In the spirit of New Years, this month I’m going to highlight some a few resort openings across the Caribbean and Central America.
Baha Mar, Bahamas
This is a massive, $3.5 billion dollar resort development adding over 2000 luxury rooms to the Cable Beach area, and about to give The Atlantis a run for the money. The development will include the 1000-room Baha Mar Casino & Hotel, the 707-room Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar, and smaller hotels by Rosewood and SLS Lux. The beach here will be fantastic. Slated to open May 1 2015.
Sandals LaSource, Grenada
Opening about a year ago is Sandals’ newest property on the island of Grenada. This 231-room couples-only all-inclusive resort is a haven for honeymooners and anniversary couples. The greatest challenge is with air flights, but the good news is that Delta will be adding an Altanta – Grenada flight in upcoming months.
Secrets Playa Mujeres, Mexico (north of Cancun)
Grand opening in November, this adults only property sits just north of Cancun’s Hotel Zone in the-up-and-coming area of Playa Mujeres. Luxury and all-inclusive with 424 elegantly appointed suites. Nearby are two other new gems — Finest Playa Mujeres and Beloved Playa Mujeres.
Dreams Sugar Bay Resort, US Virgin Islands
This property reopened last month as an all-inclusive Dreams Resort. Renovations have taken this property into the 4 star category. Most importantly, US Virgin Islands now has a decent all-inclusive resort. Be aware that this property sits on a rocky hill with elevator/step access to the beach. A total of 294 rooms.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort, Jamaica
Scheduled to open in late Spring in Ocho Rios is the 700-suite Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort. This is an extensive renovation of an existing resort Sunset Jamaica Grande. Considering the quality of the Palace Resorts, this is an excellent choice for upscale families looking to enjoy Jamaica. A very generous resort credit program will be in place here as well.
Dreams Las Mareas, Costa Rica
Located in the fast-growing Guanacaste area along Costa Rica’s Pacifc coast, this resort just opened November 1. This is a 4 to 4 1/2 star, family friendly all-inclusive resort with 447 suites. Looks gorgeous and I can’t wait to see it in person. Fly into Liberia airport for a beach vacation, or combine with a more adventurous multi-stop itinerary.
~Happy Travels! Cindy Grant, travel consultant with Expert Family Travel. Located in the Dallas Fort Worth metro area (Texas) Near Frisco, Plano, Little Elm, and The Colony. 972-625-6200.