Showing posts with label Caribbean. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Caribbean. Show all posts

Monday, March 15, 2010

Preparing For Your St. Thomas Vacation

Each year, a large number of families and couples make the decision to vacation in St. Thomas. If you are interested in becoming one of those individuals, there are a number of steps that you should take to prepare for your St. Thomas vacation.

Many travelers mistakenly believe that vacation preparation begins the week or two before your vacation. If you are interested in traveling to the Caribbean or overseas, you will need to start planning your vacation well in advance. This planning often includes obtaining a passport. Passports can easily be obtained; however, they may take some time to process. Requesting a passport months before your vacation to St. Thomas is the best way to ensure that you will have it on time.

In addition to a passport, you will need other forms of identification. A driver’s license is the best thing to bring along. If you do not have a driver’s license another form of identification with your picture on it should be good enough. Before leaving on our vacation, you may want to consider making copies of all of your important documents. These copies may come in handy if you happen to loose or misplace the originals.

Since most travelers stay at least a week in St. Thomas, you will want to make sure that someone will be able to watch over your home or your pets, if you have any. This person can be a close friend, family member, co-worker, or neighbor. It is important that you leave them detailed instructions on how to care for your pets. If you do not need anyone to watch over your home, you will want to place your mail on hold. This can easily be done by visiting your local post office.

When you know exactly when you will be leaving and where you will be staying, you are urged to let a friend or family member know. If you have developed an itinerary for your vacation, you should give a copy to someone that you know. In the event that something goes wrong back home, you will be able to be reached in a short period of time.

Once you have made the above mentioned plans, you can begin to start packing for your vacation. When packing, it is encouraged that you leave valuable items at home. Many times, if you lose or misplace some of your belongings, you will be the one who will have to pay for replacements. It is also advised that you properly tag your entire luggage with your name and contact information. Should your luggage get lost in the air or on the ground, an identification tag may come in handy.

When vacationing in St. Thomas, it is likely that you will bring along spending money you. You are advised against carry large sums of money. If you must bring cash with you, you are encouraged to divide your money into smaller amounts. Storing your cash in multiple locations will prevent you from being without funds in the event that your money gets lost or stolen. Instead of carrying large amounts of cash, you may want to consider cashiers checks, traveler’s checks, or money orders.

When traveling around St. Thomas, you are advised against brining a purse along with you. Purses and large wallets are sometimes targets to thieves. Instead of carrying a purse or a wallet you may want to consider a money pouch. Money pouches that tuck right into your shirt can be purchased from most dollar stores in the United States. This small purchase makes it difficult or impossible for you to lose your money or have it stolen.

Using some of the tips mentioned above is the best way to plan for your St. Thomas vacation. St. Thomas is located in the Caribbean, should anything go wrong you are most likely far away from home. Taking the time to fully prepare for your vacation is the best way to make sure that nothing goes awry.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Caneel Bay

Caneel Bay of the Caribbean offers what every beach vacation should - beautiful surroundings, luxury service, and gourmet dining. This exclusive beach resort is nestled within the 5,000 acre Virgin
Islands National Park on the island of St. John in the Virgin Islands.

Ideal for beach lovers, Caneel Bay offers seven secluded beaches - Honeymoon Beach, Caneel Beach, Little Caneel Beach, Paradise Beach, Scott Beach, Turtle Bay Beach, and the Hawk's Nest Beach. The resort is set on its own peninsula and also surrounded by both the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

There are many different things to do here while on your beach vacation, including snorkeling, nature walks, hiking, sailing, kayaking in the sea, wind surfing, scuba diving, and swimming. You can also order a private massage, take lessons in watercolor, or just sneak away for a picnic. The resort also offers you a fitness center and 11 outdoor courts for tennis.

The resort of Caneel Bay offers 166 guest rooms and cottages furnished with hand crafted furniture, woven fabrics, natural wood, and native stone. The guest rooms also offer patios and balconies that overlook the beaches or resort gardens.

You can dine in several restaurants and bars that range from fine dining to casual meals. The restaurants include the Turtle Bay Estate House, Beach Terrace, The Equator, Starlight Terrace, and the Caneel Bay Bar.

For those who are looking to work on their beach vacation, Caneel Bay offers a business center complete with computers, high speed internet access, printers, data ports, and even telephones that offer free local calling.

Offering you everything for vacation bliss, Caneel Bay is one place you'll be glad you found.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

A Tobago Vacation, What To See And Do


It doesn’t matter whether you stay in a grand five star all inclusive hotel or a guest house, Tobago has a lot going for it, and much to see and do.

At 8 miles wide and 26 miles long, you would think that you would be able to get around most of the Island in a day, but this just isn’t the case. You see one of the charms of Tobago is its almost complete lack of any kind of infrastructure at all. The roads are full of potholes, and you either complain about it, or hire a 4 x 4 and have a great time dodging around the potholes, or perhaps going through them if they are full after a rain shower!!

So where are the best places to visit?

There is no doubt that the southwest lowlands are where all the development is centred.

Crown Point International Airport is here, and a few smart hotels along the Caribbean coast.

There is Buccoo Reef, Pigeon Point and Store Bay with its fine white sand beaches, and finally the colourful capital city Scarborough with its exciting port.

Definitely a trip across to the south coast of Tobago is more than worthwhile. Here the shore is pounded by the Atlantic Ocean with its big swell and breakers. Villages like Speyside are just one of the places to visit.

Moving north, the Caribbean Coast has many beautiful coral sand beaches such as Englishman’s Bay, Bloody Bay, Castara, and Parlatuvier, and the crowds are definitely absent here. The most northerly village Charlotteville is at the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean, and here there are good coal reefs, some within swimming distance of the beach

On the east side of Tobago, there is a rapid rise into the hills which are known as the Central Main Ridge, which is where you will find the main rainforest, which then falls away quite sharply to the sea with its palm fringed sandy beaches.

If you are a naturalist or a birdwatcher then the moisture soaked misty rainforest is a paradise waiting to be explored.

Birdwatchers also need to be taken to Little Tobago just over a mile off shore and just over a mile long. It is uninhabited, and is a seabird sanctuary off the coast at Speyside.

You can see that Tobago has something for just about everyone. From bird watchers to sun worshippers; foodies to beach bums; people watchers to surfers; romantics to the young with no money.

Tobago is a wonderful place where you are quickly taken back to a time where life was conducted in a right and proper way. A place where children have respect for their elders, where church on Sunday is an accepted part of life, and the land is given priority over profiteering.

Take a vacation in Tobago, and see for yourself.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Beach Vacation - Caneel Bay


Caneel Bay of the Caribbean offers what every beach
vacation should - beautiful surroundings, luxury
service, and gourmet dining. This exclusive beach
resort is nestled within the 5,000 acre Virgin
Islands National Park on the island of St. John in
the Virgin Islands.

Ideal for beach lovers, Caneel Bay offers seven
secluded beaches - Honeymoon Beach, Caneel Beach,
Little Caneel Beach, Paradise Beach, Scott Beach,
Turtle Bay Beach, and the Hawk's Nest Beach. The
resort is set on its own peninsula and also surrounded
by both the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

There are many different things to do here while on
your beach vacation, including snorkeling, nature
walks, hiking, sailing, kayaking in the sea, wind
surfing, scuba diving, and swimming. You can also
order a private massage, take lessons in watercolor,
or just sneak away for a picnic. The resort also
offers you a fitness center and 11 outdoor courts
for tennis.

The resort of Caneel Bay offers 166 guest rooms and
cottages furnished with hand crafted furniture,
woven fabrics, natural wood, and native stone. The
guest rooms also offer patios and balconies that
overlook the beaches or resort gardens.

You can dine in several restaurants and bars that
range from fine dining to casual meals. The
restaurants include the Turtle Bay Estate House,
Beach Terrace, The Equator, Starlight Terrace, and
the Caneel Bay Bar.

For those who are looking to work on their beach
vacation, Caneel Bay offers a business center
complete with computers, high speed internet access,
printers, data ports, and even telephones that
offer free local calling.

Offering you everything for vacation bliss, Caneel
Bay is one place you'll be glad you found.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

A Caribbean Vacation Destination In St Vincent And The Grenadines


A unique and exotic Caribbean Vacation Destination in St Vincent and The Grenadines is Petit Byahaut.

Approachable only by sea, and hidden in the jungle. This is a 50 acre hideaway and the ultimate Caribbean Vacation Getaway.

This is an expensive but inclusive Caribbean Vacation, and be warned despite the price you won’t get five star luxury.

What Petit Byahaut is all about is escaping the stresses and pressures of modern life, because here in this part of St Vincent there are no roads, no telephones, no televisions.

Indeed unless your electrical equipment works off batteries you should leave it behind.

At this particular Caribbean destination what you will find are a multitude of exotic birds, brightly coloured flowers, and a coral reef full of tropical fish and undamaged coral. All this is possible because Petit Byahaut is at the forefront of environmental care and protection.

Petit Byahaut will never have more than 14 guests at any one time, and the accommodations are totally unique. There are seven accommodation units, although for all practical purposes only five are in use for couples, which is one reason that Petit Byahaut is so suitable as part of a Caribbean honeymoon vacation.

Occasionally the other two, which are of lesser quality might be used for larger groups or for older children Each room is effectively a dwelling, and they are all completely private and unique in their design.

You could be accommodated in a room sized tent on a tree house platform. You might be in a slightly odd wooden hut with mosquito screens. It would be more than fair to say that Petit Byahaut is obviously not for everyone.

Each dwelling is however supplied with ceiling fans, reading lights, flush loos, and freshwater showers, with the power supplied by photo electric cells using the sun. Of course when the sun doesn’t shine this has obvious consequences not the least of which can be a lack of hot water!!

Be warned the bathrooms are freestanding, and outside with your privacy assured by banks of fresh flowers and their clever positioning.

The dwellings have queen sized beds with fresh bed linen every day, and each dwelling has a veranda with chairs, a table and hammocks to sit or lie and admire the views.

One of the major necessities on any honeymoon vacation, in fact any vacation destination is the quality and quantity of the food. More than one exotic Caribbean vacation and honeymoon has been totally spoiled by poor food. Petit Byahaut is a total exception in that the food is a real focus, and as such is of incredibly good standard. There are three meals a day and picnic lunches in the inclusive price. Meals are served in their tiny alfresco restaurant and bar, where the seats are tree branches with a view of the bay. As you might expect the meals are focused on healthy eating with all dietary requirements catered for. You will especially find home baked bread, yoghurt and cookies as well as fresh local fruit, and the herb and vegetable garden plays an important role. You can snack liberally throughout the day!!

So what do you do in this Robinson Cruso hideaway on St Vincent?

Well there is fabulous snorkeling in the cove, or at Bat Cave. If you want to scuba dive you can do that on the reef off the beach. Trips farther away are also organized.

Be idle and swim a bit off the volcanic beach, sunbathe in your hammock, whilst relaxing and reading a book from the good library.

Petit Byahaut has kayaks and a sailboat if you feel energetic.

In addition there are rainforest walks, visit to Trinity Falls, Climb up Soufriere Volcano, and visit other islands in the Grenadines. In other words whatever you want, a lot or a little, or nothing at all!!

In terms of who you are likely to be sharing Petit Byahaut with, it is very popular with top executives, honeymooners, even celebrities who want to vanish for a bit.

isn’t suitable for children under the age of twelve, or for guests who need 21st Century trappings. The best time to go is December to March, and it is shut September and October.

You will need to take insect repellent, and possibly a jersey or jacket for the cooler evenings. A week would probably be the optimum time to enjoy this Caribbean Vacation getaway at Petit Byahaut on St Vincent.

Enjoy reading about Caribbean Hotel Hideaways at
http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Caribbean-Hotel-Hideaways/

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Aruba Vacations Hard To Beat

From a traveler’s point of view, Aruba can be divided into two coasts. The southeast coast has the white sand beaches, turquoise seas, and warm waters. The northwest coast is exposed to the Atlantic, and therefore has rougher seas with treacherous currents and a rockier coastline. These two extremes contribute to Aruba’s growing reputation for being a “Desert Paradise."

Weather in Aruba

Unlike a desert, Aruba’s weather is mostly the same, having no extremes and being fairly constant. But because of its more southern location in the Caribbean, the heat of the sun can be stronger than other Caribbean islands. A constant light breeze tempers the hot sun to create a cooling effect. The lack of rain is what really marks Aruba as a desert paradise. Most other Caribbean islands have a wet season and are prone to storms and hurricanes. Yet according to the information gathered by American Express Travel, the weather is almost always dry in Aruba, with most rain showers coming at night and lasting only a little while. Aruba is also on the outer hurricane zone, meaning it is rarely hit or affected by other storms.

With this lack of rain comes a lack of the lush vegetation that the other Caribbean islands are known for. The combination of comparatively sparcse vegetation, and the seemingly endless beach, Aruba is definitely a desert island. But all things considered, Aruba is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. Most tourists see Aruba as remotely luxurious. And while this island of endless sand seems a bit like a desert, the waters bloom with tropical fish, perfect for diving, snorkeling, and fishing.

How Much Does it Cost and How to Save Money

Some travelers consider Aruba a relatively expensive place to go. However, while Aruba flights tend to be more expensive, hotels are often better deals. Unlike the Florida Keys or the Bahamas, Aruba is a long flight from almost all major airports. Aruba’s pricing is best described as moderate, offering both upscale and moderate accommodations and packages. There are some upscale hotels in Aruba who offer American Express Travel Deals, bringing the high end pricing down to something more reasonable. If you plan to do a lot of activities or dine out a lot, it's a good idea to purchase a Visit Aruba discount card. With this card you can get deals in a lot of places, sometimes a 5-10% discount. You can also take a look at Free Discount Coupons to save some money. American dollars are accepted virtually everywhere at a decent exchange rate. The exchange rate given in shops is about 1.75 florins to the dollar.

Like most island destinations, American Express Travel representatives say that groceries and other supplies are all imported from elsewhere, so prices tend to be high. Ling & Sons Grocery is the closest to the resort area which has good prices, high quality and is one of the least known to tourists.


Friday, October 9, 2009

Travel To Belize

They have said that Belize is one of the most beautiful places to spend your honeymoon or a romantic getaway. Belize is a place where you can enjoy a different type of lifestyle if only for a few days. Once you have visited this beautiful place, you will not want to leave. Belize is known worldwide for the unique wildlife and their many historical structures that date back hundreds of years. Belize has some of the most wonderful structures you can find in the world such as the Maya ruins.

One of the greatest things to experience in Belize is the Bird Watching Tours. These tours can last from 1-7 days and you decide to stay in the lodges if you prefer. During the day, you can take canoe trips or walks along the water to see the delightful birds that you cannot see at home. Some of these birds include the Toucan birds, blue-gray tanagers, parrots, anhinga birds, swallows and so many more. There are over 600 different types of birds for you to try to see while you are here if you enjoy bird watching. There are also the birds that migrate to Belize during different times of the year. This is something that you will want to make sure you experience on your trip to Belize. If bird watching is not your favorite thing to do you can still enjoy the walks along the waters edge and the trails through the jungle.

If you are looking to get more personal with the wildlife and love water, then another hot thing to do in Belize is diving into the beautiful waters of Belize. They have over 50 different spots to dive. You be in one spot swimming with the Barracuda to another spot swimming with sharks and stingrays. There are endless spots to dive from and witness many different sea creatures in their own natural habitat. Here you can come close to various ocean life and watch as they go about their daily activities. If this is something you are looking into doing on your trip, the best time to visit then would be between the months of April and June.

Belize is one of today’s greatest places to visit or honeymoon. If your not much into getting out in the waters or the jungles, there are also many other attractions such as the city of Belize. The shopping is great in the city and they have many great places to dine as well.

Turtle Inn Belize

If you are looking for miles of white sand beaches, a small rustic style inn on the beach, yet with all the luxury amenities you need, PLUS it has to be in The Caribbean, AND it mustn’t be mass market, then look no further than The Turtle Inn in Belize. The Turtle Inn offers both privacy and convenience. The palm-roofed cabanas, a beach house, and a bar and restaurant comprise the resort, and there are never more than thirty guests at any one time

The Turtle Inn is owned by Francis Ford Coppola, and the Italian influence, especially in the kitchen is noticeable!!

Location

Turtle Inn is on the southern coast of Belize, just north of the Creole fishing village of Placencia, which is located at the southern tip of a narrow 15-mile peninsular in the Stann Creek District. Separated from the mainland and the Maya Mountains by a pretty lagoon, the miles of white sandy beach considered the finest in Belize face due east toward the spectacular coral reefs and cayes.

Getting here

Belize is less than two hours by air from Houston, New Orleans and Miami.

The Sofia, a private Islander aircraft, can transport you from Belize City to Turtle Inn in less than an hour. Buses and commercial airlines also fly between Belize City and Placencia

Accommodation

Turtle Inn is a small and intimate inn on a big beach.

There are 18 bungalows, all right beside the beach, which are built in the style of traditional Balinese thatched huts, with large screened decks, ample living spaces, and ornate carved doors. Built by Mayan Indians they provide just the right amount of tropical ambience. Each is comfortably rustic and has a private bath with hot water, 110 volt electricity, ceiling fans and tropical hardwood interiors, with hammocks slung on the verandas. The two bedroom fully equipped beach house is ideal for honeymooners, couples and families desiring a little more independence.

Why Come Here

As total capacity is less than thirty, each guest is assured of receiving just the right amount of personalized attention. Individuals, couples, families and small groups return to The Turtle Inn year after year.

The inn provides a casual, warm atmosphere, great excursions and outstanding meals. Added to that the miles of white sand, the azure sea, the superb reef, fine dining, attentive staff……………… Your own Caribbean paradise

Dining

There are two dining choices.

Firstly the open air dining room, sheltered under a palm thatch roof, and cooled by sea breezes, is very comfortable and relaxed. Here you can enjoy food which has a genuine Italian Caribbean twist, including genuine pizzas prepared in a wood burning oven, and a wide variety of pasta and other traditional Italian Specials. The vegetables are all organic, and I’m not forgetting the abundant freshly caught seafood. Dining under lantern light is so romantic, and not to forget the menu changes every day. The lovely Belizean wait staff wear white linen shirts and sarongs.

In addition to the main restaurant, there is dining right on the beach under umbrellas. Plates are traditional wooden platters covered with banana leaf. In an all seafood menu you can choose your lobster (in season), prawns, river lobster and fish, conch cooked on the beach over glowing coconut husks and served to your table at the water's edge.

The sand floor sunken "Pirate" bar is a fun place full of relics and tradition from Turtle Inn's rich and quirky history featuring Southern Belize's widest range of enticing cocktails, traditional Belizean favorites such as draft Belikin beer and fine Niebaum-Coppola's wine selection.

What to do and see

Watch the sun slowly rise above the Caribbean, relax in a hammock.

Rent a kayak.

Read a book.

Organize a game of beach volleyball.

Stroll along sixteen miles of white sand beach.

Take a dip in the Caribbean.

Watch the waves.

Stargaze.

Check out the excursions and activities the inn can provide.

Everything from snorkeling

to bird watching

to SCUBA diving

to hiking in the rain forest

to sport fishing

to kayaking

to swimming in waterfalls

Visit Mayan families and the cities built by their ancestors.

Even visit the world’s only jaguar reserve,

cruise up the Monkey River and observe tropical birds, iguanas, mana tees, crocodiles, and black howler monkeys.

Or you could just just sip a limon fresca and enjoy a siesta.

The choice is yours, from scenic strolls to scuba diving, the Turtle Inn staff will provide the region's most knowledgeable and trusted guides

The Best Belize Island Honeymoons Are Spent At Cayo Espanto In Ambergris Caye Belize

Why is it that everyone else but me has heard of Cayo Espanto in Ambergris Caye Belize, reputed to be the place where the best Belize Island Honeymoons are spent?

So when my partner suggested we spend our vacation in Belize, and he mentioned the Cayo Espanto as one of the luxury Belize resorts we would be staying in, all my friends whooped and assumed a wedding was definitely on the cards!!

Well it wasn’t, and it isn’t now, but you didn’t have to be on your honeymoon to just love Cayo Espanto. I’d never heard of it, and to me it is just an absolutely fantastic best kept secret.

What can I say about Cayo Espanto, except that it is the most romantic place on earth.

From the moment you arrive with all the staff waiting to greet you, plus the labrador Sally, to the moment you leave when the process is reversed you are cosseted, spoiled, and totally overwhelmed by the best service I have ever experienced anywhere in the world.

From the moment the boat picked us up and we were handed drinks and cold towels I knew this was special, although I should have realised when we were sent a preferences sheet to fill in before we had ever left home.

You see, nothing is too much trouble, we had a personal houseman, and he had an assistant. We had a walkie talkie so we could contact him whenever we wanted. Everything from breakfast first thing in the morning to a nightcap at night. Everything, literally at any time, because they already knew what we liked and didn’t like.

The island is a very private place, and we hardly saw another soul during our stay, because we ate our meals either on the boat deck or on the beach, we were sung to by candlelight, you name it we had it. Our meals were very much personally cooked according to our preferences, and some of the meals were the best I’ve eaten anywhere in the world.

The accommodation, or casita I think was called Casa Esrella, and this seemed to be the biggest and best of all the villas, being a two storey house, with shutters that were raised during the day, and lowered at night for us.

I could go on, but in fairness I must tell you, David proposed when we got home, and the only condition I made before accepting was…………….. I had to have the best Belize island Honeymoon at Cayo Esperanto in Ambergris Caye Belize!!

The Best All Inclusive Honeymoon Package In Belize Is Coco Plum Island

Coco Plum Island is a 16 acre cay, and is situated just 8 miles off the coast of Belize.

We were planning our honeymoon, and we both love ‘bare feet and casual’ and we found Coco Plum by accident when we were researching for a Caribbean Vacation, which then extended to Belize, and then the idea for a Belize Island Honeymoon came about.

We felt an all inclusive Belize honeymoon package would be our choice, a bit more research and the decision was made, and we have never regretted it.

We flew into Belize City from Newark, changed planes and flew to Dangriga, where we were met by one of the staff from Coco Plum, from their to the boat dock, and then 15 -20 minutes by small boat to the island. In fact from the moment we were picked up in the Coco Plum ‘van’ we realised this was going to be special. It’s weird how sometimes you just get that great feeling really quickly.

When we reached the island it was straight to the bar, whilst our bags were sorted. Looking around we realised how beautiful it was, sitting in the thatch roofed bar looking out over a crystal clear turquoise/blue sea.

Our Cabana was very comfortable, and we really felt the staff had only one concern, and that was our well being. There is an impression that there is no electricity, and in fact the island generates all its own power, and produces its own water. This is not 24 hour service, shopping mall, duplex five star comfort, but we felt that everyone on the island were kind of ‘no shoes’ laid back like us.

Overall we had a great time, the food was absolutely delicious, something very important to me. The beach lovely, the water warm, and crystal clear. We don’t scuba, but we do snorkel, and we were taken to some lovely places where the fish were just amazing.

We read a lot, and even went on an expedition into the interior of Belize, to the Mayan ruins tour, a must see. We couldn’t go home and say we hadn’t been and done anything!!

I will however especially remember the beauty of Coco Plum Island, the friendliness of the staff, and the effort they put in to make our stay memorable. The three great meals every day, and the people who we met who felt like we did.

This is just the best possible Belize honeymoon package we could have wished for.

The Azul Resort On Ambergris Caye In Belize

Ambergis Caye in Belize is where you will find The Azul Hotel and Beach Resort, the most exclusive lodging on Ambergris Caye.

The Azul Beach Resort was specifically created to bring together the top end of the market with the very exclusive private villa and the very best amenities of a world class resort, and that has been incredibly successful. This can now claim to be the very best Belize resort and the ideal destination for an unforgettable honeymoon in Belize.

This may not be part of your everyday Belize vacation Package, but this is definitely beach front Belize at its very best, and is priced accordingly, but for your money comes sheer quality and exclusivity

Without visiting Ambergris Caye it is very difficult to visualize Azul Resort, but this article will attempt the near impossible in words and pictures.

Imagine a cluster of buildings with two dazzlingly white villas on either side of a round infinity pool, situated on 400 feet of private beach which is lapped by an azure-turquoise sea.

There are only the two villas and possibly the best restaurant in Belize called The Rojo Lounge, which is what makes the Azul Resort possibly the most exclusive if not the best Belize Luxury Resort. The food in the restaurant is innovative and quite superb, with good size portions

The villas are really like a very high class home from home covering of 3000 square feet. They are designed very much on open plan lines and marble tiled, with high ceilings allowing for a second bedroom and bathroom in a gallery style. The villa design has used local hardwoods that are unique to Belize and the design effect is one of total simplicity.

Perhaps the most outstanding feature of the villas is the use of the rooftop as part of the living space of the villa. This includes a built in day bed, a dining area and a Jacuzzi tub with a unique lighting system so it can be used day and night.

Alternatively you can dine out under the stars on the roof after watching the sun set over the mangroves and lagoon drinking a frozen Mojitos.

It is quite difficult to look at the fixtures and fittings without pinching yourself. There is a custom built state of the art Viking kitchen, but with the world class restaurant a few yards away it seems unlikely to say the least that you would ever want to cook. When you add to this Apple computers, 50 inch plasma flat screen TV, and Bose theatre system, then you might understand the sheer quality of your surroundings. In fact the even better news is the restaurant also supplies a private chef service to your villa for that meal on the roof.

Much of this may be reminiscent of other exclusive villas, until you add the hotel touches, such as maid service, room service, tour planning, in fact almost anything and everything you should expect and get from the very best, because that is what the Azul Resort and Villas are.

There is a wonderful combination here of the best of good taste and yet a uniquely casual elegance. Wherever you look there is somewhere comfortable to sit on or lie on to relax. Whether it be a hammock, a sun lounger at the beach, or at the table on the roof, the settee in front of the TV, you will find total relaxation everywhere.

The Azul Villas are a magical combination of tasteful and casual. Wherever you choose to come to rest, there is a welcoming spot which has been designed with comfort and beauty in mind: Under the palapas in a hammock, on a lounge chair at the beach, at a table on the rooftop, sitting at the kitchen table or sprawling on the couch.

One final comment is that the staff of the Azul Resort are both friendly and unobtrusively attentive. They have the great skill of only being there when you want them. They will do everything from great drinks, fantastic room service at the Villa, and fetch and carry you to and from the airport. Their performance is faultless.

The Azul Villas on Ambergris Caye in Belize could be just the ultimate best luxury hotel in Belize, and without a shadow of a doubt the only place to go for your honeymoon in Belize.

If you have an interest in Hideaway Caribbean Destinations, Resorts, and Hotels then go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Caribbean-Hotel-Hideaways/

Scuba Diving Belize

Belize have the longest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and offers a combination of gentle inshore scuba diving and some more adventurous oceanic dive sites for the experienced divers. Belize offers scuba divers with a heady concoction of reef, wall, cavern and cay diving experiences.

Belize had a history of swashbuckling buccaneering in days gone by. Back then, there were regular pirate attacks on Spanish treasure ships. Now, it is a peaceful little city on the Caribbean coast of Central America.

Belize is a popular diving destination because of its long barrier reef which offers an array of diving experiences for all levels of scuba diving proficiency, from the novice beginners to the experienced veteran divers.

The barrier reef is about 174 miles or 280 km long extending all the way along the coast of the Yucatan Peninsular in the north to Honduras in the south. In this way, the reef actually creates a true barrier between the ocean and the coast thus providing calm waters to scuba dive in.

There are also numerous islands dotting the reef which are called cays or cayes in this part of the world. In the south eastern part of the reef, there is a large depression in the ocean floor of the Caribbean Sea and this created 3 atolls called Glovers, Turneffe and Lighthouse. The atolls sit on two parallel ridges unlike the atolls of the Pacific, which grew out of volcanoes.

These atolls rise close enough to the surface to allow sunlight penetration causing massive coral and sponge growths. It is therefore not surprising the Belize barrier reef is declared as a world heritage and is the subject of intense conservation and protection.

Coral reefs in the Caribbean seas have a character of their own in that they do not have the very diverse system of the Indo Pacific reefs. However, they lay claim to beautiful individual corals and sponges. The sponges are some of the most colorful to be found anywhere in the world. Some of the sponges are more than a century old and can measure up to an awesome 6 ft or 2 m across.

Perhaps, the main attraction for scuba diving in Belize is the contrast of its marine habitats ranging from bustling coral communities on gentle sandy slopes to steep drop offs with huge pelagic fishes and sharks.

Scuba divers will find smaller coral communities in inshore reefs. These inshore reefs are home to about 500 species of fish including the 5 separate species of butterfly fish. It is here that encounters with larger marine animals such as the manatees, whale shark, jewfish, manta rays are common occurrences.

Do include Belize in your scuba diving itinerary.

A Romantic Beach Front Hotel On Ambergris Caye Belize

Looking for a beach front hotel in Belize on a beautiful Caye, then look no further than Mata Chica on Ambergris Caye.

Mata Chica has been described with good reason as the Caribbean’s last and best secret.

This is an escape from all that is ordinary, to one of the very best hotels in Belize, sitting alongsider a long stretch of shimmering white sand, arguable the best beach in Belize, and beautiful tropical lush green rainforest and multicoloured flowers and bushes on the other.

Matachica is literally a stones throw off one of the most abundant coral reefs in the world, some five miles north of the town of San Pedro.

When you arrive at this hotel whether or not you have selected Matachica for your romantic honeymoon package in Belize, or you were here because you were told it was the best and most romantic beach front hotel on Ambergris Caye, you will be very impressed by the resort’s majestic lobby. It has been elegantly designed and created under a thatched roof, and is the centre of Mata Chica.

Here you can relax in a comfortable sofa, and either read a book from the resort’s library or just socialize.

On arrival, after a cold drink, and the normal formalities, you will be shown to your spectacular and elegant accommodation. There are twelve casitas and two luxury villas which are two bedroomed and two bathroomed.

The casitas are beachfront and the villas are located at the highest point of the resort with spectacular views of the Caribbean. The villas not only have a huge sun deck a reading room and a kitchenette but also a personal maid if you so choose. The bathrooms and the furnishings in all the accommodations are first class, and you will especially enjoy the quality of the bed linen

Food is important on any holiday, it is vitally important on a honeymoon and the Mambo Restaurant at Mata Chica will not disappoint even the most sophisticated of palates. The chef is Italian but the dishes are international, although the home made breads and pastas are out of this world. The gardens of the Mata Chica supplies the herbs spices and vegetables. Many guests who plan to eat around change their minds after sampling the food, which just about says it all.

Just for a moment use your imagination, and think of yourself lying in your hammock outside your suite high on the hill at Mata Chica. You are totally relaxed in the middle of your Belize Vacation package. There is a warm breeze gently tugging your hair as your hammock gently rocks to and from as you reach out for another mouthful of cold beer. The beautiful white sand beach of this beach front hotel can be seen and the tropical reef beyond.

What are you to do with the rest of your day on Ambergris Caye. The couple you met who are on a romantic honeymoon package have suggested you take a sea kayak out to the reef and go snorkeling. They were so excited to have been swimming alongside the teeming multicolored tropical fish, and they saw a manta ray and several turtles.

There is the evening ahead with cocktails in the beachfront lounge, then dinner and you have been recommended to the chocolate soufflé. The wine list has also impressed you, and you know there is a great classic film on this evening at the Cinema-Martini Lounge on the huge plasma television.

There is just time for a swim in the turquoise Caribbean because you had forgotten your booking in the Jade Spa for a relaxing yet invigorating massage.

At Mata Chica you have learnt to accept and to expect the Exceptional. A perfect spot for a Caribbean Honeymoon, a Romantic Escape or a top class beach front Belize Vacation Package.

A Belize Vacation Package Has Something For Everyone

A Belize Vacation has everything you could wish for if you are an outdoor enthusiast and you like a bit of adventure on your travels. Belize offers almost unlimited opportunities to do a wide range of things.

You might well choose a Belize Fishing Vacation, as Belize is a mecca for fisherman, because you aren’t just restricted to game fishing, although this is pretty good with all the lagoons and the ocean side of the reefs with all the big fish you could crave for.

When you add the many rivers that empty in to the Caribbean you will realise that you can add spinning and fly fishing to your repertoire on a Belize fishing vacation. Most guides and boatmen speak English.

If you hanker after a Belize Adventure vacation then there is caving, canoeing and kayaking, as well of course as hiking and walking. The best hikes in Belize include Cockscomb Basin Forest reserve in Southern Belize, Guanacastle National Park, Blue Hole National Park, Tikal National Park, and all need further investigation.

The best Belize adventure vacations might include things like chartering a boat and sail to isolated Islands, kayaking and camping around Glover’s reef Atoll. Why not try riding an inner tube through the Caves Branch River Cave System, which is real easy caving for beginners.

Similarly try canoeing, kayaking or inner tubing on the Macal or Mopan Rivers in Western Belize, and finally horseback riding in Western Belize through the Cayo District.

You can of course do all or some of these things on a Belize honeymoon, but the likliehood is you will be looking for a gorgeous Belize beach resort, the best Belize luxury resort you can find, perhaps a Belize all inclusive vacation.

You are almost spoilt for choice for your Belize Honeymoon vacation, and of course Belize isn’t restricted just to honeymooners, it is a family friendly place as well, and a vacation on a Belize Caye is unforgettable. There are several levels of accommodation from the luxury resort to the cheap Belize hotel, so it is important that you do your research before you book.

At the luxury end of the market in Belize.

If you are looking for a Jungle adventure you might consider the Maruba Resort Jungle Spa, or if it is caving, then the Jaguar Paw near Belmopan.

Ambergris Caye has Captain Morgan’s Retreat, Victoria House, and off Ambergris Caye is almost a private island called Cayo Esperanto, which is absolutely perfect for the Belize beach honeymoon.

Turtle Inn at Placencia is almost the ultimate Belize Beach honeymoon destination designed by Film Director Francis Coppola, El Pescador South at Punta Gorda a real luxury Belize resort.

For a cheap Belize Hotel it is worth investigating Ambergris Caye, where you will find the San pedro Holiday Hotel, Tides Beach resort, Ruby’s, to name a few.
At Punta Gorda there is the Coral House Inn, and at Placencia there is Tradewinds.

Belize has it all, the weather the best beaches, beautiful cayes, and an exciting interior to explore and have fun.
Belize needs a visit, why not start investigating it now!!

Spectacular Belize Scuba Diving Southern Belize Diving

Our introduction to this topic will include the basics, which will be followed by a more in depth look at this topic.

Belize scuba diving offers seemingly endless acne to explore. With the Belize Barrier Reef extending from the Yucatan Peninsula preceding the southern border of the country, the diversity and beauty of Belize dive trips are second-to-none. Coral atolls, large and small cayes (islands), and small reefs dot the offshore Caribbean waters of this richly-endowed land.

At 30 miles long, Ambergris Caye is the biggest of the islands, and its core town, San Pedro, is a hub for diving activity. Ramon's Village and Tropica Beach remedy offer a array of diving courses for all levels of training. If you're an absolute beginner, you can take a supervised remedy Course in which you can follow using diving equipment in a secure environment at no more than 20-30 feet.

Dangriga, Hopkins, and other villages to the south offer sluggish days in the sun in the middle of the fascinating Garifuna culture. Not only can you guard drums being made, you may be able to hook a devout ceremony, which typically involves hypnotic drumming, jolly dancing, and stupor states. These coastal villages are also great take-off chairs for diving offshore.

For the rest of this article, we will discuss the meaning behind what we have learned about this subject so far.

Belize scuba diving in the south includes the Sapodilla Cayes, cheer Spit, and South Water Caye Marine Reserve, which is the country's biggest marine reserve. Tobacco Caye has intriguing spur and orchard formations to investigate. The excitement at Silk Cayes is that it has the world's biggest population of whale sharks from February to May. Last, but not least, is the charming Laughing Bird Caye, the least marine hoard in Belize.

We hope that you have found this article interesting and eye catching to say the least. Its objective is to entertain and inform.
http://www.scuba-diving-vacation.com/

An Old Fashioned Caribbean Inn On Bequia In St Vincent And The Grenadines

Old fashioned Caribbean accommodation is becoming rare, the Caribbean Inn or Guesthouse has not vanished entirely it isn’t often you will find one as charming as Julie and Isola’s Guest house on Bequia in the Grenadines.

Julie’s Guest House is in actual point of fact two guesthouses, one behind the other, and it is situated not far from the ferry landing pier in Port Elizabeth on Bequia., almost just across the road.

Typically Caribbean accommodation is simple, and perfect for the traveller who wants to visit the Caribbean, but doesn’t have much money to spend, but wants to experience the old fashioned holidaymaker’s lifestyle as opposed to the five star resort comforts and the life in a bubble that you get there.

Julie and Isola’s Guesthouse does exactly that. The accommodation is Caribbean, simple, clean and family run, in this case by the McIntoshes.who do a brilliant job from their own special rum punches to what is possibly the best kitchen on Bequia.

To stay at Julie’s which by the way is very famous throughout the Grenadines will cost $39 for a double with no meals, $54 if you include breakfast, and $78 including dinner, all figures in US$.

The meals are delicious and famous Caribbean fare, and at dinner the menu is different each night, with the emphasis definitely on seafood. It is of course very fresh indeed, and Julie makes soups to die for.

Of the two guesthouses the one nearer the road is more modern, and roomy but noisy, so if you want the real Caribbean experience then stay in the older second guesthouse. The wooden verandah is just old Caribbean and whilst open and not in the least private does encourage conversation between fellow guests, and you will find much in common with the people who chooses this kind of old fashioned Caribbean Inn. It has to be said the walls are fairly thin in this second guesthouse, honeymooners be warned!!

The real charm of Julie’s guesthouse is the kindness, care and consideration, all honestly given, and are without equal anywhere in the world. This is a real belong to the family feel place that Julie and Isola have successfully run for over 25 years. The give out a huge amount of love at their Guesthouse on Bequia, and get loads back with many many people who can afford to, but won’t stay anywhere else.

One of the great things about Julie’s Guesthouse is its central position, convenient for the dollar buses and taxis which you will need to get yourself to Lower Bay and Friendship Bay. Take the bus because that means you travel with the local people, so you will travel to the sounds musical of the Caribbean.

Lower Bay is a great beach with a couple of restaurants/bars, and never too crowded.

Julie and Isola’s Guest House on Bequia in the Grenadines is true Caribbean accommodation at its very best, where you will be treated in a way you thought only your mother could, so because of this it is a real home from home. So if you wish to visit Bequia, then don’t even contemplate staying anywhere else.

All Inclusive Caribbean Vacations

There are various packages available for tourists who want to visit the Caribbean during vacations.

Among these, many travel agents offer the All-Inclusive Caribbean Vacation packages. You need to select the one which suits your needs. The normal costs range between $700 and $1,000 per person, say for four nights.

Packages

These all-inclusive packages come as part of promotional activities undertaken by travel agents. Not only that, they are announced during holidays and the fall season. You need to book your tickets and plan your trip smartly to cover as many places as you can.

Different packages offer different concessions and facilities. Some include sailing, snorkeling, kayaking and tennis. Others include entertainment for kids, swimming, casinos, golf, spa, etc. Additional features like fitness centers, swim-up and piano bars, wild water sports and excellent dining attract more visitors. Of course, the more features, the more expensive the vacation package will be.

There are excellent all-inclusive resorts too. Some packages offer unique features like a family ski vacation, all-day dining, nightly entertainment and so on.


Additional Facilities

Most importantly, you need to find (sometimes in the fine-print) any hidden charges. Usually, these packages consist of the best flights and hotel stays. You can also opt for additional features like sightseeing tours, all-inclusive meal plans, rentals and insurance.

The all-inclusive resorts offer many facilities like pools, kids’ entertainment, etc. The major attractions in these are the beaches, golf, spa, beautiful surroundings, fitness center, water sports like sunfish sailing and wind-surfing, family activities like evening parties and entertainment, kids’ activities organized by clubs, and more.


Choosing a Resort

Before you choose a resort, check the facilities offered. Remember that an all-inclusive vacation will cost you a tidy sum. So choose a resort that will be just right for your family.

The most important aspect of the vacation is the safety of the travelers. It is good to note that most of these resorts are enclosed in a safe environment so that the tourists are not deterred from moving freely and enjoying their vacations. Another advantage of choosing an all-inclusive resort is the round-the-clock snack and cool drinks facility. This is especially welcome in a hot country.

All Inclusive Caribbean Family Resort The Best Family Holiday Locations

A holiday really isn't a holiday unless you use your time to really unwind. Of course, sometimes it can be difficult to achieve this unless you get an all inclusive holiday package. All inclusive packages can really help you to de-stress because you won't have to worry about paying for much of anything.

A carribean vacation is surely one that you will never forget. With this holiday package, you can plan ahead and make sure that you pick the right package that meets the needs of every family member. An all inclusive Caribbean family resort has in one place; namely excellent dining, accommodations, water and land sports, other entertainment activities, and relaxation programs.

All Caribbean family resorts are excellent at meeting the needs for parents and kids of all ages and interests. The all inclusive Caribbean family resorts were designed and equipped with families in mind. There is absolutely something for everyone! In the all inclusive Caribbean family resorts, there is a wide range of opportunities for unwinding and relaxing. Because of all these wonderful attributes, the all inclusive Caribbean family resorts are known as the best family holiday locations and romantic retreats.

There is no better place to take the family to have a wonderful time than the all inclusive Caribbean family resorts. As a matter of fact, the Caribbean region is considered to be the ideal place for the whole family to enjoy the fun, adventure, and luxury that every family wants most.

It is highly recommended that you consider the following selected all inclusive Caribbean family resorts because they are widely known for their great service, amenities and facilities. There is no reason why you should miss out having a great Caribbean family getaway with the all inclusive Caribbean family resorts!

1. SuperClubs All Inclusive Caribbean Family Resorts

If you are looking for the ultimate family holiday getaway, then you will have to try the all inclusive Caribbean family resorts SuperClubs. The SuperClubs all inclusive Caribbean family resorts are well known for their very comfortable accommodation and complimentary amenities. SuperClubs all inclusive Caribbean family resorts offer the best in comfortable and soothing time. At these resorts, you will find the first class distinguished chefs. Just line all inclusive Caribbean family resorts, the SuperClub resorts are has friendly and gracious staff that will make your stay unforgettable.

2. Beaches All Inclusive Caribbean Family Resorts

Be sure to check out the inclusive packages that are offered by your local travel broker. Beaches are a favorite destination for many families. The Beaches is a division of the Sandals Empire. The Beaches runs four all inclusive Caribbean family resorts, three of those are situated in the island of Jamaica, and one in the Turks and Caicos. The Beaches all inclusive Caribbean family resorts take family holiday to a world class level even the most discerning holiday making family will be pleased. You will find that the best vacation is the one that yeilds you the most enjoyment.

All-Inclusive Caribbean Travel

For the best all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort, look for a few things beyond the ordinary. Of course, you want sun, sea and sand, but you can ask for so much more.

For a truly all-inclusive travel Caribbean vacation, look for a beach to lounge on by day, a dining room that lets you bask in soft tropical breezes by night, plenty of opportunity for water sports and other activities, a lounge deck within easy access of the Caribbean's beautiful waters for your lounging pleasure and last but not least, a comfortable room with an equally comfortable bed to relax and have a peaceful slumber in after a long day in the sun.

Caribbean vacationers these days are looking to pamper themselves at all-inclusive travel Caribbean resorts with everything at their beck and call. In addition, many of these all-inclusive resorts are beachfront properties or are near lakes or other bodies of water. About 79% of them fit this bill, and the views are simply astonishing. Whatever your price range, this is the best place to relax for your vacation, at an all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort. Let someone else wait on you, for once.

Here are some choices you might want to consider:

Breezes Bahamas

Breezes Bahamas is located on the eastern end of Cable Beach. It has the proverbial warm breezes and deep blue sea. Like every all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort, it offers everything for your vacation pleasure. It used to be the old Ambassador Beach Hotel. In 1995, the SuperClubs assumed management and performed major renovations on the already beautiful resort.

Breezes' all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort truly means all-inclusive. At Breezes, just about everything is included with price. You get room accommodations, all meals, all snacks and unlimited wine or beer with lunch and dinner. If you so choose, you can have alcoholic drinks mixed with premium brand liquors at each of the four bars. In addition, the all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort also provides most of your sporting activities, both on water and land. It also includes airport transfers, activity fees, and airport transfers, taxes and gratuities. Everything is included in one package price.

Club Med Turkoise

Club Med Turkoise is an all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort located on Providenciales Island, in the Turks and Caicos, Caribbean. Its white sand beaches offset the incredible beauty and surrounding view of the sea.

Although the land is dry and flat, like the rest of the Caribbean, its beauty is unsurpassed. Its breathtakingly clear deep blue waters make it the place to go for those who love water sports, and of course the water's clarity make it the ideal spot for scuba divers and snorkelers.

The resort boasts 298 rooms, appointed for travelers' comfort. The price also includes three meals a day, unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, most sporting activities, and nightly entertainment.

Le Sport

Le Sport at St. Lucia states: “Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind.” And indeed, this all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort strives to do exactly that. Its focus on personalized rejuvenation and holiday treats, with an emphasis on pleasure, should help the most weary business traveler relax and let go.

A Private Caribbean Island Resort In The British Virgin Islands

Guana Island covers 850 acres and is one of the largest of the British Virgin Islands. It is very much a private island resort, a real getaway. You’ll get there by boat having been greeted at the Airport at Beef Island and transferred to the dock for a short ride on the island’s own boat where you will be liberally supplied with cold beers or bottled water.

After arriving on Guana Island you ride up to the Great House on Golf Carts , and after familiarization of the ‘local rules’ you are taken to your room, which is one of only fifteen rooms in white stone cottages, so the maximum number of guests at any one time would be thirty. Thirty guests in over eight hundred acres is not what anyone could call crowded but then again one has to assume that anyone on a private island honeymoon or wanting a total getaway would be looking for.

By the way if fourteen other couples you don’t know is too much for you, it isn’t difficult to book Guana Island in its entirety for your family and friends, and have the wedding on your own, very own private island!!

Rooms are spacious, with a separate sitting area and a private terrace with glorious views. The bathrooms have an extra large shower and good amenities. If you seek the ultimate in privacy making your getaway honeymoon on Guana that bit more special then you can book North Beach Cottage which is extremely private, hidden away on its own beach with a private pool and a golf cart to transport you back to the Great House. It has spectacular views of the Atlantic from everywhere and has its own kitchenette.

Guana Island is all inclusive, in that you get three meals a day plus wines at dinner and lunch, afternoon tea, coffee and snacks, plus all activities on the island and WiFi internet service even though this is supposed to be a private island getaway, so who needs it!!

You will pay an extra charge for Massages, beverages outside meal time wine, water skiing, fishing trips, sunset cruises, castaway picnics, lessons from tennis professional, yoga, scuba diving, boat charters, and visits to other islands.

All in all Guana Island has seven quite superb beaches, and although described as a five star Caribbean Resort it ought to be best described as rustic luxury. If you need 21st Century facilities and constant entertainment then this private island getaway won’t be for you.

However if you are happy to explore this island retreat, enjoy the views, and the beaches, meet interesting people who feel like you do, then you can’t go far wrong on this unique British Virgin Island resort.

For example you won’t find air conditioning in your room, but ample sea breezes to keep you cool.

No radio or television, what a treat in itself, in fact because of the size of the island you can escape and spend hours by yourself if that is what you want to do. Having said that there will always be a member of staff with a warm smile, offering unobtrusive but very effective friendly service. In fact you will feel like royalty the service is so good

Private island honeymoon food needs to be special, and the five star resort of Guana Island doesn’t disappoint. The menu changes every day, and is fresh according to what is available. Meals are served dinner part style on a picturesque patio overlooking the ocean below. If however you want to dine alone as part of your romantic honeymoon then this is easily fixed for you.

Breakfast has the classic buffet, but also cooked specials, in fact almost anything you want. Lunch is also a buffet, and could be barbeque, or calamari, quiche, and it’s different every day.

Dinner which follows the traditional cocktail hour is a set menu although there is a choice of entrĂ©e. The food is a culinary masterpiece so don’t be put off by the apparent lack of choice, and the desserts are just heaven.

Guana Island may not be for everyone but for a private island Caribbean honeymoon it is unbeatable. The best Tortola Hotel if you need a private island getaway by far.

For more information on Caribbean Hideaway Hotels http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Caribbean-Hotel-Hideaways/