The Columbus Dispatch

ADVENTURES

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The old saying, “It’s not about the destinatio­n, it’s about the journey,” isn’t always true. Sometimes it’s both. And a water arrival could be just the thing to level up your next vacation. Here’s a look at a few resorts that you can reach via an adventure on the water.

Four Seasons Nevis – St. Kitts & Nevis

Nevis is one of the most unspoiled islands in the Caribbean. With blue skies and empty beaches, Nevis has a pace that encourages you to stop and take in all of its beauty.

After arriving in St. Kitts, hop on a Four Seasons Resort Nevis transfer service. Then, head off on a breathtaki­ng

and scenic 15-minute ride to Christophe Harbour. There, enjoy a drink before boarding a Four Seasons speedboat to the resort, with spectacula­r views of Nevis Peak.

Most public boats, small cruise ships and ferries also travel to Charlestow­n (the capital), where it’s easy to find transporta­tion to other hotels.

If you want to travel on your own schedule, book a water taxi from Reggae

Beach, on the southeast peninsula of St. Kitts, and dock at Oualie Bay, on the north of the island.

Finch Bay Resort – The Galapagos Islands

Finch Bay Resort is all about nature — and this begins before you even arrive. The journey to the resort allows you to witness all that this remarkable location has to offer.

After arriving to the Galapagos Islands, it’s time to journey to Finch Bay. Your luggage is whisked away, and your guide helps you load up into the resort’s own panga.

The hotel is located in a volcanic archipelag­o in the Pacific Ocean, and a panga ride there is a fitting arrival to one of the most unique places on the planet. Bonus: While arriving by water, you may actually see the blue-footed booby and be able to check it off your must-see list.

Bürgenstoc­k Hotels and Resort – Obbürgen, Switzerlan­d

Bürgenstoc­k is perched on the top of a mountain that you can see in the distance as you jump on the ferry to take you across Lake Lucerne. During your journey to this dreamy Swiss destinatio­n, you’ll see stunning Medieval architectu­re and snowcapped mountains.

Your journey doesn’t stop there. Once you reach the shore, you must get to the top of the mountain resort by funicular, a type of cable railway system.

The hotel, in the heart of central Switzerlan­d, feels like a fantasy world, with private residence suites, four luxury hotels, nine restaurant­s and bars, two spa areas and one remarkable wellness center.

Cayo Espanto – Belize

Cayo Espanto is located on its own private four-acre island, just seven minutes by boat from San Pedro. It’s the ultimate luxury goal – a vacation to a private island.

Once you land in San Pedro, your “houseman” meets you at the plane. You are escorted to a golf cart, which will bring you to your own private boat, stocked with towels and water. This scenic ride takes you to your villa.

When I visited Cayo Espanto, the staff was ready and waiting for us by our private dock, refreshing drinks in hand. Every last detail was accounted for, from wrapping cocktails in cloth napkins to carrying your luggage from the boat to the bungalow. All we had to do was relax and enjoy.

Casa Vieja Lodge – Puerto San Jose, Guatemala

Imagine arriving at a boutique, luxury lodge not in the water, but above the water – in a private helicopter. That’s how you start this Guatemalan vacation.

A helicopter brings you to Guatemala’s Casa Vieja Lodge and arrives waterside near the marina. This is only appropriat­e, as Casa Vieja combines unbeatable fishing with high-quality hospitalit­y. In fact, it’s considered the most luxurious, all-inclusive fishing lodge in the world.

Anglers who choose the helicopter upon arrival in Guatemala City also have the opportunit­y for a thrilling, 45minute tour. It takes you past the volcanos (Pacaya, Agua, Fuego), ancient Antigua and marina before you land at the lodge.

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