Music
Ashley Joy Parker
Escape The Rain: 7 Tropical Travel Spots That Should Be On Your Radar
- By: Ashley Joy Parker
- February 29, 2024
Sunny skies ahead.…
Let’s be honest, the weather here in LA has sucked lately. Sure, we don’t get the blizzards like our friends on the east coast, but this winter, our City of Angels has been plagued with a devilish amount of rain and some bitter temps.
While the weather outside remains frightful, there is no better time to plan a tropical getaway. Think sunny skies, white sandy beaches, jaw-dropping pools, luxurious accommodations, tequila drinks and more.
From an expansive resort in Puerto Vallarta to a new boutique hotel in Turks & Caicos, check out seven tropical travel destinations that should be on your radar.
The Riviera Maya EDITION – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Just opened in November, The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai introduces a completely new concept of laidback luxury to the Caribbean coastline, Situated within a 620-acre nature reserve with two miles of pristine white-sand beachfront, the property rises up from a forest of mangroves. Set within Kanai, a new luxury resort community in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the latest EDITION was designed with a minimal construction and environmental footprint to protect and preserve the area renowned for its mangroves, lagoons, ancient Mayan cities, tropical beaches and the Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second-largest coral reef.
The property boasts 182 guestrooms, including 30 suites, with numerous rooms featuring plunge pools and terraces that provide stunning ocean or mangrove views. Additionally, it offers a one-of-a-kind, 27,000 sq. ft. Sky Rooftop Villa, the largest hotel penthouse in North America featuring unmatched ocean views through floor-to-ceiling glass on three sides, a mid-Olympic-size outdoor infinity pool, and an expansive landscaped entertainment deck.
Within this magical ecosystem of nature and sustainable luxury, EDITION presents culinary experiences unlike any others, envisioned by award-winning chefs Francisco “Paco” Ruano and Tomás Bermúdez, two of Mexico’s most acclaimed and youngest chef-restaurateurs. Helming EDITION’s signature restaurant, KI’IS (a Mayan word that translates to “zest”), Chef Ruano creates a modern Mexico dining experience with a tasting menu inspired by regional flavors, local ingredients, and a clear focus on the sea and the Mexican vegetable pantry, especially that of the Yucatan Peninsula.
With his concept for EDITION’s beach club restaurant, SO’OL (meaning “oyster” in Mayan), Chef Bermúdez brings cuisine reminiscent of a Mediterranean beach club with Mexican influence. The casual beachfront venue focuses on seafood with southern France and eastern Mediterranean inspiration, featuring fresh oysters, clams, aguachiles and raw fish from the best catch in the Mexican seas. Adjacent to the beach club and pool is a private pier, featuring 10 lounge-style cabanas with direct access to the ocean.
Of equal importance is The Spa, located in the main lobby building, next to the fitness center. Echoing the cenote inspired architecture, the central spa lounge sits directly beneath the bamboo yoga dome structure and water landscape, so guests can look up through the glass ceiling at the terrestrial world above. Curving hallways patrons on a delightful discovery journey to the hydrotherapy pools, a private outdoor pool, a Turkish hammam and infrared capsule room. Centered on local florals and aromatics and with a focus on wellness, mindfulness, customization and one-on-one connection with its therapists and aestheticians, The Spa offers six indoor-outdoor treatment rooms (including a couple’s suite) named after local white flowers. As for the local touch, massages will be enhanced with a custom mousse, a blend infused with The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai exclusive essential oils, synergies, and Bach flowers to follow the floral concept.
The Riviera Maya EDITION
Paseo Kanai 14, Solidaridad, 77730 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
@editionrivieramayakanai
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas – Dominican Republic
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas opened in La Romana almost 50 years ago as the first resort in the Dominican Republic. Today, it is a favorite luxury destination for discerning travelers and celebrities who relish the private gated community for its safe and exclusive setting. Spawling 7,000 acres, the resort boasts 247 guest rooms and 50 private villa homes, including the jaw-dropping Oceanfront Villa which sleeps 27 guests. To help navigate the property, every room here comes with a golf cart.
Onsite, there are eight outstanding restaurants, including the resort’s first restaurant, the Italian-themed La Piazzetta. The space, originally decorated by Oscar de la Renta, is set in what is is reminiscent of a Mediterranean medieval village and overlooking Altos de Chavón. At the heart of the Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, La Caña Bar & Restaurant takes its name from the sugar cane crops that surround the town of La Romana and have been the driving force of the local economy since the 1900s. The restaurant highlights and elevates local ingredients within the context of French-inspired fare. Guests congregate at the bar and lounge area on a nightly basis to enjoy the sounds of local live music as well as hand-rolled cigars and an extensive selection of Dominican rums.
There is also the stunning Minitas Beach Club, immersed in a tropical beachfront landscape, offers sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea, and unquestionably one of the best sunsets on the island. Guests can unwind on the expansive pool deck with its infinity pool, enjoy specialty house cocktails at the ocean-view bar or savor a memorable meal at the restaurant.
For golf enthusiasts, Casa de Campo is heaven. Known as the best golf resort in the world, the famous 3 Pete Dye golf courses include Teeth of the Dog , the #1 ranked course in the Caribbean. Beyond the green, the activities are world-class. The has resort also has an on-site marina where you can charter fishing excursions, a tennis center with 13 courts, a movie theater, an Equestrian & Polo Center a shooting center and a three-mile jogging trail that runs throughout the property.
The SPA at Casa de Campo, the ultimate luxury wellness destination in the Dominican Republic, is also not to be missed. With over 2,000 square meters of opulent indoor and outdoor facilities, the spa offers an array of prestigious spa services and indulgent wellness experiences, as well as the latest in cutting-edge technology. There are 12 lavishly-appointed treatment rooms featuring private gardens and outdoor rain showers for the ultimate in relaxation. Guests can choose from a range of relaxing, hands-on experiences such as massages and facials, results-oriented therapies such as the JetPeel Facial and Triple Detox Therapy, or technology-supported and hands-free treatments such as Binaural Acoustic & Dynamic Stimulation.
Casa de Campo
C3CJ+8F La Romana, Dominican Republic
@casadecampodr
Ocean Breeze Resort – Turks and Caicos
Nestled on the idyllic island of North Caicos in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Ocean Breeze Resort is a new luxurious boutique hotel offersing a serene and opulent experience amidst the stunning backdrop of pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Located a short eight minute walk to the beach, Ocean Breeze Resort, which opened in December, offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Every corner of this elegant resort has been carefully crafted to provide guests with an unforgettable stay. From the exquisitely designed rooms and balconies overlooking breathtaking vistas to the fully equipped kitchens, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to cater to the discerning needs of the modern traveler.
One of the highlights of the resort is the dining experience at Cilantros Bar & Grill. Located within the resort, this exquisite on-site restaurant takes guests on a culinary journey with a delightful fusion of flavors. From mouthwatering dishes inspired by the freshest local ingredients to tantalizing cocktails expertly crafted by skilled mixologists, every meal becomes a celebration of the senses.
For those seeking an active retreat, Ocean Breeze Resort boasts a modern fitness center that goes beyond the usual expectations. Equipped with state-of-the-art cardio machines, guests can enjoy a well-rounded workout while basking in breathtaking views. To unwind, guests can indulge in the serenity of the spa/treatment room, where a selection of soothing treatments await to pamper the senses and rejuvenate the soul.
Ocean Breeze Resort is not just a place to stay; it is an experience that promises to create memories that will last a lifetime. With its commitment to exceptional service and attention to detail, the resort aims to elevate the standard of luxury in North Caicos.
Ocean Breeze Resort – Turks and Caicos
X23X+2PP, Ocean Breeze Drive, Whitby TKCA 1ZZ, Turks & Caicos Islands
@oceanbreezeresorttci
Blue Desert – Los Cabos, Mexico
Los Cabos is one of the few places in world where the dunes of the desert meet the waves of the ocean. Drawing inspiration from Baja’s enamouring landscape, Blue Desert Cabo has become an elite bucket list destination in Mexico, boasting a collection of opulent villas and rental properties. From the pristine beaches to the panoramic ocean views, to the private chefs, Blue Desert Cabo Luxury Villas is tailor-made for guests who value quality interactions and love the awe-inspiring feeling of discovery.
Staying in your own private villa, Blue Desert Cabo brings the resort experience to you. On the edge of the Sea of Cortez, each extraordinary villa boasts five to 10+ bedrooms. Many of the gated properties also feature infinity pools, outdoor bars and patios, fire pits, ocean-front views, private beachside entrances and house cleaning service. At a Blue Desert property, guests’ own private villa becomes their own private resort, offering many of the same amenities as a Five-Star resort, minus the crowds.
Staying in your own private villa, Blue Desert Cabo brings the resort experience to you. On the edge of the Sea of Cortez, each extraordinary villa boasts five to 10+ bedrooms. Many of the gated properties also feature infinity pools, outdoor bars and patios, fire pits, ocean-front views, private beachside entrances and house cleaning service. At a Blue Desert property, guests’ own private villa becomes their own private resort, offering many of the same amenities as a Five-Star resort, minus the crowds.
Blue Desert’s best-in-class concierge team is what sets them apart. They will build a custom itinerary just for you. If you want to swim with whale sharks, they’ll make it happen. If you want a massage poolside, done. If you want to go deep-sea fishing, they’ll do that too. They can even have the fish that you caught cooked up by a private chef in the comfort of your villa that same evening. Traveling for a special occasion? From health & wellness retreats to bachelorette parties to weddings, Blue Desert will plan everything from A to Z.
In addition to providing jaw-dropping accommodations and bespoke itineraries, Blue Desert Cabo prides itself on providing an inclusive, welcoming environment for all of its guests. Sean McClenahan, the owner of Blue Desert Cabo, is a part of the LGBTQ+ community and has made this inclusivity a part of his mission from the beginning after experiencing discrimination in while traveling.
“Many years ago, my husband and I had a terrible experience in Cabo where we were discriminated against for being a part of the LGBTQ+ community,” he says. “That was something I never wanted anyone else to experience, so wanted to make sure that it was incorporated into my business.”
Blue Desert Cabo
Calle Bahia de Palmas, Plaza Bahia #2, Zona Hoteleria San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
@bluedesertcabo
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort – Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Along Hawaii’s Kona Coast awaits a captivating destination sought after by voyagers for centuries. Officially opened last summer, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort call this sacred land of Kaʻūpūlehu home. An inspired reimagination of the original Kona Village Resort, which first opened in the 1960s and subsequently shuttered in 2011, a familiar silhouette has returned to the island’s horizon. Spanning 81 acres of stunning geologic landscape, Kona Village pulls inspiration from Kaʻūpūlehu’s heritage, culture, and natural surroundings. In keeping with efforts to preserve and restore the local environment, the resort is designed to uphold and honor the land’s centuries-long legacy of stewardship.
In addition to embodying Hawai’i’s cultural heritage through craftsmanship, the concept of ‘ohana is channeled through the property’s layout, which centers the 150 guest hale, themselves spread across several village-like crescents, around the resort’s shared spaces. Spanning one to four bedrooms, these traditional Hawaiian structures offer the private comfort of a refined beach bungalow and are yet another nod to the former days of Kona Village. Around the entire resort, a custom collection of art reflects Hawai’i’s layered identity. Over 60 multimedia artists–the majority of whom are native Hawaiians or residents– visited the land during the property’s reimagination for an immersion into its rich spirit and story.
Focused on fresh, local ingredients, international influences, and indigenous practices, Kona Village’s array of restaurants and bars add to Hawai’i’s unique culinary landscape. From Moana, the resort’s signature restaurant featuring an elevated, Pacific Rim-to-table experience; to Kahuwai Cookhouse and Market, where traditional Hawaiian cooking techniques are on display, the dining program has been crafted as an extension of the destination experience. The beverage outposts provide a convivial way to connect with the past, and legacy guests will recognize the iconic Shipwreck and Talk Story Bars which have been lovingly restored and occupy enviable locations along the shoreline.
At the heart of Kona Village, Kahuwai Bay is the launchpad for the resort’s Kilo Kai, or Ocean Pursuits program, which educates guests on the power of the wai. This appreciation of the ocean is woven through all water activities, with highlights including guided paddle using the traditional Hawaiian canoe. Additional recreational facilities include tennis, paddle, and bocce ball courts as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center, while the Hoʻokipa lawn and stage hosts Kona Village’s lū’au – traditional Hawaiian feasts that are now a way to celebrate life and its milestone moments.
Just beyond, built into the black lava flow with views toward the Hualālai volcano, Asaya Spa at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort offers a unique interpretation of Rosewood’s integrative wellness concept. With a menu of therapies inspired by the spiritual quality and natural landscape of Kaʻūpūlehu, Asaya Spa aims to connect guests with the resort’s location.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort
72 300 Maheawalu Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
@konavillagerosewood
S Hotel – Montego Bay Jamaica
Located on the iconic Jimmy Cliff Boulevard in Montego Bay, S Hotel is a living embodiment of Jamaican culture and heritage. The award-winning all-inclusive resort immerses guests in a tapestry of Jamaican history and artistry, featuring sculptures of renowned Jamaican figures, 10-foot-long Jamaican-inspired boots adorned in traditional colors, and a lively passa passa-themed reggae and dancehall nightclub named Club S, providing an authentic Jamaican nightlife experience.
As the only luxury hotel gracing the pristine Doctor’s Cave Beach, S Hotel Jamaica welcomes guests aged 16 and over, and offers a diverse selection of culinary delights, wellness amenities, interactive guest experiences, and local excursions.
A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, S Hotel features spacious suites (with spa-inspired bathrooms), two impressive pools and beach access. The property boasts three bars, a 24-hour chic café and five restaurants offering authentic Jamaican and international cuisine. Standouts include Jamrock on the Sky Deck offering classics such as rack of lamb, various cuts of steak, and wild-caught salmon and Roots Rock serving up uo authentic Jamaican classics, including ackee and jerk chicken in an artful space designed by Rohan Blair.
The resort also houses the subterranean Irie Spa with three plunge pools and a sauna, a fully equipped gym, and meticulously designed rooms that seamlessly blend modern sensibilities with the vibrant essence of Jamaica.
S Hotel – Montego Bay Jamaica
7 Jimmy Cliff Ave, Montego Bay, Jamaica
@shoteljamaica
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
For those in search of a good tan and some good tequila, there is no better time to check out the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. The beachside resort is nestled along Jalisco Mexico’s pristine Banderas Bay with stunning views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and literally steps from the ocean. All rooms and suites come with a balcony or terrace overlooking the beach, resort or garden so your will never be far from an incredible view.
For those looking for fun, there is no lack of drinking and dining options on site from the casual Mexican restaurant La Estancia, to the bi-level Nosh Sunset Bar + Bites overlooking the pool and ocean and the Champions Sports Bar so guests don’t miss a minute of the game while on vacay. For a taste of Japan in Marina Vallarta, guests can pop into Mikado, a stylish restaurant offering made-to-order sushi, teppanyaki favorites and a mean lychee martini. There is also the ultra-chic Ceviche & Tequila Bar boasting more than 180 tequilas, a dozen draft beers, exclusive speciality cocktails and a variety of sea-based bites.
To dive deeper into the tequila world, guests can book an unparalleled tasting experience with the property’s official tequila sommelier. The hotel is actually the only Marriott destination in the world to bottle its own brand of tequila, Casamagna. Harvested from blue agave plants grown onsite at the hotel and in other parts of the Jalisco region of Mexico, the exclusive tequila is offered in blanco, reposado, añejo and extra añejo varieties.
Looking to relax after exploring nearby downtown Puerto Vallarta? Book a treatment at the decadent Ohtli Spa or take a dip in the stunning infinity pool, which boasts a fun swim up bar. Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa has also partnered with government officials and local biologists to help with the conservation of local Ridley Sea Turtles. With its own hatchery on-site, the resort’s efforts alone have resulted in hundreds of thousands of baby sea turtles safely returned to the ocean. Guests are invited to participate in nightly sea turtle releases, making it one of the coolest and heartwarming experiences one can have in Mexico.
Marriott Puerto Vallarta
Av Paseo de la Marina Nte 435, Marina Vallarta, 48335 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
@marriottpv
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