Katherine Gould

Archive for the ‘Family Travel’ Category

Bermuda in the Fall

Saturday, October 29th, 2011

Pink sand beaches?  Check.  Golf and tennis?  Check.  World class hotels?  Check.  Excellent shopping and dining ?  Check.  Rich history and culture to discover?  Check.  Ideal weather most of the year? Check. I’m referring to Bermuda, an island paradise located approximately 650 miles east of North Carolina in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring one of many stunning beaches on Bermuda

Exploring one of the many stunning beaches on Bermuda with my husband

My first impression of the island was this; “Wow, it’s so quick and easy to get here!”  Bermuda can be reached from most major gateways on the east coast within two hours.  By mid-afternoon, I was on the beach with a cocktail in hand.  My second impression of the island was its pervasive beauty.  The homes are well kept and painted cheerful colors, there is no trash to be found anywhere, and vibrant, lush landscaping covers much of the island.  I’ve never seen a destination so clean and beautiful, and the friendliness of the Bermudians is the icing on the cake.

Beauty can be found around every corner!

Beauty can be found around every corner!

My first stop was Rosewood’s newest addition to their Caribbean portfolio called Tucker’s Point, the first new hotel to open on the island in over a decade.  This hotel embodies elegance and opulence, but it’s not fussy in any way.  Families will be very comfortable bringing their children here, and couples seeking a romantic experience can rest assured that the size of the property will provide them with plenty of privacy.

Elegance at Tucker's Point

Elegance at Tucker's Point: Spa relaxation area

Guest room at Tucker's Point

Guest room at Tucker's Point

The main hotel is located on a bluff overlooking Castle Harbour, and all of the rooms offer dramatic views of the water. The interior design reminded me of a subdued Greenbrier Hotel style:  old-world, warm, but very elegant.  Activities are spread out across a sizable piece of land, so even when the hotel is full (and I stayed there when all rooms were occupied), it never feels crowded.

Exterior view of Tucker's Point

Exterior view of Tucker's Point

One of several, inviting common areas at Tucker's Point

One of several, inviting common areas at Tucker's Point

Guests can choose to spend their time at one of  two different pools close to the main hotel, a separate beach club and pool area, the tennis courts, the golf course, or sight-seeing around the island.  Tucker’s Point Golf Club, which is situated on over 200 gorgeous acres, is a big draw for the hotel, as are the four clay tennis courts and team of professionals to help you better either game.

The grounds of Tucker's Point

The grounds of Tucker's Point

Beachfront at Rosewood Tucker's Point

Beachfront at Tucker's Point

For guests seeking relaxation and pampering, the spa at Tucker’s Point is the perfect spot to unwind.  It boasts eight treatment rooms and has truly some of the prettiest common areas I’ve seen in a spa anywhere in the world.  A full range of services is offered, and the therapists are well-trained professionals who will ensure your experience is a memorable one.

Relaxation pool at Tucker's Point spa

Relaxation pool at Tucker's Point spa

Dining at Rosewood Tucker’s Point did not disappoint, and the quality of the food and ambiance at the different restaurants was in line with other Rosewood properties in the region (i.e. fantastic!).  I particularly loved my dinner at The Point, and while pricey, my husband and I definitely felt it was worth every penny.

Dining room at The Point

Dining room at The Point

With Levon, one of the head doormen at Tucker's Point

With Levon, one of the head doormen at Tucker's Point

A few days later, I moved to The Reefs, a well-known, family-owned hotel on the other side of the island.  I loved it the minute I arrived.  This hotel embodies a Bermudian charm that’s difficult to describe without seeing it with your own eyes.  The setting is dramatic, which adds to the atmosphere and didn’t allow me to put down my camera for very long.  There were too many possible photo opportunities everywhere I looked!

Beach perfection at The Reefs

Beach perfection at The Reefs

The Reefs has been in business since the 1940s, and the Dodwell family has been working hard in recent years to keep the hotel up to date with modern amenities, but also stay true to their original goal of providing guests with a traditional Bermudian experience.  Rooms are a little smaller than what you find at newer hotels, but I found them to have plenty of space for me.  Additionally, the view from the balcony of my Jr. Suite couldn’t be beat.

Jr. Suite balcony view

Jr. Suite balcony view

A room at The Reefs

Guest room at The Reefs

There are a number of dining options on property, and each restaurant served up delicious food in a memorable setting.  I was partial to Coconuts, a romantic restaurant situated right above the beach.  It was where my husband and I chose to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and I couldn’t have imagined a lovelier setting for a special occasion.

Oceanfront dining at Coconuts

Oceanfront dining at Coconuts

The Reefs “dine around ” program is a big draw for the repeat guests who return year after year.  Guests have the option to dine at Pompano Beach Club or Cambridge Beaches as part of their meal plan (Rates at The Reefs include breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner daily).  It’s a great way to see other parts of the island and enjoy a diverse dining experience during your vacation.  Also worth mentioning is the hotel’s brand new spa - a lovely space with eight treatment rooms and sweeping ocean views from the relaxation area.

One of many beautiful evenings guests can enjoy at The Reefs

One of many beautiful evenings guests can enjoy at The Reefs

When we weren’t enjoying these two amazing hotels, my husband and I spent our time exploring Bermuda’s varied activities and sites.  There are beautiful beaches to discover, historic towns to walk through, some serious shopping to be done in Hamilton, and much, much more.  I’ve already made a list of what I want to see and do when I return - this “jewel of the Atlantic” is calling me back.

Summer Island Hopping: St. Thomas, Nevis and St. John

Sunday, July 31st, 2011

My summer trip to the Caribbean began with a stop at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas, which is the island’s nicest hotel option by far. The private estate is set on 30 beautifully manicured acres and offers guests two lovely beaches to enjoy, as well as two beachfront pools. I really liked the feel of this Ritz Carlton property not only because of the pretty setting overlooking Great Bay, but also because of its relative small size (the hotel has 180 rooms and suites). It offers endless activities and amenities for guests, but had a more intimate feeling than some of the larger properties within the Ritz Carlton chain.

Overlooking Great Bay at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

Overlooking Great Bay at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

If I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again – Ritz Carlton Club Level is worth every penny! For a nominal extra nightly charge, club level guests enjoy gourmet breakfast, lunch, evening hors d’oeuvres and desserts daily at the exclusive lounge, in addition to sodas and alcoholic beverages. I particularly enjoyed spending time at this lounge because it offered outdoor seating overlooking the ocean, as well as a cozy children’s area complete with games and a small table where the younger club guests can dine. My children loved it! The lounge also provided a special seating area for adults only to accommodate couples enjoying a romantic get-away.

View from Sails restaurant at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

View from Sails restaurant at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

The rooms and service were predictable for Ritz Carlton and did not disappoint. I found the staff to be friendly and accommodating. Additionally, the décor of the rooms was up-to-date, tasteful and appropriate for an island setting. Dining options are good as well. There are a number of different venues, all with great ambiance, tasty food, and an attentive wait staff. For guests looking to venture off property, the hotel is located just a few minutes from Red Hook, a vibrant harbor area with fun bars and restaurants.

Oceanview Suite at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

Oceanview Suite at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

Resort fees can add up, but the management team at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas has made it a good value in my opinion considering what’s included. Wireless internet, access to the gym, all water sports (the most extensive offering I’ve seen pretty much anywhere in the Caribbean), tennis, one fitness class per day and much more are covered in the daily charge of $58.00 per room per day.

Family time on St. Thomas

Family time on St. Thomas

My next visit was to the newly reopened Four Seasons Nevis. While there is a small airport on the island for regional charter flights, most visitors fly to St. Kitts like I did and take the 40 minute boat ride over to Nevis. With massive Mt. Nevis rising dramatically in the background, Nevis feels like a destination from a different time and place, and there’s nowhere in the Caribbean that looks quite like it.

Stunning beauty on the island of Nevis

Stunning beauty on the island of Nevis

The Four Seasons Nevis recently reopened in December, and it’s back better than ever. The ferry ride from St. Kitts is quite enjoyable (due to the scenery and rum punch!), and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special when staff members greet you at the dock by name. The layout is lovely: 12 two story guest buildings just steps from the sand blend naturally into the landscape, and the hotel is surrounded by one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean.

The charming architecture of the Four Seasons Nevis

Charming accommodations at the Four Seasons Nevis

The spacious and airy rooms boast every luxury a guest could need, and the staff attends to your every whim. Three pools are available for the guests’ use, and each one has a different venue. We stayed closest to the Ocean Pool, which is designed with young families in mind, but there is also the Garden Pool (for adults and older children), and the Reflection Pool (for adults only) so that everyone on property can find a comfortable spot to swim and relax. The Four Seasons works diligently to serve both its couples and families, and I saw a mix of both very much enjoying themselves during my stay.

Deluxe Oceanview room at the Four Seasons Nevis

Deluxe Oceanview room at the Four Seasons Nevis

I can’t say enough good things about the way the Four Seasons treats its younger guests. The staff goes out of its way to make them feel welcome. Miniature bathrobes and slippers, a special child’s menu, colorful straws and utensils in all of the restaurants, a playground, and an amazing kid’s club are just some of the many amenities provided. The Kids for All Seasons program was truly impressive. The facility is incredible, and fun recreational activities are offered daily at no extra charge.

Kids for All Seasons at the Four Seasons Nevis

Kids for All Seasons at the Four Seasons Nevis

In addition to world class golf, the Four Seasons Nevis has an excellent tennis program (there are ten courts on property), full service gym, fantastic spa, and delicious dining options. I was partial to Mango, which offers West-Indian dining right on the water, but I truly enjoyed every meal during my stay and found the service to be consistently flawless.

Beachside at Mango

Beachside at Mango

Two flights and two ferries later, we arrived on the stunning island of St. John for a visit to Caneel Bay, one of the Caribbean’s legendary resort destinations. It was founded by Laurence Rockefeller in the 1950s, and the current owners are very loyal to his vision of barefoot elegance in a tranquil setting. Set on 170 pristine acres, the resort boasts seven picture perfect beaches with white sand, clear water, and excellent snorkeling.

Departing Nevis for our next adventure on St. John

Departing Nevis for our next adventure on St. John

Caneel Bay’s website states, “The resort remains purposefully absent of modern glitz and digital distractions.” I couldn’t say it better myself. This hotel is not for lovers of indulgent bathrooms, flat screen tvs, and marble floors. However, the accommodations are plenty luxurious and perfectly suited to a resort that is all about natural beauty and tranquility in a low key setting.

Oceanview room at Caneel Bay

Oceanview room at Caneel Bay

There is truly no other resort like Caneel Bay in the region. The grounds are vast and well maintained, and the scenery is honestly breath-taking. I saw deer and donkeys roaming the property (they steer clear of the guests, so no worries!), and particularly enjoyed riding around in one of the hotel’s open air trams with my family just for the purpose of taking in the views.

Just one of the many beautiful beaches at Caneel Bay

Just one of the many beautiful beaches at Caneel Bay

It’s important to choose the right accommodations, as they are very different depending on the location on property. Even when the hotel is fully occupied, guests will never feel that it’s crowded because everything is so spread out. Each beach has its own unique vibe, and repeat guests are quite opinionated about which one is their favorite!

Hawksnest Beach at Caneel Bay

Hawksnest Beach at Caneel Bay

Younger guests will enjoy Turtle Town, a charming kid’s club facility set up in the hillside and loaded with toys and games. A warm staff of ladies runs the program, and my children were instantly comfortable when we took them for the first time. Beach toys are available as well, and my husband and I spent many hours building sand castles on Caneel Beach with our son and daughter.

Beach time at Caneel Bay

Beach time at Caneel Bay

Dining options are varied by menu and location on property. My favorite spot was The Equator, an open-air restaurant with great views of St. Thomas in the distance, and couples celebrating a special occasion would particularly enjoy privately dining in the ruins of an old sugar mill on property.

Another glorious day on St. John

Another glorious day on St. John

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a sailor’s paradise, and no trip to St. John would be complete without a little time on the water. Caneel Bay has relationships with a number of reliable boat owners and tour companies on the island, and guests seeking a boat experience will find no shortage of options. We chose a full day sail and snorkel trip, and it was one of the highlights of our vacation.

Enjoying a sailing and snorkeling trip arranged through Caneel Bay

Enjoying a sailing and snorkeling trip arranged through Caneel Bay

Brownell has a preferred relationship with all of these properties, and here are the amenities you’ll receive through me:
1) Ritz Carlton St. Thomas: daily full breakfast for two guests per room, $100 food & beverage credit, room upgrade if available
2) Four Seasons Nevis: daily full breakfast for two per room, $100 golf credit, complimentary high-speed internet access for suite bookings, room upgrade if available
3) Caneel Bay: daily full buffet breakfast daily for two per room, a trip for two aboard the resort’s sunset cocktail cruise (which sails Sundays and Thursdays), room upgrade if available

Antigua

Wednesday, July 7th, 2010

Stunning beaches, rainforest covered mountains, warm and friendly people, and amazing live music…These are the descriptions that come to mind when I reflect back on the two weeks I just spent on the island of Antigua.  Blessed with captivating vistas, a rich culture and too many beaches to count (365 to be exact - one for every day of the year!), Antigua is one of the most memorable islands I’ve ever visited in the Caribbean.

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On the beach at Jumby Bay

Whether you’re searching for the ideal honeymoon or family destination, Antigua has something to offer everyone.  The key is knowing which property to select, which is why I opted to stay at a number of different resorts while on the island.    I found each one to be incredibly unique in feel and atmosphere.

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Beach at The Verandah

The Verandah:  Eco-friendly, all-inclusive hotel located on the northeastern part of the island.  It is a great choice for families with a moderate budget who want lots of activities for everyone.  Highlights of this property include a gorgeous beach with calm water perfect for young children, lovely landscaping, an excellent Kids Club facility, and some of the best live music I had the pleasure of hearing while visiting Antigua.  A different band plays every night by the main pool bar, which creates a fun atmosphere for the guests.  My personal favorite was a nine person steel drum band - everyone was dancing that night!

Room exteriors at The Verandah

Room exteriors at The Verandah

Carlisle Bay:  “Contemporary luxury on the beach” is the description the hotel provides on its website, and I couldn’t agree more.  It is a polished, yet unpretentious hotel well suited for both families and couples, although couples should expect to encounter a number of young families while on property.  I was a huge fan of the Beach Suites, which are spacious, two bedroom accommodations literally steps from the beach.   As a mother of two young children, I found the layout to be ideal!

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Beach Suite at Carlisle Bay

Other highlights from Carlisle Bay include a lovely beach, incredible food, unusually good fitness and tennis facilities (including nine courts - the most I’ve seen anywhere in the Caribbean), a consistently attentive staff, and a top notch Kids Club facility.  I also loved the nightly children’s buffet, which was complimentary and served poolside every night from 5-6:30PM.  It was wonderful to feed the children early in a casual environment, then hire a sitter to play with them while my husband and I enjoyed a quiet dinner alone.  Heaven!

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Lounge area at Carlisle Bay

Curtain Bluff:  I would best describe this legendary, all-inclusive hotel as The Greenbrier meets the Caribbean.  It is charming, elegant and friendly - the quintessential Caribbean resort.  What makes this property so special is the owner and the staff.  Mrs. Hulford and her late husband started the hotel almost 50 years ago, and their vision has resulted in a unique culture among the Antiguans who work there.  Many of them have been employees of Curtain Bluff for decades, and their loyalty and pride is immediately evident upon check-in. 

 

View from my balcony at Curtain Bluff

View from my balcony at Curtain Bluff

In addition to two breathtaking beaches, I particularly loved the rooms, dining options and the spa.  Built just a few years ago, Curtain Bluff’s spa has a spectacular setting on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean. 

Spa at Curtain Bluff

Spa at Curtain Bluff

The main dining area is so romantic that it reminded me of a set from a movie.  An enormous tamarind tree is the anchor of the courtyard, where a different band plays nightly.  Guests enjoy superb service and gourmet dining in this amazing setting.   Once finished with dinner, many guests opt to dance under the twinkling white lights that flank the pavilion.

Dancing with my son at Curtain Bluff

Dancing with my son at Curtain Bluff

Jumby Bay:  Ultra-luxurious hideaway located on a 300 acre private island, which is accessible only by ferry from the mainland of Antigua.  Immediately upon arriving at the dock, guests feel like royalty as they are greeted by a polished staff offering a rum punch in one hand and a cold-scented towel in the other. 

Arriving at Jumby Bay

Arriving at Jumby Bay

This all-inclusive hotel recently underwent a massive renovation, and the results are magnificent.  The rooms are incredibly luxurious, all offering amazing views of the ocean. 

Rosewood Estate Suite at Jumby Bay

Rosewood Estate Suite at Jumby Bay

A new infinity pool sits on a bluff overlooking the water, and guests taking a dip are just steps away from enjoying a wonderful lunch at the Pool Grille. I particularly enjoyed spending time at The Verandah - Jumby’s newly designed beachfront bar and restaurant.  Other highlights of this Rosewood property include a stunning, long beach great for relaxing or walking, complimentary bicycles for traversing the island, and elegant (yet casual) bars ideal for enjoying your favorite cocktail.

Poolside view from a Rosewood Estate Suite at Jumby Bay

Poolside view from a Rosewood Estate Suite at Jumby Bay

The Greenbrier: A Winter Wonderland

Saturday, December 26th, 2009

It started with an ominous weather forecast.  Snow, snow, and more snow!  Not to be deterred from accepting a gracious invitation to experience firsthand the elegance and luxury of The Greenbrier, I made my way into the mountains of West Virginia for what promised to be a weekend to remember. 
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My husband and I were just one hour away from the resort when the snow started to fall, and before we knew it, a full-blown, pre-Christmas blizzard was upon us!  We fortunately made it safely and realized later that evening just how lucky we had been to arrive when we did, as conditions quickly worsened throughout the afternoon, making it virtually impossible for those behind us to reach the resort until the next day.  Before it was all over, almost two feet of snow had fallen!

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Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Greenbrier has it all - gorgeous architecture, uniquely beautiful interior design, fantastic dining, a first class spa, endless activities for guests of all ages, and truly exceptional service.  The impeccable service started with the welcoming faces and kind words of the front gate guards, and it remained consistently wonderful until the moment we were sent off on our way home with a smile and two bottles of water for the road.  I’ve honestly never encountered a group of people so loyal and willing to do whatever it took to make my stay special in every way.

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The recent arrival of Jim Justice as the new owner was a turning point for a resort in need of innovation.   Mr. Justice is a legendary West Virginian businessman who saw a unique opportunity to take ownership of his state’s beloved landmark and lead it in a new direction.   Under Mr. Justice’s leadership, there are numerous, exciting changes taking place.  In addition to the recent opening of Prime 44 West, a premier steakhouse honoring Hall of Fame basketball player Jerry West, construction has already begun on an 80,000 square foot casino which will be located underground beneath the front entrance.  The Casino will feature an elegant, Monte Carlo-style decor and is scheduled to open in April 2010.  In the meantime, the resort has opened a smaller,more intimate casino called The Tavern, which will be available for private parties after the bigger casino opens its doors this spring.  Additionally, The Greenbrier recently announced that it will be hosting the PGA tour’s newest event, called The Greenbrier Classic.  Now an official stop on the PGA tour, the resort will have another reason to lure visitors to its historic fairways.

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When asked the question, “Who are the best types of clients to send to The Greenbrier?” I tell people the resort offers something for everyone.  It’s perfect for families, multi-generational gatherings, romantic getaways and corporate retreats.  I’m partial to the Spa for its robust menu of services, talented staff, and lovely ambiance, but there are so many other wonderful things to see and do during your stay.  Golf, tennis, bowling, falconry, off-road driving, hiking, swimming (indoor and outdoor), sleigh riding, horseback riding, and white water rafting are just some of the many activities offered.  For the little ones, there is a great children’s program as well.

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Because of the snowstorm, I had the good fortune of extending my stay for one extra day.  Between the beautiful Christmas decorations, snowy grounds, and fine dining, I was happy to be “stranded!”  Consider this legendary resort for your next special occasion or if you just need to get away for a few days.  Brownell shares a preferred relationship with the hotel, which translates into special amenities when you book through me.  I can’t imagine a better place to spend some downtime in the gracious and pampering hands of a staff who will welcome you back year after year.

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Amelia Island, Florida: Southern Charm Meets Coastal Paradise

Monday, June 29th, 2009

I just returned from a ten day stay on Amelia Island, which is located 30 miles north of Jacksonville, Florida.  It’s been on my radar screen for years, so I was anxious to check it out for myself and for my clients.  Given the relative ease of getting there and the fact that the island is known to be very family friendly, my husband and I brought along our two small children.

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Our first stop was the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island, and it did not disappoint!  The service, grounds, dining, spa and activities were fantastic.  The service in particular exceeded my expectations in every way.  I can’t think of anywhere I’ve visited in recent years with such an attentive and friendly staff.  

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From the moment we arrived, I felt like a “VIP!”  Additionally, my children were treated as special guests and pampered throughout their stay. The Ritz embraces its youngest guests in remarkable ways I’ve never encountered before at a five star resort.  They seem to have thought of everything - a baby pool shallow enough for the littlest ones, yet filled with entertaining fountains for older toddlers, a fantastic Ritz Kids Camp, and daily activities such as a treasure hunt or hunting for sharks teeth on the beach are just some of the many ways the Ritz caters to children.

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Our most memorable experience was the pirate tuck-in we arranged.  At  bedtime, there was a knock on our door.  “Princess Amelia,” a pirate and a real parrot entered our room to read the children a bedtime story, and deliver cookies and other special gifts.  My son and daughter loved it!

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I decided to upgrade to a Club Level room, and I can honestly say it was worth every penny.  Located on the top floor, the elegant yet informal lounge offers four different food presentations daily (all of which were excellent) along with unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.   My family ate breakfast and lunch daily there - a big savings when you consider what it would cost to eat each of those meals in one of the hotel’s restaurants.  Additionally, there was a wonderful children’s room adjacent to the Club lounge, which was loaded with toys, children’s videos and comfortable spots for littles ones to relax. 

Dining at the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island was top notch.  Salt, their signature oceanfront restaurant, delivered one of the best meals I’ve eaten in a very long time.   It was a great spot for my husband and me to spend some adults-only time in an elegant setting.  I also particularly liked Cafe 4750 for it’s casual atmosphere and lighter fare.  Diners can choose to eat in the restaurant’s lively main dining room or the spacious, outdoor verandah overlooking the ocean.

The spa is brand new and quite impressive.  Over 27,000 square feet in size, it offers a wide array of spa services in a tranquil and chic environment.  Also worth mentioning is the outdoor spa pool - adults only and blissfully peaceful.  Envision plush towels, special pillows and plentiful attendants to cater to your every whim.  It was an amazing, adults-only haven!

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More than anything, however, I found the Ritz to be such an incredible place because of the outstanding service.  It was truly “five star” in every way and made our stay so wonderful.  Whether you’re seeking a romantic get-away or a fun-filled family vacation, the Ritz Amelia Island has the right accommodations, programs, facilities and dining options for you.

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My next stop was Amelia Island Plantation, a 1,350 acre resort and residential community just a few minutes down the road from the Ritz.  The Plantation is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal waterway, and its vast size translates into numerous accommodation choices for visitors lucky enough to enter its beautiful grounds.  Known for its environmental consciousness, the resort has done an amazing job of preserving the coastal vegetation and habitat.  I was most struck by the magestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss, which thrive everywhere on property.

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I selected a two bedroom oceanview villa for my family.  It was well-equipped, spacious and offered fantastic ocean views from our sizable balcony.  Having a kitchen and our own washer and dryer was particularly helpful when traveling with little children. 

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Outdoor locations to soak up the sun are plentiful by anyone’s standards.  I really liked having the ability to choose where I’d spend my time each day.  My personal favorite spots included the Beach Club pool, the beach in front of our villa complex, and the pool at our villa complex. 

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Amelia Island Plantation offers a vast array of activities for its guests.  With 72 holes of championship golf available, golf lovers will find themselves in paradise!  23 tennis courts, miles of walking, jogging and biking trails, numerous swimming pools, a children’s park, and a well equipped Health & Fitness Center are just some of the many options offered.

One of the highlights of our stay was a morning spent bike riding as a family.  My husband and son opted for a “ride along” bike, and I pulled my daughter in a comfortable trailer.  We had such a great time exploring Amelia Island Plantation’s beautiful scenery!

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I highly recommend renting a golf cart for at least a portion of your stay.  Known locally as “Island Hoppers,” they provide convenient transportation and a fun way to see the resort.  Trams run regularly as well, but I preferred having the flexibility to come and go without waiting for a tram to come by.

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Amelia Island Plantation offers numerous dining options on property.  My dinner at PLaE (which stands for ”People Laughing And Eating”) was my favorite.  The atmosphere and food was excellent.  Additionally, I was a big fan of the Marche Burette, a small deli and grocery store which offers oven brick pizzas, gourmet soups, and sandwiches for lunch and dinner.   The Friday night Boardwalk Bash there was particularly fun - my children loved the free buttery popcorn, and my husband and I enjoyed the $1 beers.  Live music completed the event, which was packed with guests and residents.

The children’s program at the resort is well-organized and offers a variety of great experiences.  My son spent one morning at Kids Camp Amelia and loved the games, crafts and pool time spent with other children his own age.  ”Just For Kids” evening theme parties for ages 3-10 are offered every weekend in the summertime as well.

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Amelia Island is a great option for families and couples alike.  The miles of wide, unspoiled beaches and excellent resort choices offer something for everyone.  Even better is the ease of getting there - a welcome respite from lengthier and often more hectic international travel.  If you’re looking for true southern charm in a tropical setting, it’s an ideal spot for you!

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