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Metro
4 days ago
- Metro
I flew 4,600 miles to a Jamaican resort that offers more than just 'fly and flop
I had rather hoped to leave the dreary English weather at home when I'd travelled 4,600 miles from London to Jamaica. Instead, I found myself on a balcony, sheltering from the tropical storm that's gatecrashed my Caribbean escape. The downpour posed a question: what is there to do besides lounge around and sun yourself at an all-inclusive Jamaican resort? Holed up at Sandals Dunn's River, a sprawling hotel on the postcard-perfect northern coast, I was in Jamaica at an opportune moment. The tourism industry is enjoying an extraordinary surge, with visitor numbers soaring thanks to investment in sustainable initiatives that benefit both locals and visitors. From paddleboarding and pina coladas to chicken shacks and waterfalls, here's how I made the most of my trip — and how you can too, whatever the weather. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Inclement weather be damned, the Caribbean coastline has plenty to keep you occupied, hail, rain or shine. Sandals Dunn's River offers a range of watersports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, scuba diving and something called Hobie Cat sailing, which, from I gather, involves manning your own mini-catarmaran. For me, the highlight was paddleboarding, which offers a reverse-view of the palm tree-flanked sands. I can see why the location of the resort was hand-picked by Sandals' late founder, Gordon 'Butch' Stewart, for its pristine stretch of beach. He used to fish there as a boy. Daily boat trips (including glass-bottom ones) also run from the resort – typically twice a day, but these do depend on the weather. If dry land is more your bag, Sandals has teamed up with Island Routes, a travel company that offers a whole host of experiences across the island. They'll hook you up with a Mini Cooper that serves as a valiant steed for a four-wheel adventure. I was relieved to learn that Jamaicans drive on the left, but I needn't have worried. A guide has got you covered: you convoy behind the car in front, with the history of the area delivered via a walkie-talkie in your ride. I recommend cruising from Ocho Rios to Falmouth along the north coast, making scenic pit stops at places such as Turtle Bay Pier and Reynolds Pier (often referred to as James Bond Pier) along the way. You can choose either a half or full-day tour, depending on how much driving you want to do. Every Jamaica first-timer should stop by Dunn's River Falls, which is something of a national treasure. The falls empty into the sea at Little Dunn's River Beach, making the attraction one of the few travertine waterfalls in the entire world. It's one of the stops on the Island Routes excursion, but standalone tours are also available daily. Getting to the good stuff is easier said than done. You'll be scaling a 180-foot high waterfall, made up of three levels and lagoons, while rapids crash down towards you. In total, the climb takes around an hour, depending on the ages and mobility of the group. Our guide warned us that 'you will get wet' — he wasn't wrong. One thing is certain, you won't go hungry at Sandals Dunn's River. With 12 restaurants to choose from – covering Italian, French, Latin American, Asian Fusion and more – you're spoiled for choice. However, no trip to Jamaica is complete without trying out the local cuisine. More Trending I beelined for the hotel's beachfront Jerk Shack most days. With crashing waves in the background and a tropical breeze flowing through salty hair, friendly waiters serve up classic jerk chicken and pork as well as curry goat, and traditional fish in foil (white fish cooked with okra, pepper and chilli), a new favourite of mine. If you prefer to explore outside the hotel walls, Miss T Kitchen's in the centre of Ocho Rios – a 10-minute drive away – comes highly recommended. On two visits, I tucked into a feast of Stamp and Go (traditional saltfish fritters) followed by melt-in-the-mouth Oxtail stew, classic curried goat, and rice and peas, all washed down with pina colada and rum punch. It's comfort food at its best, the type that leaves you full and feeling good. If you want a week relaxing and nothing else, we're not here to judge. This hotel has plenty to ensure your stay is as luxurious and care-free as possible. Skypool rooms I've never had a pool in my hotel room before. The Butler Suite, located in the Tufa Terrace building, really is a showstopper of a space and comes with its own Skypool built into the balcony. You can spend sunset gazing out to the ocean from the privacy of your pool. The spa The Red Lane Spa offers Caribbean-inspired treatments with local products and tailor-made services, including massages, facials and body treatments. Butler service As a concept, this can feel bizarre and a little uncomfortable. But every Skypool suite comes with a dedicated butler who is available to you throughout your stay. They're just a text or a call away through a phone provided. A top tip would be to use your butler to reserve your sunbeds around the pool or beach in the mornings. You'll also need to reserve certain restaurants at the resort, which can be done through your butler. A gym with a view Lying around at the pool all day can make you feel like you need to work up an appetite for dinner. I can honestly say the resort's gym blew me away. It beats the concrete view I get on the treadmill at my North London PureGym, any day. A seven-night stay for two adults at Sandals Dunn's River, Jamaica, staying in a Travertine Luxury Room costs from £2,059 per adult. Price includes all-inclusive accommodation, return economy class flights with British Airways from London Gatwick Airport and resort transfers. Price is date-specific and valid for travel on 19 September 2025. Includes a £150 saving per booking when booked via UCHL by Tuesday 29 July 2025, quoting the promocode 'SUMMER'. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: I stayed in one of the world's biggest Four Seasons resorts — it was the ultimate reset MORE: I spent five days in the less-crowded Canaries alternative that's closer to the UK MORE: I tried Heathrow's £3,177 VIP terminal — how the other half fly
Miami Herald
21-05-2025
- Miami Herald
Craving crystal waters, island flavors and relaxation? Islamorada serves it all
If you're dreaming of a summer escape to the Florida Keys — Islamorada, a village of islands nestled between Key Largo and Marathon and a scenic 90-minute drive from Miami — should top your vacation bucket list. Known as the sportfishing capital of the world, Islamorada offers far more than rods and reels. There are unique adventures that include painting alongside a sea lion, swimming with dolphins, and hand-feeding giant tarpon. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the island's monthly art walk, and Islamorada has bragging rights to chef-driven restaurants and locally brewed beers that hit just right after a day on the water. For those looking to unwind, a new luxury resort delivers island vibes and ultimate seclusion — perfect for soaking in serenity. This Islamorada resort is a hidden sanctuary Best for: family vacations, group celebrations, romantic retreats, dog-friendly For those who prefer the luxury of space and privacy over a typical resort, The Islands of Islamorada is a new oceanfront haven with a collection of 22 villas and eight one-bedroom suites tucked in a gated community on a quiet stretch of Old Highway. A feeling of serenity and exclusivity washes over you the moment you pull into the lush drive and the gates close behind you. Staying here feels like having your own private townhouse, and even at full occupancy, the lush grounds never feel crowded. Each spacious, three-story villa features four generous bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, inviting living and dining areas, tranquil balconies, and private outdoor spaces designed for relaxation. There are even special touches left for guests like coffee that's made in the Florida Keys, along with everything you need from towels to dishes. Set along a private stretch of pristine beach, the resort revolves around its most stunning feature: the shallow, crystal-clear water. The property is brimming with amenities designed for both adventure and relaxation. Unwind at one of two waterfront pools, or head out on complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, or a Hobie Cat sailboat. You may even spot an array of fish and sea turtles darting through the water. Play a game of pickleball, fish, or enjoy guilt-free golfing from the driving range on the shore, smashing biodegradable golf balls (fish food) into the water. As evening sets in, grab a front-row seat by the water to catch the sunset, then cozy up under twinkling café lights with a s'mores kit in hand, perfect for roasting around the resort's firepit. Savor the flavors of the 'Key Lime Culinary Trail' Key lime is a signature flavor of the Florida Keys, and The Islands of Islamorada celebrates the citrus fruit with their own curated 'Key Lime Culinary Trail.' Resort guests can hop on complimentary bikes and follow a mapped route highlighting Islamorada's most delicious key lime — inspired bites and sips, all within an easy three-mile radius of the property. Start your day with a key lime pie frappe at Midway Café, then head to Lazy Days for fresh-caught fish coated in Japanese breadcrumbs and topped with a key lime butter sauce. Cool off with a scoop of key lime pie ice cream from family-owned Keys Chocolate & Ice Cream, and cap it all off with a boozy key lime colada at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, a lively waterfront spot that's especially magical at sunset. If you want the best key lime pie on the island, drop in The Trading Post grocery store to grab one of The Key Lime Pie Lady's made-from-scratch pies. While it may not look fancy, this is one of the best Key lime pies you'll ever taste, with just the right balance of sweet and tartness and a flaky graham cracker crust. Boating and fishing are epic adventures in Islamorada Islamorada is famed for its world-class fishing, scenic sandbars and fiery sunsets, and the concierge team at The Islands of Islamorada will arrange a custom charter that departs right from the resort's private marina. One of the top choices is a private sunset cruise with Cheeca Rocks Charters, helmed by the knowledgeable Capt. Rob Reiner. You'll meander through peaceful canals lined with waterfront homes and mangroves, on the lookout for wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and even the occasional crocodile. As the sun begins to set, the boat will anchor in a perfect spot to take in the dramatic colors. To top it off, the captain can drop you at one of his favorite waterfront restaurants for dinner — from there, call a rideshare back to your resort. Bonus: well-behaved dogs are welcome on board, making it a memorable outing for furry companions too. Top dining in Islamorada Islamorada has bragging rights to some of the best dining in the Florida Keys. Those in the know line up outside the doors of the Square Grouper restaurant before 4 p.m. to be the first in line to grab a window table or seat at the bar of the third-floor Sunset Lounge. While the main restaurant opens at 5 p.m., the adults-only upstairs lounge opens at 4:20 p.m. for their epic 'Stoned Happy Hour' that runs through 6 p.m. from Wednesdays to Sundays. The lounge's sky-high perch and oversized windows showcase incredible Gulf views — you may spot manatees or dolphins playing in the marina below — so you'll want to get there early to snag a prime spot before sunset. The other major perk is their amazing seafood deals, like $5 stone crabs (when in season from May to October), $2 blue point oysters and 20% off drinks. Don't skip regular menu highlights like the crispy conch that's served on warm, soft steamed buns, and the wildly flavorful wahoo tataki. If you're looking for an upscale dining experience or a place to celebrate a special occasion, Chef Michael's is an institution that never misses. Only open for dinner, their creative seafood-centric menu stars locally loved favorites such as beautifully prepared ceviche served in a coconut shell, conch and shrimp fritters, and any of their fresh fish preparations and specialties. Reservations are suggested. Papa Joe's Waterfront — a recent reincarnation of its original 1938 location — flaunts a stunning waterfront perch that also begs a sunset celebration. Families and groups of friends will enjoy congregating on the lawn to play games, while adults flock to the upstairs tiki bar to sip something tropical and watch the sun dip into the horizon. The locals come there for their delicious burgers and the smell from the grill will hit you upon arrival. Don't miss these other standout spots: Ziggie & Mad Dog's, a legendary steakhouse; Bayside Gourmet, a cozy, family-owned gem offering everything from deli favorites to fresh-baked goods and pizza; and Island Grill, where the waterfront views are as memorable as their famous tuna nachos. And when it comes to the best coffee and pastries served in a dreamy environment, search out Café Moka, hidden away in the lush Village Square. Paint with a sea lion at Theater of The Sea While the Theater of The Sea is one of the oldest marine mammal facilities in the world and has been family owned since 1946 — there are always new things to do at the tropical park. Time your visit around educational programs centered around the sea turtles, rays and birds that inhabit the lagoons; grab a seat to watch theatrical performances by the resident dolphins and their trainers; and ride their bottomless boat to see the dolphins play in the water. Animal lovers will enjoy interactive experiences like swimming with the dolphins, sea lions and sharks — but if you want an activity that sparks pure joy, book a class to paint with their resident sea lion, Bella (who they rescued and rehabilitated and can't be returned to the ocean). Bella has a neurological disorder, and the team uses enrichment exercises like painting to keep her happy and centered. After picking out your preferred paint colors, you'll hold the canvas as Bella creates her masterpiece by holding a brush in her mouth (watching her concentrate is the most adorable thing you'll ever see). You'll leave with a custom piece of art, and maybe even a kiss from Bella. The experience is $115, but it also includes your park entrance fee. More must-do activities in Islamorada Whether you're a first-timer or regular visitor to Islamorada, don't miss a stop at Robbie's Marina to hand feed the enormous tarpon right from the dock. Simply buy some bait, hold it over the water, and get ready for a heart-pounding moment as the massive silvery fish leap up to grab their snack — cue the giddy screams, laughter, and plenty of photos. If you're a craft beer enthusiast, drop by the neon-yellow Islamorada Brewery and Distillery for one of their beers on tap or a specialty cocktail. Their spacious beer garden is a welcoming hangout spot for friends, family — and even your pup. Florida Keys Brewing Co. is another locally owned microbrewery worthy of a stop to sample a flight of beers that range from favorites to seasonal drops, and to hang out in their beautiful beer garden to play some games or attend one of their many events. And if you're into vibrant island art, mark your calendars for the monthly Morada Way Art Walk, held on the third Thursday of every month. During this well-attended evening event, local galleries keep their doors open late, and the street comes alive with food vendors, artisan booths, and live music.
Telegraph
14-03-2025
- Telegraph
Explore the best of Halkidiki at a luxury Greek retreat
Sitting on a pristine stretch of golden sand on the Aegean coastline, Eagles Palace is the perfect escape for those seeking a beach-based haven that ticks all the boxes. A green hilly backdrop of olive, oak and pine trees screens this luxury retreat on its sunny site, fronted by a 400m private beach lapped by emerald-green sea. From the resort jetty, you can gaze down into clear water and spot schools of darting fish. Survey the scene further afield, and take in the mesmerising views of Ammouliani island and the sacred Mount Athos peninsula. The setting is unbeatable in terms of natural beauty and a sense of timelessness rooted in its geography. Eagles Palace, a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, with its elegant five-star hotel accommodation, lies close to Ouranoupolis on the easternmost leg of the Halkidiki peninsula. The village is the last settlement before the border with the autonomous state of Mount Athos, known as the Holy Mountain, home to Eastern Orthodox monasteries – now designated a Unesco World Heritage Site and shrouded in mystique. At Eagles Palace, tranquillity is a given. If some time away from it all beckons, book a holiday with British Airways Holidays here and you will find modern accommodation in a sophisticated haven. Newly redesigned rooms come with mood-enhancing views of the garden or sea; one- or two-bedroom suites offer privacy and private pools; and the spaciousness of its beach bungalows extends to private terraces and his-and-her sun loungers. For an ultimate treat, check out the Presidential Bungalow, which sleeps four, and includes a private bar, vast marble bathroom, a walk-in wardrobe, private pool and terrace. Direct sea access is the cornerstone of an idyllic stay here. The beach has Blue Flag status, and its gentle incline down to shallow waters makes it well suited to younger children who may be developing their confidence in water-based activities. With a children's pool, an outdoor garden playground and a dedicated kids' club (taking children from four months upwards), there are plenty of permutations for family-centric fun. For some, the siren call of the sunbed will be irresistible, especially as this form of beach relaxation comes with food and drink ready to be ordered at the press of a button on the parasol. For others, a chief port of call will be the well-established watersports centre that has a range of equipment (and private tuition) to suit all appetites and age groups, from windsurfs, kayaks and paddle boards to Quba dinghies and a Hobie Cat. Guests can also charter a motorboat or a skippered yacht to explore the myth-infused coastline. When it comes to hospitality, this five-star family-run establishment has a 100-year legacy in delighting the most discerning palates. The restaurants and bars offer an enticing mix of Greek and Mediterranean menus, fresh seafood and international specialities, from buffet-style to à la carte. The service is warm, friendly and personal. Oenophiles will be pleasantly surprised by the carefully curated wine list. No holiday is complete without a focus on wellness. The spa menu comes highly recommended for a holistic range of treatments for face and body rejuvenation using Elemis products. Don't miss out on a signature massage, in which cleansing mineral salts and aromatic oil-blends are administered by experts. The more adventurous might prefer to explore the surrounding area, either hiking or mountain biking, or kayaking across to the island of Ammouliani. If you arrive frazzled, you will certainly leave with a newfound harmony of body and soul – and with the peace of mind that comes from travelling with British Airways Holidays. British Airways Holidays packages include a generous baggage allowance for each customer and come with full Atol protection for complete peace of mind. Secure your Halkidiki holiday to Eagles Palace with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.* *Based on two sharing. Full balance due four weeks before departure for short haul holiday bookings. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply.
