Escape winters icy grip at a tropical oasis, where the sun is shining, the water is glistening and the only thing icy is your frozen margarita. These four haute tropical destinations are guaranteed to thaw the winter blues right out.
Amanyara
Amanyara, meaning peaceful place is a secluded beachside resort situated on the island of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos, 25-minute drive from the Providenciales International Airport. As part of the Aman group, the resort is no stranger to space and privacy, instilling a sense of peace and belonging. The open-air timber pavilions offer views overlooking ponds, gardens, and oceans and include direct beach access, so you never have to go far for a dip in turquoise waters. Dining at the resort focuses on classic Asian and modern Mediterranean dishes, particularly fresh seafood, while spa pavilions set beside a reflecting pond focuses on wellness of the mind and body. Soak up the sun playing golf on the Providenciales Golf Course, explore the island and waters or simply relax on the beach and work on your tan.
Baha Mar
In under three hours from takeoff in New York, you could be trading in your winter blues for Bahamian blues at Baha Mar, a new resort in the Bahamas resting on the white sands of Nassau’s Cable Beach. Choose from three oceanfront hotels; the richly refined Rosewood, the playfully hip SLS, or stylish Grand Hyatt, each with a selection of pools and beach views. The resort features a wealth of amenities, including Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, racquet club, casino, spa, and over 40 dining and nightlife options. The newest restaurant, Carna By Dario Cecchini, is a contemporary steakhouse from the world-famous eight generation Italian butcher, and a must try as is the new Skybar, the only rooftop lounge in the Bahamas. With average sunshine of 320 days a year, this tropical destination is the perfect escape from New York’s icy winter.
Zemi Beach House
Anguilla is the ultimate tropical destination with stunning beaches, an inspired culinary scene and of course luxury accommodations. The award-winning Zemi Beach House is a luxury boutique hotel nestled on six oceanfront acres of Anguilla’s Shoal Bay East. It blends contemporary luxury with experiences anchored in the rich island tradition; from nourishing treatments to warm-weather activities. Choose from an island style penthouse suit or a beachside villa suite fitted with climate control, minibar and more. When you’re not in your seaside retreat, head to the pools and cabanas for a dip or tan, then dine on Caribbean-inspired seasonal cuisine at two restaurants, sample high-end rhums at the Rhum Room and dine alfresco with ocean views and the ocean breeze. Those in need of some pampering can go to the Zemi Thai House Spa and unwind with a selection of massages, treatments, healing rituals and facials, inspired by the indigenous people of Anguilla.
Jade Mountain Resort
Escape to where nature meets luxury at Jade Mountain in St. Lucia. Perched high up on a hillside landscape, the resort boasts uninterrupted views of the mountains and blue waters of Soufriere Bay from all 24 infinity pool sanctuaries and the five sky jacuzzi suites. Designed by architect and owner, Nick Troubetzkoy, each sanctuary features 15ft high ceilings, an open concept in the bedroom and living areas, and an infinity pool, apart from the jacuzzi suites, which come with a large bathtub for two. While soaking in the Caribbean sun, enjoy meals from James Beard Award winner, Chef Allen Susser, who incorporates fresh-caught seafood and seasonal vegetables and fruits grown locally at Emerald Farm into the menu. The on-site chocolate lab will teach you how chocolate is made from raw cocoa and even give you the chance to sample truffles. As for the day, spend it at the spa, hike the trails, dive in the waters or simply relax on the beach and get as much sun as you can.
