The 25 Best Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts – 2014

From Caribbean Journal

Sometimes an all-inclusive resort is exactly what you need.  Or, in the case of an extreme winter, exactly what the doctor ordered: sun-drenched beaches, no wallets, no stress, no schedules and plenty of space to wind down … or wind up, depending upon your mood and disposition. But all-inclusive resorts can be purposeful as well.  There are all-inclusive vacations that are perfect for weddings and family reunions, there are special ones for romance and couples and still others for families and watersport adventures. There are even all inclusive vacations where you can go for fitness and wellness. These are the Caribbean’s best all-inclusive resorts for 2014, with even more properties than last year, looking at all factors, from food and service to beaches and bars.

#1 Spice Island Beach Resort – Grenada

You won’t realize this family-run gem of a property is an all-inclusive at all — until you have dinner or hit the bar, that is. A quintessentially Caribbean resort, with all the trappings of laid-back luxury (and terrific food), right on Grand Anse Beach.

#2 The BodyHoliday — St Lucia

Yes, you can head to a Caribbean all-inclusive resort and come back, not just refreshed, but actually healthier. From advanced exercise to top-notch spa treatments, this wellness-focused all-inclusive in St Lucia says that “if you give us your body, we will give you back your mind.” And it’s true.

#3 Grand Velas Riviera Maya — Mexico

The Riviera Maya is home to many of the best all-inclusives in the world, but for us, the Grand Velas Riviera Maya takes the cake. It’s only been around for about six years, but it’s quickly risen to the top. The Grand Velas has unmatched cuisine, oversized suites with ocean or jungle views and a great spa to boot.

#4 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana — Dominican Republic

Sure, it’s a large, expansive all-inclusive resort on the surface. But underneath all of the flash is a truly terrific resort — with great food, raucous concerts, an awe-inspiring pool and a naturally beautiful Dominican beach.

# 5 The Caves — Jamaica

A Jamaican classic. Set in bohemian Negril, The Caves redefines the idea of a boutique all-inclusive resort, with breathtaking cliffside vistas, flowing Blackwell rum and impeccable service.

#6 Sandals Emerald Bay — Bahamas

When it comes to an all-inclusive titan like Sandals, it’s hard to pick a favorite. But this year, we went with the company’s hotel in Great Exuma. You can’t find a location much more stunning than the Exumas — nor can you find a much more beautiful beach.

#7 Couples Tower Isle – Jamaica

Couples resorts are all about romance; at this Ocho Rios resort, romance surrounds you, from the beach to the piano bar to the private island.

#8 Galley Bay — Antigua

This Elite Island Resort in Antigua has that perfect cocktail of romance, beach, food and relaxation, all in an intimate beachfront setting with less than 100 rooms. Make sure you go for the Gaugin Cottages.

#9 Tiamo — Bahamas

Tiamo is located on the island of South Andros, an island that feels remote even for the Out Islands of the Bahamas. And that’s a wonderful thing. This tiny property is nothing like the traditional conception of the All-Inclusive — it’s solar-powered, organic-focused and quite possibly the greenest all-inclusive in the region.

#10 Jumby Bay — Antigua

This property is set on a 300-acre private island off the coast of Antigua. It has all of the luxurious features you’d expect in a Rosewood, with the comfort and ease of an all-inclusive.

AND AT # 18 is The Reef — Grand Cayman

All-inclusive resorts aren’t the first things that come to mind when you think of Grand Cayman, but The Reef brings all-inclusive convenience right on the beach on the East End of the island. Happily, every suite and studio at the property is beachfront.

To see the whole list of 25 and much more go to:

http://www.caribjournal.com/2014/03/06/the-25-best-caribbean-all-inclusive-resorts-2014/