Frommer's Review
The first Amanresorts property in the West Indies was such a big deal when it finally opened in early 2006 that Travel + Leisure magazine devoted an entire cover article to it. It's a big deal, all right, bringing a whole new style of luxury to the region. It's a luxe that's the polar opposite of fussy and ostentatious, however, with Amanresorts' trademark elegant simplicity of form, integrity of materials, and devotion to eco principles. Yes, the prices are exorbitant, but many people think it's worth every penny.
The classically aligned main resort buildings practically float on reflecting pools and ponds, in obeisance to Amanresorts' love of all things symmetrical. The bar has a golden imported-wood ceiling that soars toward the sunlight. The infinity pool, fashioned of speckled black Indonesian lava, has three linen-wrapped sofa-bed pods.
The 40 individual pavilions are private, stand-alone houses, three sides of which are glass. Outside, wraparound patios are enveloped in native scrub brush, sea grape, and sea ox-eye daisies. It's very earthbound, if not for the exceptional gadgets: Flip open your laptop and go online, groove to the surround-sound Bose system, or switch on the flatscreen TV. Privately owned three-, four-, and five-bedroom villas are also available for rent; each is centered around its own infinity pool and has a personal cook and housekeeper and the use of two golf carts (Jan 6-May 31 and Nov 1-Dec 18 $5,200-$12,000/£2,600-£6,000; June 1-Oct 31 $3,950-$9,750 (£1,975-£4,875); ask about Christmas holiday rates.
The Restaurant serves an Asian-influenced international cuisine either inside or on a candlelit alfresco patio; the Beach Club serves lunch and afternoon tea. The resort and staff are very kid-friendly; management is happy to provide not only cribs and nannies but Diaper Champs, baby botanicals, and toddler stools and training potties -- the kitchen also makes homemade baby food (mashed veggies, mashed fruit)! Don't be surprised, however, if some of your fellow guests aren't jumping for joy to see the kiddies around -- this is a place where people come to seek peace and quiet and thoroughly chill out, not listen to toddlers being, well, toddlers.
Facilities:
2 restaurants; bar/lounge; outdoor pool; 2 clay tennis courts; fitness center; spa services on request; nonmotorized watersports; boutique; babysitting; laundry service; afternoon tea; yoga classes; movie screening room; library; Wi-Fi
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
