best spent at sea.

The Bahamas

GRAND BAHAMA

ABACO

ELEUTHERA CAT ISLAND

ANDROS

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The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort Paradise Island, Bahamas Since its inception in 1962, The Ocean Club has been a haven for the discerning traveller. Residing in 35 manicured acres and hugging the shores on a 5-mile stretch of beach, the resort echoes its past as a glamorous private estate and home to the jet set. Accommodation is offered in various room categories, all of which are luxuriously appointed. Garden Cottages and Villa Residences can cater for larger families and small groups. Pampering is provided in the spa, massage, detox, facial and nourishing therapies are all available. With tennis, golf and an array of water sports guests can keep active with excellent leisure facilities. Award winning chefs offer fine cuisine in the formal restaurant Dune, perched upon a white sand bluff. Ocean, just steps from the beach, offers fresh grilled fare with a casual poolside ambience, whilst the Versailles Terrace offers Mediterranean dishes with views of the pool and gardens.

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

At a glance Location: Located on Paradise Island Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 106 Restaurants/bars: 5 Water activities: 3 swimming pools, sailing, kayaking and snorkelling Land activities: Spa, fitness centre, tennis, golf Children: Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Nassau, Bahamas Located on Cable Beach, just a few minutes’ drive from Nassau’s International Airport, the Grand Hyatt is a brand new, large upscale resort hotel. 1800 contemporary rooms and suites await, all featuring Juliette or full balconies. For a home from home experience, upgrade to the residences or villas which offer generous living spaces. Dining at the Grand Hyatt is a culinary adventure with 5 restaurants and 9 bars serving a wide variety of cuisine, from sophisticated seafood to gourmet hot dogs. The beachside bar is a popular spot to sip a frozen daiquiri whilst taking in a stunning Bahamian sunset. The resort features 6 pools, a beach sanctuary, water sports, tennis courts, fitness centre and a destination spa. Golfers can delight in the par 72 Jack Nicklaus designed golf course. For gaming excitement the casino offers 100,000 square feet of entertainment. Star rating:

Rosewood Baha Mar Nassau, Bahamas Set on the gorgeous white sands of Nassau’s Cable Beach, Rosewood Baha Mar is a sanctuary of exclusivity surrounded by tranquil waters. Fusing the timeless charm of British colonial architecture with modern amenities, and a chic contemporary beach cottage interior, the resort offers 237 rooms, suites and beachfront villas, exceptional dining experiences, private beach access and an indulgent spa. Ocean views can be enjoyed from private balconies, and suites offer expansive space with curated Bahamian art which adds an authentic local flare. Villas provide unparalleled luxury with floor to ceiling windows allowing an immersive tropical experience. The hotel’s Commonwealth restaurant offers bold flavours in a refined setting, serving modern dishes from around the globe. Costa offers local seafood with a distinct Mexican twist, in a relaxed atmosphere. The Manor Bar serves signature crafted cocktails and fine wines, whilst the inviting Library serves an elegant afternoon tea. Star rating:

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The Royal at Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas

The Royal at Atlantis is an elegant hotel located at the heart of Atlantis, Paradise Island. The iconic towers are designed to evoke the awe-inspiring mythology of the Lost City of Atlantis. Atlantis, Paradise Island features a 141-acre water park, Aquaventure. With 11 pools, 18 water slides including the iconic Mayan Templeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leap of Faith, and five miles of beautiful beaches, days here are endlessly fun, and perfect for families or couples looking for a more energetic Caribbean holiday. The resort is also home to a Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole golf course, a movie theatre, and the Atlantis Casino. There is also an award-winning spa. With 21 restaurants, and 19 bars and lounges offering everything from fine dining to casual pool bars, guests will find Bahamian favourites, international buffets, and elegant fine dining.

The Bahamas

At a glance Location: Located on Paradise Island Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 1,200 Restaurants/bars: 40 Water activities: 11 swimming pools including water park Aquaventure, Marine habitats, Dolphin Cay and Blue Adventures Land activities: Fitness centre, casino, library, movie theatre Children: Atlantis Kids Adventures and CRUSH Teen Club Spa/Beauty Services: Mandara Spa Board basis: Room Only Star rating:

The Cove at Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas

The Cove is situated in the more secluded northwest of Paradise Island and sits between the Cove and Paradise beaches. It has the feeling of being cast away on a private sanctuary and is perfect for those looking for a more peaceful retreat, without sacrificing any of the facilities offered by the Atlantis, Paradise Island resort.

At a glance Location: Located on Paradise Island Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 497 Restaurants/bars: 40

Offering luxury accommodation and stylish design, the open-air lobby, peaceful pools, and private beaches at this end of the island provide guests with an away-from-it-all feeling that allows for total relaxation.

Water activities: 11 swimming pools including water park Aquaventure, Marine habitats, Dolphin Cay and Blue Adventures Land activities: Fitness centre, casino, library, movie theatre Children: Atlantis Kids Adventures and CRUSH Teen Club

This all-suite resort features natural woods, soft tones and sleek contemporary lines. Beachfront cabanas at The Cove Pool & Beach are available for hire and offer an added touch of privacy and luxury.

Spa/Beauty Services: Mandara Spa Board basis: Room Only Star rating:

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A glimpse of Bermuda At just 21 square miles and made up of 181 islets, Bermuda is a gem dropped into the North Atlantic, which is not quite Caribbean in location but offers all the trappings of a dream island getaway. With a distinct British undertone and a fun and colourful Caribbean flair the island is the perfect beach paradise for those looking for a little adventure and a lot of relaxation.

Relaxing and Rejuvenation Bermuda has built a reputation as a fantastic spa destination, with intriguing locations and innovative treatments. Highlights include the Natura Spa which is uniquely set in a cave, the Rum Swizzle Ritual at the Spa at Elbow Beach, and the Pearls and Caviar Treatment at Fairmont Southampton. Once the pampering is complete, the pink-sand beaches await for ultimate relaxation.

Destination Data

Renowned for its stunning pink-sand beaches and naval history, there are plenty of historic and arts attractions to keep culture-vultures entertained. But for those seeking a relaxation utopia, Bermuda delights with gorgeous spas, tranquil beaches and luxury resorts. When it come to gastronomy the island has its fair share of fine dining restaurants. But for an authentic experience try a traditional Bermuda fish chowder and watch stunning sunsets whilst sipping on a Dark ‘N’ Stormy cocktail.

Sport A haven for active travellers, Bermuda is home to six worldclass golf courses, hiking and biking trails such as the Railway Trail, endless water sports, cliff diving and a number of stunning dive sites including the Hermes Wreck and the reefs at Tarpon Hole.

Culture and Exploring

Location: Located in the North Atlantic, 650 miles east of North Carolina in the USA. Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Bermudian Dollar, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 110 volts

When to Travel The best weather is from May to early October with temperatures sitting in the mid to high twenties. It can be very humid in June, July and August. Temperatures from January to March generally only reach the high teens and it can be wet and a little chilly at times. For sport lovers a good time to visit Bermuda is when one of several major sporting events are being held on the island. In June there are yacht races, in November the World Rugby Classic and there are cricket matches and golf tournaments held throughout the year.

With a significant British influence Bermuda is home to many cultural attractions including galleries, museums and National Trust properties. Visit St George’s and wander streets filled with pastel-hue houses, then take a stroll out to St Catherine’s Fort for sweeping views. In Hamilton visitors will find colonial buildings and high-end shops, and nearby Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is a great vantage point. Another must-see is Crystal Caves; an awe-inspiring natural attraction.

Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa Rosewood Bermuda

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

Fairmont Southampton

Bermuda

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Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, A Fairmont Managed Hotel Hamilton Parish, Bermuda Although this classic Bermuda hotel is in the heart of Hamilton city, only a five-minute walk from the shopping and nightlife of downtown, this urban resort feels a million miles away. Perfect for a weekend getaway or ideal for those seeking a longer break that’s close to the centre of it all. Guest rooms, enjoy harbour, city or garden views, blend classic Fairmont style and amenities with hints of colonial flair, where relaxing hues of cream and soft blue tones complement dark wood furniture. Perched beside the marina, the resort offers a wide choice of water sports, as well as a state of the art spa, swimming pool and gym spread over two floors. Dining options range from glamourous and chic at Marcus’, to relaxed harbourside meals at the 1609, and leisurely afternoon tea on the terrace. A short drive away guests also have access to the Princess Private Beach Club. Star rating:

Fairmont Southampton Southampton, Bermuda With its pink walls reflecting the colour of the surrounding rose-tinted sand beaches on Bermuda’s stunning south coast, the Fairmont Southampton is surrounded by the golf course, lush bougainvillea and towering coconut palms. Spacious guest rooms, many with sweeping sea views, have private balconies, walk-in closets and marble bathrooms – and for a touch of indulgence there’s the Fairmont Gold Floor, a hotel-within-a-hotel. From fresh local seafood at the Ocean Club and snacks at the Burger Bar at Wickets, to signature martinis and tapas in the lobby, there’s culinary style for all - including the AAA Four Diamond Waterlot Inn - a classic dining room in a stunning setting. The beach club with Dive Centre offers every sort of aquatic distraction, while on land the rolling fairways and greens of the 18-hole par-3 championship Turtle Hill Golf Club are waiting to be tested. The Willow Stream Spa is also available to support every type wellbeing regime. Star rating:

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa Hamilton Parish, Bermuda Relaxed and friendly, this 4 Star resort rises on 21 acres of hillside gardens between two private, secluded, pink-sand coves and is ideal for a get-away-from-it-all holiday. The fascinating underground grottoes home to the Natura Spa where guests can embrace the serenity and peace provided by Mother Nature as they enjoy personalised spa treatments amongst Stalactites and Stalagmites, overlooking a crystal-clear ocean-fed lake. Water sports such as sailing and snorkelling as well as the offshore water park make this a family friendly resort for all ages. The modern and fresh guest rooms are located within cottages in traditional Bermudian architecture overlooking the turquoise waters dotted with small Islands. As the only Bermuda resort that offer an all-inclusive option, dining is available at the Hibiscus Dining Room or the Palm Court, both serving buffets as well as a la carte. Pre-dinner sundowners can be sipped on one of the terraces surrounding the Great House. Star rating:

Rosewood Bermuda Tuckers Point, Bermuda Newly opened after a $25 million re-imagination that has elevated every aspect of this resort, Rosewood Tuckers Point’s 240 stunning coastal acres offer an island retreat complete with pink-sand beaches and epic golf. Colonial charm and seaside style meet in cool white guest rooms that are enlivened with maritime hues and motifs - all offering views of Castle Harbour or Harrington Sound. Each room is haven of peace and relaxation. Three dining venues offer every type of culinary experience, from glorious fine dining in the Island Brasserie to simple, yet sophisticated, al fresco meals above the waves at the Beach Club and light snacks paired with expertly crafted cocktails at Tucker’s Bar. Rosewood is also a relaxing sanctuary for every type of wellness - with its four swimming pools, fully equipped fitness centre, one of the island’s top tennis centres, the 18-hole, par-70 Tucker’s Point Golf Course and the world-class Sense®, A Rosewood Spa. Star rating:

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A glimpse of Jamaica Jamaica is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean and home to approximately 2.8 million people. The island stretches from Morant Point in the east, 235km to Negril at the western tip. The highest peak on the island is the World Heritage Site of Blue and John Crows Mountain, situated in a national park of the same name, this spectacular wilderness site is a nature lovers paradise and an area of rich biodiversity. There is an allure to Jamaica that keeps visitors coming back time and again. A kaleidoscope of beauty and brimming with attractions and activities, Jamaica is a precious jewel in the Caribbean and a perfect destination for families, couples and groups of friends.

Attractions and adventures With a landscape that ranges from tropical rainforest and soaring mountains to rolling meadowland and dramatic coastline, Jamaica is a land of adventure. Visit Port Antonio, widely considered one of the most naturally beautiful and authentic parts of Jamaica and take a hiking expedition to glistening waterfalls and hidden caves. Go rafting down the Rio Grande on a bamboo raft or take a romantic dip in the natural springs at Reach Falls. For the daring traveller there’s so much to see and do in Jamaica. Experience this diverse destination from land or water with a wonderfully varied choice of activities from horseback riding on the beach to jungle river tubing, plantation visits, reggae tours and much, much more.

Art and culture At the foot of the Blue Mountains, overlooking the world’s seventh largest harbour, sits Kingston. Jamaica’s vivacious capital is the heartbeat of the country and Jamaica’s cultural core. The city has much to offer visitors including a vibrant theatrical and performing arts scene as well as the Carnival Parade which takes places annually in April. Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall

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Round Hill Montego Bay Couples Swept Away Sandy Haven

Jamaica Inn Moon Palace

Couples Sans Souci

Kingston

Jamaica

No trip to Jamaica would be complete without a visit to the Bob Marley museum, this can also be found in Kingston and staunch fans can even take a tour of his recording studio.

Gastronomy Undoubtedly Jamaica is famous for its tasty Jerk Chicken, however there are plenty more island delicacies to appreciate. Curried goat, Ackee and salt-fish are island favourites and a must for those wanting to eat like a local. Or try some of the chicken, pork and lobster available from the roadside stalls. Visit Water Square for some of the best street food on the island. For the freshest selection of seafood, a trip to Little Ochie, a culinary phenomenon, will not disappoint. For something a little different, Stush in the Bush is an organic farm-to-table Rasta dining experience, start with a walking tour of the farm to learn about the ingredients and produce and then proceed to a gorgeous rustic cabin with breath-taking views to enjoy some of the best food available on the island.

Destination Data Location: Forming part of the Greater Antilles, Jamaica is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and sits 90 miles south of Cuba Local Time: GMT-5 hours Flying Time: Approximately 9 and a half hours from the UK and Ireland Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Jamaican Dollar, US Dollar is generally only accepted in main tourist areas Vaccinations: Recommended for Typhoid. Consult your doctor for the most up to date advice Electricity: 110 volts

When to Travel January to March is the peak travel season for Jamaica and when the island and resorts are at their busiest. A pleasant time to visit is across the months of April and May when average temperatures range from 22 degrees to 30 degrees, rainfall is relatively low and the main resorts are less crowded. Keen sailors and enthusiastic spectators shouldn’t miss the Easter Regatta. This 4 day event held in March or April annually brings an exhilarating atmosphere to the picturesque Montego Bay and welcomes locals and visitors alike to take part.

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Moon Palace Ocho Rios, Jamaica Moon Palace is an all-inclusive resort boasting 17 acres of complete luxury, situated on the longest stretch of private beach in Ocho Rios and close to the downtown area. Each of the 700 guest rooms are spacious with modern décor and have full or partial ocean views. Select rooms offer balconies and families can upgrade to a Family Deluxe where a second bedroom affords parents some sought after space and privacy. With 11 restaurants and bars, guests will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Embrace the day with brunch and a breath-taking view at Buccaneers Reef. During the evening, dine intimately at La Gondola, the resort’s gourmet Italian gem or visit one of the many bars. At Noir try the famous Bob Marley cocktail. Swim with dolphins, or try paddle boarding or Yoga. Moon Palace offers a variety of activities to help guests have a great day above or below the surface. Star rating:

Jamaica Inn Ocho Rios, Jamaica Quintessentially Jamaican and often described as ‘a small iconic hotel’, Jamaica Inn dates back to the 1950s and was one of Marilyn Monroe’s favourite holiday destinations. This resort offers a relaxing and stylish holiday. The 56 spacious suites, bungalows and cottages are spread over a lush 8 acre property. Cottages are located on a private secluded cove, whilst suites enjoy spectacular sea and mountain views. Décor is plantation-style with polished floors, pure white walls and linens. Each suite also benefits from a private balcony or large veranda to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. No televisions or radios, only the surround sound of the sea. Guests can savour international favourites with a Caribbean twist on their veranda, on the beach or at the open-air restaurant whilst enjoying uninterrupted views and attentive service. Experience the healing touch of nature at the outdoor Ocean Spa nestled within the cliffs of Cutlass Bay. Star rating:

For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

Couples Sans Souci Ocho Rios, Jamaica Intimate and romantic, Couples Sans Souci has long been renowned as the ‘jewel of Jamaica’, a luxury destination for couples. This adultonly, all-inclusive resort caters to everything guests may wish for. The 35-acre hilltop retreat offers tranquil ocean views with lush, green mountains in the distance. 150 luxury suites feature French or sliding doors onto fully furnished, sun-kissed private balconies. The décor has been carefully planned in cooling blues and pastel shades to complement perfectly the soothing sights and sounds of the sea. Guests will be spoilt for choice with four restaurants to choose from, or a private dinner can be enjoyed on the beach with a personal waiter. The cuisine on the menus changes regularly and features everything from traditional Jamaican fayre to well-loved Mediterranean classics. There’s something for everyone at this resort whether it be golf or tennis lessons or just relaxing in one of the many swimming pools. Star rating:

Couples Swept Away Negril, Jamaica Unrushed, intimate and relaxing, Couples Swept Away is a true island paradise. Explore the seven miles of pristine sandy beach at this all-inclusive adult-only resort. The rooms and suites are elegantly decorated, overlooking the sea or tropical gardens with cool tiled floors, cedar shutters and French doors, opening onto a comfortably furnished balcony. Enjoy unforgettable dining experiences with the choice of six restaurants and 24-hour gourmet dining where professional chefs use the freshest of locally sourced ingredients to create gastronomic extravaganzas. Guests can enjoy live music, local DJs or relax to the sophisticated sounds of the piano in the various bars on offer at the resort. Occupying just over 19 acres in total, ten of those acres are dedicated to sport and recreation. Workout at the fitness centre, five pools, basketball court and an outdoor running track and unlimited golf. Out on the beach, guests will find a selection of non-motorised water sports. Star rating:

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Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall Montego Bay, Jamaica Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay is a premium all-inclusive resort ideal for families and couples looking for that perfect holiday. With 387 rooms and suites, all are spacious and decorated in a soothing neutral palette, ideal for the Caribbean climate. Upgrade to the Hyatt Club Level with a stay in a Club King Suite for exclusive club level privileges such as access to the club lounge where premium drinks are served. With a choice of 7 restaurants and 6 bars plus 24-hour in-suite dining, this resort has something to satisfy everyone. Continue the evening at one of the many bars and lounges all offering an ambiance and delicious Jamaican rum cocktails. Enjoy nightly entertainment at the outdoor theatre, play tournamentstyle games like volleyball, or join the Z crew for a dance lesson on the pool deck. Star rating:

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall Montego Bay, Jamaica Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall in Montego Bay is a premium all-inclusive chic adults-only resort for singles, couples and groups. The 234 elegantly decorated rooms and suites feature private terraces or balconies with stunning views of the resort pool, gardens, or the Caribbean Sea. Swim Up Rooms include direct swim-up access to a semi-private pool. There are four restaurants and two bars exclusively for Hyatt Zilara guests plus 24-hour in-suite dining. Bringing Parisian flair to the shores of Jamaica, Petit PariZ offers a romantic setting, FuZion Asian Grill takes guests on an enchanting culinary journey through Asia or a romantic candlelit dinner can be arranged on the beach. Within the all-inclusive arrangement, guests also have full access to the restaurants and bars at the Hyatt Ziva. The resort boasts a pool with swim-up bar plus an array of activities. Those wishing to relax can indulge in a pampering treatment at the luxurious Zen Spa. Star rating:

Jamaica

Round Hill Hotel and Villas Montego Bay, Jamaica Originally a pineapple plantation and located within 110 acres of beautifully manicured grounds, Round Hill Hotel and Villas is a longstanding Jamaican institution. The resort boasts a small and beautiful collection of only 27 Private Villas and 36 Oceanfront guest rooms, all situated in the Pineapple House; their interiors are designed by Ralph Lauren and feature plantation-shuttered windows. Villas range from two to six bedrooms making them suitable for families or groups of friends and are available for rent either as Villa Suites or complete Villas. Most have a private pool and all come with dedicated staff and spectacular sunset views. Sample fresh seafood at the rooftop restaurant The Grill, or head to the Seaside Terrace where the beach comes alive with a traditional barbecue featuring a tantalising array of delicious fayre. The Spa at Round Hill is in a beautifully restored 18th century plantation house featuring an extensive treatment menu focusing on tranquillity and peace. Star rating:

Sandy Haven Resort Negril, Jamaica Sandy Haven Resort is a romantic and intimate boutique hotel, set right on seven miles of pristine beach and close to Negrilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant restaurants and lively nightlife. The hotel has just 33 spacious rooms and suites decorated in a contemporary style with vibrant splashes of Caribbean colour, some offer a private wrap around balcony while others have terraces. The highly recommended Deluxe Ocean Front Rooms are the most spacious and are located just steps from the beach with full sea views. Bongos Restaurant & Terrace is the ideal location for an intimate fine dining meal whilst the Piano Bar located inside is the perfect place to listen to rhythm and blues. A refreshing cocktail can always be found at Sandy Havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beach Bar & Grill. The Spa offers a unique blend of holistic treatments, with a focus on relaxation. Enjoy the courtyard swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gym and small boutique within the resort. Star rating:

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A glimpse of Aruba At just 19.6 miles long and 6 miles wide, the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba is a speck of white sand paradise shaped by the sea. With a 9 mile stretch of award-winning pristine beach, turquoise seas, colonial Dutch architecture and a Latin vibe, Aruba is a delightfully alternative Caribbean experience.

flourishing art scene and home to exciting street art, craft stores where unique and traditional gifts can be purchased, and authentic Aruban galleries. The capital city of Oranjestad is a bustling harbour city, rich with Spanish and Dutch history, colonial architecture, chic cafes and bars and duty-free shopping.

Known as ‘one happy island’, the people of Aruba whose warm, welcoming smiles greet visitors at every turn, are one of the island’s greatest assets. Expect world-class hotels, stunning beaches, endless sunshine and dramatic scenery from every Aruban holiday.

Location: Sits outside the hurricane belt, 15 miles north of the South American coastline Local time: GMT -4 hours Flying time: Approximately 13 hours from the UK and Ireland, most flights are indirect Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Aruban Florin, US Dollar is widely accepted Electricity: 110 volts

Explore the island Discover dramatic and natural historic sites throughout the island of Aruba. Travel the Winward face past eerie rock formations, towering cacti and the famous divi-divi trees. Adventurers can climb to the peak of Hooiberg Hill or explore Arikok National Park where incredible Caribbean beaches give way to rugged deserts and limestone cliffs. Spend a relaxing day on the peaceful shores of the west coast or dive under the sea and be transported to another world; one populated by numerous tropical fish, bountiful coral and even a shipwreck or two.

Food and nightlife Complementing a day of discovery is a night of entertainment with action to be found in the island’s casinos, showrooms and nightclubs. Beachfront lounges and seaside bars in the capital Oranjestad offer a more casual spot to enjoy a cocktail. Pair an evening escape with a visit to one of the many fine restaurants and enjoy an epicurean experience in Aruba’s relaxed atmosphere. The culturally diverse cuisine is reflective of the 90 different nationalities that call Aruba home. Choices include Italian, Asian, Belgian, Mediterranean, Brazilian and Peruvian. Alternatively, sample something more traditional with Aruban pan bati, a cornflour flatbread, carni stoba, a rich and delicious beef stew and keshi yena, a sumptuous melted cheese dish generally stuffed with a spiced meat filling.

Culture Hospitality is a strongly engrained tradition in Aruba and locals will gladly share their island and its unique culture which is well displayed in folklore festivals, art exhibitions and during a very joyous carnival season. San Nicolas, a charming coastal town off Palm Beach is the soul of a

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Destination Data

When to Travel Aruba sits outside of the hurricane belt meaning there is very little threat of tropical storms at any time of year. The weather is consistently warm year-round averaging between 28 and 32 degrees and the sun is nearly always shining so there really is no bad time to visit Aruba. The highest rainfall is between the months of October and January; however, showers tend to be short and clear quickly leaving plenty of sun for the remainder of the day. A popular time to visit is during Carnival season which runs between January and March. For weeks the island is alive with music, dancing, parades and general festivities.

The Ritz Carlton Aruba

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa

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Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Eagle Beach, Aruba Radiating romance and tranquillity, this independently owned and managed, award winning boutique adult-only resort, overlooks the stunning Eagle Beach, frequently voted one of the best beaches in the world. The 104 rooms and suites are divided between the Bucuti Wing and Tara Beach Wing, offering a relaxing and comfortable room with harmonising décor and spacious balconies or terraces. Elements restaurant offers diners a memorable culinary experience featuring fresh local ingredients with breath-taking views. Romantic sunset meals can be arranged under a private cabana on the beach with a personal waiter, or for a refreshing cocktail and cool vibes head to SandBar the open-air beach bar. During the day guests can cool off in the infinity pool or explore the nearby shops for local crafts, whilst chilled out evenings can be spent enjoying a movie on the beach under the stars. Star rating:

Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa Oranjestad, Aruba Tucked away on Aruba’s quiet Eagle Beach, Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa is an intimate, luxury resort. Each of the 72 guest rooms blend contemporary island style with modern amenities - decorated with a soothing colour palette and cherry-wood furnishings, with original island artwork bringing flashes of colour to each room. Housed in two ocean-facing buildings rising no taller than the coconut trees that surround them, each guest room offers private furnished balconies or patios. Choose between three restaurants and a bar including Ike’s Bistro, the breezy, open-air dining room serving Mediterranean-inspired fayre. At Pega Pega Beach Bar & Grill guests simply stake an orange flag in the sand to signal the beach waiter and they will be ready and waiting to take an order. Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa has two beachside areas dedicated to Yoga and Pilates, as well a freshwater pool and an exotic outdoor spa. Star rating:

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The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Palm Beach, Aruba

Located on the stunning white sand Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton is a luxury resort with something for everyone. The expansive property houses a 24-hour casino, the largest spa on the island and a kids club.

At a glance

The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 320 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, all with private balconies overlooking the Caribbean Sea offer a tropical ambience and custom-designed furniture helps make each room a peaceful haven. Guests looking for something special can upgrade to the Club Level Rooms which include club lounge access with complimentary drinks, nibbles and evening cocktails along with other additional benefits.

Rooms/suites: 320

Each of the six restaurants celebrate the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture, natural beauty and culinary gifts, from line-caught seafood to fresh tropical produce. Guests can enjoy ocean views while savouring tasty steaks at the bistro style BLT, for authentic flavours head to Casa Nova or for something a little special the resort can arrange a romantic meal right on the beach.

Location: Located on Palm Beach Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport

Restaurants/bars: 6 Water activities: Water sports on site Land activities: 24-hour casino, fitness centre, Yoga and golf course nearby Spa/Beauty Services: The Ritz-Carlton Spa Children: Ritz Kids Club Board basis: Bed and Breakfast Star rating:

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A glimpse of Cuba Cuba features much of what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect from the largest of the Caribbean islands â&#x20AC;&#x201C; stunning coastlines, sweeping valleys and historic cities, but this island is a world apart from its neighbours. With time-warp cities, intriguing architecture and a rebellious air, Cuba is both charming and exciting. Music and dance intertwine with everyday life in this cultural melting-pot, and the streets are alive with Cuban soul. Away from the cities, the pristine coastline offers some of the best vistas in the Caribbean, and with a chain of islets and smaller keys, visitors will find unspoilt beauty, deserted beaches and fantastic diving opportunities. This unique and inspiring country is a destination for the curious.

Historic Havana Havana is an enchanting city with a checkered-past, where old and new collide in the most captivating fashion. Grand colonial, ornate baroque, Art Deco and neo-classical architecture all stand proudly together; parts of this city are polished architectural perfection, whilst others are succumbing to the passage of time. But instead of feeling tired and run-down, Havana takes this in its stride; with stylish bars, shops and restaurants popping up in these once crumbling buildings. Havana is the beating heart of Cuba, with the Habaneros being lovers of music, dancing and having a good time. The city is culturally rich and simply charming; classic cars line the streets, music and dancing pour out of bars and cafes, and the Old Town transports visitors to centuries past.

Grand Hotel Iberostar Manzana Parque Kempinski Central Havana

The best way to experience Cuba is to tour around the island. Highlights to include in a tour itinerary are the capital Havana, the sugar region of Valle de los Ingenios and the old towns of Trinidad, Sancti Spiritus, Remedios, Santiago de Cuba and Bayamo. For stunning beach resorts head to Baracoa, Cayo Santa Maria, Guardalavaca and Varadero.

Authentic Cuba Cuba is very different from other islands in the Caribbean with a lower standard of hotels and service. It is a stunning country, but it is more of a cultural experience than a luxury one and requires visitors to have an open-minded and adventurous spirit. There are very few imports and therefore it is not a foodie destination; not great for vegans or vegetarians, and food can be a bit repetitive. But openminded travellers will reap the rewards and discover a real gem.

Destination Data Location: Located in the northern Caribbean; to the south of Florida and the Bahamas, and north of Jamaica Local time: GMT -5 hours Flying time: Approximately 10 hours from the UK and Ireland Visa: Cuba Tourist Card required for entry and is valid for 30 days. This must be obtained before departure from the UK or Ireland from the Cuban Consulate in London. Postal applications are available. Currency: Cuban Peso â&#x20AC;&#x201C; visitors should take sterling to exchange upon arrival Electricity: 110 volts

When to Travel Cuba has a moderately subtropical climate. Average daily temperatures of 26 degrees feature year-round, with the highest temperatures in May to October. These months also see more rainfall. November to April is considered the dry season with slightly lower temperatures and less rain.

Iberostar Varadero

Valadero

Touring

Royalton Cayo Santa Maria

Santiago de Cuba

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Highlights of Havana, West and Central Cuba 7 day, 6 night tour From UNESCO World Heritage sites to the unique flair of Havana, Cuba is a fascinating country to explore. Havana is the perfect starting point for any Cuba tour; an introduction to the melting pot of cultures and flavours of this unique country. Journey around the island to discover tobacco landscapes, colonial cities and pictureperfect cays. We have included one of our classic tours below which can be added to any Cuba holiday. We have many more touring itineraries available, as well as upgraded hotel options, and all tours can be tailormade to suit individual wishes.

Day 1: Arrival in Havana Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Overnight and breakfast at Hotel NH Capri (4*) or similar. Day 2: Colonial Havana and the 1950s Enjoy a guided walking tour through Old Havana and discover the most important squares and sites: Plaza de Armas, Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, El Templete, Castillo del la Real Fuerza, Cathedral Square, Plaza San Francisco de Asis and Plaza Vieja. Enjoy a cocktail in Hemingway’s Bodeguita before having lunch at one of the favoured private restaurants, such as paladar La Moneda Cubana or Doña Eutimia. In the afternoon, American 1950s classic cars await to take you on a tour along the Malecon to the diplomatic and residential neighbourhood of Miramar with its beautiful mansions and embassies. Enjoy a cocktail in the garden of the legendary Hotel Nacional overlooking the sea and the Malecon, with anecdotes about the Mafia and other famous faces of the 1950s. Finish the day with dinner at a private restaurant with special Cuban ambience, for example at the prominent cult paladar La Guarida the hardest table to get in Havana, and location of the famous Cuban film Strawberry and Chocolate (nominated for an Oscar 1992), visited by the Queen of Spain, Sting, Robert Redford, Oliver Stone and Madonna. Or at Paladar San Christobal, a hidden gem in Centro Habana with its unique décor of afro-cuban Santeria and music from the 1950s, which has played host to celebrities including President Obama and his family. Overnight and breakfast at Hotel NH Capri (4*) or similar.

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Day 3: Havana, Pinar del Rio, and Viñales In the morning follow the Ruta del Tobaco to Pinar del Rio and visit a tobacco factory where you will watch the skilful hands of the cigar rollers producing the best cigars in the world. This is followed by a panoramic tour to the Mogote Valley with its famous limestone rocks, and on to the village of Viñales which is surrounded by stunning scenery. Visit the prehistoric wall – a huge artwork from the 1960s. Enjoy lunch at paladar Finca Agro-Ecologica while enjoying the wonderful views over the valley. In the late afternoon you will return to Havana for dinner at a restaurant such as paladar El Cocinero, situated in a huge chimney stack next to the art factory Fabrica de Arte, a popular venue and symbol of the ‘New Cuba’. Overnight and breakfast at Hotel NH Capri (4*) or similar. Day 4: Havana, Bay of Pigs, Cienfuegos and Trinidad An early morning start for a longer trip to Central Cuba along the Cuban central highway, where you will encounter a wide range of ‘vehicles’ from horse drawn carriages to bicycles. Continue along the historic Bay of Pigs, the site of the failed invasion by the Americans and exiled Cubans in 1961, via Playa Larga and Playa Giron to Cienfuegos. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant such as paladar Enrique. Continue on to Cienfuegos with its French-colonial architecture around the main square and Parque Marti with the nostalgic Terry Theatre, where Caruso once sang. After a visit to the Peninsula Punta Gorda with its mudejar-style Palacio del Valle you will follow the panoramic coast road to Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage city with unique colonial architecture. Enjoy dinner at paladar 1514 which is like a museum with its unique décor of glasses and precious porcelain. End the day with a walking tour through the romantic nightlife of Trinidad, dancing the salsa to live music. Overnight with breakfast at Hotel and Bungalows Las Cuevas (3*) or similar, set on a hilltop with panoramic views over the town. Day 5: Trinidad Start the day with a hiking tour at Parque El Cubano in the foothills of the Sierra Escambray. Hike to a waterfall, where you can take a refreshing bath in a natural swimming pool. After lunch continue to the Sugarmill Valley with the hacienda of the sugar barons Iznaga, where you can enjoy breath-taking views from the legendary slave tower. In the late afternoon head back to Trinidad with its cobblestone lanes and the beautiful main square overlooked by the tower of the church Santisima Trinidad and the mansions of the

former sugar barons. Visit museums including the Romantic at Palacio Brunet or the City Museum at Palacio Cantero. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight with breakfast at Hotel and Bungalows Las Cuevas (3*) or similar, set on a hilltop with panoramic views over the town. Day 6: Trinidad, Topes de Collantes, Santa Clara, Sagua la Grande and Cayo Santa Maria Enjoy a panoramic tour to the Topes Collantes, passing coffee plantations and enjoying views of the mountains of the Sierra Escambray on the way. Continue your journey to the historic city of Santa Clara, where Che Guevara celebrated his greatest victory and found his last resting place. Visit Revolution Square and the Che Guevara Monument. Later, travel on to Sagua La Grande, a hidden gem and the birthplace of the famous Cuban painter Wilfredo Lam. During a walking tour you will explore the city, still nearly untouched by tourism. In the late afternoon head to Caibarien on the north coast and then onwards to Cayo Santa Maria via a 47 km causeway crossing the sea. Overnight with all inclusive board basis at Hotel Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria or Hotel MELIA Cayo Santa Maria (4*) or similar. Day 7: Cayo Santa Maria, Remedios and Havana In the morning journey back to Havana, enjoying a short stop in the colonial town of Remedios with its idyllic main square on the way.

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Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana Havana, Cuba In the heart of old Havana and with views of the Capitol and the Great Theatre of Havana, Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana has been created out of an Edwardian-era shopping arcade and has a grandiose exterior that gives way to a cool and paired-back lobby filled with light. The elegant mix of modern and colonial continues throughout, with original features, extra high ceilings and tall French windows blended sympathetically with 21st century design and style. Rooms facing into the inner courtyard or onto the lively city are decorated in relaxing neutral tones, with occasional splashes of vibrant colours. Culinary delights served with spectacular views of old Havana can be enjoyed in a number of the hotel’s restaurants. With all of Havana on the doorstep, the concierge team will offer the best advice, and for those who want to relax, the rooftop pool awaits. Star rating:

Iberostar Parque Central Havana, Cuba Known for its colonial-style architecture and located in central Havana, the Iberostar Parque Central Hotel is located for exploration of Havana’s most authentic streets. Built to blend in with Havana’s historic buildings, this modern hotel’s bright welcoming atrium and grand staircase combine traditional and modern design. Decorated in a classic style with simple clean lines and neutral tones, rooms provide a cool escape from the buzz of the city. Guest rooms are in one of two buildings that are connected by a walkway and some have inside views above the atrium, others have a balcony and views of the city. For dinner there’s El Paseo Steakhouse or Habana Elegante, which also serves breakfast. For drinks, watch the world go by in the lobby bars or soak up the rays at the rooftop poolside bar. The rooftop pool should not be missed, and there is also a fitness centre for those keen to stay in shape. Star rating:

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Iberostar Varadero Varadero, Cuba Surrounded by lush vegetation and Cuban waters, the colonial Iberostar Varadero brings a touch of glamour to this prime beachside location. The Roman columns and the touches of Cuban, Moorish and African architecture give the hotel a Hollywood movie feel. Spread across the resort in low rise buildings, all rooms have a balcony or terrace and are decorated in bright Caribbean colours. With 5 bars and 5 restaurants, there are numerous places to wine and dine, including Japanese and Mediterranean restaurants. Try a Cuban indulgence or two with the best Cuban coffee in the Los Arcos Lobby Bar or a famous Havana cigar in the La Vitola Cigar Bar. And don’t miss out on the island’s passion for music with different shows every night. With a pool, children’s pool and playground, direct access to the beach, water sports, a spa and gym, there’s never a dull moment at Iberostar Varadero. Star rating:

Royalton Cayo Santa Maria Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba For a truly relaxing escape, the Royalton Cayo Santa Maria is waiting. This adult-only resort is set on a string of tiny islands connected by causeway to the north coast of Cuba. Located in delightful, two-storey buildings, each suite features a balcony or terrace with views of the gardens or white sand beach – and butler service comes as standard. For those who want a little more, Royalton Suites offer more space with a separate living room, a Jacuzzi on the private terrace, VIP amenities and guaranteed late check out. The three specialty restaurants serve a range of cuisines, from Caribbean to international favourites, and with three bars to choose from, there’s the perfect place for that perfect drink. Relax on the beach or by the pool, enjoy non-motorised water sports, keep fit in the gym or unwind in the award-winning spa. Star rating:

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A glimpse of Mexico Mexico’s coastal resorts are an entrancing mix of pristine white-sand beaches, away-from-itall luxury resort hotels, and ancient ruins and traditions. The eastern coastline meets the calm, warm waters of the Caribbean Seas, whilst the western coastline greets the Pacific Ocean with dramatic cliffs and bays.

Stunning scenery The area in and around Los Cabos offers dramatic scenery with steep cliffs and intriguing wildlife. Riviera Nayarit, a short drive from Puerto Vallarta is a quiet beach resort with impressive lava rock formations and white sand beaches. An hour’s boat journey from Puerto Vallarta are the Marieta Island’s which are fantastic for scuba diving, swimming with turtles and humpback whale watching.

Hollywood glamour

A glimpse of the Caribbean Coast Resorts Mexico’s Caribbean Coast has a wealth of exciting resorts and stunning stretches of coastline. Cancun is probably the most famous and is a lively resort with large hotels, bars and nightclubs. Head south from Cancun and reach the calmer shores of the Riviera Maya, where luxury hotels hug pristine beaches. Playa del Carmen is a smaller resort than Cancun but offers fantastic dining options and stylish bars, whilst the quieter resorts of Xpu Ha, Akumal and Tulum focus on relaxation and Mexican traditions.

Historical sites Ancient Mayan ruins are an alluring attraction in Mexico and from resorts on the Caribbean Coast many sites are just a short drive or day trip away. Highlights include Chichen Itza with its famous pyramid, the port city of Tulum, the archaeological site of Calakmul and the cities of Merida, Uxmal and Coba.

Adventure The Caribbean Coast of Mexico is a fantastic destination for those with an adventurous spirit. From scuba diving in Cozumel to zip-lining, water rafting and caving. Eco-tourism is increasingly popular and tours and activities can be arranged to suit couples or families.

Popular with A-listers since the 60s, the resorts in this part of Mexico are super-stylish; home to marinas filled with super yachts, boutique shops and world-class golf.

Destination Data Location: Mexico is located in Central America and borders the USA to the north and Guatemala and Belize to the south. The Caribbean Coast is the east coast of Mexico and the Pacific Coast is on the west. Local time: GMT -6 hours Cancun, Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and -7 hours Los Cabos Flying time Caribbean Coast: Approximately 10 and a half hours from the UK and Ireland Flying time Pacific Coast: Approximately 11 hours from the UK and Ireland, most flights are indirect via the USA Visa: None required by UK or Irish passport holders Currency: Mexican Nuevo Peso Electricity: 127 volts

When to Travel The climate is hot, sunny and humid for most of the year, with average temperatures in the mid to high twenties. With slightly lower temperatures from November to March. The rainy season runs from May to October with heavy rain for an hour or two in the afternoons. It is best to avoid Spring Break in March as the resorts will be busy with alcohol-fuelled revellers. For whale watching on the Pacific Coast travel between December and April.

A glimpse of the Pacific Coast Resorts

Baja California

The Baja California Peninsula and the Pacific Coast of Mexico are home to stylish resorts, rugged coastlines and luxury hotels offering superior Mexican hospitality. Los Cabos is situated on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula and is an area of stunning natural beauty. Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita, Riviera Nayarit and Banderas Bay sit on the Pacific Coast. Puerto Vallarta is the busiest of the resorts and is home to luxury shopping, gorgeous beaches and a stylish nightlife scene.

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Merida Mexico City

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Wonders of Mexico 8 day, 7 night tour Mexico is a country full of contrasts. From the rugged coastlines greeting the Pacific Ocean to the pristine white-sands hugging the Caribbean Sea, and the ancient ruins of the Mayan era to the buzzing capital, Mexico City. Our touring itineraries are the perfect way to explore this beautiful country and the scenery, culture and heritage it offers. We have included one of our classic tours below which can be added to any Mexico holiday providing the perfect blend of relaxing beach stay and cultural explorations. We have many more touring itineraries available, as well as upgraded hotel options, and all tours can be tailormade to suit individual wishes.

The Wonders of Mexico Day 1: Travel to Mexico City Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton (4*) or similar. Day 2: Mexico City After breakfast explore magnificent Mexico City, built on top of the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital. The first stop is at the Zocalo (the main square), one of the biggest public squares in the world. Visit the Catedral Metropolitana – the biggest church in Latin America, and Palacio Nacional which is home to Diego Rivera’s murals depicting the history of Mexico. Then you’ll drive along the famous Paseo de la Reforma Boulevard, built during the short-lived reign of Emperor Maximilian to connect the main square with the castle of Chapultepec. Afterwards you will continue to the archaeological site of Teotihuacan. Located 31 miles north east of Mexico City, it was one of the most impressive cities of the ancient world, held sacred by the Aztecs. Explore the temples, palaces and pyramids, including the Quetzalpapalotl Palace Complex, the Temple of the Feathered Conches, the Pyramid of the Moon, and the immense Pyramid of the Sun, ranked among the biggest in the world. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight at Hotel Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton (4*) or similar.

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Day 3: Mexico City, Tuxtla Gutierrez and San Cristobal de las Casas Early breakfast and transfer to the airport to take the flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas. Upon arrival you will transfer to the dock located at Chiapa de Corzo for touring in a boat through the Sumidero Canyon, one of the most spectacular natural reserves in Mexico. It is a geological fault formed 36 million years ago with caves and walls of calcareous rock elevating to more than 1,000 metres. You will also visit Chiapa de Corzo, a town that was the first settlement founded by the Spaniards with its Mudejar fountain known as “La Pila”. After Chiapa de Corzo the tour will continue with a drive down to San Cristobal de las Casas. Overnight at Hotel Diego de Mazariegos (4*) or similar. Day 4: San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan After breakfast explore on foot the colonial city centre of San Cristobal de las Casas. Visit the cathedral, on the north side of the pretty main square, with its lavish interior and goldencrusted pulpit. Then walk a few blocks to the impressive 16th-century Dominican church Templo de Santo Domingo, with its intricate pink facade and gilded Baroque interior. You will then drive 10 km into the Chiapas highlands, to the Tzotzil Indian villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. The Tzotzils descend from the ancient Maya and maintain some unique customs, costumes and beliefs. Visit the beautiful white church in San Juan Chamula; the candles, incense and chanting worshippers make a powerful impression. From there you will drive to the nearby village of Zinacantan, with its pretty church and handicraft market. Return to San Cristobal and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at Hotel Diego de Mazariegos (4*) or similar. Day 5: San Cristobal de las Casas, Agua Azul and Palenque Early departure to Palenque, with a stop on the way in Agua Azul to enjoy the stunning scenery of more than 500 turquoise waterfalls, surrounded by the jungle. Arrival to Palenque. Overnight at Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque (4*) or similar. Day 6: Palenque and Campeche After breakfast visit the archaeological site of Palenque, a World Heritage Site, located 7km outside of the town of Palenque. The town flourished between AD600 and 800, when its influence extended throughout the basin of the Usumacinta river. The site, surrounded by rainforest where

toucans and howler monkeys live, is made up of some 500 buildings spread over 15 square km and only a few of them have been excavated. You will explore the magnificent ruins, including the Temple of the Inscriptions – the tallest and most stately of Palenque’s buildings, the Temple of the Sun – crowned with a prominent roof comb, The Palace – with its maze of corridors and rooms, and many other beautiful buildings. After the visit you will depart to Campeche. Overnight at Hotel Plaza Colonial (4*) or similar. Day 7: Campeche, Uxmal and Merida After breakfast depart to visit the archaeological site of Uxmal, a World Heritage Site, located 80 km south of Merida. Its architecture style named “Puuc” is characterised by low horizontal palaces set around courtyards, decorated with a profusion of symbolic motifs and sculptures depicting the long-nosed rain god Chaac. You will explore the magnificent buildings, including the House of the Magician which dominates the site, the Nunnery, and the House of Turtles. The tour then continues on to Merida. Overnight at Hotel Casa del Balam (4 star) or similar. Day 8: Merida, Chichen-Itza, and Cancun, Riviera Maya or Tulum Start the day with a drive to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, located 120 km east of Merida. Chichen Itza is the best restored of Yucatan’s Mayan sites. Explore the magnificent ruins set in a dense jungle, including the Pyramid of Kukulcan – its height and striking geometric design dominating the whole site, the Great Ball Court – the largest and most impressive in Mesoamerica, the Sacred Cenote – a natural well used for human sacrifice, and many other beautiful temples. After Chichen Itza you will drive to your beach location – either in Cancun, Riviera Maya or Tulum.

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Fairmont Mayakoba Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya This luxury family-friendly resort is set in 45 acres of lush tropical greenery intersected crystal clear waterways and is set in the heart of Mexico’s Riviera Maya; it is the perfect retreat. Fairmont Mayakoba guest rooms, casitas and suites lie nestled in a tropical forest surrounded by lush lagoons, while some private suites stretch out to a pristine white beach. Each accommodation is decorated in neutral tones with local artwork from the surrounding area. Discover dining options with something for everyone – from casual to fine dining, and views over the ocean to the infinity pools. Indulge in treatments based on ancient Mayan traditions at the Willow Stream Spa or play a round at El Camaleon, the Greg Normandesigned 18-hole golf course. Further leisure facilities include freeform pools and a programme of activities for younger guests at the Discovery Club. Star rating:

Hyatt Ziva Cancun Cancun, Yucatan Coast This premium all-inclusive family resort located on Mexico’s Yucatan Coast is brimming with vibrant energy and warm hospitality and offers breath-taking views of the Caribbean Sea. Luxury suites feature contemporary Caribbean décor, hand crafted furnishings and balconies with breath-taking views of the blue sea or resort gardens. Or choose a suite at Turquoize – an exclusive adultsonly enclave within the resort. Savour a variety of fine recipes from around the world in the resort’s 9 restaurants, offering a symphony of tastes from Asian to traditional Mexican. There are 7 bars including its own microbrewery serving up a delicious choice of cervezas. The concierge can help plan a day of snorkelling or scuba diving. Play beach volleyball or soak up the sun on the two white sandy beaches or by the three cascading infinity pools. Friendly, fullyqualified staff are on hand to welcome children who are up for an adventure at the KidZ Club. Star rating:

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For information on pricing and special offers please visit ifonly.net

The Royal Playa Del Carmen Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

Directly on the beach and just steps away from Playa del Carmens Fifth Avenue, The Royal Playa del Carmen is a lavish, adults only, all-suite, all-inclusive resort. Suites offer private balconies or terraces and whirlpool tubs, with stylish decor featuring elegant touches of warm wood and decadent polished-stone floors. Floor to ceiling windows offer spectacular views of the ocean or resort gardens. Guests can upgrade to a Royal Junior Swim-up Suite that allows convenient access to a semi-private swimming pool. During the day, learn traditional cooking skills with a Mexican culinary class, or relax by the tranquil relaxation pool. In the evenings guests can embark on a culinary journey with a choice of seven à la carte and gourmet buffet restaurants and four bars. Enjoy traditional Mexican at Rincón Mexicano in a trendy relaxed atmosphere. For a romantic meal head to Pelicanos beach front restaurant offering à la carte Caribbean fusion.

At a glance Location: Located in Playa Del Carmen, on the Riviera Maya Transfer time: Approximately 50 minutes from Cancun International Airport Rooms/suites: 513 Restaurants/bars: 11 Water activities: 2 pools, hot tubs, diving, Hobie cats, boogie-boards, snorkelling, scuba lessons, kayaks and water volleyball Land activities: Gym with fitness classes, tennis and evening entertainment Spa/Beauty Services: SPAzul Board basis: All Inclusive Star rating:

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Viceroy Riviera Maya Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya Located on the white sands of the Riviera Maya near Playa Del Carmen, this luxury resort is nestled within a tropical forest. Viceroy Riviera Maya is an adults-only resort perfect for a romantic holiday. The 41 villas feature a private patio and plunge pool, outdoor shower, high-ceiling thatched-palapa roof in fitting with the environment and views of the ocean or the lush tropical gardens. Natural décor and crisp linens give a sense of calm in each villa. La Marea restaurant features contemporary interpretations of Mexican cuisine with Mediterranean influences and has stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The casual Coral Grill, set by the beach, provides al fresco dining serving local organic produce. Guests can arrange a romantic private candle-lit dinner on the beach for special occasions. During the day, join an ocean front Yoga class or relax at the Mayan inspired spa drawing on ancient traditional rituals. Star rating:

Banyan Tree Mayakoba Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya Banyan Tree Mayakoba is the only all-pool villa resort in Riviera Maya that blends Asian hospitality with the idyllic passion of Mexico. The luxurious villas are beautifully decorated with handcrafted Mayan furniture, and are set amongst lagoons, mangroves and canals. All feature private swimming pools, gardens and outdoor living areas – some also have sunken baths. Visit Saffron, Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant where authentic Thai fare is made using time-honoured recipes that promise the palate true gastronomic pleasure. Experience tranquillity and comfort like no other at Banyan Tree Spa, with alternating hot and cold thermal cabins at The Rainforest hydrothermal circuit, designed to offer guests maximum wellness benefits. Sport lovers can enjoy a game of tennis or golf. The resort’s 18-hole golf course, El Camaleon is home to the only PGA Tour event in Latin America. Star rating:

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Chablé Resort & Spa - Yucatán Merida, Yucatan Set within 750 acres of Yucatán jungle, this restored 19th-century estate has been painstakingly brought back to life and given a modern-Mexican look. Each of the 40 casitas and villas are situated within the lush gardens and decorated with contemporary furnishing and traditional Mayan architecture to make Chablé Resort & Spa a true work of art. Menus are light and inventive; Ixi’im Restaurant which translates to “corn” in the Mayan language, offers a refined setting within the lush gardens. Casual poolside restaurant Ki’ol which means “healthy” serves light snacks garnished with nourishing ingredients and refreshing drinks, while the Spa Restaurant has a healthy vegetarianonly menu and freshly-pressed juices. On a daily basis Chablé offers a series of activities focused on a particular sense, emotion or thought that complement the authentic Mayan spa treatments including Yoga and meditation. Star rating:

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive resort situated along the Caribbean coast, fringed by the Yucatan jungle, and close to the lively city of Playa del Carmen. The resort is split into three unique areas, each with its own ambiance; the Zen Grand section located in the jungle, the family-friendly Ambassador section with ocean view suites and the exclusive adults-only Grand Class section. All offer elegant accommodation and a personal concierge service. With an array of gourmet cuisine created by renowned chefs from around the world guests can savour decadent French dishes, share an authentic Italian meal, and discover the creativity of Asian fusion. Enjoy a relaxed drink at the Piano Bar or dance the night away at Koi Bar. Rejuvenate body, mind and spirit with pampering treatments at the holistic spa or bask in the sun while the kids enjoy The Grand Velas Kids Club. Star rating:

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UNICO 20°N 87°W Akumal, Riviera Maya

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Designed for those who are looking for an all-inclusive experience, surrounded by a peaceful and unique environment with a re-defined touch. A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, UNICO 20°87° is an adults-only hotel offering a tranquil and relaxing haven away from the stresses of everyday life.

At a glance

The spacious rooms are a mix of modern and rustic; sporting natural materials and local artwork. Elegant wooden and natural décor elements offer a sense of peace. Upgrade to an Alcoba Room featuring a semi-private swim-up pool. All of the hotel accommodations feature an Anfitrión – a personalised local host, available from 9am to 5pm each day. Go on a multi-sensory culinary adventure, with constantly changing tastes. Locallysourced ingredients are a staple at every restaurant and bar ranging from fine dining to casual café settings. UNICO 20°87° offers a unique experience at each of its three pools. All three offer poolside food and drink service, as well as cabanas that can be booked in advance.

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Location: Located in Akumal on the Riviera Maya midway between Playa del Carmen and Tulum Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from the airport

Restaurants/bars: 7 Water activities: 3 swimming pools, Hobie Cats, kayaks, pedal boats and stand up paddle boards Land activities: Fitness centre, basketball and tennis Spa/Beauty Services: The Spa at UNICO 20°87° Board basis: All Inclusive Star rating:

Hotel Esencia Xpu-Ha, Riviera Maya Originally built as the private home of an Italian duchess, Hotel Esencia boutique beachside resort is situated on a 50-acre estate between Tulum and Playa del Carmen with a spectacular white sandy beach. The rooms, suites and villas offer an elegant feel with clean crisp white walls and high celling’s letting the cool sea air drift through, and each offering panoramic views of the grounds or the Caribbean Sea. The heart of Hotel Esencia is the beautiful ‘Casa Grande’, with its unusual Catalan domed roof overlooking a stunning beach front pool area. Dining is a culinary voyage, with three restaurants and a beach bar. Meals are simple yet sophisticated; drawing from Mexico’s eclectic range of regional cuisines and the well-loved comforts of Mediterranean cooking. Swim with sea turtles just a few feet from the shore of the hotel beach or enjoy a selection of treatments on offer at the Spa & Health Club. Star rating:

One&Only Palmilla Los Cabos, Baja California Peninsula Situated at the edge of the Baja Peninsula alongside the Sea of Cortez, One&Only Palmilla affords extraordinary views of the Los Cabos landscape, and is an ideal location for both couples and families. Each of the 174 guest rooms offer ocean or beach front views and are stylishly decorated with hand crafted Mexican artwork. They also feature modern amenities and a private terrace or balcony. Dine on some of the finest cuisine in Los Cabos at Michelin-starred SEARED; a refined steak and seafood restaurant. Agua Bar is perfect for light fare and speciality drinks, or for live music and an after dinner cocktail guests should head to the One&Only Lounge. The resort is heaven on earth for outdoor enthusiasts and adventureseekers. From championship golf and seasonal whale-watching, to deep-sea fishing and 4-wheel-drive excursions into the Baja desert, this resort offers something for all the family. Star rating:

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Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta, Pacific Coast Located on a private white-sand beach overlooking Bandares Bay, the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is a premium all-inclusive family resort. Designed for ultimate relaxation this resort features over 300 rooms and suites with breath-taking ocean views. Each luxury room or suite is decked out with designer details. Relax in comfortable sitting areas and enjoy in-suite spa experiences with hydro-massage bathtubs and rainfall showers in some suites. For guests looking to upgrade, the adult only Swim-up Suites with direct access to the pool, or Presidential Suite with its own private pool, offer spacious balconies and patios with beautiful ocean views. With 6 restaurants and 5 bars the culinary experiences are an adventure for the senses. From local Mexican foods at Casa Grande to Southeast Asian fusion cuisine at Pureza. The resort even has its own certified tequila sommeliers that can teach guests the origins and best ways to pair a range of tequilas with their Mexican meal. With five swimming pools, a fitness centre, KidZ Club and a selection of water and land activities, including Vitamar Spa, guests are spoilt for choice for an unforgettable stay. Star rating:

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos Los Cabos, Baja California Peninsula Perched on the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is a premium all-inclusive resort for all-ages. The resort has 591 rooms and suites including Swim Up, Club Level Ocean View, and Presidential Suites, all offering picturesque ocean views, hand-made furnishings, sleek interior design and exquisite details with designer touches that include spa-like bathrooms with rainfall showers. With 7 restaurants and 6 bars guests can embark on a culinary world tour from Italian cuisine at Zaffiro to indulgent fresh seafood and steaks at La Hacienda Beach Grill, which features an outdoor patio overlooking the beach. Enjoy Cirque-du-soleil-style shows, live music and entertainment in the Grand Theatre and bask in the warm Baja sun around the four swimming pools, including an adults-only pool and a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pool with KidZ Club. This resort is also the ideal location to go exploring and is only minutes from San JosĂŠ del Cabo. Star rating:

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Viceroy Los Cabos Los Cabos, Baja California Peninsula

Located in San José del Cabo on the outer rim of Baja California Sur and surrounded by water, Viceroy Los Cabos is the ultimate escape. Rooms and villas are designed with a beautiful modern balance between concrete and glass, capturing the natural light. The villas feature interior living spaces that open on to outdoor terraces, shaded by overhanging ceilings and automated awnings. Further enhanced by an open sky terrace on the top floor with a private pool and a built in lounge and dining area. Unique culinary experiences await at the resort’s four venues, including Nido, which translates from Spanish as ‘nest’ – fitting because this restaurant’s lattice structure looks alluringly nestlike and sits at the resort centre, appearing to float on water and serving a Peruvian style menu. Guests can cool off at four swimming pools, or soak up the sun on the custom-made, solid teak sun loungers that can be transformed into private-shade shelters.

At a glance Location: Located in San José del Cabo on the outer rim of Baja California Sur Transfer time: Approximately 30 minutes from the airport Rooms/suites: 194 Restaurants/bars: 4 Water activities: 4 swimming pools Land activities: Cinema and fitness centre Spa/Beauty Services: Zen Spa Children: Generation V Kids Club Board basis: Room Only Star rating:

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The Villa Experience Our range of private villas offer everything from secluded beach havens to large and luxurious entertaining spaces. With private pools, away from it all locations, and views to die for, here we introduce just a selection of the options available in some of the Caribbeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful islands.

Beach Enclave North Shore, Anguilla, North Coast, 10 bedrooms

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The Westerings Royal Westmoreland Barbados, West Coast, 6 Bedrooms

Hemingway House Barbados, West Coast, 4 Bedrooms

Gouveneur View St Barths, South Coast, 2 Bedrooms

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Ani Villas Anguilla Anguilla, North Coast, 10 Bedrooms

Beach Enclave North Shore Turks and Caicos, Providenciales, 3 to 5 Bedrooms

Casa Nikki Mexico, Riviera Maya, 5 Bedrooms

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The Villa Experience

The Retreat Nevis West Coast, 3 Bedrooms

Xhale Villa St Lucia, North Coast, 4 Bedrooms

Tamarind House St Lucia, West Coast, 4 Bedrooms

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Our Airline Partners With more airline partners than ever before, here at If Only… we are dedicated to finding and booking the carrier that best suits our customers’ requests and requirements. Below we have provided some general information regarding our key airline partners servicing the Caribbean and the USA. These airlines operate from cities throughout the UK and Ireland, many with regional add-on fares. Please ask a member of our Reservations team about these departures at the time of enquiry or booking. Always check your airlines website for the most up to date information on baggage allowances and remember that it is common practice to have to pay for your baggage if you are taking flights internally within America, even if these are part of your international ticket.

British Airways

British Airways sets itself the highest standards in everything it does. There is a choice of four cabins: World Traveller (economy class) offers a 31” seat pitch, seat-back entertainment systems, a free barservice and complimentary three-course meals. World Traveller Plus is a quieter, more spacious cabin with 7” more leg room and greater seat recline than World Traveller, two armrests per seat and in-seat laptop power. The Club World seat adapts to your needs, whether you’re sleeping, eating, or relaxing. You will also enjoy lounge access at most airports and an exclusive arrivals lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5. Alternatively, you may enjoy a luxury travel experience in First with the ultimate in comfort, service, entertainment and privacy.

Virgin Atlantic

Travelling with Virgin Atlantic is a quality experience. In Economy, seats have a minimum of a 31” pitch and seatback TV screens. Fly in Premium Economy to avail of a 38” seat pitch, a dedicated check in and your main meal served on china crockery. Alternatively, experience the Upper Class Suite where seats convert to become one of the longest fully flat beds in business class. Combine this with a chauffeur driven car (1), award winning Clubhouses (2), and an arrival lounge at Heathrow and Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class is the ultimate travel experience. (1) Chauffeur driven car available at most destinations and with selected Upper Class fares. Restrictions apply. (2) Lounge facilities vary at each destination.

Thomas Cook Airlines

Thomas Cook Airlines believe that a holiday should start as soon as a customer boards their flight and as such pride themselves on award-winning and friendly customer service. Having recently spent more than £8.5 million on refurbishing their fleet, the reimagined convoy of A330 aircraft now benefit from wider, ergonomically designed seats to give passengers that little more space. Top chef James Martin is responsible for the inflight meals and dishes have been designed using ingredients that pack a punch to ensure a flavoursome meal at 35,000 feet. Passengers travelling long-haul can upgrade to the Premium Cabin where they will enjoy a greater selection of inflight entertainment options, additional legroom and priority boarding.

United

With hubs in seven North American cities; Chicago, Denver, Newark, San Francisco, Washington, D.C, Houston and Los Angeles plus onward connections to over 210 destinations within the United States and into the Caribbean, United Airlines’ comprehensive network is almost guaranteed to include your chosen destination. United have partnered with the amazing entertainment companies of Tribeca Film Festival, HBO and Vevo, to bring passengers the best in-flight movies, shows and more, including exclusive content not found with any other airline. Passengers travelling transatlantic in economy can enjoy a complimentary meal service, house wine and beer plus a mid-flight snack. Those flying in premium cabins can indulge in a fine dining experience comprised of specially designed menus using regional ingredients delivered with a modern flair.

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Our Airline Partners

Delta

Delta proudly delivers a wide variety of signature products and experiences to suit all passengers. Cabins and seat selections available are determined by route and aircraft. The Main Cabin economy offering includes standard seats with a 31” pitch, additionally passengers can benefit from a further 4” if they select a Delta Comfort+ fare, available on certain flights. Wifi is available to purchase on long haul flights and over 1000 hours of free movies, TV, music and games will keep passengers entertained throughout their flight. The business class cabin, Delta One® offers a dedicated in-cabin flight attendant and luxurious details that truly make a difference including, Westin Heavenly® in-flight bedding, airport club access and Sky Priority check-in, security, baggage handling and boarding.

Aer Lingus

Fly to over 60 destinations in the United States with Aer Lingus. Aer Lingus provides convenient, comfortable and cost effective transatlantic travel. The economy cabin offers a 31-32” seat pitch, personal in-seat television and a three course meal including a choice of mains and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic drinks are available at a charge. Advance seat selection is chargeable and travellers can pay an additional premium for preferred seating such as exit rows. The Business Class cabin has comfortable 58” flat bed seats, this increases to 60”, 78” at full recline, when travelling on the B757-200, this narrow-bodied aircraft currently operates on Shannon-New York & Boston routes. A traditionally Irish inspired menu designed by top chefs is available to Business Class passengers, offering a fusion of fine dining and traditional fare.

U.S Immigration Pre-Clearance

Both Dublin and Shannon International Airports have U.S Immigration Pre-Clearance facilities. What does this mean? Passengers travelling to the Unites States from either of these airports will clear US Immigration, customs and agriculture controls before they board their transatlantic flight. This is the ultimate time-saving service and means that when you arrive into the States you can land like a local, just collect your baggage and be on your way. Please note that duty free goods cannot be sold on flights which pre-clear U.S customs and immigration. Thinking of visiting both the USA and the Caribbean? The islands of Aruba and Bermuda as well as both Freeport and Nassau airports in The Bahamas also have U.S Immigration Pre-Clearance facilities. Something well worth keeping in mind if booking one of our popular twin-centre holidays! Why not combine a week enjoying the beautiful beaches of The Bahamas before taking a short hour long flight up to Miami to take in the cool and vibrant neighbourhoods of the ‘Magic City’.

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Essential Holiday Information The hotels featured in our brochure and on our website are, in our opinion, the best available, however that does not mean that all of them are right for you. To some ‘luxury’ means a rustic ‘get-away-from-it-all’ retreat, while others expect a glamorous international resort. Taking time to browse our brochure, visit our web site and discuss your particular requirements with our destination specialists will ensure that we can produce your dream holiday. We can also arrange to book accommodation for you that is not featured in our brochure or that perhaps you have selected yourself. While we have absolutely no reason to believe that your selection would not be of a totally acceptable standard, our personal endorsement cannot be provided, nor any assurances or warranties in respect of the standard of facilities or levels of service. When a hotel description states a ‘sea view’ or ‘ocean view’ this may in fact only be a partial or restricted view. In Triple rooms, the third bed may be a rollaway extra bed. Many hotels may charge for some of the land and water activities listed. As many of our hotels are in a tropical climate, they may attract unwelcome visitors of the insect variety. This is part and parcel of tropical life and rarely indicates a lack of hygiene, however if you do have concerns we recommend that you voice them to the Duty Manager while in resort. Hotels can introduce charges for facilities which have been previously included e.g. Children’s club facilities, baby sitting services etc. Airport Taxes Generally speaking the airport taxes are incorporated in the package price you have paid. Occasionally airports will apply a Departure Tax which requires to be paid in cash before your return flight. Please refer to the ‘Price Pledge / Surcharges’ section in our Booking Conditions which explains when we may have to pass increases in airport taxes on to you. Alcohol and Drugs Restrictive legislation against the carriage of alcohol, prescription medication and other drugs is increasingly common in destinations worldwide. To make the most of your trip visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for updated information on the laws governing alcohol, prescription medication, other drugs and restrictions on smoking/electronic cigarettes. All Inclusive Holidays Where one of our resorts offers an All Inclusive product, it is worth noting that the All Inclusive aspect may start and finish at certain times on the dates of arrival and departure. Resorts may also occasionally alter the specific terms of their All Inclusive package at short notice and this is something beyond our control. Baby Food Visitors are not permitted to take fresh milk or jars of baby food into the USA and will have this confiscated by US Customs. Powdered milk is permitted. This may affect you if you are in transit through a USA airport. Baggage Allowance Luggage allowances and permitted items including electronic devices, vary from airline to airline and we recommend that you check the luggage policy of the airline(s) with which you are flying. Any excess luggage will be charged at the discretion of the airline. Please note that generally speaking, a lower luggage allowance will apply to most internal flights taken within the USA, Mexico and the Caribbean and may incur additional charges. Check-in Times It is your responsibility to respect the check-in times specified by the airline on which you are travelling, and to ensure that you arrive at your point of departure in plenty of time. If Only... is unable to accept any liability if you miss your flight as a result of your late check-in or connecting transport being delayed. Christmas, New Year and other Peak Seasons It is commonplace for guests staying in resort hotels over the Christmas, New Year and other Peak Season periods to pay a supplement for compulsory additional services, such as gala dinners. It may also be necessary to pre-book restaurants during peak periods and there may be a minimum nights’ stay requirement at some hotels, please enquire at time of booking. Some resorts implement more stringent cancellation fees for peak season bookings. Credit Cards At most hotels and resorts across the world, credit cards are essential as they will be required to guarantee your hotel extras bill when you check-in. Disabled Travellers The enjoyment of your holiday is important to us but we recognise that some of the tours, cruises and holidays we offer may not be suitable for clients with reduced mobility or special requirements, so we strongly recommended that suitability is discussed prior to making your booking. We are happy to provide personal advice on whether a particular tour, cruise or holiday is suitable for your needs as we understand that each client will have their own specific requirements. To make your arrangements run as smoothly as possible, our airline and other transport partners may require specific details of a health, disability or mobility issue prior to travel. Dress Code Many of our hotels observe a dress code, particularly for dining in the evening, and sometimes for certain areas of the hotel. At time of booking please ask our specialists for information on any applicable dress code policy. As dress code guidance changes frequently, please also check the relevant hotel, rail company or cruise line website nearer to your departure date for the most up to date information. In public places or during particular holidays and festivals, in some of our destinations, conservative dress may be required. Being dressed in a ‘respectful’ manner particularly when visiting temples, churches, shrines and mosques is essential. Please check with our destination

experts for advice on clothing that is acceptable in these culturally sensitive locations. Excursions Any excursions booked and paid for in resort are operated by the local handling company or the hotel. Accordingly, you will be subject to their booking conditions and cancellation charges. Given that If Only… is not party to the provision of these services, refunds cannot be obtained from us at any time, nor can we be held liable for any issue that may arise during such excursions. Flight Delays Adverse weather conditions, air traffic congestion and technical problems may result in flight delays. While the airline may make alternative arrangements to ensure you reach your destination, there will be no compensation for any loss of services or any consequential reduction in the length of your holiday. However, such matters may be the subject of a claim on your insurance policy. For further information see section (14) in our booking conditions. Flight Schedule Changes Regrettably airlines occasionally change their flight schedules. Please note that we cannot be held responsible for any such changes made after the time of booking. Final flight times will be detailed on your travel documentation, please check these times carefully. Government and Health Advice Should you have any concerns regarding travel due to political unrest, potential violence etc. we would recommend that you access the government website at www.gov.uk. Health It is imperative when travelling to our destinations that you consult your GP or local health clinic before booking your trip and before travelling, to make sure that you have taken all the necessary health precautions. Other sources of information include gov.uk and nathnac.net. As conditions can change quickly, please also check the current health requirements of the destination you are visiting closer to your departure date. Some countries will require additional certification or visas from travellers who may have been in regions of epidemic. You must also, at time of booking, inform If Only... of any pre-existing medical conditions or disability which may affect your holiday. Passengers who have reached 28 weeks in their pregnancy may not accepted by the majority of airlines without a medical certificate, however conditions vary from airline to airline. If you plan to travel to any of our hotels that are above 3,000 metres and have circulation, heart or respiratory problem then please consult your doctor before booking. Please note that you are strongly advised against scuba diving for 24 hours before travelling by air. Hotel Classification Across the regions of the world that we feature there is no standardised classification and grading of hotels. However we appreciate that a ‘star’ rating is often the first point of reference when considering a resort or hotel for your holiday. Wherever possible we have included the official star rating as provided by that destination’s official tourism authority. If this is not available we have asked our partner hotels to supply us with the star grading that they normally use. This is not a categorisation implemented by If Only… but a reflection of what each hotel or resort promotes its classification/grading to be, so it is important to read carefully the individual hotel descriptions. Our specialists can also help in explaining the services, facilities and standards of each hotel or resort that we feature. Loyalty Programmes If requested to do so, we will add hotel and airline loyalty programme membership numbers to your booking where possible, but please note that on some of our specially negotiated rates ‘points’ or ‘miles’ are not always awarded. Maintenance Work In order to maintain high standards, hotel renovation is a continual process, particularly in the low season. In this event, hotel management will ensure that any disturbance to guests is restricted to the absolute minimum. If we have been made aware of any significant renovation programme, we will advise you before travel. In some of our destinations construction work is commonplace and we will use our best efforts to ensure that you are advised in advance of any intended works within your hotel or in the immediate vicinity. Hotels are not liable for any building works or developments taking place outside their property and gardens, therefore decisions to amend bookings are entirely at the discretion of your hotel. Some works may be unscheduled and therefore we would not be in a position to inform you before departure. Regrettably we cannot accept responsibility for such improvement/building/construction works but if we are of the opinion that this may seriously impair the enjoyment of your holiday we will offer you the opportunity to transfer to an alternative hotel of comparable standard. If the alternative available is at an extra cost, the difference will be payable by you. Should an alternative property of a comparable standard be unavailable, If Only… will give you the option to cancel and you will be given a full refund. Passenger Names and Advance Passenger Information Increasingly airlines require Advance Passenger Information at time of booking or well before the date of travel. It is essential that the name(s) you provide at the time of booking conform(s) to that on your passport(s). Airlines will not allow any subsequent changes to the spelling of name(s) without a substantial financial penalty. This point of information is particularly relevant to honeymoon couples where the bride decides to change her surname subsequent to the booking having been placed. Replacement passengers are not permitted to take over existing flights booked.

contact number for the lead passenger is provided to If Only... at time of booking. Without this information, assistance with weather related cancellations, delays or re-booking cannot be effectively provided by If Only... in accordance with the Package Travel Directive, and no reimbursement shall be made. Passports and Visas It is solely your responsibility to obtain any passports, visas, health certificates, international driving licences, entry requirements and other travel documents required for your holiday including all stops en-route. We do not accept any responsibility or liability if you cannot travel, or incur any other loss because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements or any health formalities. See our Booking Conditions (Your Responsibilities Section) for more information. Currently, a valid ten-year British Passport, with a minimum validity of at least six months on the arrival date back in the UK is required for all holidays we feature. All visitors travelling to the USA without a visa must have a biometric passport. Should your passport be in the final year of validity we advise you to thoroughly check the requirements of the country you intend to visit prior to finalising your travel plans. For further detailed information please visit gov.uk/browse/citizenship/passports. Non-British citizens must check their passport and visa requirements prior to booking with the Embassy or Consulate of the country they intend to visit. USA Travel Authorisation (ESTA) – when travelling via the USA Under the Visa Waiver Programme, British and Irish passport holders are entitled to an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) which entitles entry to the USA for a duration of up to 90 days. You should apply for your ESTA on the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation website no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Once an ESTA has been approved it is valid for 2 years and can be used for multiple entries into the United States. Please note that under certain circumstances, e.g. if you have a criminal record, then your ESTA application could be rejected, you may have to apply for a visa or your entry into the USA may be completely denied. The current cost of an ESTA is US $14 per application. The name on your airline ticket must exactly match the name on your ESTA. You will be denied boarding if you do not have a valid ESTA. Prices Please contact our destination experts for the latest pricing and special offers on any of your tailor-made Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda itineraries. Our star ratings used throughout the brochure can be used as a general guide on the standard of accommodation shown. Local Festivals and Holidays Experiencing the culture of our destinations can be a highly enriching experience particularly during religious and local festivals. Observance of local customs may be more pronounced at these times and visitors should treat theses traditions with respect. Some destinations may be particularly busy at certain times of year, for example March is Spring Break time when thousands of American students descend on the Caribbean and Mexico. Some hotels will be much busier and more raucous than normal. Each of the islands in the Caribbean have their own festivals and carnivals. Check local information or with your hotel for the most up-todate information. Some excursions and tours may be liable to changes or cancellation at short notice due to local holidays or festivals. Advance notice of these changes may not readily available and if you are affected please contact the local representative or tour provider who may be able to make alternative arrangements. Room Check-in and Check-out Times Check-in and check-out times may vary from hotel to hotel, please enquire at the time of booking. Some of our hotels will endeavour to accommodate early arrivals or late departures but this is not always possible. If you would like to have access to your room out with normal check-in/check-out times for an additional period or for an extra night, this can be arranged for a supplement at the time booking. Seat Requests Most airlines will not permit you to pre-allocate seats until your flight booking is ticketed. Many have introduced charges to pre book regardless of class of travel therefore please refer to the airlines’ website for current information and guidance. Please be aware that pre bookable seat selection is not guaranteed (as per the airlines’ conditions of carriage). Special Requests We will do our utmost to ensure that any special requests or special needs you may have are satisfied, whether they relate to the flight or your hotel. Such requests must be made in writing. However, please appreciate that they are merely ‘requests’ and therefore cannot be guaranteed. Unused Services Refunds are not available for services booked and provided but not utilised. Weather In our brochures, we have included a brief overview providing information on average general weather conditions. Please note that this is for guidance and cannot be relied upon as weather conditions around the world are becoming more unpredictable. Adverse weather conditions including hurricanes may be experienced during certain times of the year in the Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda. These may be more prevalent between the months of August to October and we would not recommend these months for travel to selected islands. Some hotels are closed during these months. Please contact our destination experts for further information. If Only… cannot be held liable for any impairment of your holiday caused by adverse weather conditions.

Passport information, date(s) of birth, your mobile phone number and emergency contact numbers and redress number (if applicable) are required at time of booking. It is also essential that a mobile phone

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Our Booking Conditions 1 CONTRACT The booking conditions will constitute the contract between If Only… (a trading name of If Only Holidays Limited) - ATOL 4269/ABTA W3086 and all those listed on the booking on whose behalf the party leader is acting. A contract will exist as soon as we have issued a confirmation number. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by Scottish Law, and the jurisdiction of the Scottish Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of England or Northern Ireland. We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in our brochure. You will be advised of the current prices of the holiday that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed. 2 PAYMENT TERMS When you make your booking, you must pay a nonrefundable deposit of 10% of your total holiday cost or £200 per person, whichever is the greater. Some services require higher deposits and early balance payments and you will be advised of this at time of booking. This may limit rights of cancellation. Otherwise, the balance of the price of your travel arrangements should be received by us at least ten weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time we have the right to cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. If the booking is made within 10 weeks of departure then full payment is required at time of booking. We reserve the right to amend our prices at any time prior to you booking your holiday. 3 CANCELLATION (BY YOU) Should you choose to cancel your booking then intimation by you or your travel agent must be made to us in writing and the cancellation will be effective from the date of receipt. Cancellation charges are as follows: No. days before departure that notification is received by us:

Amount of full holiday cost payable:

More than 70 days

deposit

43 to 69 days

50%

22 to 42 days

70%

14 to 21 days

90%

0 to 13 days

100%

The cancellation charges set out above apply to all bookings except where a booking includes items or services where the suppliers’ cancellation charges exceed those shown above. In these cases we can provide you with a copy of our suppliers’ terms on request, but please note that 100% cancellation charges may apply in some circumstances Please enquire at the time of booking. If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges. 4 AMENDMENTS (BY YOU) If after a confirmation number has been issued, you choose to amend your booking at any time we will endeavour to be of assistance but amendments will not always be possible. A request to amend must be made in writing by the person who made the booking or by your travel agent. If we are able to accept the change, an amendment fee of £50 per person, per change plus any further cost we incur in making this alteration will be charged and payable at time of change. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date, or once travel has commenced, that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements. Major amendments such as changing the dates of travel or number of passengers travelling may be treated as a cancellation and re-booking or may involve a recalculation of the holiday cost. 5 PRICE PLEDGE/SURCHARGES Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel; dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or fees at airports; and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after booking. However there will be no price change within 0 days of your departure. Should your holiday price increase, you will not be charged for any amount equivalent to 2% of the price of your holiday. You will only have to pay the amount over and above the 2% of your holiday cost, up to a maximum of 10%. Added to this will be an administration charge of £1 per person together with an amount to cover agents’ commission. If there is an increase of more than % of the holiday cost, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday, if we are able to offer one, or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid excluding any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of your holiday cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place. Some governments are known to unilaterally increase the rate of Goods, Service, Tourism, Municipality Bed or Airport Tax with very little notice. In the event that this should occur after your booking has been made, but prior to 30 days before departure, we reserve the right to levy any eligible surcharge against you and will inform you of the reasons for any such increase. If we become aware of a planned surcharge that may affect your holiday price after you have booked, we may contact you to request earlier/interim payment. In some circumstances this request would avoid the necessity of passing these increases onto you.

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Our Booking Conditions Booking Conditions

• You enter into a contract with us when we issue our confirmation invoice. If you then cancel, there will be cancellation charges. These will vary depending on when you cancel and full details can be found in clause 3. • You can make changes to your booking in certain circumstances. We make a charge for this. We can change and cancel your booking. We’ll pay you compensation in certain circumstances. • We are responsible to you for providing your holiday but there are legal limits. • We are a Member of ABTA and we provide protection for your money. See clause 10 for more information. • NB read the full terms below for more information and for other important rights and obligations. 6 CANCELLATION (BY US) We reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. However we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than ten weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure (see below) or failure by you to pay the final balance Should a duplicate reservation be made on the same airline that is not booked by If Only... but is made by you or your agent, then the booking with If Only... may be subject to cancellation or additional charges if we cannot secure your ticket at the same fare. In such circumstances any funds paid to If Only... will not be refundable. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us. If it is necessary to cancel your travel arrangements, compensation will be payable in accordance with the table contained in clause 7 below, except where the cancellation is caused by circumstances amounting to force majeure (see below). 7 AMENDMENTS (BY US) As arrangements are made many months in advance, we have to reserve the right to make changes to brochure and holiday details both before and after you have booked your holiday. Any such changes are likely to be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent at the earliest possible opportunity. A change affecting a stay in a hotel during a tour where the hotel itself is not the focus of the tour, does not constitute a major change. If the change may be deemed to be a major one: e.g. a change to a lower official classification of accommodation than that booked or a departure time alteration of more than twelve hours, we will tell you as soon as possible and you will have three options: (a) accept the changes as notified (b) purchase an alternative If Only… holiday (c) cancel your holiday and receive a full refund of monies paid. In the event of (a), (b), or (c) above, except where change arises due to reason of force majeure, we will pay compensation per paying passenger as follows: No. of days before departure that notification is given to your travel agent

Compensation per paying passenger

More than 70 days

nil

43 to 69 days

£10

29 to 42 days

£20

15 to 28 days

£30

0 to 14 days

£35

8 INSURANCE It is a condition of booking your holiday that you take out suitable insurance cover at the time of making your reservation. Your insurance must include cover for your total holiday price in the event of cancellation or curtailment as well as the cost of repatriation in the event of accident or illness. It is your responsibility to arrange suitable and adequate travel insurance. 9 OUR RESPONSIBILITIES AND LIABILITY TO YOU (1) Subject to these booking conditions, your holiday arrangements will be made using reasonable skill and care. If any part of your travel arrangements is not provided as promised, and we have not been able to provide an alternative of a comparable standard, we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. As long as they were acting within the course of their employment or carrying out work we had asked them to do, we will be responsible if our employees or agents fail to make your holiday arrangements using reasonable skill and care. It is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used, in the event of making a claim against us. If we, or our employees or agents fail to make your holiday arrangements using reasonable skill and care, taking into account all relevant factors e.g. following the complaints procedure as described in these conditions and the extent to which our acts or omissions (or those of our employees or agents) affected the overall enjoyment of your holiday, we will pay you reasonable compensation. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of twice the cost of your travel arrangements. (2) We will not be responsible or pay you any compensation for any injury, illness, death, loss, damage, expense, cost or other claim of any description which results from: a) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected; b) the act(s) and /or omission(s) of any third party not connected with the provision of the services contracted for and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable; or c) unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or d) an event which either ourselves, our employees, agents, suppliers or subcontractors could not, even with all due care, have foreseen or forestalled. (3) The services and facilities included in your holiday will be deemed to be provided with reasonable skill and care if they comply with any local regulations which apply, or, if there are no applicable regulations, if they are reasonable when compared to the local standards in practice. The fact that services of facilities fail to comply with local or UK guidance or advice shall not of itself mean that that the services or facilities in question have not been provided with reasonable skill and care. (4) Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to: (a) The contractual terms of the companies that provides the transportation for your travel arrangements. These terms are incorporated into this contract (b) Any relevant international convention e.g. The Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea,

the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, which limit the amount of compensation that you can claim for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of compensation contained in these or any conventions. You can obtain copies of the Conventions and the transport conditions of carriage from us. (c) Loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions and money. For those that don’t fall within these conventions, compensation would be limited to £25. This liability clause does not apply to any separate contracts that you may enter into for excursions or activities in resort. Excursions, activities and hazardous pursuits that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book with If Only..., your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with If Only…. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour nor for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. 10 FINANCIAL SECURITY We provide full financial protection for our package holidays. Holidays that include flights are protected by way of our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 4269. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we aren’t able do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL Scheme. If you book travel arrangements other than a flight or flight package with If Only Holidays, in accordance with ''The Package Travel, Package Tours Regulations 1992'', all passengers are fully insured for the initial deposit, and subsequent balance paid. This policy includes repatriation in the event of cancellation of your travel arrangements resulting from insolvency of If Only Holidays. This insurance has been arranged with Affirma, a trading brand of MGA Cover Services Limited under a binding authority with the insurer CBL Insurance Europe Limited. 11 ABTA We are a member of ABTA, membership number W3086. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. Further information on the Code and arbitration can be found at www.abta.com. 12 COMPLAINTS AND ARBITRATION At If Only… we will do everything possible to ensure that you have an enjoyable and trouble-free holiday. However as you will appreciate, there are certain aspects of your holiday which are not within our direct control. In the unlikely event that you have a problem or complaint during your holiday, then please bring it to the attention of the relevant person e.g. airline, representative or hotelier, in order that it may be remedied at the time. Should you not receive satisfaction then please contact our office which is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9.00am – 5.00pm. Should the problem not be resolved, then please bring it to our attention upon your return. Any such complaint must be received by us in writing within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow these simple procedures we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify your complaint whilst you were at the destination and this may affect your rights under this contract. It is unlikely that you will have a complaint that cannot be settled amicably between us, however as a Member of ABTA (Membership No.W3086), we are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you as indicated by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract. The scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It is a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you for costs. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on abta.com. 13 YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES Any passports, visas, health certificates, International Driving Licences, entry requirements and other travel documents required for your holiday must be obtained by you, whose responsibility it remains to ensure that these are all in order and to meet

any additional costs incurred (whether by you or by us on your behalf) as a result of failure to comply with such requirements. You are responsible to arrive at stated departure times and places and any loss or damage which you suffer through failure to do so lies with you. We have no liability whatsoever to you through your failure to do so. In the UK, the Foreign & Commonwealth Advice Unit may have issued information about your holiday destination. You are advised to check this information at gov.uk/browse/abroad. All guests staying with us are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and acceptable manner and not to disrupt the enjoyment of other guests. We reserve the right at our absolute discretion to terminate without notice and liability the holiday arrangements of any person whose behaviour is such that it is likely, in our opinion, or that of any accommodation owner or manager, airline pilot, or other person in authority, to cause distress, danger, damage or annoyance to other customers, employees, property or to any third party. If any person or persons are prevented from travelling because in the opinion of any person in authority they appear unfit to travel, or are likely to cause discomfort or disturbance to the customers or passengers, our responsibility for the holiday will cease. In all cases full cancellation charges apply and we will be under no obligation whatsoever for any costs incurred. We cannot be held responsible for the actions or behaviour of any other guests or individuals who have no connection with your booking arrangements with us. It is essential that a mobile phone contact number for the Lead passenger is provided to If Only... at time of booking. Without this information, assistance with weather related cancellations, delays or re-booking cannot be effectively provided by If Only... in accordance with the Package Travel Directive, and no reimbursement shall therefore be made. 14 SCHEDULED AIRLINES Air transportation is by scheduled services. We reserve the right to substitute alternative airlines or aircraft types. Such alterations do not constitute a significant change to your holiday arrangements and you will not therefore be entitled to cancel or change to another holiday, as a result. In the event of a delay to your flight, your airline is obliged, under the EU Regulation 261/2004 on Denied Boarding, Cancellation and Delay, to offer you appropriate compensation. Further information can be found at abta.com. Further assistance may be available from your insurance policy. Compensation is not due from us in the event of delay caused by circumstances beyond anyone’s control such as strikes, weather and unavoidable breakdown. This brochure is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return flight. 15 FORCE MAJEURE We will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. Advice from the government to avoid or leave a particular country may constitute Force Majeure. We will follow the advice given by the Foreign Office in the UK. 16 DATA PROTECTION STATEMENT We have measures in place to protect any personal booking information that you have given us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. Please note that if you travel outside of the European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in the UK. Sensitive information such as details of any disabilities/dietary/religious requirements will only be passed on to persons or companies responsible for your travel arrangements. If we are unable to pass this information to relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we will not be able to implement your booking request. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons. Full details of the data protection policy are available on request. 17 GROUP BOOKINGS Different booking conditions and prices may apply for Group reservations. Please contact us for relevant details. 18 BROCHURE AND WEBSITE ACCURACY Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in our brochures and on our web site is accurate. However, as you will appreciate, we have to contend with: a) conditions outside our control b) the fact that the brochure has been compiled many months before the departure date c) the possibility of human error d) Hotel Images - For the most part, images featured in our brochure and this website are provided by the hotels and tourist boards. Please note that they need not necessarily truly reflect the current appearance of the hotel and its surroundings as further developments may have taken place since the images were produced.

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Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda

Asia

Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands

United States of America

Asia

Reservations: 0141 955 4000 After Sales: 0141 955 4041 Accounts: 0141 955 4042

res@ifonly.net after.sales@ifonly.net accounts@ifonly.net

Milngavie Enterprise Centre Ellangowan Court, Milngavie Glasgow G62 8PH

Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda

2018 & 2019

Please refer to our other brochures for more exciting destinations.

ABTA No.88888

www.ifonly.net

2018 & 2019