Fresh, Fancy & Footloose

Whether brand new or recently refreshed, these Caribbean resorts promise glamorous stays, carefree days and complete physical and mental renewal.

Words by Natasha Were

Mahekal Beach Resort, Mexico

Cradled between the jungle and the Caribbean Sea, the reimagined Mahekal Beach Resort mixes Mayan-inspired design and with an upscale bohemian vibe. Tucked into lush garden areas or looking out across the beach, the organic styling of the bungalows, tree houses and ocean front suites includes vibrant textiles, woodcarvings and local ceramics, offset by white stucco walls and pale floors. A comprehensive three-year renovation has added an ultra-soothing spa and fitness centre, a revamped dive centre and a new beachfront restaurant offering farm-to-fork regional cuisine prepared over a wood-fired grill.

www.mahekalbeachresort.com

Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa,

Grand Cayman Kimpton’s first international resort, the Kimpton Seafire is a state-of-the-art lifestyle resort whose bold design and funky décor set a new standard for luxury resorts in the region. Inspired throughout by the allure of the sea, windows that reach the ceiling embrace cerulean views and rooms and bungalows cocoon one in comfort with plush bedding, soaking tubs and luxury amenities. By day the toughest choice is whether to linger by the freeform pool, swim from the white sand beach or let the spa therapists transport you one step closer to nirvana.

www.seafireresortandspa.com

The Westin, Grand Cayman

Cool blues and vivid turquoises echo the shades of sea and sky in the Westin’s $50 million newly enhanced lobby, pool and common areas. Exuding a fresh and energising new ambience, the long-established resort puts sun and sand at the heart of the guest experience: lounge in private beach cabanas, cool off in the sparkling pool or take to the sea by kayak, paddleboard or waverunner. Dining venues serving everything from casual Caribbean fare to international fine dining satisfy every palate, while heavenly treatments at the Hibiscus Spa promise the ultimate physical renewal.

www.westingrandcayman.com

Goldeneye, Jamaica

Goldeneye, formerly the home of novelist Ian Fleming, is a quirky and colourful boutique resort where low-key luxury is the name of the game. A private beach, two pools and a tranquil lagoon make for an endless choice of water and land-based activities, and the new easy, breezy beach huts are the essence of outdoor living. Whether you opt for rum cocktails amongst the treetops, an early morning fishing trip or a walk through the exotic gardens, every experience is infused with the Jamaican zest for life.

www.goldeneye.com

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