Fit for a Prince, Colin Jackson and perhaps Dr Evil

"Would you like to go to check out some hotels for your customers in St Lucia" they said. Not the most difficult decision I have had to make. So 26th November came round and I was boarding the Virgin Atlantic flight to the Caribbean in Premium Economy next to the gold medal Olympic champion, Colin Jackson, although I think unfortunately he is more famous for Strictly these days! But wait what's this, "excuse me Mr Buckle, we have one seat left in Upper Class, would you like it?" Well as quick as a cat on a hot tin roof or as quick as Colin Jackson in the 1996 Olympic Games I swiftly moved to my rightful place!

The Upper Class experience is brilliant especially on the day flight as you can enjoy your Bloody Mary from a bar stool at the exclusive upper class bar. Anyway, I'm showing off. After a fantastic flight we arrived in St Lucia and stepped off the plane into the glorious Caribbean sunshine. There was a bit of commotion in the airport when we arrived as the one and only Prince Harry had left the island earlier that day, not to worry. Maybe next time Harry we can enjoy a Rum Punch together.

I'm not going to go in to detail about all the hotels we visited but just share with you some of the highlights. Our first hotel was the Landings in the north of the island. This is about 90 minutes from the airport and I would recommend if you are travelling as a couple to get a private car. Travelling in a mini bus after a long flight isn't the most comfortable experience or if you're looking to make it a once in a lifetime experience I can organise a helicopter to transfer you to the north.

The Landings is a great self-catering resort with four major supermarkets nearby. The beach here is great, small but adequate for a week’s stay. The spa and gym facilities are brill too.

Whilst in the north of the island we were treated to dinner at Cap Maison, a beautiful property and perfect for those looking for an intimate experience with personal service. The views from the restaurant are breathtaking. We also dined at East Winds Resort. I loved the pool here which offers a self-service cocktail bar and guests take it in turns to become the bartender. The staff here are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet and their smiles are infectious. The Body Holiday was next and we bumped in to my good friend Colin again, he was there as an ambassador offering a beach boot camp every morning. British legend, Daley Thompson, was there earlier in the month. A great holiday option for those with itchy feet who need to be active, but don't worry they offer food for wellbeing but also food for the soul too (the lunchtime pizza was very popular). The Windjammer Landings resort is a brilliant choice for families. Finally, whilst we in the north we stayed at the Rendezvous, a couples resort perfect for those that like the beach as it's a stunning setting.

After leaving the North we headed a little further south to Marigot Bay aka Hurricane Hole, the safest bay in the Caribbean. We stayed at the Capella resort along with the winners of this year’s ARC race from Gran Canaria to St Lucia. No beachfront here but a stunning setting. I would recommend a three night stay here as part of a twin centre with a beachfront property. Top Tip – take a trip across on the bay ferry to the Marigot Bay Beach Club and Doolittle’s, the bar is like stepping back into the 80’s.

Towards the end of the week we headed down to the Pitons, stopping for the most delicious lunch at Ti Kaye resort. What an amazing setting, do not be put off by the mile-long windy road. It’s worth it, the rooms/cottages are stunning with beautiful views of the bay which you can enjoy from your hammock.

Our driver Ian then rolled us out of Ti Kaye and we continued our journey to The Sugar Beach by Viceroy. OMG, what an unbelievable setting. The resort is nestled in between the Pitons, the white sandy beach is stunning and you are taken to each of the rooms by Tuk Tuks all the way from the Far East. We were greeted by our own personal butlers and we soon established that Sir or Mr Buckle wasn’t going to work for me, so Gary and I chatted football. Unfortunately Gary had been brainwashed as a child into supporting Manchester United, I didn’t hold this against him too long as he was brilliant at ironing my shirts! After a quick tour of the resort we met at the jetty and we were whisked away to Jade Mountain. Whilst I may have only been on that boat for five minutes, I have never felt more like James Bond in my life. This was topped off by the experience of Jade Mountain, the architecture is unique and it definitely looks fitting for a James Bond villain. The view of the Pitons is magical and especially as night falls when you can see Venus shining brightly over the top.

I was disappointed to leave St Lucia and I will return as there is so much to see and experience on the island. I hope you have enjoyed the read and if you need any help on your next holiday, please do not hesitate in contacting me on 01487 898330.