Bucket-list experiences to recommend in the Caribbean
If clients are ready to head to the Caribbean next year, make it extra-special for them by recommending a bucket list-style experience they won’t forget, says Abra Dunsby
With most people scrapping their 2020 holiday plans due to the pandemic, clients will no doubt be dreaming about their next paradise island escape.
Thanks to an excellent Covid safety record and a winning combination of warmth, beauty and hospitality, the Caribbean is likely to be very high on clients’ 2021 wish lists. So why not make it the trip of a lifetime by recommending a unique experience for them to enjoy with their loved ones, to make 2021 the year of happy holiday memories?
See a Wonder of the World in Mexico
Clients staying at all-inclusive hotel Unico 20°87° Riviera Maya can take a break from their sun loungers and soak up some Mayan culture on an excursion to Chichen Itza, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After seeing the ancient archaeological site, clients can cool off with a swim in one of the many natural open-water pools, or cenotes, that dot the Yucatan Peninsula. The experience culminates in a traditional Yucatean lunch.
Janice Adey, the hotel’s UK sales director, says: “Our Chichen Itza and cenote excursion is by far our most popular inclusive experience, as it combines two of the most famous historical and natural elements of the region and affords guests the chance to really immerse themselves in the ancient culture of the Mayans.”
Book it: If Only offers seven nights at Unico 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya from £1,569pp based on two sharing, including flights and transfers, departing September-October 2021. ifonly.net
Rum-tasting in Antigua
Elite Island Resort’s newest property, Hammock Cove, prides itself on its personalised service, luxury accommodation and gastronomy, with two fine-dining restaurants run by Michelin-trained chef Marco Festini. Paula Whitehead, Elite Island Resorts’ managing director for Europe, says food and drink lovers mustn’t leave without enjoying a rum-tasting session, run by an in-house expert sommelier from the comfort of guests’ rooms.
The adults-only luxury hotel is made up of 42 private villas so is suited to couples or groups of friends seeking a secluded break, and is situated right next to the geysers of Devil’s Bridge national park.
Book it: A seven-night all-inclusive stay starts from £2,999pp based on a 5 May 2021 departure, excluding flights. Rum-tasting experience is extra. eliteislandresorts.com
Make like James Bond in Jamaica
With the hotly anticipated James Bond film No Time to Die finally due for release in April 2021 after multiple delays due to Covid, fans of the world’s most famous spy can head to Jamaica, one of the new movie’s filming locations, to go on a 007-inspired journey.
Rebecca Bryson, head of sales at Caribtours, recommends Bond buffs stay at the Ian Fleming Villa on the legendary GoldenEye resort. Not only was James Bond conceived at Fleming’s desk here as he sipped on martinis, but some genuine screen Bonds have also stayed here, including Pierce Brosnan.
The villa stay would make a great wedding or anniversary gift for a diehard Bond fan, or as it sleeps 10 people across five bedrooms, it would also be ideal for multigenerational families or groups of friends.
Book it: Caribtours offers seven nights’ B&B at GoldenEye resort’s Fleming Villa from £5,419pp based on eight adults occupying four rooms, travelling 12 May 2021. Price includes License to Chill package with $100 daily resort credit, Flash of Blackwell Rum and welcome cocktails, plus flights. caribtours.co.uk/travelagents
Reef-diving in Belize
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize in an excellent option for clients who want to combine a trip enjoying the remote island’s beautiful beaches with some snorkelling or diving.
Karen Bevans, director of tourism at the Belize Tourism Board, recommends a stay on a private island along the coast, known as cayes, for a private and secluded stay.
The private island resort of Cayo Espanto offers scuba diving and private snorkelling charters, during which clients can spot sealife including nurse sharks and manatees before winding down in the evening with a spa treatment or dinner prepared by one of the resort’s award-winning chefs.
Book it: Abercrombie & Kent offers a seven-night Highlights of Belize trip including a B&B stay at Cayo Espanto from £2,890pp based on two sharing, including flights and transfers. abercrombiekent.co.uk
Whale-watching in Dominica
Dominica is known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean” and is packed with unique outdoor experiences for clients to enjoy in beautiful surroundings, from hiking to the Boiling Lake to diving in Champagne Reef’s geothermal waters.
It’s also the only island in the world where sperm whales reside year-round. Recommend clients travel between November and March, when sightings of the world’s largest predator are most common. Dive Dominica offers whale trips every Sunday, priced from around £50pp. The company also has a private whale and dolphin safari for up to six people for around £520 in total.
The family-friendly Cabrits Resort & Spa is the ideal base for clients who want to explore the island and then unwind in luxurious surroundings. The area is popular for cycling, and bike hire is available at the resort. There’s also a kids’ club open to children aged three to 12.
Book it: Travelpack offers seven nights’ B&B at Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski from £1,999pp based on two sharing including flights, travelling on 8 May 2021. agents.travelpack.co.uk
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