5 Tropical Getaways to Book for the Holidays
Not everyone is dreaming of a White Christmas. If you're not one for cold weather and snow, consider a tropical vacation this holiday season — say, in the Caribbean, maybe? Whether you're an adventurer or a relaxer, there's an island that will match your mood this winter.
Antigua
There's a reason that Sandals Grande Antigua has been voted the World's Most Romantic Resort several times. The adults-only getaway is a haven for couples, its tropical environs complemented by European-inflected sophistication. Whether on land or in the water, activities abound: bocce ball, windsurfing, karaoke, snorkeling, live music, even a chocolate buffet. Antigua itself (known by the native population as Waladli and Wadadli) is part of the Leeward Islands, a chain found where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic; a favorite among sailors, it hosts the annual Antigua Sailing Week.
The Bahamas
There are many lovely places to see and stay in the Bahamas, with Sandals Royal Bahamian standing out as perhaps the most elegant of all. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor were quite fond of the adults-only retreat, whose most alluring feature has to be its private offshore island. Just minutes away by either ferry or kayak, it functions as a second resort with two white-sand beaches, a swim-up bar, and Zen garden, among many other reasons to take the plunge.
Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia, the only country in the world named after a woman, is uniquely gorgeous. Sandals Halcyon Beach captures that beauty like nowhere else: with a backdrop of palm trees and mountains, it's one of the most relaxing places in the entire Caribbean. That's doubly true of the Beachfront Honeymoon Butler Suites, which have private decks and a plunge pool you can step right into.
Jamaica
Sandals Resorts boasts six different Jamaica locations. What makes South Coast special is the fact it's an all-beachfront property with over-the-water bungalows arranged in the shape of a heart, which is to say it's an ideal spot for couples on a romantic holiday. Add the three pools (one of which is the largest in Jamaica) and the fact that it's situated on a 500-acre nature preserve and you'll have a hard time leaving.
Barbados
If ever you wanted to eat Indian food in the Caribbean, Sandals Barbados is the place for you. Located in St. Lawrence Gap, it boasts the largest and longest lagoon pool in all of Barbados in addition to the usual assortment of restaurants (of which there 11), bars (seven), and water sports. To make the holidays really romantic, stay here or at any other Sandals Resort for at least three nights and get married for free!