St Lucia : Rejuvenate your body and soul (and have fun doing it)
This year it had got to October before I realised I’d not had a holiday for a year. And boy, did I need one! I love the Caribbean and as it’s an increasingly popular destination these days, I wanted to remind myself of why it was one of my favourites. I chose Saint Lucia, located in the Windward Islands towards the southern end of the Caribbean chain, with direct flights from the UK
I picked out BodyHoliday Saint Lucia an all-inclusive luxury resort, which promises “Give us your body for a week and we'll give you back your mind at BodyHoliday”. I would have quite liked another body too – however, I have to say it was an amazing holiday for getting away from the stresses and strain of everyday life and feel relaxed and rejuvenated. It is perfect for singles, couples and families with older children.
The happy mix of sports, daily spa treatments and great dining, all backed up by the famous Caribbean friendliness makes for a holiday which can be as busy or as relaxing as you want. And did I mention the scenery and the sunsets?
ACCOMMODATION The resort is set on a secluded white sand beach, at the edge of the Caribbean Sea – an idyllic spot. I stayed in a luxury ocean-view room, with fantastic views from my balcony (see my photos). However, there are other room options I’d recommend depending on your requirements, to ensure you get the most value.
I was quickly checked in, and immediately went for a swim in one of the three pools at the resort to relax. I noticed a number of humming birds among the flowers around the pool, and then I saw my first sunset of the holiday from the hot tub – what a great start!
DINING There are a variety of restaurants and bars, offering an extensive choice of food and I was often spoilt for choice. Vegetarians are well catered for, so you won’t be fobbed off with the normal boring offerings. There’s an open air deli open on the beach for fresh juices, coffees, wraps and salads in between meal times. Staff visit you on the beach offering you drinks and nibbles, which is a really nice touch.
I ate in all the restaurants, as well having English Afternoon Tea at The Pavilion. It’s quite an experience, enjoying finger sandwiches, cakes and scones whilst watching the most amazing sunsets.
Guests on their own can get together with other singles for aperatives in the Piano Bar, and then join a large hosted table for dinner. It’s a great way to meet people, while also being able to do your own thing if you want to.
Each day varied - and always fun. Sometimes I’d have a last swim, then a beer while enjoying the sunset and the sound of the waves, then go to get ready for dinner. Next would be an aperitif in the Piano Lounge, a lovely meal at the Tao restaurant, followed by drinks & dancing at the Club House. One night I tried the beach BBQ, another night we went out on the sunset cruise followed by a late Japanese-themed dinner in Windows. I always bumped into people I’d met during the day and join them for a catch-up, which was great fun.
And when you get back to your room at night, there's always tea and biscuits waiting for you on your bed. Take it out onto the balcony, listen to the waves and relax.
ACTIVITIES There are too many to mention – they’re all listed in a booklet at the resort, on the web site, and also on a chalkboard outside the club house, which someone writes out every day.
The Wellness Centre has been voted one of the world’s best spas by Condé Nast Traveler. It’s a lovely serene place. What is fantastic is that you get a daily spa treatment as part of your all-inclusive package. I tried just about every treatment on the list, including my first facial and they were all of a great standard.
There’s a whole array of non-motorised water sports, land sports and other activities to try. There’s beach fitness on the beach at 7am, organised walks, bike rides etc. as well as many gym activities.
I joined in the golf and tennis lessons which were great fun and the tuition was excellent. I gave yoga and meditation a try. When the yoga teacher said to adopt your favourite pose (“asana”), and the guy in front of me stood on his head, I did think about edging towards the exit. However my favourite pose – lying flat out on my back aka “The Corpse” – is apparently valid too.
I had a 1:1 session in the gym which I just about survived. Joking aside, the whole BodyHoliday experience made me think more about my health and my fitness levels, and I’m determined to go on my next holiday fitter than before.
Guests are at all levels of fitness at the resort, so there’s no need to feel intimidated, and joining in is a great way to get to know your fellow guests, as well as find out if a specific activity is for you.
Keri-anne Payne and David Carry, both Olympian swimmers, were there during my stay, offering SwimFit, a special 4-day programme for guests of any swimming ability who want to improve their technique, efficiency, and speed. It just shows you’re never too old to learn something new.
WOULD I GO BACK? The big question always is “Would you go back?” Yes, in a heartbeat! I met many guests who were returning for the 4th, 10th time or more! The number of returning guests speaks volumes for the quality of the resort and what it offers.
Sounds good? If the paradise that is St Lucia is on your list, please contact me on 020 3432 2510. I'm well placed to help you find the perfect holiday in the Caribbean. I’ve got lots of great contacts, as well as advice, hints and tips to ensure you get the most from your holiday.