Online - January 24, 2007

Caribbean Queens

What’s New in the Islands

What’s new in the Caribbean? Funny, we’ve been wondering the same thing.

Amanyara,
Turks and Caicos
Another perfect Aman resort, their first in the Caribbean. What’s the best part? The ocean at the foot of your bed? The elegant design and unobtrusive staff? The insane beauty and heavenly silence? You’ll pay a month’s rent per night, and you’ll wish you could stay forever.

Jade Mountain,
at Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia
A just opened resort-within-a-resort (at an already incredible eco-meets-luxury treetop enclave). Suites have one wall missing, so they look out to a private infinity pool and beachside mountains. The adjoining spa suites and resto Jade Mountain Club have equally jaw-dropping views.

Little Dix Bay,
Virgin Gorda
How do you improve upon Mother Nature’s already-perfect 500 acres on a long stretch of white sand? You start with a five-year, $25 million renovation and throw in waterfront villas, a cliff spa, a kids’ club, and beach drops — wherein you sail to a private island for the afternoon. And then, well, you can’t remember needing much else.

The Cove Atlantis,
Bahamas
A gargantuan — but sophisticated — answer to Atlantis will have 600 suites with unobstructed views of lily ponds and beaches, plus high-tech perks. Opening early 2007, they promise speedy room service and an adults-only pool (with gambling and private cabanas). At night, the lobby gets its own turndown service with club-like lighting.