Elite Traveler Spring 2020

ADVENTURE Venturing away from the hotel is a must, as Dominica brims with singular experiences. The Kempinski’s concierge can arrange boat trips down the nearby Indian River (Dominica’s widest), where you’ll likely spot wading birds like egrets and herons. Champagne Reef is a great place to snorkel among effervescence from volcanic vents. There’s whale watching with eco-certified operators to potentially see the resident sperm whales and passing humpbacks. And certified scuba divers can head out from the resort’s dock with the in-house water-sports team to dive pristine walls covered with colorful tube sponges, gorgonian fans and flourishing marine life. RELAX The Kempinski Spa is its own realm at the rear of the property where boardwalks lead to seven Asian- inspired, standalone treatment villas surrounding a private pool. A glass-front sauna takes in mountain views and, on a breezy patio, guests can try self- guided Dominican mud treatments with the island’s therapeutic sulphuric mud. The 150-minute couples treatment, called Escape Together, is the spa’s signature therapy and plays out in a dedicated couples suite with a private balcony for relaxing afterwards. It’s a scrub, facial and massage trifecta that incorporates bespoke island ingredients like ground cocoa beans and virgin coconut oil that soothe the body as if they were Dominica, distilled. by Terry Ward Presidential Villa from $3,335 per night. Contact Michael J Schoonewagen, general manager, info.dominica@kempinski.com, +1 767 445 1000, kempinski.com

Clockwise from left The lap pool; views from the lobby; a private cabana

Photos John Athimaritis