To get the pick of the islands
If you’re struggling to decide which island to visit, a cruise round the Caribbean could be the solution. Hop on board the Marella Explorer, which travels in a loop from Barbados towards St Kitts, calling at Antigua, St Maarten, the British Virgin Islands, St Kitts and the Grenadines en route.
On St Kitts you’ll discover idyllic white sands like Turtle Beach – perfect for a mid-morning dip – and you can catch a train for a scenic tour of the island, taking in 300ft deep ravines and the Mount Liamuiga volcano.
Meanwhile in St Maarten, you can visit the Butterfly Farm in Philipsburg – home to more than 40 species – and take a trip on a Seaworld Explorer boat and watch sea turtles and barracudas swim by from its underwater observatory. A day at sea means you have plenty of time to enjoy the ship, with its state-of-the-art Champneys spa, pool, indoor cinema and 10 places to eat.
Cruise Deals offers a seven-night cruise from £1,396pp (saving up to £155pp) based on two sharing a cabin including flights to Barbados departing from Manchester on March 17. Spa treatments and some excursions cost extra. See cruisedeals.co.uk, 0800 107 2323
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Is it an über-cool resort for partygoers and couples? Or is it one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Caribbean? Actually, it’s both. The resort is split into two – one part is adults only, the other for families.
So grown-ups looking for peace and quiet can slip away to secluded beaches, pools with swim-up bars and their own night-time entertainment with live DJs.
Meanwhile, families have their own beaches and pools to enjoy – as well as top-notch kids’ clubs, with everything from treasure hunts to talent shows.
The resort also has its own complimentary 18-hole course in nearby Quintana Roo, surrounded by ancient Mayan ruins.
Afterwards, return to the resort to feast on fiery Mexican flavours at Frida and Asian fusion at Zen – just two of the many on-site restaurants.
Travel back in time with a visit to the nearby Tulum archaeological site; boasting a spectacular cliffside location, the oldest part is a temple with original Mayan frescos dating from 1450.
See more local handicrafts at the art market held every Saturday and Sunday evening at Puerto Morelos, a Mexican fishing village just north of the hotel, which has groomed beaches, friendly locals and restaurants selling tasty fresh seafood.
The Holiday Place is offering seven nights’ all-inclusive at the five-star Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya from £1,699pp. Price includes a £600pp discount staying in a Deluxe Gold Room, return flights with British Airways departing from Gatwick on March 20 and transfers. holidayplace.co.uk, 020 7644 1770
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