Elite Traveler January-February 2016

elite traveler JAN/FEB 2016 137

Galaxy Sanctuary JADE MOUNTAIN SOUFRIÈRE, ST LUCIA

Where most Caribbean suites are perfectly content with a view over the beach, the Galaxy Suites at Jade Mountain in St Lucia aspire to something far more dramatic – a 120-degree view that starts from the Caribbean Sea on one side and carries on sweeping up to the vast twin peaks of the Piton Mountains on the other. Better still, this can all be viewed from your bed because these suites have no fourth wall (although jalousie screens can be pulled into position over the opening if desired). Created using local stone and coral render on the walls and floors, the rooms are finished with a dozen tropical hardwoods, all harvested in an environmentally sustainable way. The private infinity pools are laid with glass tiles that shimmer in metallic blues, pinks and greens. There is a restaurant on the top floor of Jade Mountain, though “major domos” (as they call Jade Mountain butlers), who are contactable by Firefly cellphone but otherwise unobtrusive, will bring anything you need directly to your suite – or sanctuary. Special amenities 900 sq ft infinity pool, “major domo” butler service, fridge pre-stocked with wines or liquor of your choice, pre-arrival concierge who can make restaurant reservations, spa appointments, private dining arrangements and romantic surprises for your travel partner, as well as helicopter transfers. Size 2,000 sq ft Number of bedrooms One Weekly rate From $19,600 including breakfast and dinner, plus service charge Contact David Pollard, owner of Classic Hideaways, david.pollard@classichideaways.com, +44 208 339 6888, jademountain.com

African Sapphire ALTAMER SHOAL BAY, ANGUILLA

Anguilla does island living better than any other, which is why it has attracted so many A-listers, from Kevin Bacon to Jimmy Buffett. It also has what is probably the Caribbean’s most magnificent sand and sapphire blue sea. Altamer’s African Sapphire – along with the Antilles Pearl and Brazilian Emerald villas, each decorated to a geographical theme – exemplifies Anguilla’s odd architectural story. Outside it is a hyper-modernist abstraction in white concrete, while on the inside it allows the coolest tropical living, showcasing art and sculptures, with an original installation by artist Christina Watka. Special amenities Dining room that seats 30, hot tub for 12 and floating hot tub for two, gym, butler, chef, home theater, billiards and card tables, in-villa massages and spa treatments. Size 14,000 sq ft Number of bedrooms Six (two master bedrooms, four guest bedrooms, two of which can be converted into a suite) Weekly rate From $25,000 Contact Carl Irish, general manager, cirish@altamer.com, +1 264 235 4000, altamer.com