BY KEN PANTON
Photography by Laurent Benoit
 It’s
no secret that I am big fan of St. Barts. This legendary jet setter’s
retreat is graced with stunning natural beauty and while it attracts a
cadre of A-Listers as well as guests and homeowners, the island offers
every kind of holiday vacation. My resort of choice has always been The
Hotel Guanahani & Spa, nestled in the midst of the Caribbean on a very
private 16-acre peninsula.
Unique among the world’s top resorts,
this fabulous resort’s remote setting offers guests expansive views
and unparalleled privacy. Guanahani’s extravagant setting includes
two private beaches, one facing the Atlantic Ocean and one facing a quiet
and picturesque lagoon on Marigot Bay, where the azure waters are perfect
for swimming and windsurfing. All the rooms and suites at Guanahani are
housed in private bungalows, surrounded by lush and colorful tropical landscaping.
Each faces the sea to insure a view to die for. At this private oasis a
simple walk from your bungalow to the beach is a colorful Caribbean nature
walk; you may even encounter one of the protected iguanas that thrive in
this lush setting.
Of course dining is exceptional at the Hotel Guanahani & Spa.
Poolside and overlooking Marigot Bay is the modern L’Indigo. Starting
with a buffet breakfast, L’Indigo transforms its ambience throughout
the day. During lunch the energy is pure beach club kids, swimming in the
pool while guests enjoy a gourmet fare. By evening the setting sun and
moonlight provide a romantic setting for intimate dining.
Guests to the
island must plan a night of dining at the acclaimed Bartholomeo. At this
chicly appointed restaurant, guests dine indoors or outdoors under large
umbrellas, and the cuisine will take your breath away.
The Hotel Guanahani’s
recent major renovations, led by architect David Schwarz, interior designer
Luis Pons, and local architect Nicolas Lossent from Lotus Architects included
the addition of two new luxurious butler suites. Located in a remote setting
on the beachfront, the new Admiral Suite resembles a villa and features
two spacious bedrooms, exclusive access to a small private beach, and breathtaking
views of the lagoon.
Named after the title that Christopher Columbus received
from the King of Spain, the suite features custom-designed furniture that
incorporates elements of leather and wood. The suite is adorned with navigation
tools such as a spyglass and a sextant as a tribute to the famous explorer.
With all of its new facilities and refurbishments there’s never
been a better time to consider this luxurious resort for a special Caribbean
getaway. Anytime of the year, this must-visit resort will impress and pamper
you like no other. Getting to the resort is very easy, with connections
from New York's JFK on JetBlue to
St. Martin or San Juan. The Island of St Barts is then a 12-minute flight
away via Winar.
Private plane travel to the island is the seamless way to connect and I
recommend Tradewind
Aviation.
Let your vacation begin on your flight to the island while you enjoy Tradewind’s
new planes, fabulous catering, and a fine glass of wine.
Visit www.leguanahani.com for
more info on The Hotel Guanahani & Spa, and look for a new Hotel Guanahani
review coming soon to our sister magazine eCityofTravel.com.
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