The Best Caribbean Vacations: 15 Spring-Summer Travel Packages to Book Now

Best Caribbean Vacations: Spring-Summer Travel Packages 2015

After being subjected to the winter weather indignities of dressing like the Michelin Man and shoveling your family’s weight in snow, can one really be blamed for dreaming of balmy days spent by a pool with an umbrella in your drink? Frankly, I lust for a Caribbean vacation even when there are no Rs in the months. And while it still doesn’t quite feel like spring yet, there’s no better time than now to think about where to go after Snowpocalypse 2015. So here are 15 exquisite Caribbean travel packages to help you thaw out in style.

W VIEQUES
Vieques, Puerto Rico
The first time I set foot on Vieques, it was love at first sight. Think roadside stalls brimming with fresh fruit, deserted beaches, and delicious Puerto Rican cuisine in small charming restaurants. But there’s only one way to do “luxury” in an island that’s pretty much unspoiled: the W Retreat and Spa Vieques. And this year, the property launched its new “Energize by Tara Stiles” program (rates start at $609 per person), which is perfect for anyone who’s looking to physically reboot after the harsh winter. It includes five outdoor morning activities, afternoon excursions, Strala yoga sessions, spa treatments, and more. Too much activity for you? Fear not. There are more packages on offer. The “Five Feels Fabulous” and “Sunsational Savings” are particularly noteworthy because of the food credits, free nights, and available upgrades.

Does the idea of staring out into the ocean while sipping some quality rum appeal to you? Then the W Vieques won’t disappoint.

ROUND HILL
Montego Bay, Jamaica
If you want radiant sun, good food, and clear waters you can never go wrong with a trip to Jamaica. But there are only three or four special resorts that really captivate—and Round Hill is one of them. The property’s “Summer Escape” package (valid for travel from May 3 to October 31) is offering $100 in credit and a fourth night free, which is quite a steal for such fine lodgings and service. And if you’re looking to book more sizeable accommodations—such as a two- or six-bedroom villa—the promotion applies to those too. Just email (or call) the reservation desk to help lock in the deal.

Round Hill in Montego Bay is one of Jamaica’s most luxurious properties.

SANDY LANE
Barbados
Barbados is one of my favorite Caribbean destinations. Why? It’s authentic. The food—from Oistins Friday night fish fry to Cin Cin to Cuz’s and beyond—is delicious. The rums (Mount Gay and St. Nicholas Abbey) are tasty and potent. The people are delightful and good-natured. Overall, it’s just the kind of island where you can truly forget about your miseries. And while you can stay in more modest resorts and still be happy, Sandy Lane can’t be beat if it’s extravagance and respite you’re looking for. Its “Spa Escape” package offers one 60-minute body massage, a Bajan sugarcane scrub, and lunch for two at the Spa Café. But for those who don’t want two treatments, you can opt to indulge in a round of golf instead. Plus, the property also has two other promotions: the “Family Escape” and the “Romantic Escapade.” All three are valid through November—but whatever package you decide to go for, don’t leave without bringing home bottles of Bajan hot pepper sauce.

PETER ISLAND
British Virgin Islands
Peter Island is one of those little-known spots in the BVI. And to say that it’s remarkable would be a massive understatement. Its world-class spa, excellent dining options, five beaches, and marina make the resort a favorite among the jetset and yachting class. This year, there’s an abundance of promotions catering to every type of personality. But its “Sea for Yourself” and “Learn to Sail” packages are standouts. Both include all meals, picnics, and resort amenities.