Step into This Resort's Oceanfront Arrival Like a Guest in "The White Lotus"

Every time my buddies and I chat about our vacation Wish lists frequently include discussions about all-inclusive resorts. In today’s world, where each streaming service and coffee purchase comes with additional charges and hidden fees, there is a certain liberating quality—even an element of enchantment—to stepping into a resort where everything is seemingly covered from the start. everything is included.

However, at numerous all-inclusive establishments, one often encounters unexpected costs: sluggish service, packed swimming areas, or maybe the most disappointing aspect—uninteresting cuisine. Discovering an all-inclusive resort that operates smoothly and maintains a sense of luxury can be akin to seeking the Holy Grail; it necessitates thorough investigation, persistence, and some fortune.

However, as I found out this spring, if spotting a rainbow is considered a symbol of good fortune, then tourists to Sandals in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines you certainly had a fortunate experience. On a recent journey, I witnessed the most striking rainbows of my lifetime, with as many as four appearing within a single day.

However, that was not the sole reason for my sense of luck. It dawned on me that fate had been kind, guiding me towards a rare find—the perfect blend of an all-encompassing vacation package and a high-end luxurious escape.

The Location

Surrounded by lush mountains and a slow-moving river, the resort is tucked away in a peaceful inlet on the west coast of Saint Vincent, which is the biggest among the 32 islands making up the nation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Located in the eastern Caribbean Just south of Saint Lucia lies a volcanic island adorned with stunning black and white sand beaches, secret cascading waterfalls, and dense tropical rainforests. While the landscape may remind you of Hawaii, the island boasts a distinct cultural identity reflected in the relaxed and hospitable nature of its inhabitants, affectionately called Vincys.

The Arrival

After landing at the tiny Argyle International Airport, guests are shuttled along the island’s windy roads to a nearby marina, where a comfortable catamaran awaits. Once ice-cold bottles of Hairoun —a standout local lager—are in hand, the boat departs for a scenic half-hour tour along the coast, past the bustling capital of Kingstown, before pulling into the serene Buccament Bay.

For fans of The White Lotus Upon arriving, you'll feel right at home as butlers and additional staff members stand along the dock, eager to personally welcome every guest with a refreshing cocktail before leading them to their accommodations. (Please note: Complimentary boat transfers are provided for those with butler-level status, though these must be reserved in advance. All visitors can opt for a 45-minute land transfer which is readily available.)

The Scene

The crowd includes a mix of first-time visitors and loyalists to the Sandals brand. Throughout my stay, I encountered several young newlyweds, who had chosen to honeymoon on Saint Vincent because of its reputation as one of the most romantic islands in the Caribbean.

That said, just as common were middle-aged and retired couples who were either celebrating an anniversary or returning to try the newest gem in the Sandals crown, which opened in March 2024. One couple I met was visiting from Charlotte, North Carolina, after having loved previous vacations at Sandals resorts in Barbados and Cu raçao .

Although the customer base varies widely, they share a single characteristic: nearly all of them are partnered adults. At Sandals, the focus is on fostering romance and providing relaxation, thus the ambiance caters specifically toward couples. (Single individuals, friends traveling together, and families are welcome to visit as well.) Beaches Resorts , a sibling brand under the ownership of the parent company of Sandals.)

The Rooms

With an impressive size of nearly 600 square feet, even the smallest option—the Bamboo Palm Room—is quite roomy. Each accommodation comes equipped with a balcony or patio featuring a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, which is a signature element at Sandals resorts. Fitness enthusiasts can opt for the Lady Palm Club Suite, which includes additional amenities. personal Technogym fitness room With an exercise bike, additional special features include suites equipped with a media room and poolside suites that allow direct access from the swimming pool.

For those seeking more space, the resort offers a colorful collection of beachfront villas with private pools, butler’s pantries, and one or two bedrooms. I stayed in the resort’s largest suite—the 1,600-square-foot Beachfront Two-Bedroom Butler Villa —and I can report that it is both spacious and chic.

Like the resort itself, my villa’s decor embraced a casual beach house vibe; natural materials like stone and wood mixed with crisp white upholstery, calming neutral accents, and hints of navy blue. Nestled in a prime position near the Parisol beachside bar, this villa is perfect for friends who are vacationing together. With a gorgeous plunge pool just steps from the sand, I rarely felt like I needed to leave the suite.

Another enviable accommodation is the Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villa . A hallmark of resorts in French Polynesia and the Maldives, overwater bungalows were first brought to this region by Sandals in 2016, and these 10 units mark the first two-story iterations in the Caribbean. Guest at these villas can enjoy outdoor decks with access to the water below, as well as a semi-open-air upper floor with daybed for lounging.

Butler Service

For those who choose butler-level accommodations, a team of personal butlers is assigned to each suite and available by phone throughout the day. This is a large part of what makes the all-inclusive experience feel truly five-star.

Your butler can schedule activities and dinner reservations, and is also happy to deliver meals and cocktails, while keeping your suite stocked with snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks. They will even unpack your luggage upon request, so you can spend every possible second soaking up the sunshine.

My favorite amenity at the butler level was undoubtedly the morning coffee service. This enabled me to unwind beside my ocean-facing infinity pool with a newly brewed pot of coffee, accompanied by an array of pastries and fruits—all without needing to leave my bedroom attire behind. Those tranquil early mornings were truly precious to me; I genuinely cannot think of a more perfect beginning to the day than these serene instances.

Food and Drink

Although all-inclusive resorts typically offer extensive buffets with unlimited dining options, frequently the quality doesn’t align well with the abundance provided. Hence, discovering 11 delightful eateries right at the location filled me with joy. These include everything from renowned spots like Butch’s Island Chop House—a mainstay at Sandals—down to more modest outlets offering dishes such as salads, pizzas, coffee, and ice creams.

The highlights consist of Gatsu Gatsu, a Japanese izakaya and sushi bar, along with Buccan, which offers an outdoor communal dining experience. At Buccan, diners engage directly with the chef as well as their fellow patrons while enjoying creatively crafted meals prepared using locally sourced ingredients, all seasoned in a Vincentian style over an open fire.

At Parisol, a poolside beach club offering breakfast and lunch, you can find local "Vincy" delicacies as well. The Jerk Shack specializes in jerk chicken, meat-filled patties, and other genuine Jamaican dishes, paying homage to Sandals' origins in Jamaica.

Even though premium spirits can be found all over the resort, Three Jewels Rum Bar is the spot to visit before or after your evening meal for a crafted cocktail experience. Styled as a tropical explorer’s haven, Three Jewels focuses on rum-forward cocktails ranging from Planter’s Punch (a house favorite) to Painkillers. I ordered a Mai Tai—my go-to rum drink—and it was hands-down the best one I’ve ever tasted.

Pools and Beaches

Nestled cozily at Buccament Bay, this resort offers unobstructed beach access with no other hotels nearby. White sands stretch out beneath plentiful chairs and umbrellas, while the tranquil waters feature scarcely noticeable waves that caress the shoreline, providing a soothing ambient soundtrack.

For those who prefer lounging poolside, the resort offers two large whirlpools and five pools, including a SCUBA pool, a beachside infinity pool, and even a heart-shaped pool (standard at all Sandals resorts). The vibe of the main pool changes throughout the day, and by afternoon, there is often a lively game of pool volleyball in session, while other guests cheer on the players from a nearby swim-up bar.

Guests who desire a more serene poolside experience (guilty as charged!) can reserve a cabana just steps from the action or opt for a private-pool villa or a swim-up suite, located on a quieter pool that snakes along one side of the resort.

Excursions and Activities

Active travelers have no shortage of options, and best of all, most activities are free. Guests can choose from SCUBA diving, snorkeling, waterskiing, kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and more, as well as fitness classes and land activities like biking, hiking, tennis, and beach volleyball.

Although all onsite activities are included, the resort also offers more far-flung excursions for a fee. Garden enthusiasts can book a visit to the Saint Vincent Botanical Garden ; founded in 1765, this tropical oasis boasts being the oldest botanical garden in the Western Hemisphere.

I opted for one of the most popular day tours: an all-day island-hopping excursion, that began with a breezy hour-long boat ride to the extremely exclusive personal island of Mustique For many years, it has been a beloved destination among royalty and famous personalities. Following a boat tour around the island where we passed by residences of top-tier stars such as Tommy Hilfiger, we went ashore to participate in optional snorkeling activities and enjoyed a beverage at a local spot. Basil’s Bar , an iconic coastal haven revitalized by designer Philippe Starck In 2018, the day concluded with a trip to Bequia Island, featuring a halt for lunch at the charming Princess Margaret Beach.

Relaxing—and Romantic—Add-Ons

Even though nearly all amenities at Sandals come with your stay, there are several extras worth thinking about. Personally, I highly recommend indulging in treatments at the beautiful spa. Red Lane Spa , located close to a tiny river at the outskirts of the resort, offering an ideal location for relaxation accompanied by the soothing sounds of flowing water.

The spa features a tranquil courtyard relaxation space equipped with a swimming pool, hot tub, and cold plunges, alongside cozy round daybeds. While all these facilities—including a steam room and sauna—are provided free of cost for spa visitors, extra charges apply for services like facials, massages, and body treatments. I chose the "Raindrop Dreams," which was a 90-minute experience starting with seven essential oils dripped onto my back to stimulate each energy center, leading into a soothing full-body massage.

Additionally, you can opt for private dinners on the beach at an additional cost, along with photography packages to capture your journey. These choices are particularly favored by newlyweds, adding to the beauty of their experience. underwater chapel featuring glass flooringpanels awaits those who prefer to plan their actual wedding in paradise. And with million-dollar views, gourmet food, and five-star butler service for an all-inclusive price, who could blame them?

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