Caribbean vibes - a trip to the must-visit tropical islands

Enjoy breathtaking, tropical views whilst listening to turquoise waters rolling in with a glass of St. Lucia’s famous rum punch in hand - Rachel Westall was lost in St Lucia (in a good way!)

As the St. Lucians say, "No pressure, no problem!" So many tropical islands provide luxury, but only St. Lucia offers this alongside the feeling of joy and laughter courtesy of the amazing people. Such a friendly country, I was so warmly welcomed – and laughed a lot!

This is the ultimate location to unwind after planning your big day. If you don't know much about St. Lucia, it's an eastern Caribbean Island with a pair of dramatically tapered mountains, known as the Pitons. These volcanic mounds are a spectacular landmark of the island, lush and green and ready for the adventurer in you to explore. St. Lucia's tropical climate makes it a prime spot for year-round sunshine and warm weather. Prepare for short downpours as those surrounding rainforests bursting with colour need watering.

THE LANDINGS RESORT
The Landings Resort & Spa is a beachfront hotel with a private marina, positioned on Rodney Bay. The Resort invites you to enhance your stay with its all-inclusive package, allowing you not only to sample their extensive food and beverage offerings but full access to the quality fitness centre, unlimited use of the sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkelling gear.

During my stay, I enjoyed the resort's entertainment. Taking in the Caribbean vibes, we enjoyed a delicious barbecue feast on the beachwhile watching fire throwers and limbo dancers doing their thing on the stage... and did I mention there was rum punch?! If your honeymoon is more of a familymoon, the resort has you covered with its awesome Kids Club and babysitting service. What more could you ask for?

ACCOMMODATION
Whatever your accommodation preference: marina view, beachfront or ocean view, you'll be blown away. My marina view suite was equipped with a state-of-the-art kitchen and private plunge pool. Listening to the birds with a cup of tea in hand in my plunge pool is a memory I'll never forget.

THE LANDINGS SPA
The revamped, luxurious 7,000-square-foot spa at The Landings features serene therapy rooms, some with outdoor hydrotherapy terraces so you can relax and take in the views after your treatment. As well as enjoying massages, manis and pedis, you can request a hair stylist to ensure your locks have full attention during your fabulous stay. There's also a state-of-the-art fitness centre with on-site staff and personal trainers to keep you in shape.

ST. LUCIAN CUISINE
You can't go to the Caribbean without enjoying the freshest seafood. However, the local specialties are a must try from curried goat to breadfruit (similar to potatoes but sweeter and starchier),and saltfish (stewed fish, which is usually sold dried and salted, with boiled green bananas, locally referred to as green fig).

EXCURSIONS
If you like to do more than lay on a sun lounger, then St. Lucia has much to offer whether that's zip-ling through the rainforest or taking a guided hike up St. Lucia's signature Pitons.

During my stay, I enjoyed a visit to Project Chocolat from the well-known Hotel Chocolat. I was blown away by the luscious rainforest location, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the cacao groves. I was then invited to make my very own chocolate bar and tasted some amazing foods from their cacao-inspired menu which included cacao mac 'n cheese and even cacao burgers!

FIVE STAR LUXURY
If you really want to push the boat out for your once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, then take the transfer from Hewanorra International Airport to the resort via private helicopter. Just let The Landings know and they'll arrange it all!

Furthermore, to extend the luxe package, you can request a butler service to make your stay as carefree and relaxing as possible. Go on, treat yourself!

HOW TO BOOK
The Landings Resort Hotel & Spa
0800 066 8099 | www.landingsstlucia.com