LuxeGetaways Magazine – Fall 2016 | The Caribbean is always a favorite vacation getaway for many travelers due to the incredible diversity of accommodations, activities and overall localized travel and culinary experiences waiting to be discovered among the islands. In most cases, the locals are genuinely hospitable and extremely eager to make sure that tourists have the opportunity to get to know their home, and come to love their island.

There is no denying that a number of potential tourists have elected to travel elsewhere in recent months with the ongoing drama surrounding Puerto Rico’s economic turmoil, and of course, the fear of being infected with the Zika Virus. However, for those in North America who desire that quintessential island getaway that is still only a relatively short plane ride away for many, the Caribbean islands are a perfect solution. In the case of these travelers, the sandy beaches, steel drums, frozen cocktails and endless sunshine awaits.

Regardless of your budget or needs for the perfect getaway, you can more than likely find a way to make it work when in the Caribbean. From an expansive private villa on a secluded beach designed for the most discerning of guests, to a moderately priced hotel room in Puerto Rico or St. Maarten, the Caribbean’s people and unmistakable island flair will make it a visit not to be forgotten.

For those looking for a way to balance luxuries with moderation, it is easy to combine a few days in Old San Juan in Puerto Rico before driving east for several days at one of the luxury resorts along the beautiful beaches; or begin with several days in St. Maarten for some quality time shopping and exploring the exciting island life followed by a few days of relaxation and bliss in Anguilla. Obtainable luxuries are easy to discover throughout the Caribbean. www.caribbeantravel.com

Anguilla: www.ivisitanguilla.com

Antigua and Barbuda: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

Bahamas: www.bahamas.com

Barbados: www.visitbarbados.org

Belize: www.travelbelize.org

The British Virgin Islands: www.bvitourism.com

Cayman Islands: www.caymanislands.ky

Cuba: www.cubatravel.tur.cu/en

Curacao: www.curacao.com

Dominica: www.DiscoverDominica.com

Dominican Republic: www.godominicanrepublic.com

Grenada: www.puregrenada.com

Guyana: www.guyana-tourism.com

Haiti: www.experiencehaiti.org

Jamaica: www.visitjamaica.com

Martinique: www.martinique.org

Montserrat: www.visitmontserrat.com

Puerto Rico: www.seepuertorico.com

Saint Lucia: www.stlucia.org

St. Eustatius: www.statiatourism.com

St. Kitts: www.stkittstourism.kn

Nevis: www.nevisisland.com

St. Maarten: www.vacationstmaarten.com

St. Martin: www.stmartinisland.org

St. Vincent and The Grenadines: www.discoversvg.com

Trinidad & Tobago: www.gotrinidadandtobago.com

Turks & Caicos: www.turksandcaicostourism.com

U.S. Virgin Islands: www.visitusvi.com

Venezuela: www.venetur.gob.ve

Photos Courtesy Caribbean Tourism Association

Unpretentious Luxury at Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences

On the Northeast coast of the Dominican Republic is Sublime Samana, a modern, yet elegant luxury resort that is also a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The seven-acre resort centers around the expansive canal of pools stretching nearly 500 feet from end-to-end; and their luxurious suites that have been artfully built to create a contemporary setting in harmony with nature. From the moment you arrive, the warm sea breezes and the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore transport you to a relaxed state of mind. For a complete escape, visit Coconut Whispers Spa where relaxing massages are enjoyed with the tranquil sound of the swaying palms. The culinary experience is just as enticing with poolside dining featuring fresh catch-of-the-day specials with local ingredients incorporated into each dish. This is an ideal place to escape the stresses of everyday life and enjoy unpretentious luxury at its finest. www.sublimesamana.com

Photos Courtesy Sublime Samana

The Unmistakable Refined Elegance of Amanera

Still the “new kid on the block,” Amanera was opened at the end of 2015 in the Dominican Republic. As with other AMAN properties, this one provides guests with a very special boutique travel experience. Amanera is the first fully integrated Aman golf experience, and is just one of the elements that is exciting to us. Spread over 370 acres, the world-class, challenging Playa Grande Golf Course has the highest number of oceanside holes in the Western hemisphere, making each hole simply breathtaking. The resort, designed by John Heah, sits atop 60-foot cliffs and offers extensive dining, spa and recreational facilities, with 25 Casitas each demonstrating a raw, organic design that complements the natural setting. Insider Tip: Try to book the two-bedroom ‘Bay View Casa’ that enjoys the resort’s finest cliff-side position with panoramic views of the ocean and Playa Grande beach, as well as a 65-foot infinity swimming pool that stretches across an extensive terrace. www.aman.com/resorts/amanera

Photos Courtesy Amanera | AMAN RESORTS

The Lighthouse Suite at Oyster Bay Beach Resort

Defy gravity, and set your sights a little higher when looking for a unique place to stay while in the Caribbean. Now the Lighthouse, the icon of St. Maarten, can be yours during the stay, and provide some of the most amazing views imaginable. Located on St. Maarten (the Dutch side of the island), St. Maarten along with St. Martin provides guests with one island, two countries, 12 casinos, 37 beaches, 300 restaurants and countless boutiques, shops, villages, galleries, bars, clubs and outdoor adventures. Oyster Bay Beach Resort is located on the eastern edge of St. Maarten, and provides guests with a host of activities including the endless amount of watersports that further support the high-rise luxuries of the Lighthouse Suite. Hanging at the infinity edge pool while watching the reef and the nautical traffic into and out of Oyster Pond will be a favorite pastime when you venture down from your Lighthouse Suite. www.oysterbaybeachresort.com