CHOOSING THE Caribbean’s best all inclusive resorts is a bit like choosing a list of its best restaurants — it simply begs for a definition. And the definition of “all-inclusive” has changed a lot over the years. All-inclusive properties have evolved to the point where they fit into a number of very distinct categories — you might go to one for an eco experience; to another for a couples experience, another for a family experience and another for world-class luxury (and we’ll be doing rankings of those categories as well in the near future, of course). Today, the sheer variety of the Caribbean’s all-inclusive properties means you have the ability completely frame the kind of experience you want. Here is our list of the Caribbean’s 10 best for 2013.
Galley Bay, Antigua
The oceanfront Galley Bay resort is a great getaway for couples. And on an island with 365 beaches, one of the nicest is just out your doorstep.
Tiamo, South Andros, Bahamas
The boutique Tiamo is a perfect example of the evolution of the Caribbean all-inclusive — it’s really a luxurious eco-resort that just happens to be an all-inclusive. And the island of Andros is a portal to the Old Caribbean — an untouched, paradisiacal gem.
Sandals Regency La Toc, St Lucia
Sandals is the grand dame of Caribbean all-inclusives, and it’s easy to see why — they’ve simply turned it into an art form. The La Toc property is among the company’s most scenic properties, located on a half-mile-long beach at the La Toc Estate.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The rock-themed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is a little bit of Las Vegas in the Dominican Republic — but in a good way. Everything is done at the highest level, from the rooms to what is really exceptional food.
Beaches Turks and Caicos
This property, which recently underwent an expansion, is a classic family-friendly all-inclusive resort — it’s got the 45,000-square-foot waterpark for the kids, and 19 restaurants and 12 bars for the parents.
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay, Jamaica
Secrets says this property is about “unlimited luxury,” and it lives up to the billing, with nine restaurants, a private beach and, one of the new standards for today’s all-inclusives, 24-hour room service.
Paradisus Palma Real, Dominican Republic
The Paradisus is another great example of how far all-inclusives have come, particularly on one of the reasons we choose all-inclusives — food. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter culinary experiences — think restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs instead.
Couples Tower Isle, Jamaica
This property, which even has its own private island (above), is another classic Caribbean all-inclusive, with an emphasis on tremendous service.
The Caves – Negril
Set above limestone cliffs in the Jamaican oasis of Negril, Island Outpost’s The Caves is an all-inclusive jewel. And its Blackwell Rum Bar is not to be missed.
Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
This is another sign of the development of the all-inclusive — the all-inclusive wellness resort. The Agua is simply a wonderfully relaxing place.