THIS IS THE PLACE TO ISLAND HOP
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a collection of 32 unspoiled islands and cays in the eastern Caribbean. To get a full and awe-inspiring experience, island hop to a few of its gems and secluded resorts.
Tobago Cays Hop on a catamaran to head to the remote and unblemished Tobago Cays, a protected wildlife reserve of five islets bordered by a giant horseshoe reef. Slipping into the warm turquoise waters is like touring a natural sea turtle sanctuary — I swim by at least 15 shelled beauties. And though I’ve snorkelled my fair share, it’s the first spot where I get to hold my first sea urchin and starfish. Details: tobagocays.org
Petit St. Vincent “Welcome to paradise,” says a smiling Petit St. Vincent Resort employee when I arrive on this private island, the most southern of the Grenadines. This slice of heaven is all about privacy. You won’t be disturbed in your remote hillside or beach villa until you hoist a yellow flag outside of your room, alerting staff that your rum punch needs a top-up or you’d like to grab snorkelling equipment. Details: petitstvincent.com
Palm Island Palm Island, formerly Prune Island, was renamed after the former owners of the private island, the late John and Mary Caldwell, planted hundreds of palms. Palm Island Resort capitalizes off of this oasis by offering an eco-friendly, luxury, all-inclusive experience. Grab a resort bike and pedal to one of its secluded hammocks for a beach picnic for the ultimate relaxing afternoon. Details: palmislandresortgrenadines.com
Young Island Young Island is the most northerly island in the Grenadine chain, just south of mainland St. Vincent. Head to Young Island Resort for a lush getaway. Each private cottage has an ocean view, with some offering plunge pools and gazebos. Prep your palate for its famous freshly baked six loaves of breads presented at your table at lunch and dinner. The breads include white, coconut, banana, raisin, cinnamon and wheat. Details: youngisland.com
Argyle International Airport The island buzzed with joy and pride this February when it opened its first international airport, Argyle International Airport (AIA) in Argyle, on Valentine’s Day. This new airport is the largest capital project ever undertaken in the country and will replace the existing E.T. Joshua Airport once it is fully operational, hopefully by June or July, officials say. Details: svgiadc.com