Elite Traveler January-February 2016

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN

WowOcean Front Retreat W RETREAT & SPA VIEQUES ISLAND, PUERTO RICO There is no shortage of luxury hotel choices in this part of Puerto Rico, home to more than a dozen pristine beaches, pretty fishing villages and more salsa dancing than you can shake your maracas at. But our choice is the colorful and eccentric W Retreat. Usually with this hotel chain’s famed Wow Suites, you know exactly what you’re getting but this one is brilliantly unique. Decorated with the shades of the Puerto Rican landscapes and skyline, the room is rich with color and personality, including Caribbean prints selected by Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. We love the indulgent touches designed by Urquiola, such as the cozy Dedon loveseat and the Vieques bathtub, with a user-friendly back rest. There are also showers overlooking the terrace and some of the most stunning views of the island, direct from your patio. Special amenities Patio, dining table for six, direct access to the beach, 350-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, Vieques bathtub, in-room bar with snacks, Whatever/Whenever concierge service. Size 1,440 sq ft

Number of bedrooms One Weekly rate From $5,320 Contact starwoodhotels.com

Book a one-on-one class with in-house yoga guru, Daniele Momo – her Strala yoga sessions will leave you energized for days

Ty Molineux JUMBY BAY ST JOHN’S, ANTIGUA

Jumby Bay, an island resort just off the coast of Antigua, offers some of the Caribbean’s most elegant seclusion. Ty Molineux, a phenomenal eight-bedroom colonial private villa set in eight acres of its own manicured tropical gardens, is one of the most comfortable. Built in 2010, it comprises a main house as well as two private cottages and has direct access to the beach. Special amenities Private chef who will tailor catering to guest preferences, concierge, butler, outdoor games area with chess and draughts, croquet, gym, private spa, tennis courts, 20m infinity pool, outdoor breakfast area, free watersports and activities including sailboarding, afternoon tea, direct beach access. Size 21,800 sq ft Number of bedrooms Eight (four in the main house, plus two private cottages with two bedrooms each) Weekly rate From $89,250 Contact MaryAnne DeMatteo Diamante, director of sales and marketing, +1 268 462 6000, rosewoodhotels.com