Four island escapes to add to your bucket list
What could be better than soaking up the sun on an exotic island in the tropics? With the weather cooling down (eventually!), we’re looking across the horizon to the wonderful West Indies and all inclusive resorts to call your own. Whether it’s stunning beaches you’re after or diverse landscapes just waiting to be explored, here are our fave spots in the West Indies that should be up next on your vacay wish list!
Vacation like an A-lister in St. Maarten
Favoured by the rich and famous, St. Maarten attracts visitors with its sparkling beaches, lush mountains and fascinating culture. The smallest island divided between two nations, you will feel like you’re visiting two destinations in one. You could savour freshly baked croissants for breakfast one morning in St. Martin followed by fluffy Dutch pancakes the next day in St. Maarten. The island is world-renowned for its picture-perfect coastline where superyachts line the shore, with 37 stretches of sand beckoning to be explored, including the popular Maho Beach where incoming planes make for the perfect Insta shot!
Where to stay: Soak in sweeping views of St. Maarten’s coast when you stay at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort. Sip on your favourite drink as you cool off in the spectacular infinity pool or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters off the resort beach. In addition to all inclusive options, the resort also offers a European Plan if you want to sample the local cuisine or cook your own meals in your room’s fully equipped kitchen.
Explore unique landscapes in Aruba
Since almost 20% of the island is designated as a national park, Aruba is the perfect vacation destination for eco travellers. The tiny nation features breathtaking countryside from coast-to-coast including pristine beaches, unique Divi Divi trees, cacti forests and more. One of the best ways to discover the island and its natural beauty is on a hiking tour with NexusTours.com, our trusted partner in destination. You’ll venture through Arikok National Park to learn all about the island’s native flora and fauna as you hike along scenic trails.
Where to stay: The best way to stay (and play) in Aruba is at an all inclusive resort – we love Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive for its location on the breathtaking Druif Beach and its proximity to the shops and restaurants at Eagle Beach. But…if you want to travel off the beaten path and go your own way, grab a flight to Aruba with us starting November 6, 2023 from Toronto – plus you can always get a resort day pass to vacay in style!
Enjoy the best of both worlds in Saint Lucia
From the majestic peaks of the Pitons to the tropical rainforests of the interior and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the island of Saint Lucia is a must-see. A favourite amongst A-listers, this exotic destination offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Traverse the island’s lush rainforests and swim in refreshing waterfalls on a Rainforest Adventure tour, sail past the peaks of the Pitons on a sunset cruise or check out the world’s only drive-in volcano.
Where to stay: Admire Saint Lucia’s beautiful vistas when you stay at The SoCo House, an adults only resort on Rodney Bay. After a day spent wandering the island, kick back and relax on the nearby shores of Reduit Beach or on the sprawling pool deck and sip cocktails under the stars at this stylish resort blending South Beach chic with French Creole architecture.
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Soak up the sun beachside in Antigua
With 365 beaches – one for every day of the year – you’ll never run out of spots to soak up the sun in Antigua. Grab a comfortable beach lounger or head out on the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea to experience the island’s famous water sport conditions, where you can learn how to kitesurf and kiteboard or watch sailboats race during the annual regatta at the end of April. Unearth the island’s rich history and natural beauty with the Forts, Harbors and Beach Tour putting the best of Antigua in the spotlight.
Where to stay: When you book your tropical getaway at the adults only Pineapple Beach Club Antigua on the eastern shores of the island, you can choose from laidback getaways or active stays! Chill out on one of the most beautiful white-sand beaches, try out some non-motorized water sports or explore the nearby Devil’s Bridge National Park.