Thame Out The complimentary magazine for the Thame area
Caribbean class
This summer, Hayley Evans from Spear Travels headed to the Caribbean with specialist luxury tour operator, Lusso. It proved to be an unforgettable experience, as she explained.
Be completely honest about your Caribbean experience, I asked Hayley. “Of course,” she replied. “I have just returned from paradise and I was treated like royalty” was her instant reply.
I was somewhat taken aback by such an enthusiastic response from somebody who’s work takes her all over the world. “To be honest, if you are looking for a ‘cheap and cheerful’ trip to the Caribbean, this isn’t for you. If however you are looking for a more exclusive Caribbean experience of the highest quality, then this trip could be for you,” she said.
Hayley flew from London Gatwick with Virgin Atlantic (on Monday 24th June) to Barbados.
Her Caribbean tour began at The Fairmont Pavilion Hotel (dinner was at the Palm Terrace Restaurant).
Day two found Hayley at Sandy Lane, where, following a cocktail reception, she dined at the Bajan Blue Restaurant. The week simply flew by for Hayley.
On Thursday 27th, she boarded a private charter plane for the short flight to Canouan. A two night stay at the Mandarin Oriental followed. Hayley enjoyed more cocktails and dinner at Turtles Bar.
Friday would see Hayley on board a Catamaran for a half day cruise to Tobago Cays, followed by dinner at L’Ance Guyac.
Saturday. A motor Yacht transfer from Canouan to Petit St. Vincent. Two more glorious days that included diving and wine tasting prior to eating at the beach restaurant. Departing, sadly on Monday 1st July.
There really is something for everyone in the Caribbean.
That beautiful turquoise sea that laps gently against the gently shelving, fine sandy beaches are perfect for families.
For the active holiday maker, you can enjoy snorkelling, deep sea fishing, kayaking, kite surfing and so much more. Hayley had the thrill of swimming with turtles.
Superb championship golf courses await the keen golfer and wonderful Spas for those who prefer a little relaxation and pampering.
I must admit, when I think of a Caribbean holiday, I think of an all inclusive break. These are of course a great option, but you might want to see more of what the Caribbean has to offer. Hayley hopped on a 10 seater private jet for a short 15 minute flight to the private island of Petit St Vincent.
“This was a particular highlight for me,” says Hayley. “I had thoroughly enjoyed the sheer opulence of the 5 star hotels and their wonderful cuisine (who wouldn’t), but Petit St Vincent was a real delight.
“We stayed in a one bed cottage right on the beach. With no TV, it was a high tech’ detox. We enjoyed a fantastic barbecue on the beach. The fresh fish was succulent. Before dinner, Hayley had two cocktails that were just $10 (about £8). “Delicious and reasonably priced,” enthused Hayley.
Throughout her stay, Hayley felt perfectly safe. The cottage doors at Petit St Vincent simply slid shut with no lock, for example.
All the food consumed throughout her stay was first class and the service impeccable.
Hayley believes this destination is perfect for that really special event. A honeymoon, anniversary, birthday. Whatever is being celebrated, the Caribbean is a first class destination.
Traditionally, people travel to the Caribbean between November and April. Hayley travelled in June (off-season). She didn’t experience a drop of rain and temperatures were around 30 degrees. If you do travel off-peak you can certainly save some money, a word of warning though, you can’t always guarantee settled weather.
Back at the office in Thame on a particularly grey day, I asked Hayley if she would recommend her trip to others. “In a heartbeat,” she replied.
So, whether you fancy the Caribbean, or anywhere in the world and whatever you are looking for in a holiday, the team at Spear Travels can tailor it for you.
You can read more articles like this one in the latest edition of Thame Out.
