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LETTER
Dear travelers,

FROM THE
As we are in the roaring 20s, I feel like I should address you as
my fellow time-travelers. We are living in the future, my friends.
Facing the Caribbean sun and looking forward to a magnificent

PUBLISHER decade. We have a lot of new experiences to share with you.

This issue has great stories from the Dominican Republic and
around the islands.

CARIBBEAN REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR: What I am even more excited to chat with you about is our
Sales@CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com social media ambassador program and our, invitation only,
enhanced subscription membership. Our enhanced subscription
www.CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com program includes more than the magazine. The Caribbean
Living subscription program offers VIP experience invites from
Caribbean Living Magazine (Volume 12, Issue 4; ISSN
around the Caribbean, exclusive travel discounts at some of the
1941-1936) Published Quarterly by Caribbean Living
Magazine, Inc., 10097 Cleary Blvd, Plantation, FL region’s finest resorts, access to the hottest travel gear and more.
33324. ©2019 by Caribbean Living Magazine, Inc. All Visit www.CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com/InvitationOnly
Rights Reserved. Publisher assumes no liability for the after January 18th for further details. Follow us on Instagram
representations contained herein. @CLTravel on the same day for more information on being a
part of our collaborative ambassador program.
Caribbean Living Magazine is not responsible for the
return or care of unsolicited material. No part of this
publication may be reproduced in any form without the 2020 is the year to take things to the next level and we are
prior written consent of Caribbean Living Magazine, Inc excited to have you all be a big part of it.
Printed in the USA

Welcome to the future,

Image Cover Credit:
Excellence El Carmen,
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

@cltravel
on Instagram
Peta

@caribbeanliving
on Twitter

Like us by visiting:
facebook.com/caribbeanliving

CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 1
 CONTENTS

4-8 12-18

20-23 24-30

32-36 52-55

9-10 NEW & NOTEWORTHY 58-62 THE SPA UNCOMMON THAI HOUSE
39-42 NEW COLLABORATIONS IN ANGUILLA 65-71 DOING IT FOR THE GRAM
45-50 BEACH BAR NONE

2 CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com
 CONTRIBUTORS
AMY ANDREW
SEDEÑO INNERARITY
Contributor Director of Photography
As a self-proclaimed @hotelista I do quite a bit of traveling, It’s all about triggering emotion via imagery. When I convey
and from holding a tarantula in an ancient site in Guatemala the very essence of a situation with a single photograph,
to drinking high tea in Dubai, and petting grey whales in then I am complete, because the viewer understands more
Baja, you bet I’ve got stories to tell. than the moment, they know the situation.

AVA BRIANA
ROSALES LOZANO
Features Editor Contributor
I am the Caribbean. My favorite place to travel to is one I have never been to before!
New cities, new sights, new food, new music, new people, new
memories, new ways of life. The only way to truly know, is to see
it for yourself. I am forever wanderlust.
Thank you, Briana

DYLAN JEFFREY
BENOIT SOBEL
Contributor Co-Editor-in-Chief
I’m a chef with Champagne taste and a beer budget, but always All I need is a book, a bourbon and a boat to a new destination -
seem to find myself surrounded by the most amazing people in I’ll be just fine.
the most amazing places. From eating termites in the Honduran
jungle to learning how to make dim sum in Hong Kong, for me
treasure is in the story.

SERGIO
OLIVARES
Creative Direction
I'm my best on this island. My flight left last night, but I know
I'm not going back home.
3
ISLAND
DATES NOT TO MISS BY AVA ROSALES

Trade the frigid and icy roads this season for warm, crystal clear water. Winter escapades
in the Caribbean abound at sea – ‘tis the season to go sailing, and regattas and races are
all the rage. Take the tropical plunge and dive into the Caribbean this winter, where the
weather and smiles are always warm.
JANUARY
Start the month off in Jamaica with a visit to the verdant
Saint Elizabeth for a cultural awakening and a taste of
history through song, dance and traditional Maroon
cooking. Listen to tales of the late hero, Cudjoe, and the
battle of the First Maroon War, a freedom fight against
the British over 200 years ago, as told by the descendants
of these noble warriors at Accompong Maroon Festival,
January 6. delicious. Come savor the annual Cayman Cookout, January
16 – 19.
By Antigua, crews ready the sails for an exhilarating 54 www.caymancookout.com
nautical miles of racing at the Antigua Yacht Club, Round
Island’ Race, January 18 /www.antiguayachtclub.com Close the month in Grenada with rods and regattas. Skippers
Serious competitors will be equally drawn to Barbados head back to the azure water for leeward and windward
where crews can “win their skipper’s weight in rum” for courses that boast, “Two host venues, four days of racing,
breaking records – now, there’s a challenge, run light six nights of parties!” Island Water World Grenada Sailing
or heavy, for this race, there’s reason for indulgence in Week 2020, kicks off the southern Caribbean sailing events
more ways than one during Barbados Sailing Week The January 26 – 31.
opening regatta is now named Round Barbados Sailing www.grenadasailingweek.com
Week, which replaces its former title, the Mount Gay
Round Barbados Series January 17 – 23. For the expert fishermen, reels are cast at the premier,
competitive sports fishing event 51st Annual Budget Marine
On Grand Cayman, culinary connoisseurs gather at the Spice Island Billfish Tournament, January 26 – 30.
Ritz Carlton to create delectable, gastronomic delights. www.sibt.gd
With Seven Mile Beach in the background and world-
class faire in the foreground, dining could not be more

6
FEBRUARY
Put the reels away and switch vessels, or simply come Up for a 52 mile anticlockwise circumnavigation of
observe the masterful sailors from some of the Caribbean’s Antigua? Well, Superyacht enthusiasts are. Boaters
communities of sailing and boat building heritage hailing entered in the RORC Caribbean 600 offshore classic
from the Sister Islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique have the opportunity to ready themselves for this exciting
at the Grenada Sailing Festival Work Boat Regatta, challenge at the Antigua 360º on February 21, just
February 1 – 2. before navigating 600 nautical miles around 11 Caribbean
www.grenadasailingfestival.com islands during the Royal Oceanic Race Club (RORC)
Caribbean 600 race, February 24.
Meanwhile, on St. Kitts, professional and amateur golfers
from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and the If a good jump-up is more your style, then steel band
rest of the Caribbean vie to be the champs of the course. celebrations , concerts, street faire, Night March, parades
They’ll be swinging in teams of Pro-Am and Am- Am. and so much more are in store. The whole town comes out
Catch these golf enthusiasts at the Royal St. Kitts Golf for the annual celebration of the first English settlement in
Club & Four Seasons Nevis for Admiral's Cup Pro-Am Holetown on February 17, 1627. The Holetown Festival
Golf Tournament, February 1 – 6. is underway February 16 – 23.
www.golfstkittsandnevis.com/admirals-cup-proam www.holetownfestivalbarbados.org/festival-schedule

7
MARCH
Barbados rings the bell and opens the gates for a prestigious it to win it,” The race draws swimmers from United States,
race of the four-legged kind. International jockeys and England, Scotland, Ireland, and Brazil. You may even be
trainers bring their finest thoroughbreds to the track for matching strokes with an Olympian, it’s happened before
the Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup, March 7. at the Nevis to St. Kitts Cross Channel Swim, March 29.
www.visitbarbados.org/sandy-lane-gold-cup
Off the coast of St. Maarten, it’s another race that brings
Large boats are still maneuvering off shore for Antigua’s an eclectic group of sailing enthusiasts together on crystal
friendly Super Yacht Challenge, March 11 – 15. clear waters below the hulls and the northeast trade winds
at their sails. Four days at an event sponsored by Heineken
Meanwhile, bodies make a splash in clear, turquoise water can only mean that it’s most likely a lot of work having a lot
between Oualie Beach, Nevis and St. Kitts. Whether you of world-class fun. The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is
slip on a pair of flippers and goggles to admire the flora and “serious fun” March 5 – 8.
fauna along the way or have that competitive spirit of “in www.facebook.com/StMaartenHeinekenRegatta

8 CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com
NEW
Noteworthy

BY AVA ROSALES
 ol
I
orma ready to welcome guests, in style.
Tucked away in the pristine tropical paradise of the northeast coast of the island, Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
offers all-suite, bungalow-style accommodations featuring private balconies and terraces, five distinct food and beverage
experiences – ranging from authentic Puerto Rican fare to Asian fusion cuisine. There are also four expansive swimming
pools, including Puerto Rico’s largest lagoon-style pool and swim-up bars serving innovative and refreshing cocktails.
WOuld it really be a tropical escape without a fabulously revamped 12,000-square-foot Rainforest Spa and two world-class
Tom Kit-designed 18-hole championship golf courses? We don’t think so. This oceanfront oasis is the closest full-service
luxury resort from the San Juan International Airport. They’re ready for you!

www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/puerto-rico/hyatt-regency-grand-reserve-puerto-rico/sjurc

10
 IN MY KINGDOM,
FROWNING WOULD
BE UNIVERSALLY
FROWNED UPON.
The FlowRider® Double Wave Simulator. The Awe Spa.
The Playroom Kids Club. Luxurious accommodations.
And impeccable service. Let’s just say it’s very hard to
be unhappy here. So to help you make the most of it,
we’ll give you up to $1,500 USD in Resort Credit
toward pampering spa treatments, land and sea
adventures, and other amazing experiences.
PLUS, KIDS AND TEENS STAY FREE.*

Moon Palace Jamaica. Larger than life. Better than vacation.

1-800-635-1836 MoonPalace.com

*Requires at least one paying adult to qualify. Must be 17 years old or younger at the time
of resort stay to qualify. Additional terms and conditions apply. Information subject to change.
S exy
PUTTING THE

BACK IN PC
PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
A lot has changed in Punta Cana over the years. The
arrival experience at the airport has changed for the better
and taking advantage of the VIP experience is an excellent
way to kick off a vacation. We checked out the adults-
only Excellence El Carmen for the first time and it’s pretty
hip. The only way to go is The Excellence Club. This level
comes with a private check-in/check-out area, where you
can unwind and partake in a variety of snacks, meals, and
cocktails. Besides the private lounge where these activities
take place, there is an exclusive restaurant for Excellence
Club guests, called Magna. Enjoy a private beach and
pool areas, there’s a private concierge service available
throughout the stay, a preferred room service menu with
exclusive dining offerings, designer Bvlgari toiletries and,
get this-- upgraded in-room premium liquor. You get four
bottles in room, Johnny Walker, Bombay Sapphire, top
local Barcelo rum, and Vodka. One bottle replenished
daily, and feel free to take them all home. This is such a
unique feature we had to let you know.

14 CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com
15
The stylish and sophisticated Excellence El Carmen is
home to 173 Excellence Club suites out of 492 suites in
total. This sounds like a lot of accommodations yet there’s
so much space on the, well manicured, grounds of the
resort that you feel a sense of space and tranquility at
all times. Dining is diverse with 12 international dining
offerings, you will want to leave room for a taste of them
all. There’s an extra feeling of privacy with your own
swim-up pool suite. Our insider tip is that you opt for
beach-front when making your booking, it makes life so
much easier when dashing from sand to pool and having
as many freshly cut coconuts as you desire. Also remember
to take full advantage of the spa as each Excellence Club
guest has Included, one Aqua Wellness treatment per stay.
Destressing will be a breeze at this resort, situated on the
lovely island of the Dominican Republic. Be sure to keep
the VIP experience going by upgrading your departure
to the VIP lounge at Punta Cana International airport.
You will thank us later, while you are watching the planes
taxi to the gate while you sip one more tropical cocktail
poolside overlooking the runways.

CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 17
 We love the Dominican Republic’s authenticity and natural
beauty. The good news is that this resort sits on one of
the island’s fabulous beaches and even with its modern
architecture, the soul is strictly Dominican and the vibe is
unmistakable.

www.excellenceresorts.com/resorts/excellence-el-carmen

18
 Introducing
Gourmet Inclusive ®

to a whole new
Generation.

Rememb
Remember those beach vacations you loved as a kid? Here’s a family beach
vacation for a new generation. Introducing the All Suite, All Butler, All Gourmet
G
Generations Resor ts in Riviera Maya, Mexico. For adults, the Karisma
Gourmet Inclusive ® Experience means oversized 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom
swim-up suites, personal butlers and gourmet à la carte cuisine. For kids,
it’s baby amenities, our Eko Kids Club™ and Little Eko Chefs™ program. And
for everyone from groups to grandparents, it’s a level of pampering and
p
personalized service you won’t soon forget. How’s that for an appetizer?

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N , C A L L YO U R T R AV E L AG E N T.
K ARISMAHOTEL S.COM • 1 . 8 6 6 . 5 2 7. 4 7 6 2
NIKKI BE C
The Caribbean’s most notorious property, coveted by the likes of celebrities from Beyoncé & Jay-Z to Leonardo DiCaprio &
Madonna, Nikki Beach Saint Barth has returned to the beach for another incredible season full of exciting programming.
Are you ready for their weekly Amazing Sunday’s festivities? Needless to say, the legendary hotspot is coming back better
(and hotter) than ever. How do you plan to share your 2020 story of celebration, sophistication and excitement? Maybe at
one of the Caribbean’s most lavish hotspots. This is your year. Treat yourself to the best of the Caribbean. The party starts
right here.

saint-barth.nikkibeach.com

22
• The sun-kissed haven for the world’s jet set, promises a day filled with crystal clear water views, table-dancing
saxophonists, and larger-than-life sushi boats for the ultimate celebration of life and love. A magnet for beautiful
people and the see-and-be-seen, Nikki Beach is the place to be for lovers and lusters alike.
• They do like to name-drop... Here are some celebrities that have visited Nikki Beach Saint Barth:
• Mariah Carey
• John Legend & Chrissy Teigen
• Leonardo DiCaprio
• Bon Jovi
• Gwen Stefani
• Beyonce
• Ciara and Russell Wilson
• Nicole Kidman
• Cindy Crawford
• Blake Lively & Ryan Gosling

CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 23
SLIPPING
BACK IN TIME
T here’s been one resort that I have wanted to check out in Punta
Cana, in the Dominican Republic. It’s the Excellence Resort
Punta Cana. When choosing all inclusive resorts, some things
can be quite tricky, so I had to come and experience for myself.
Nineteen years of innovative curation have led The Excellence
Collection to be a name synonymous with an upscale Caribbean
experience, where bespoke service meets extraordinary moments at every
single one of its resorts in the Dominican Republic. It was difficult for me
to pass up such a glowing invitation.

I hopped on my flight from Miami to Punta Cana, prepared myself to enter

an all inclusive world overflowing with vibrant gardens and ocean views,
as they put it. This experience promised me seclusion but not isolation.
The all-adult, all-suite resort sits on a golden beach amid a glorious palm
tree grove. Let me be specific...these are coconut palms. Thankfully there
was no shortage of coconuts as I had at least three fresh coconuts before
lunch, one coco-loco with lunch, and then at least a dozen more all the
way up until midnight. A coco-loco. I was well hydrated on a daily basis.
There was a real sense of place at this resort. You know how some all
inclusive transport you and you could be anywhere in the world? Well,
here I knew I was being taken care of by Dominicans who remembered
my name after the very first time seeing me. Here, traditional Caribbean
architecture blended with modern interior design alongside luxurious
choices like swim-up suites and private plunge pools, while four bright
blue pools await you throughout the lush grounds.I was drawn to the sand
and the sea. I spent days lounging and swimming (and sipping coconut
water) while I watched lovers embrace and stroll hand-in-hand.
27
M
y appetite was primed well before getting
to the island becasue I had heard of the
eleven restaurants at the resort. Before
leaving home, I sort of saved myself from
indulging in calories so I could enjoy all the
treats while traveling. The flavorful global
cuisine in beautifully styled settings certainly hit the spot.
While indulgence was sort of my theme for this trip, I still
took care of myself. Here. I made time to escape into the
serene Miilé Spa. I took archery lessons, and I set aside
daily time to work out at the state-of-the-art fitness center.
I had to look good to have some fun with daytime activities
and evening entertainment. The foam party was so much
fun, and jumping around under the bubbles to the bumpin’
tunes was a workout in itself.
CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 29
 had such a great time. If your plans include the
Dominican Republic, come check this place
out. You’ll be treated like family from day one!
The floor show, or at least this is what they were
called back in the 80s, where the fire-dancers
are feet away and the limbo stick is impossibly
low but the dancers make it look easy...this
place has an even better show than one may recall from
decades ago. The only similarities are that it takes place
under the stars, abutting the sand and the heat from the
flames can be felt if you get the best seat in the house. Front
row or bust. Feeling a part of the show, the culture, and the
island is what this resort brings to the table on a multitude
of levels. The luxury of a resort with a genuine taste of the
destination without ever leaving the grounds. If you do
want to venture out, you’re in the heart of all the activities
this part of the island offers. Stay in or go out, you’ll feel
at home.

www.excellenceresorts.com/resorts/excellence-punta-cana

30 CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com
 Punta
WHEN IN

Cana…
Foam parties on the beach or in the privacy of your suite...
bowling, golfing, waterpark, Escape Room, and fresh
crab in almost every form, this is what we call a family
haven vacation. This place is massive. Stating that right
up front because there is no escaping its size. There’s even
a continuously running tram, that looks like a train, to
take guests from various parts of the resort to the other.
It’s actually pretty cool. Since we mentioned size, iits
manicured lawns and beachfront location take your focus
away from the size and puts you right into vacation mode.

Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort

is situated on over a mile of white sand on the renowned
Bávaro Beach and protected by a coral reef that converts the
Caribbean Sea into a natural pool. That makes swimming
with the kids a breeze. I imagine vegas in the tropics when
I hear the words massive and casino (Yes they have a
casino too.) This 24-hour all-inclusive resort is comprised
of the Barceló Bávaro Palace and the adults-only Barceló
Bávaro Beach. There’s also a set of accommodations that
sit right on the golf course, making this place ideal for
those seeking to come on a more active vacation than
sitting on the sand. This resort includes over 1,900 rooms,
up to 13 dining experiences, five swimming pools, 24-
hour casino, a theatre whos shows are meant to rival any
vegas review, a water park for children and one for not so
little ones, the state-of-the-art U-Spa, The Lakes Barceló
Golf Course and so much more. Now you see why it needs
as much space as it does. It’s required to keep everyone
entertained and they do that here in such grand style. For
those seeking a more elevated experience, the Premium
Level accommodations offer some of the very best views,
unlimited access to specialty restaurants and 24-hour
room service and an exclusive check in experience. Of
course there’s endless champagne upon check in at this
side of the resort. Well worth the upgrade.
35
If you ever run out of things to do here, that would be a miracle. There’s so much at your disposal but in the event you find
wanderlust setting in, just ask concierge to book you on a boogie tour on Adventure Boogies. This is the most fun adventure
in off-roading, we have have had in a long time. Wear clothes you won’t mind packing into a plastic bag and shipping back
home in your checked luggage. Splurge for the trip that includes lunch and the cave. You’ll be treated to a refreshingly
cold swim in a crystal clear pool of water. The cave experience is unmatched in the island and your day will probably be
unforgettable if you go for this part of the tour. You’ll end u at a beach, eventually, but nothing beats heading back to the
beach at Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort.Take our word for it and add this to your trip.

www.barcelo.com/en-us/barcelo-hotels/hotels/dominican-republic/punta-cana-beach-bavaro/barcelo-bavaro-palace

www.adventureboogies.com
 full page

u see me half page

Digital or print. Advertise with us. E: Publisher@CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com

A nguillA
NEW COLLABORATIONS IN
 This winter we are all about sunshine and island time.
Gathered my friends for a promising getaway to Anguilla.
Stunning Beachfront Oasis in Anguilla Inspires Unparalleled
Tranquility Amidst a Breathtaking Environment that Draws
on the Natural Beauty of the Island

Set on a pristine beach, this discrete six-acre hideaway is

nestled on the quiet and secluded Shoal Bay East on the
northeast coast of Anguilla. Accessible from St. Maarten
International Airport via a 20-minute sea shuttle or directly
by private jets and small carriers into Anguilla’s International
Airport, the stunning enclave continues to be recognized as a
top hotel in the Caribbean by us and many others. SLipping
away to the islands is one of our favorite things to do, and
Zemi has been a go-to for several years.

This trip there’s an added bonus because Zemi Beach House

has been named an LXR property and is the brand’s first hotel
to open in the Americas. LXR connects legendary properties
into an exclusive network of hotels set apart by an unrivaled
commitment to personalized attention and luxurious, yet
locally immersive experiences for their guests.

This was all the impetus we needed to come check it out, yet
again, for ourselves. Once we heard, “Zemi Beach House is
the ideal property and Anguilla is the perfect destination to
debut LXR within the Americas,” comments Feisal Jaffer,
global head, LXR Hotels & Resorts. “We are thrilled
to collaborate with Zemi Beach House in creating truly
extraordinary and authentic experiences for all of our guests.”
There was only one thing left to do and that was jet down to
the island, pronto. Can we say that it did not disappoint.
40
41
The rooms, the views, and the dining are all on point. Recently appointed executive chef, Bruno Carvalho, has curated new menus
for the property’s two main restaurants – Stone and 20 Knots. You’re going to want to dress up for Stone and get your toes in the
sand at 20 Knots. His menus are out of this world delicious.

• Stone, a fine dining restaurant serving seasonal, locally- sourced, sea-to-table cuisine along with a large international selection of
carefully chosen fine wines served by Zemi Beach House’s in-house sommelier.

• 20 Knots, a casual “toes-in-the-sand” restaurant and beach bar offering an international menu with a variety of cuisines infused
with the flavors of Latin America.

• Rhum Room, a refined and elegant rum tasting room featuring more than 100 small-batch, single-estate rums that recall the
Caribbean’s 18th century sugarcane plantations.

• Shoal Bay Zemi Beach Club, the resort’s casual “no-shoes, no problem” atmosphere serving inventive cocktails against the
backdrop of crystal-clear turquoise waters and towering palm trees.

• The Bohio Bar & Lounge, Zemi Beach Houses bar that serves pre- and after-dinner cocktails, champagne and wines by the glass
for guests to gather and enjoy live music and conversation.

Add this resort to your 2020 todo list, or you’ll be missing out on one of the finest experiences in the islands and you can’t say we
didn’t let you know where to go.

www.zemibeach.com

42
TM
 Pick up a copy
or subscribe today!

www.SwankyRetreats.com
BEACHBARNONE
NOT YOUR TYPICAL BEACH BAR
 Trotting all around the islands this winter, and we are
warmed by the spirit of rum. The rarely sipped, often
mixed, sometimes under-represented fermented sugarcane
juice that can leave you with a hankering for more. The
good stuff will rarely, if consumed in moderation, leave
you with a hangover. However, chances of feeling the
down side of the drink increase with the popular mixed
cocktails that range from the creamy deliciousness of the
Pina Colada to the Daiquiri. These tasty beverages, along
with the famed Mojito, the simply delicious Dark ’N
Stormy, and the effervescent Cuba Libré, rum has been a
staple on cocktail menus for well over a century...assuming
cocktail menus weren’t part of the parley of pirates.The
stuff originates in the West Indies and is first mentioned
in records that originated in Barbados, back in the 1600’s.

46
47
48 CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com
The evolution of rum having once been called Kill-devil,
upgraded to rumbullion, was elevated to being regularly rationed
to British sailors for centuries, all the way up to the late 20th
century. Then the difference between rum and rhum delves even
deeper into the rich history and distillation, aging, and casking
of fermented cane juice and molasses.I’ll be far briefer than this
distinction deserves: Rhum is a very specific term. The word is an
abbreviation of the term rhum agricole, which is a type of rum
that can only come from Martinique. In short-- while most rums
are distilled from fermented molasses, rhum is made from fresh
pressed sugarcane juice. Think of this like the term champagne.
Only sparkling wines from the Champagne region of France can
actually be called Champagne. I really hope that made sense.
Back to the allure of rum/rhum.Even the less romanticised notion
of where the word rum comes from are quite intriguing. History
has also said that it comes from the Latin word for sugarcane,
saccharum officinarum. Wherever it came from, we have found
the perfect spot to sample the best of the elixir. On the island of
Anguilla there is a special place called the Rhum Room. This
space of dark walls, flanked by velvet turquoise curtains and cozy
couches to match is a siren song beckoning all those who dream
of an elegant evening tucked away from the rest of the world,
surrounded by the faint scent of cigar smoke and the service of a
barman who knows his way around more than 100 small-batch,
single-estate rums.

49
Sinking softly into place, you’ll be asked what strikes With over 100 small-batch and single-estate rums, which
your fancy that evening. What flavors are you drawn to? can be sampled with an on-site rhummelier to guide you
What sort of wine you typically drink. These questions through the ultra-premium Caribbean selections and
may seem random or off-key to the setting of what can showcase the unique flavors and profiles. You’ll spend hours
be easily likened to a very upscale speakeasy with a twist. here and luckily for you, it’s located at Zemi Beach House,
Within minutes of answering, one can be assured that a so there’s plenty of room for a sleepover. Find some time to
fitting rum cocktail or simple sipping rhum will be in your get to this spot and taste Caribbean rums like never before.
grasp and on its way to your lips. There’s no rushing to be Explore the history of the region without ever leaving the
done within these walls, only stories to be told, tales of the turquoise seats that adorn this room like the sought after
estate upon which your chosen rhum was casked. There’s gems of those who roamed the High Seas.
plenty of room for almost everything on the cocktail menu
should your taste buds yearn for features found within its This spot captures the rich history and essence of this
pages. There’s an old pirate’s chest atop the bar and if you alcoholic treasure. Visit, sip and stay for a while.
enquire with the barman, he may just be inclined to treat
you to what comes from within. Trust that it is a treasure www.zemibeach.com/experience/bars-lounges
that embodies the age of the chosen rum and adds even
more depth once he embarks upon a mission to unleash
the chest’s smoky side.

50
Captured
Essence
 Surrounded by tropical gardens and breathtaking views,
Occidental Punta Cana has a posh feel to it. The verdant
greens punctuate the bright white two-story buildings.
Soft rolling grass below, tall, swaying coconut palm trees
above. The sense of place is unmistakable; you are in the
Dominican Republic. Surrounded by the blue waters of
the Caribbean Sea as well as the pools that abound, you
will float your way through your holiday. With all the
aquatic exposure, it can be easy to forget about being in
the tropics and what being in the sun all day can do. With
11 culinary outlets, hydration is the very least concern.
We recommend fresh everything. You may want to stay
active and refreshed by taking in some watersports or
swimming up to the pool bar. Either way counts towards
burning calories. Here’s a personal tip: get to the fresh
crepe station, open for all meals, and have yourself your
choice of custom crepes. You will be happy you did. I was
always partial to a fresh lemonade (read as mojito) along
with a Nutella crepe. The combo sounds a bit odd, I know,
but trust me when I say it’s pretty amazing.

54
Located on Punta Cana’s famous Bávaro Beach along a
seemingly endless path of stunning white sand and vivid
waters, this the all-inclusive resort packs a punch when it
comes to relaxed beach holidays. The tranquil atmosphere
and Spanish-style architecture combined with modern
comforts that are ideal for either families or couples
offers more than you would expect. Its three swimming
pools including one with a spectacular waterfall, and live
music shows and Latin dance classes at the Mangú Club
only begin to set the tone. There are tennis sessions and
archery lessons for the not so faint of heart. Grab your
travel partners and experience some good old fashioned
fun in the sun. Here are some of our recommended water
sports activities:windsurfing, water polo, scuba diving,
snorkeling and SNUBA. That’s where you sit on a cart-
like contraption and your head is in a bubble full of air...
no certification needed, just a bit of courage. We like
this resort for its amenities throughout, but one upgrade
we highly recommend is to the royal level. Your room
experience is just the start of this elevated experience.
You’re going to have access to a dedicated check in,
concierge and beach club. There’s no reason to take a
basic holiday when you have choices like this at hand. We
recommend staying here and experiencing Punta Cana.

CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 55
 THE
SPA
UNCOMMON

THAI HOUSE
 They have gone to great lengths to pamper you at this spa.
Zemi Thai House Spa, is set in an authentic 300-year-
old Thai House boasting 15,000 square feet of indoor and
outdoor space, the serenity experiences as you enter the
space rounds out the property’s wellness experience. The spa
offers a sun deck for mud and salt body treatments, outdoor
showers and a vitality pool. Their spa facilities also include
oversized private treatment rooms, a wellness boutique,
outdoor relaxation areas with wave loungers, spaces for yoga
and Pilates and a meditation garden where you can enjoy
classes on mindfulness and relaxation. There is also a fresh
juice bar at the ancient Thai Rice Barn. This part of the spa
features teas and cold-pressed juices made from fruits, herbs
and plants found within the spa garden.

The setting alone makes this spa an uncommon find in the

Caribbean. The spa offerings, beginning with the hammam.
The marble sanctuary for cleansing and relaxation will become
one of your favorite places to escape. There is one window that
lets in the view of swaying foliage the is just outside the spa
but seems worlds away from your current experience.

60
CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 61
 Pre-treatment rituals take place here and are an integral part
of this spa’s experience. Immediately be transported to that
soft quiet place within and let the therapy begin. This is one
of those luxury experiences where discerning guests want to
return. Take your time here. Begin your spa journey with a
choice of fragrant scrubs or therapeutic muds to cleanse the
skin while soaking in the warmth of the hammam. There are
no wrong choices here. Float from hammam experience over
to the relaxation pool and escape under its waterfall as you look
out toward the meditation deck. There are also no bad views
at this spa. The Thai House accents the blue of the sky with
its deep rich wood peaks. Then when your eyes are closed, the
aromas of the Far East permeate the air as the skilled therapists
get to the task at hand. The goal here is complete relaxation in
an exquisite setting. The transformation is immediate and the
highlight of a stay at Zemi Beach House. Plan to spend a good
portion of your time at this spa.

www.zemibeach.com/experience/spa-wellness

62
The Jewel Cottage | Windwardside Village
Saba Dutch Caribbean
599.416.6150
www.sabaislandpremierproperties.com
info@sabaislandpremierproperties.com
66
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CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com 71
CREDITS
ISLAND DATES NOT TO MISS BEACH BAR NONE
Grenada Tourism Authority NOT YOUR TYPICAL BEACH BAR
Pages: 4,5,7 Zemi Beach House
Pages: 45-50
Antigua Sailing Week
Page: 6

Nevis Tourism Authority CAPTURED ESSENCE

Page: 8 Barceló Hotel Group
Pages: 52-55
Ape Hills Golf Club
Page: 8
THE SPA UNCOMMON
THAI HOUSE
NEW & NOTEWORTHY Zemi Beach House
Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Pages: 58-62
Rico
Page: 10
DOING IT FOR THE GRAM
@antiguaandbarbuda
PUTTING THE SEXY BACK IN PC @charter_boat_vi
Excellence El Carmen @cltravel
Pages: 12-18 Page: 66

@coconutconcussion
@hello.sunshine.vacations
NIKKI BEACH TURNS 20 Page: 67
Nikki Beach Saint Barth
Pages: 20-23 @itskiristen
Page: 68

SLIPPING BACK IN TIME @itskiristen

Excellence Resort Punta Cana @k4tmason
Pages: 24-30 Page: 69

@limeoutvi
@mannyrodriguez3
WHEN IN PUNTA CANA @martiniquemagnifique
Barceló Hotel Group Page: 70
Pages: 32-36
@mexicolindocooking
@pari_luna
A NEW COLLABORATION IN @shoteljamaica
@theclothofficial
ANGUILLA Page: 71
Zemi Beach
Pages: 39-42
 TRUE BAHAMIAN SPIRIT

IS FINDING YOUR BEST SELF

IN ALL SORTS OF MOMENTS

WITHOUT A CARE IN THE WORLD

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