Sandals Royal Bahamian recently unveiled a $17.5 million renovated, refined Balmoral Tower with all new rooms, suites with oversized balconies, and a sophisticated lobby with marble floors and stylish chandeliers.
Blog Collection
Grammy Award-Winning Artist at BVI Music Festival 2012
The 2012 British Virgin Islands’ BVI Music Festival will be held over Memorial Day Weekend May 25-27th and is set to feature a wide range of musical stars.
For the first time in several years, the much-anticipated festival will be moving back to the sandy white beaches of Cane Garden Bay, and bringing with it some exciting changes and an array of big-name Grammy Award-Winning performers.
R&B singer Estelle will headline this year’s show along with reggae group Third World Band and the classic group Forever Motown. Local performers will round out the lineup of artists for the three days and nights of music, food, dancing, and fun entertainment.
The festival will feature Soca and Calypso on Friday night, Reggae and Hip Hop on Saturday, and R&B and Soul on Sunday. Jazz and Fungi music also will be highlighted on side stages, as well as an offering of exciting kids’ activities, food, parties, and all-around good times in the perfect island setting.
Don’t miss out on the sun, fun and good times, we’ve got the best deals on hotels on Tortola to get you there!
Top 10 Reasons to Rent a Caribbean Vacation Rental
Caribbean vacation rentals are becoming more popular choices of accommodation for families, couples and people travelling in groups who are looking for a vacation of a lifetime. Here are ten reasons why you should opt for a vacation rental on your next visit to the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean.
- Choosing a Caribbean vacation rental can be a great to enjoy a luxury vacation while making great savings. There are a numerous properties ranging from 1-6 bedrooms and these are priced at a fraction of the cost of hotel accommodation.
- A Caribbean vacation rental gives you the chance to relax while bonding as a group. Unlike hotels, where everyone will have to be placed in a separate room, these rentals give you the chance to live as a single unit.
- Choosing a rental property instead of a hotel gives you more freedom to explore your travel destination. Most hotels packages come with dining options as well as a specific number of fun activities, leaving holidaymakers little time to explore the Caribbean on their own.
- Food, drinks, cinemas and other amenities provided by hotels are much more expensive compared to the local market. Choosing a Caribbean rental accommodation gives you the chance to purchase food, snacks and gift items from locals, which can help you save lots of money.
- Most hotels on the Caribbean islands are usually crowded all year round and this means they may not be able to offer the level of peace and seclusion required by many holidaymakers.
- Caribbean vacation rentals come with fully furnished kitchens which will facilitate cooking by members of your group whenever necessary. This can be vital if you have a limited budget.
- Majority of vacation rentals in the Caribbean are located in the most exclusive neighborhoods of the islands they are built. This helps to enhance your vacation experience.
- Caribbean vacation rentals have world class amenities such as restaurant, fitness centers, shopping malls, swimming pools, etc. This gives you the chance to have as much fun as possible during your vacation.
- Vacation rentals in the Caribbean have full-time staff that can be relied upon round the clock for all your needs. Do you need to buy anything or visit any place? All you have to do is to talk to one of the staff at these luxurious properties.
- Unlike hotels, a Caribbean vacation rental can give you optimum relaxation by making you feel at home. The nature of these villas is no different from homes unlike hotels and therefore gives you the type of relaxation you deserve.
Caribbean Vacation Rentals

If you are looking for an unforgettable getaway in the Caribbean with your partner or family, booking vacation rentals in the Caribbean instead of hotels and resorts can be a very smart investment for you. Even though the Caribbean islands have some of the best hotels and resorts in the world, majority of the vacation rentals are also built to be very plush. In fact, Caribbean vacation rentals are built with the highest standards of luxury in mind which will ensure that you and your family can enjoy the peace, tranquility and pace you need to relax.
Which islands can you find some of the best vacation rentals in the Caribbean? It’s no coincidence that many islands located in that part of the world have become famous all over the world for world class vacationing. You can find exquisite vacation rentals on every island in the Caribbean and as long as you conduct the necessary research, finding a rental property within your budget that beats the expectations of you and your family is easy.
If you are planning to get away to St. Lucia with your partner or family then the Landings St. Lucia should be your first choice when looking for world class rental properties on the island. This is a top notch resort overlooking the beach and situated in the most beautiful part of the island. It provides a wide range of rental villas ranging from 1-3 bedrooms. Residents get access to five star restaurants as well as a long stretch of gorgeous beach, health clubs, tennis courts, kayaks, boats, etc. at the cost of $499-$799 per night.
The Turks and Caicos Islands also have some of the most exclusive vacation rentals in the Caribbean. The Sands at the renowned Grace Bay beach comes into mind when looking for a penultimate vacation on the heavenly island. Located on a beach with beautiful white sands, The Sands provides 1-3 bedroom fully-furnished condos starting from less than $300 per night. Imagine unwinding in a suite with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean and evergreen courtyards. You can also find equally exquisite vacation rentals in the Caribbean on islands such as the Saint Bart’s, Saint Martin, Jamaica, St. Thomas, Belize, Cayman Islands, etc.
Visit our Caribbean Vacation Rentals engine to get started.
Grenada – Spice Island of the Caribbean
Grenada Known as the Spice Island of the Caribbean, the scents of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and ginger waft on balmy air, over the idyllic island of Grenada.

The Islands lie at the southernmost tip of the Windward Islands. An ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing, tropical holiday, Grenada has over 40 picturesque white sand beaches with turquoise waters, exciting aquatic sports, bountiful natural preserves, cultural and historical sites and a pleasant year round average climate of 23ºC or 80ºF. Local markets are filled with the taste of the tropics and local handicrafts. From the historical treasures of the architecture, to the magnificent and numerous waterfalls, rainforests and natural preserves, Grenada is a country of unspoilt natural beauty in the tranquil region of the West Indies. Excellent accommodation ranges from luxury hotels, through affordable family friendly hotels to self-catering apartments and intimate guesthouses.The architecture is sympathetic and no building may be taller than a palm tree! Grenada has some of the most beautiful beaches and the prettiest harbour in the Caribbean.
The Spice of the Caribbean
Fill your senses with Grenada, the Spice Island. Hear the sweet music of the steel bands as you stroll along the island’s passageways, the tropical birds’ calls in the luscious, delicate rainforests, or the sound of the waiter’s step bringing your afternoon cocktail as you relax in the sun. Let your feet feel the warmth of the white sand beaches, your palms and wrists be cooled by the crystal clear sea, and your spirit lifted by the gentle tropical breeze. See the splendid, breathtaking views from the harbour and mountains or the quiet underwater world landscaped with miles of preserved coral reefs inhabited by colourful and plentiful marine life.
Indulge yourself and taste the flavours of the native Grenadian cuisine, some of the most exciting and delicious in the region.This is Grenada, a full-bodied, gorgeous spice island that permeates all your senses with the unique scent of its spices.
The Islands
Grenada, and its sister islands of Carriacou & Petite Martinique offer a wide assortment of tropical vistas, exciting aquatic sports, bountiful natural preserves, and cultural and historical sites to fill any holiday.There are idyllic beaches with white sand, palm trees, cooling waters and aromas of native spices carried by the Caribbean breeze. Carriacou is a twenty-minute flight or a 90-minute ferry ride away from Grenada.
Aquatic Life
Being a country of three unique islands, one of Grenada’s most lovely features is the clear, turquoise waters.With over forty pristine beaches from which to choose, you can swim and sunbathe in the glorious rays of the sunshine or explore beneath the sparkling seas viewing the extensive reef formations and a vast range of marine life which include morays, angelfish, octopuses, sharks, and sea-horses among many others. Large shipwrecks still fascinate divers and Grenada has quite an assortment from which to choose. The treasures held underneath the sea remain generally untouched by crowds and are accessible for either the experienced or novice diver or snorkeler.
Parks & Rainforests
One-ninth of Grenada’s landmass is preserved as parks and natural wildlife sanctuaries. Luscious, bountiful tropical forests are filled with a large variety of flora and fauna. Glorious waterfalls cascading into clear pools in some of the stunning rainforests provide the most breathtaking natural views. A leader in the growth of eco-tourism, the government of Grenada is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the country. The unspoilt, green landscape and the thriving wildlife of Grenada are just two of its many treasures the visitor can enjoy today and for future generations of tomorrow.
Cultural & Historical Interests
Historic delights include three military forts offering magnificent views of the harbour, the exquisite Georgian architecture of the Houses of Parliament and the fascinating artifacts housed in the Grenada National Museum.The capital, St. George’s, is filled with well-preserved examples of French and English colonial architecture.
The St George’s Saturday market is a spectacular event in its own right offering a wide assortment of fresh produce, numerous spices and affordable handicrafts. The genuine friendliness and warmth of the Grenadians, the true hidden jewels of the country welcomes visitors from all over the globe and invites you to explore the Spice of the Caribbean in Grenada.
Three intriguing Islands
The three main islands that make up the nation state of Grenada include Grenada (pronounced Gra-nay-da), Carriacou (pronounced Carry-akoo) and Petite Martinique (pronounced Pitty Mar-ti-neek).
Grenada has a second popular name: The Isle of Spice – so named because there are more spices per square mile here than any other place on the planet. Grenada produces a third of the world’s nutmeg supply and is the second largest producer in the world. Other spices grown in Grenada include cloves, cinnamon, mace, cocoa, ginger, turmeric and vanilla.
Grenada has a rich history and was first sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1498. Between 1609 and 1783, Grenada changed hands between the French and the British until the Treaty of Versailles awarded Grenada to Britain. However, the French heritage still lives on in Grenada, with many places having French names. Grenada became an independent nation on February 7th, 1974.
Grenada is one of the most scenic islands in the Caribbean. Its many bays and sheltered anchorage’s make it one of the main yachting centres in the eastern Caribbean, its coral reefs and clear waters make it a mecca for divers. Its beaches and natural istory are perfect for the holiday of a lifetime.
Instant Savings of $400 at Sandals Resorts
Instant Savings of $400 at Sandals Resorts with Promo Code!
For a limited time, guests who book a stay at Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island will be able to receive an instant savings of $400.00.
This offer is valid in ANY room category at Sandals Royal Bahamian and it is combinable with Savings up to 65%.
New upgrades at Alexandria Resort, Turks & Caicos Islands
The Alexandra Resort located on the famous Grace Bay in the Turks & Caicos Islands recently opened the first resort oceanfront reception center in Providenciales.
The resort’s new facility features an oceanfront deck along with a concierge desk area with complimentary guest work station. The property also features several additional upgraded featured including updated guest suite and resort facilities, new non-motorized water sport equipment, introduction of complimentary cold drinking water at the beach, food and beverage service by Mango Reef restaurant at the beach, new flat screen TV’s and linens in all guest suites in the Prima Donna building and complimentary Wolfgang Puck coffee and tea in guest suites.
Choice Hotels – Jamaica
Choice Hotels International is currently underway expanding its Caribbean range of accommodations.With current projects under development in Anguilla, Dominica and the island of Haiti, Choice now has interest in additional developments in Jamaica.
Bill Clegg, regional vice president for brand performance and programs of Choice Hotels International, recently revealed the company’s interest in Jamaica at the recent Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Marketplace in The Bahamas.
Clegg identified Jamaica as one of the top five 2012 target markets for Choice Hotels, while also hinting interest in Aruba, Barbados, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The company is keen on offering its traditional economy and midscale brands, but a priority for Choice and the region is the new upscale Ascend Collection membership program for independent hotels which fall into the historic, boutique or unique categories.
“We are very keen on re-establishing our presence in Jamaica and driving more business to an already robust tourism destination within the region,” said Clegg, who recently spent a vacation on the island.
What do you think of the expansion of the Choice Hotels chain throughout the region?
Caribbean Travel & Leisure Improves Customers’ Mobile Shopping Experience with Optimized Mobile Site
We’re happy to announce the release of our new hotel shopping experience for Caribbean Travel & Leisure mobile web customers. Simple, and easy to use, the mobile site is designed to help travelers find and book the perfect trip, whether they are at home, on the road or anywhere in between.
Customers visiting Caribbean Travel & Leisure’s website will automatically be redirected to our mobile hotel booking path, but can otherwise connect by visiting http://res.caribbeantl.com/m/

New Bungalows at Jalousie Plantation
The Jalousie Plantation, Sugar Beach Resort in St. Lucia recently opened its eight new beachfront bungalows, the latest component of the resort’s multimillion-dollar enhancement.
Changes are ongoing, as the resort will rebrand and relaunch later this year as Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort.
The bungalows (two have the option of a two-bedroom floor plan) feature contemporary décor, hardwood floors, high ceilings and custom white furniture.
The bungalow’s exteriors have thatched roofs and white-washed adobe walls. Each offers a shaded area with lounges, table and chairs and a courtyard featuring a Jacuzzi.
As with all accommodations at Jalousie, the bungalows feature butler and complimentary WiFi service.
Bungalow rates start at $1,100 per night. Recent additions at Jalousie include two new bars, two new restaurants and the Rainforest Spa with tree house treatment rooms. Book now and reserve your stay.
Companion flies FREE to all Sandals Resorts destinations
Act now on this limited time offer and receive up to $555 in airfare credit. Travelers concerned with rising gas prices and increased airline costs can breathe a sigh of relief as Sandals Resorts International announces a limited-time “Companion Flies Free” promotion, covering the base fare of a companion air ticket. To qualify, guests must book an air-inclusive, six-night minimum stay at Sandals Resorts* or Beaches Resorts** between June 30, 2011 to July 31, 2012.
The “Sandals Companion Flies Free” program is available at 12 Sandals Resorts locations in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia, and The Bahamas and all four Beaches Resorts locations in the Turks & Caicos and Jamaica. As with all Luxury Included® vacations, a stay at Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts offers more quality inclusions than any other resort company on the planet with superior accommodations, endless gourmet dining options, unlimited premium brand wine and spirits, nightly entertainment, watersports including snorkeling and scuba diving† and a myriad of other exclusive amenities.
For promotion details, including restrictions and cancellation penalties, or to book your Luxury Included® vacation today, click on the banner.
Happy International Women’s Day 2012

Celebrate International Women’s Day, grab your girlfriends and go to Beaches Turks and Caicos for a BFF Getaway!
Reservations 877-477-8590 | Mention Discount Code: HBC3944









