By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor

Sometimes, when everyday stresses threaten to dim our dazzle, what we really need is a restorative getaway, a few days devoted to our physical and emotional health in an idyllic location. If that sounds like the remedy for what ails you, check out this list of the top 10 wellness resorts in the Caribbean. And then check in to one of them.

Amansala, Mexico Take a load off – physically and mentally – at this Tulum beachfront retreat known for its six-day all-inclusive packages, the challenging Bikini Bootcamp and restorative Destination Detox.

The post The 10 Best Caribbean Wellness Resorts appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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The Temptation Cancun resort has officially reopened its doors following a massive transformation, and it just might be the Caribbean’s sexiest new hotel.

The multimillion-dollar complete rebuild of the topless-optional, all-inclusive property was helmed by renowned designer Karim Rashid, who put his signature “sensual minimalism” on the property’s 430 guest rooms and public spaces.

The adults-only Temptation, which styles itself as the “Playground for Grown-Ups,” is now a colorful, ultra-modern place, with bright colors and striking shapes, a major new addition to the Cancun skyline.

That’s combined with the property’s signature adult-focused environment, which includes everything from the SHE aphrodisiac-focused restaurant to its “Sexy Pool,” a high-energy nightclub-meets pool with a resident DJ.

Every night, the property offers live music and shows, along with theme nights like “Heaven & Hell” and “Bedtime Bash.”

The rebuild unveiled eight new restaurants featuring 15 different cuisines, along with 24-hour premium beverage service at five bars, with a new rooftop bar, Sky 3.5, set to open in October.

“With a history spanning over 40 years as Cancun’s first resort, Temptation has long been a must-visit destination for travelers with a daring spirit who come to enjoy our free-spirited atmosphere and amazing services,” said Rodrigo de la Peña, CEO of Original Group. “With today’s opening, we look forward to re-introducing our guests to a first glance of the enhanced version of Temptation. We are sure this new exciting stage will continue to establish ourselves as the leaders of the adult travel industry worldwide.”

— CJ

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Vieques: it’s the beachy island outpost off the coast of Puerto Rico, one that’s still largely off the radar of most Caribbean travelers.

It’s beyond laid back, a place where semi-wild horses roam the streets and a Jeep Wrangler is the preferred mode of transit.

It’s also home to one of the Caribbean’s hippest hotels: the W Retreat & Spa, a sleek, modern getaway with a beautiful cliffside beach, a terrific spa and easy access to the island’s adventures like the famous Bioluminescent Bay and the more than two dozen stretches of sand that dot the edges of the island.

And now it’s even easier to stay there with the property’s new Sunsation Savings package, which offers a complimentary night’s stay, a dining credit and a complimentary room upgrade upon check in.

That means a third night free and a $100 dining credit for travel now through Nov. 2, with a fourth night free and $100 dining credit for stays between Nov. 3 and Dec. 20.

For more information, visit the W Vieques.

The post How to Save on Your Next Trip to Vieques appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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They’re far from the crowds, far from the cruise ships, home to empty beaches and full glasses. These islands in the Caribbean are the way it all used to be, places where there is still the charm of discovery and the unadulterated quirk and character of small island living.

On the Caribbean’s tiny islands, you’ll find big personality in a small package, and the kind of authentic Caribbean experience that isn’t always easy to come by anymore.

Here are five tiny islands for your next Caribbean journey (And when we say small, we mean really small — think less than 10 square miles.)

Bequia This funky seven-square-mile island in the Grenadines is a throwback to the Old Caribbean, with largely unpopulated white-sand beaches, spectacular vistas and a nautical vibe that makes it feel like New England meets the West Indies, in part due to its fishing, boatbuilding and history as a onetime whaling hub. Where to stay? The Bequia Beach Resort, above, is a solid option (its beach bar is fantastic), as are the boutique Sugar Reef and Spring House hotels.

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By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor

Hedonism II, the Negril, Jamaica, the adults-only playground famous for its anything-goes vibe and raunchy weekly toga parties, is upping the amorous ante even further with a new menu of aphrodisiac meals debuting this month.

Designed “with passion and pleasure in mind,” executive chef Anthony Miller’s five new menus feature staple aphrodisiac ingredients such as oysters, chocolate, conch and caviar. They’ll debut as part of a program of new dining experiences, offered either in a private dining room or on the beach, where the romance-ready set-up includes floor pillows, soft music and low lighting.

The three-course menus are available for an additional $155 per couple, and include unlimited alcoholic beverages, dedicated waiter service, and presentation and explanation of the menu by chef Miller himself.

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