Month: August 2016

If you have made plans for a Punta Cana vacation, and have booked a villa rental, it is likely that you can arrange for some private meals in your vacation home. There is little that can compare with a skilled chef whipping up some local ingredients for you to enjoy on your private terrace or in your tropical garden. However, any Punta Cana luxury vacation is incomplete without some experiences around the gated community.

For example, your Punta Cana luxury villa may have a pool, some spa services, and even staff that takes care of your needs. You may have one of the beach houses that puts you directly on those coveted sands or you may have planned a family getaway, opting to stay in the charming Hacienda area to have access to the Oscar de la Renta Tennis Club and the kids camp nearby.

Whatever options you have chosen or arrangements made, there is one thing you cannot miss during your visit – the five unforgettable restaurants in Punta Cana.

Playa Blanca

A beachside eatery with views over the Caribbean, it is a distinctly tropical restaurant that offers diners the freshest local seafood along with grilled meats and amazing cocktails. It is open for lunch and dinner, and is a popular choice for those who wish to hear local musicians perform live gigs. Nearby you can find many activities that include windsurfing, bike rentals, golf cart rentals, and horseback riding. It is the perfect choice for lunch after a morning of Punta Cana activity.

Brassa Grill & Bar

Located in the relatively new Westin hotel, this spot offers unprecedented views. You will gaze in wonder at the impossibly white sands, blue skies and turquoise Caribbean waters. Sip on a flawless cocktail while you wait for your classic grilled meat, seafood and sides. This is a standard American steak house with a twist. You can enjoy the SuperFoods menu of optimally healthy ingredients, or go straight for the USDA meats. We recommend the yucca chips on the side and the house tiramisu to finish up!

The Grill

This is located at the La Cana Golf Course with amazing views through a grove of palms and down to the Caribbean. It can be the perfect end to a day of golfing, or a perfect lunch stop. It is a remarkably laid-back spot for an excellent meal. The menu is innovative and blends classic grille dishes with a nice range of lighter fare. The them is mostly Caribbean fusion, but you can also find pasta, wraps, and more.

Bamboo

This is one that requires reservations, but serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. You may want to sample each meal! It has the AAA “Four Diamond Award” and is tucked into the lovely Tortuga Bay Hotel. It uses locally sourced ingredients and provides some of the most exquisite fusion foods you may ever enjoy. The spaces have been designed by island resident Oscar de la Renta, and everything served is organic and eco-friendly. Their breakfast buffet is a must try and you can even stop in for tea.

La Yola

Does the idea of a harbor side meal appeal to you? If so, then this restaurant will delight. Set in the Punta Cana marina, you will definitely want to make a reservation as it is another AAA Diamond Award winner. Its décor takes cues from old fashioned sailing vessels, and it offers truly amazing views. However, it is the Mediterranean inspired cuisine that will have you yearning to return.

If you want to explore more than your Punta Cana luxury villa surroundings, you can also explore Punta Cana Village for informal fare, treats from the farmer’s market, and special events that focus on food. You are sure to have many amazing dining experiences in this idyllic and luxurious destination.

Deserted island…that might enchant or horrify you depending upon what you think it means. When you hear the term “deserted island” in Turks and Caicos, though, you should be utterly enchanted as it means your Turks and Caicos luxury vacation is about to take one step closer to luxurious, and more towards exquisite! Even if you have a Turks and Caicos luxury villa, a day spent exploring the different cays and deserted islands of the area is tough to match.

Of course, it helps to know the geography first. Turks and Caicos is comprised of eight major islands and a large dusting of the small, uninhabited (i.e. deserted) islands or cays. The waters are noted for their particular clarity and beauty, and described persistently as turquoise blue surrounded by stunning white sands.

You can enjoy these white sands and turquoise waters from the terrace of your private pool or your own stretch of waterfront at your Turks and Caicos villa rental, but we suggest you consider these suggestions for a day or two of exploring the cays of the island.

Salt Cay

If you would like a chance to do some seasonal whale watching or just to enjoy some easy and utterly amazing diving in those gorgeous waters, then the island of Grand Turk and its charming Salt Cay is for you. The famous humpback whales that migrate past the islands each year tend to pass through this cay, and whether you see them or just hear them, you will be astonished.

You can also explore sunken ships in the waters of the Salt Cay, and you will see all kinds of sea life in addition whales. You may even see the impressively sized sting rays that inhabit these waters.

This is one of the southernmost spots in the chain, and that makes it a good place to spend time picnicking, diving, and just taking in the scenery. Private charter is a great way to make the most of this one.

Parrot Cay

If you are more into celebrity watching than whale watching, then Parrot Cay is really your place. You may see Donna Karan (the fashion designer) who owns a home here, but you can also catch glimpses of such celebrities as Ben Affleck or Justin Timberlake.

This is actually an island resort, and you can book time in the restaurant or the world famous spa (Shambhala Retreat – which we highly recommend). Or, you can learn for yourself why the beach here is described as one of the finest in the world. The silken white sands, the clear and remarkably placid waters and the option for a drink or meal overlooking it all…enough said?

Iguana Cay

You might here it called Little Water Cay, and it is close to Grace Bay. If you are not a whale or celebrity watcher, but wouldn’t mind seeing some wild iguanas in action, head here. It is actually the home of an endangered type of iguana and it is protected. You can enjoy it even more when you reach via kayak rather than by boat, and you can even walk among them when you bring your kayak up on one of the beaches. Some private charters can also take you here.

It is entirely understandable that you might hesitate to tear yourself away from your Turks and Caicos luxury villa. Whether it is one of the beach houses or a family getaway, it will offer plenty to enjoy. However, the cays of Turks and Caicos are a rare treat and the only true way to experience the island chain is to visit a few of the islands that make it so unusual and unique.

Lovely and distinct, the island of Barbados sits in an unusual location along the eastern most edge of the Caribbean region. Because of that, it offers unique coastal conditions that define the various island districts, but which also offer some amazing places to enjoy a bit of surfing.  In fact, the island’s eastern coast provides some of the most spectacular waves in the region, and is why the island is called a surfer’s paradise.

As one expert surfer wrote, “Among surfers the island is renowned for the consistency of its surf in a wildly inconsistent ocean”. Essentially, this means that visitors can expect to find good conditions at almost all times, with the only “down” time being the end of March through early May.

Clients of Isle Blue can easily find accommodations just steps from the best surfing beaches, and get in touch with our representatives to discover where to obtain any gear required.  Whether you want to be outfitted with a board and other gear or you want some recommendations for beaches, we are glad to give you the help needed.

When you are ready to hit the waves, we suggest the following spots, listed below. We have ranked them from the best for beginners to the beaches offering the most challenging conditions. However, keep in mind that there is an established surfing community on the island, and it can mean you will have to cooperate with the locals. Don’t worry though, the people of Barbados are some of the friendliest and most laid-back around!

Also, remember that almost all waves around the island are reef breaks, and can be shallow. The southern coastal spots are tamer areas, while eastern and northern coastal conditions can make it a more advanced surfer’s zone.

The Best Beaches for Surfing on Barbados

The ideal surfing “zone” for people of all levels will stretch from the world-famous Soup Bowl near Bathsheba (on the eastern coast) down and around to the South Point beach just west of the airport zone.

Bathsheba Beach

A must for anyone visiting the island. It takes its name from the Biblical figure of Bathsheba, who is said to have bathed in milk to retain her beauty. The waters of Bathsheba beach are rich in minerals and stirred by surf, giving them a milky look. Legend has it that the waters here have some beautifying properties in addition to being ideal for surfers. Be sure to stop at Bathsheba Park to enjoy gorgeous scenery along the beautiful Atlantic coast.

Batts Rock

A western coast location, it is considered an “all surfers” area and is often one of the few spots on the western shore with good conditions.

Freights Bay

A sheltered spot good for all surfers, it has the longest waves on the island and is ideal for the beginner

South Point

Hugely popular, and open enough to be fun even when packed, it is often called the “next best” when the Soup Bowl is out of your league or too crowded to be accessed.

Soup Bowl

The waves here break at about seven feet across a rock shelf you can see from shore. It is an expert surfing area, but you do want to pay a visit just to watch the pros at work.

There are many beaches to see on Barbados, but those along the southeastern coast are among the most dramatic and ideal for surfing.  Whether you wish to explore the little villages and watch the expert surfers or you want to hit the waves yourself, you have many opportunities here. If you have questions about surfing on Barbados, give your concierge a call to discuss your options.

You are considering a luxury villa vacation and you want to head somewhere unusual, beautiful, and guaranteed to provide you with idyllic weather, plenty of scenery, and many unusual activities to enjoy. This may be why a Punta Cana villa rental is the right choice. From your Punta Cana vacation home, you can enjoy a staggering range of amenities and services, each designed to enhance a luxury vacation or family getaway.

Understand Punta Cana

Unlike many areas of the Caribbean, Punta Cana (in the Dominican Republic) is a planned community that has been a total success. It features five unique neighbourhoods along with three high end hotels. This means that vacationers looking for Punta Cana beach houses or other luxury rentals can enjoy a range of options, or they can also stick to hotels that include Club Med, Westin and the Tortuga Bay Hotel.

A gated community, it provides visitors with plenty of beaches and balnearios from which to enjoy a holiday. It began less than fifty years ago as a single, tiny resort along a stretch of bumpy road. Developers recognised the potential of the area due to its beauty and year round conditions. By the 1980s, enough interest existed and an airport opened in what had unofficially become the region recognised as Punta Cana.

There is no single town called Punta Cana, though, it is a gated community of five different neighbourhoods within Punta Cana. Just outside of the gates is Punta Cana Village, which has been created with the same attention and forethought as the community. Here, you can find everything from grocery chains and banks to a pharmacy and unique restaurants.

Within the community, though, you can choose from the five unique neighbourhoods, each with its own character and style.

Corales

This is considered the VIP area that is dotted with private estates, an excellent golf course and clubhouse, and even a private air terminal. Early investors and homeowners in the region included Julio Iglesias and designer Oscar de la Renta, and they still reside here today. Large and luxurious homes dominate this neighbourhood.

Arrecife

This is one of the most popular neighbourhoods, with another golf course, and direct access to some of the best of this area’s world famous beaches.

Tortuga

Those eager for a Punta Cana vacation with top notch golf access will appreciate this neighbourhood. It is adjacent to Arrecife, but has smaller villas that sit directly on the golf course or offer beach access. Tortuga Bay Hotel is here, and Arrecife and Tortuga are divided only by the drive to the La Cana Golf Club and the Six Senses spa.

Hacienda

A hillside neighbourhood of smaller homes and villas, it offers nice views and is home to the Oscar de la Renta Tennis Club as well as a fitness center. The courts are made of clay and you can get instruction or enjoy the pro shop, bar, or send the kids to camp!

Marina

As you might guess, this one offers you access to the marina and is home to many excellent waterfront luxury villa properties. It is where you find the La Yolla restaurant and is beyond the famous Eco park. Those who want to experience an authentic cenote will want to visit the park.

The two golf courses are a must, with La Cana in the heart of the area and Corales in the up market neighbourhood. The beaches of Punta Cana are noted as being some of the finest in the Caribbean, and the Playa Blanca is a public beach for all to enjoy.

Beaches, golf, shopping, dining, tennis, spas…there is much to see and do in Punta Cana, and the first step is to choose your villa rental in the right neighbourhood for your wishes.

You chose a Turks and Caicos luxury villa because you look forward to days on the flawless white sands, clear and pristine waters, and the lovely weather. You don’t see yourself wandering far from your luxury vacation home, and yet, you will miss out on some amazing opportunities if you do not explore some of the area.

For instance, almost all travelers enjoying a Turks and Caicos vacation will arrive in Providenciales. From there, many head to their beach houses or villa rental, and fail to return to this charming town. This is unfortunate, because it allows them to miss the central shopping and dining area of Turks and Caicos. In the downtown area of Providenciales you will find two adjacent centers, and together they provide an unprecedented opportunity for purchasing local goods, tasting authentic foods, and getting to know the islands better.

Regent Center

Regent Center, or Regent Village as some call it is a must see. Locals describe the Regent Center as the “Heart of Provo” as well, and it is because it contains a full-service conference center, a special events facility, excellent catering and full business services.

It just also happens to be a central dining and shopping area in Turks and Caicos too, and because of that, you definitely want to arrange for a visit to Provo to spend time here.

What Is Regent Center in Turks and Caicos?

Tucked into Grace Bay, the Regent Center (along with the Salt Mills Plaza next door) form what many believe to be the finest upscale retail area on the island.

Most of the resorts of Grace Bay are within walking distance, and many make free transfers available. Grace Bay is home to many resorts and hotels, as well as excellent beaches and restaurants. However, you will find a large number of travelers to Grace Bay in the Regent Center or Salts Mill Plaza each day, but that should not discourage you from a visit.

Within the two plazas, you can find a large number of art galleries, jewelry shops, gift stores, high end apparel stores, and some excellent restaurants. The First Caribbean Bank has a branch in Salts Mill too. In addition to high-end retail, visitors to either of the shopping venues will be able to access a number of surf shops.

A brief list of shops found here would include:

L’Oasis Boutique – selling French fashions and swimwear
Paradise Arts – selling locally made ceramics, carved shells, jewelry, and goods from a long list of native artisans
Treasure S&S Gifts – sells unique souvenirs and clothing as well as island-made hair braiding supplies
Anna’s Art Gallery – exhibiting and selling local works
Blue Surf Shop – offering unique excursions and gear
Jai’s – has three locations in the islands and offers some of the finer watches and jewelry for those seeking duty-free bargains

As you can see, it would be simple to do all of your gift and souvenir shopping without falling prey to low quality or unfairly priced goods. Lots of options for locally made treasures await those who shop in these centrally placed spots, but you can also enjoy some time in other Grace Bay shopping areas.

For example, the Caicos Café Plaza is a great place to enjoy a nice assortment of restaurants and cafes. You can go to Grace Bay Plaza (also adjacent to Regent Center) to rent scooters, snack on ice cream or give the kids a chance to play in a unique setting. If you want some groceries, the Grace Bay Plaza is the spot to venture and has the largest grocery store on the island.

When you are ready to leave your Turks and Caicos luxury villa and get some shopping under your belt, head to the Heart of Provo and enjoy easy relaxing venues.

You chose one of the luxury rentals in the Yucatan Peninsula area known as the Mayan Riviera, also called Riviera Maya by some, and you already know you are in for a rare treat. Nature, history, outdoor activities, scenery, shopping and dining are all guaranteed to be unique and unforgettable here. Cenotes are waiting to be explored, historic and mysterious Mayan ruins can be scaled at dawn, the amazing food of the region is yours to sample, and then there are those beaches.

However, you cannot forget that beaches mean water, and the coastal area of the Riviera Maya is fast becoming a favorite destination for surfers, windsurfers, and kite surfers seeking unforgettable experiences in the flawless Caribbean waters.

In fact, many of the towns and destinations you may already be planning to visit, or where you may have booked your villa, are already tagged as the best places to enjoy some time on a board. Depending upon your chosen location, the best season for kitesurfing or surfing in the Riviera Maya will be from January through May and then again from November through December.

The most frequently chosen places are:

Playa del Carmen

The most well-known city in the Riviera Maya, it has a very European feel and is a much more relaxed place than larger cities like Cancun. This is also a premium place for kitesurfing and is even home to competitions.

Puerto Aventuras

Just south of Playa del Carmen and across the water from Cozumel, it is the quieter and more picturesque spot to safely learn and enjoy hours of kitesurfing.

Akumal

In the heart of the Riviera Maya, this “secret” has repeatedly earned a place in the list of top ten beaches in Mexico. It is stunning and ideal as a day trip or place to learn to kitesurf.

Tulum

An irresistible local for its Mayan ruins, this is also one of the loveliest beaches too. Soft white sands, no dangerous conditions, and onshore winds make it the perfect place at all hours of the day or night!

Isla Holbox

To the north and west of Cancun, and north on the peninsula, it is home to exotic birds, but also some of the safest kiteboarding conditions. Shallow waters and long beaches, with ideal winds from November to August, make it a good option.

Isla Blanca

Half of an hour from Cancun, it is a flat, saltwater lagoon and you can learn to kitesurf here in some of the safest and best conditions possible.

Cozumel

An island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is also one of the safest spots to master kitesurfing. If you are planning a day trip here, why not also book an hour or two of lessons to see how you do?

Do be aware of one issue that surprises many travelers looking to enjoy kitesurfing in the Riviera Maya – at sunrise, the beaches are often filled with experienced kitesurfers and regular surfers eager to enjoy the best waves. This is the time for experienced surfers or kitesurfers, but could be a fun time to pack a picnic, watch the sun rise, and take in the masterful skills of those already familiar with these water sports.

With its range of fun and unforgettable experiences, the Riviera Maya is consistently earning new fans and enthusiasts. Surfing and kitesurfing here is easy to arrange, and your Isle Blue concierge is happy to help you make plans. Whether you are looking for the best beach where kitesurfing lessons are available or you want to find gear, we can help. If you have questions about these sports in the Riviera Maya, give your concierge a call to discuss your options.

Noted for being the Caribbean’s most elite and most luxurious island, St. Barts lives up to that “five star” reputation on every level – villa rentals, luxury vacations, beach houses, activities, and especially when it comes to food. Whether you head to a beachfront local eatery or an upscale establishment, the quality of the food on St. Barts is incomparable. Of course, throw in the scenery and the surrounding gardens or jungle growth, a sunset or early morning sky (you can eat out for breakfast too!) and you have a recipe for success.

Naturally, the French cuisine so popular on the island is also blended with an array of other traditions and flavors, ensuring that each St. Barts dining experience is as impressive and unforgettable as you might imagine. With more than 70 restaurants, though, it can get a bit overwhelming, and this is why we suggest the following ten (listed in no particular order) to provide you with many remarkable ad unforgettable meals:

Bonito

Located on the heights above charming and picturesque Gustavia harbor, this restaurant is equally famous for its sunsets as its food. Go for the ceviche and have no regrets, or go for a full meal and doom yourself to daydreams of the food in the weeks after you head home! They are also well known for their desserts, and this could be a great treat after a meal at a villa or a stroll through the town’s lovely streets.

Tamarin

The restaurant is a destination of its own as it is built around a 100-year-old tree. It is an “open air” restaurant in Salines and it is remarkably charming and inviting. Tucked into its tropical garden setting, it is important for its atmosphere but also its French-Caribbean dishes. The conch ravioli and handcrafted cocktails are must have items.

Eddy’s

Another Gustavia treasure, its owner Eddy Stakelborough manages to greet all who arrive to dine on his specialty – the day’s freshest fish – in this hideaway location.

Santa Fe

Located at the top of Lurin, it is the highest restaurant on the island with unbelievable views at sunset – or any time. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the food is amazing. Lunch and dinner menus are available and the food is a blend of creole and French cuisines. Specialties include their lamb chops and their mahi mahi brochettes.

On the Rocks

In the Eden Rock Hotel, it gives unprecedented sea views of St. Jean Bay and has seating spread out over three decks. The menu is a near duplicate of the owner’s restaurant in New York City and focuses on a blend of Asian fusion meals that include shrimp in pumpkin puree and grilled lamb in a spicy chili sauce.

Nikki Beach

The beach club with its amazing menu that is packed with signature dishes makes for an unforgettable night on the…beach. It is a must, but so are reservations!

La Plage at Tom Beach

Tucked into the Tom Beach Hotel, this innovative restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and an unforgettable beachfront setting. Brunch is a great option and you can enjoy a spa inspired menu of Caribbean classics.

La Case de L’Isle

French fare with unbelievable views right along the waterfront, this spot serves lunch and dinner, with a very French flavor. They are famous for desserts, and you will never regret making the trip to have their pistachio raspberry panna cotta with a good cup of coffee.

Orega

Another Gustavia treat, this is a true fusion restaurant offering French and Japanese inspired meals. Reservations are an absolute must, and the Omakase is a great way to enjoy the most out of a visit.

L’Esprit

This gem in Salines offers unique scenery with French fusion food that includes Provencal classics made by chef Jean-Claude Dufour. The chocolate tart is another reason to head here!

Our honorable mentions include Meat & Potatoes, Black Ginger, and L’Isola. Dine well!

You may have booked a luxury Turks and Caicos vacation or luxury villa in order to just kick back and relax on the lovely sands or by your private pool. That is an ideal way to rejuvenate and recharge. However, when in Turks and Caicos you are surrounded by some of the friendliest, loveliest and most inviting waters and cays (islands) in the entire Caribbean. That is why we highly recommend that you plan at least one day out on those waters in Turks and Caicos.

Of course, there are many great charter groups that can take you and your entire family for a day of snorkeling, diving, and even exploring some of the empty islands and beaches. However, if you want to continue with your luxury vacation theme on Turks and Caicos, we suggest a private boat charter.

Some of the most recognized private charter companies include:

Atabeyra

A retired rum runner, this ship goes out at all hours and is large enough to accommodate special events. Operating for more than 20 years, they are considered a distinctly up market firm and provide exquisite catering too!

Beluga

This is a private catamaran offering adventures by appointment only. They do morning sails to allow you to visit desert islands or snorkel reefs. You can also enjoy an afternoon of private exploration where beach combing can be the order of the day as you await sunset. All day adventures, including amazing picnics are a great way to get the very most out of a day on the water in Turks and Caicos.

Big Blue Unlimited

For over ten years, this firm has specialized in charter trips, but also those with an entirely ecological bent. You can enjoy personalized service and up market experiences that include lessons in local wildlife and geography, kayaking in the mangrove channels, snorkeling the best reefs, and even cycling excursions on shore!

Panoply

More a luxury sport fishing charter, this firm offers up some of the finest deep sea fishing tours available. With a fleet of high powered boats, you can book a day of fishing, but they are also happy to take you on the custom cruise of your choice. Discover the different cays and take a walk on empty beaches when you book your day on the water in Turks and Caicos with this group.

Blue Whale

If you would rather have a small boat excursion, this is the ideal choice. They are famous for their water slides that allow you to slip right down a traditional slide and into the blue waters below. They offer banana boat rides as well as their catamaran tours, and everything is entirely customizable. Book with up to 20 at one time!

Caicos Dream Tours

An award winning group, they do exclusive boat excursions and water sports in all parts of the island. Whether you want to go to a private beach all day, snorkel or look for conch, enjoy some fishing or just cruise at leisure, they have a fleet of boats and the qualified staff to make it happen.

Island Vibes

Forbes rates them as #1, but you will have to book your own private luxury tour to get the best experience. When you do, they will ensure that your day is unforgettable. They feature top of the line catamarans with built in diving boards for the ultimate swimming experiences. You get a guarantee first class experience to match your Turks and Caicos luxury vacation!

Kenard Cruises

This is also a top rated agency that offers only luxury yachts and cruisers for the ultimate snorkeling experiences and custom explorations of the deserted islands and cays.

There are dozens of other options, but these represent some of the finest and most customized to enjoy your day on the water in Turks and Caicos.