Barbados’ Island Inn Hotel Offers Early Booking Bonus, Saving 15%

The 24-room Island Inn Hotel, an ideal all-inclusive getaway for a couples retreat or family vacation on Barbados, is offering an early booking bonus of 15%.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The 24-room Island Inn Hotel, an ideal all-inclusive getaway for a couples retreat or family vacation, is offering an early booking bonus of 15% off stays that are a minimum of five nights when booked directly on the Island Inn website.

An Island Inn Hotel all-inclusive vacation includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and all beverages (except specialty wines, champagne and bottled water) as well as in-pool scuba lessons which are available by request. Island Inn also features a new mini gym on property for guest use. Through the early booking offer, rates begin at US$353 per room, per night, based on double occupancy. Rates vary based on travel dates.

To take advantage of the early booking offer, reservations must be made on www.IslandInnBarbados.com by March 31, 2015 for travel by Dec. 22, 2015.

The quaint property is the perfect setting for a tropical vacation steeped with a rich, historic past, situated just footsteps from beautiful Carlisle Bay, less than one mile from the center of Bridgetown and conveniently located near the UNESCO world heritage site in the Garrison Historic Area of Barbados, which also boasts numerous shops and nightlife options.

Originally constructed in 1804 as a rum storage facility for the British Regiment, Island Inn amazes guests with its simplicity and old-world charm and is perfect whether visiting alone, traveling on a family vacation or staying on business. The newly renovated boutique hotel offers unrivaled warmth of atmosphere with contemporary ambiance and a true Bajan experience.

For more information on the Island Inn Hotel, call (246) 436-6393; email bookings@islandinnbarbados.com or visit www.IslandInnBarbados.com.

 

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Mango Bay Hotel Group Teams with Barbados Tourism to Offer up to $200 to Spend

Mango Bay Hotel Group is teaming up with the Barbados Tourism Authority for its “Island Inclusive” program, giving U.S. travelers the chance to experience a Caribbean paradise at a great value. Those booking a vacation package to Mango Bay Hotel (www.mangobaybarbados.com) in Holetown, or Bridgetown’s Island Inn Hotel (www.islandinnbarbados.com) by Sept. 30, 2014, for travel to Barbados through Dec. 19, 2014, will receive free on-island spending money redeemable at a number of participating restaurants, attractions and car rental companies.

Cash vouchers will be allotted to guests in the value of US$150 per person with a minimum stay of five nights and US$200 per person for stays of seven nights or longer when using the booking code “BII2014.”  Upon check-in, guests will receive the vouchers in denominations of $50 in Barbadian increments and will be provided a list of all participating service providers.  The funds are based on a maximum of two persons per room and some restrictions apply.

This promotion allows travelers to pair the offer with a number of major cultural and sporting events, including the Barbados Swimming Festival (Oct. 29-Nov. 2), the Venus Williams tennis camp (Nov. 1-2), the Barbados International PRO SURF FEST 2014 (Nov. 13-16) and the 5^th annual Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival (Nov. 20-23), among others.

For more information on the Barbados Island Inclusive package, visit www.VisitBarbados.org/IslandInclusive, www.BookBarbadosnow.com/Island-Inclusive or contact a preferred travel agent.

Mango Bay is located in the Holetown area on the famed gold coast of Barbados and is a short walk from the posh Limegrove Lifestyle Centre. Here vacationers can shop till they drop at global luxury retailers including, but not limited to, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Michael Kors and Cartier. After a day in the sun, the 76-room resort is the ideal place to relax. Known for its casual sophistication and all-inclusive value, guests will enjoy beachfront accommodations and a variety of watersports.

A Mango Bay all-inclusive vacation includes hotel accommodations, all meals, afternoon tea, all local and brand name drinks including glasses of wine, use of the on-site gym and nightly entertainment. Water skiing, kayaking, snorkeling, wakeboarding, pedal boats, a glass bottom boat ride and a catamaran trip to snorkel with the turtles are also included. Rates start at US$480 per room, per night, based on double occupancy, on an all-inclusive basis.

For more information on Mango Bay, call (246) 432-1384, email reservations@mangobaybarbados.comor visit www.MangoBayBarbados.com.

The quaint, 24-room Island Inn Hotel is the perfect setting for a tropical vacation steeped with a rich, historic past, situated just footsteps from beautiful Carlisle Bay, less than one mile from the centre of Bridgetown.  The property is just a short walk from the UNESCO world heritage site in the Garrison Historic Area of Barbados, which also boasts numerous shops and nightlife options.

An Island Inn Hotel all-inclusive vacation includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and all beverages (except specialty wines, champagne and bottled water) as well as in-pool scuba lessons. Island Inn also offers guests a brand new mini gym.  Rates start at US$350 per room, per night, based on double occupancy, on an all-inclusive basis.

For more information on the Island Inn Hotel, call (246) 436-6393; email bookings@islandinnbarbados.com or visit www.IslandInnBarbados.com.

 

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Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort, Tobago, Introduces All-Inclusive ‘Grand Experience’

Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort, Tobago has a new all-inclusive ‘Grand Experience’

Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort, Tobago, has launched a new ultra all-inclusive vacation package – the Grand Experience -designed for guests seeking a Caribbean getaway with the ease and convenience of all-inclusive luxury.

Rates for Magdalena’s Grand Experience all-inclusive plan start at $278 per person (inclusive of taxes), per night, based on double occupancy in a deluxe oceanfront room, for travel through Dec. 18, 2014.  Reservations must be a minimum of five nights for the Grand Experience and can be made via the resort’s website www.MagdalenaGrand.com or by emailing reservations@magdalenagrand.com.

The Grand Experience all-inclusive plan features accommodations; all meals, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, unlimited house-branded domestic and international alcoholic beverages, domestic beers, houses wines by the glass and cocktails; daily activities program including tennis, pool volleyball, cricket, power and nature walks, football, cycling, body workouts and a scuba experience; complimentary shuttle bus to and from the famous Pigeon Point Beach; and all taxes and service charges.

Guests can choose from the following dining options: a fully cooked breakfast buffet in the Pembois Restaurant and Terrace or continental breakfast in-room dining (delivery charge additional); a la carte lunch at Salaka Beach Grill; afternoon tea on request; and dinner at one of the hotel’s four restaurants: the a la carte Salaka Seafood Grill, fine dining at Kali’na Caribbean fusion restaurant, Pembois Restaurant and Terrace featuring a themed International buffet or casual dining at Robinson Crusoe Pub.

The resort adds value to a family vacation by offering two children (up to 4 years of age) to stay free-of-charge when sharing a room with two paying adults, and children ages 5 – 12 stay at a half price rate when sharing a room with two paying adults.

With the Grand Experience, the resort adds further value to a family vacation by offering children (up to 12 years old) a rate of $75 per night when sharing a room with two paying adults.

New Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort

Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort features 178 rooms with 22 one or two-bedroom suite combinations.  The spacious suites offer a private balcony, hot tub and parlor containing a pull-out sofa-bed.  The resort’s two-bedroom suites have a king-size and two double beds while the resort’s one-bedroom suites include the option of either one king-size or two double beds.

All of the resort’s rooms feature spacious marble bathrooms with shower and tub; deluxe toiletries, bathrobes and slippers; pure cotton linens; central air conditioning; ceiling fan; iron and ironing board; salon hair dryer; mini refrigerator; coffee/tea maker; safe; high-definition flat screen IP televisions; complimentary wireless Internet access; and IP telephones.

Magdalena Grand features three swimming pools including an adults-only pool; Tobago Reef Masters Dive Center with its own training pool; daily guest activities program, day and nighttime tennis; bicycles, room service, concierge service, a business center, 24-hour fitness center, beauty and spa treatments at the Equilibrium Face & Body Clinic Ltd., tour desk that can arrange off-property excursions, convenience store, gift shop and secured parking.

Magdalena Grand has taken over the management of the 18-hole Tobago Plantations Golf Course and has completely refurbished the course.  The golf course, which officially opened on Dec. 1, 2013, is a Par-72, 18-hole course that has been woven into the landscape of Tobago Plantations Estate, a gated community of luxury villas, condos and bungalows.

The refurbishment project upgraded the course to Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) standards.  In addition to enhancements on the course, the resort purchased new golf carts, pro shop merchandise, and food and beverage equipment.

Golfers can take practice their short game on the pitching and putting greens while enhancing their swing at the driving range.  The club house, situated between the first and tenth tees, features a pro shop, club room lounge, shoes and club rental, changing rooms, classrooms and golf bag storage.  The club house restaurant – Fairways Bar & Grill – offers a comprehensive food and beverage menu.

Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort is a 15-minute drive from A.N.R Robinson International Airport in Tobago and is situated on the Tobago Plantations Estate, a gated community of luxury villas, condos and bungalows.

For more information, call the resort directly 1-868-660-8500 or toll-free from the U.S. 1-866-353-6222.  Email reservations@MagdalenaGrand.com for reservations.  Visit www.MagdalenaGrand.com, www.facebook.com/MagdalenaGrand and www.twitter.com/MagdalenaGrand.

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Bonaire Dive Resorts, Boutique Hotels Offer Package Deals During Winter Peak Season

For 20 consecutive years, Scuba Diving magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards, has selected Bonaire as the number one Shore Diving destination in the Caribbean/Atlantic. (photo by AS Mullens).

A number of Bonaire’s dive resorts and boutique hotels are offering packages for the peak season and beyond. Many featuring discounts on dive travel will provide guests with an opportunity to experience the warmth of Bonaire and take the “burrrrrr” out of winter.

Belmar Oceanfront Apartments – Take advantage of Belmar Oceanfront Apartments’ “Drive, Dive and Stay 6 Days Shore Diving” package. The offer includes a fully equipped apartment for 7 nights (self catering), rental vehicle (double cabin pick-up truck), 6 days of unlimited air fills, free Nitrox, rum punch party, roundtrip airport transfers, government taxes and services. Weekly rates begin at $734.44 based on 4 persons sharing a classic superior two-bedroom apartment, for travel December 21, 2013 – April 25, 2014. Blackout dates include December 22, 2013 – January 2, 2014; February 1-5, 2014; February 22 – March 21, 2014. For more information visit http://www.belmar-bonaire.com, email reservations@belmar-bonaire.com, call 1-888-655-0605 or send a message on Facebook.

Buddy Dive Resort – Guests staying at Buddy Dive Resort can enjoy their “Drive & Dive Boat Dive” package. The package includes 7 nights’ accommodations, 7 days rental vehicle (double cabin pick-up truck), 6 days of unlimited air fills (plus six boat dives), free Nitrox, daily breakfast buffet, welcome drink, manager rum punch party, roundtrip airport transfers and government taxes. A weekly rate begins at $1,261.67 per person, based on 2 persons sharing a 1-bedroom apartment, and is valid for reservations for December 21, 2013 – April 21, 2014. Blackout dates include December 20, 2013 – January 4, 2014. For more information visit http://www.buddydive.com, email reservations@buddydive.com, call 1-866-GO-BUDDY, or send a message on Facebook or Twitter.

Captain Don’s Habitat – Save big with Captain Don’s Habitat winter package. The special includes 7 nights’ ocean view room accommodations, welcome rum punch, complimentary Wi-Fi, manager’s rum punch party with live music, 6 single tank boat dives, 6 days of 24 hour unlimited shore diving, government taxes, hotel service charges and energy surcharges. Rates begin at $870 per person, based on double occupancy for travel January 4 – February 1, 2014; or $965 per person, based on double occupancy for travel February 2 – March 31, 2014. For more information visit http://www.habitatbonaire.com, email info@habitatbonaire.com or call 1-800-327-6709.

Caribbean Club Bonaire – Caribbean Club Bonaire is offering their “Dive & Explore 6 Days Shore Diving” package. The offer provides 8 days/7 nights’ accommodations, 7 days rental vehicle (double cabin pick-up), 6 days unlimited air fills, free Nitrox, daily breakfast buffet, welcome drink, manager’s rum punch party, roundtrip airport transfers and government taxes. Weekly rates begin at $887.73 per person, based on 2 persons sharing a 1 bedroom cottage standard, for travel December 21, 2013 – April 25, 2014. Blackout dates include December 20, 2013 – January 4, 2014. For more information visit http://www.caribbeanclubbonaire.com, email reservations@caribbeanclubbonaire.com, call 1-800-906-7708 or send a message on Facebook.

Den Laman Condominiums – Explore Bonaire with Den Laman Condominiums “Winter Drive & Dive” package. This 7 nights’ accommodations package starts as low as $761 per person, based on 4 people sharing a two bedroom ocean view condo. The offer also includes an A/C pick-up truck, 6 days of unlimited tanks available 24/7 for shore diving on and off property and free Nitrox upgrades provided by PADI and SSI Bonaire Dive & Adventure. The package is valid for travel for December 21, 2013 – April 18, 2014. For more information visit http://www.denlaman.com, email reservations@denlaman.com or call 1-800-382-1094.

Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino – Take advantage of Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino’s “Shore & Explore” package. The offer consists of 7 nights’ accommodations, daily breakfast, hotel tax and service charges, 4 passenger truck and unlimited use of tanks for shore diving. Weekly rates begin at $959 per person, based on double occupancy. The package is valid for travel December 23, 2013 – March 31, 2014. For more information visit http://www.diviresorts.com, email reserve@diviresorts.com or call 1-800-367-3484.

Eden Beach Resort – Eden Beach Resort is offering their guests an unforgettable vacation with their “Stay, Drive & Dive,” package. The package consists of 7 nights’ accommodations in a studio, king studio or 2 bedroom apartment; daily breakfast at Spice Beach Club; 7 days rental of a dive truck; and 6 days of unlimited shore diving offered by Wannadive Bonaire. Weekly rates begin at $770 per person, based on 4 persons in a 2 bedroom apartment. This package is valid for travel throughout the year of 2014. For more information visit http://www.edenbeach.com, email info@edenbeach.com or call 1-786-454-2348.

Harbour Village Beach Club – Immerse yourself in romance this winter at Harbour Village Beach Club, with their “Romance” package. This package includes 7 nights’ accommodations; romantic torch-lit dinner on the beach; aromatherapy couples massage; reserved double hammock on the beach; complimentary bottle of champagne; a resort scuba experience for non-certified divers, or one day of diving for certified divers; daily full American breakfast; unlimited use of the fitness center, tennis courts and kayaks; and roundtrip airport transfers. This package is valid for travel December 21, 2013 – April 12, 2014. Blackout dates are December 22, 2013 – January 5, 2014. For more information visit http://www.harbourvillage.com, email reservations@harbourvillage.com or call 1-800-424-0004.

Lighthouse Beach Resort – Save with the Lighthouse Beach Resort’s “March Madness” special. The offer includes a 10% discount off all diving and car rentals for guests. Rates begin at $104 per person, based on double occupancy, for travel March 1 – 30, 2014. Mention “March Madness” when making reservations. For more information visit http://www.bonairevilla.com, email info@bonairevilla.com or call 1-781-784-2070.

Oasis Guesthouse Bonaire – Oasis Guesthouse Bonaire is offering their “Dive & Save” package this winter. The offer includes 7 nights’ accommodations, welcome drink, daily breakfast buffet, 7 days regular pick-up or SUV stick shift, 6 days unlimited independent shore-diving (tanks, regular air and weights), Bonaire Marine Park introduction, marine park fee, roundtrip airport transfers, one BBQ dinner, tax and service charges. Weekly rates begin at $849 per person, based on double occupancy. The package is valid for travel now through January 6, 2014. For more information visit http://www.oasisguesthousebonaire.com, email info@oasisguesthousebonaire.com, call +599-796-0408 or send a message on Facebook.

Plaza Resort Bonaire – Plaza Resort Bonaire is offering their All Inclusive Experience Dive Package, with rates beginning at $1,175 per person, based on double occupancy. The package includes 7 nights’ accommodations, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner (incl. BBQ), all drinks (no premium brands), 6 days of unlimited shore diving, Nitrox, roundtrip airport transfers, service charge and energy surcharge. Book now through December 14, 2013, and receive additional 10% off. This package is valid for travel January 3, 2014 – April 20, 2014. Blackout dates include January 12 – 17, 2014. For more information visit http://www.plazaresortbonaire.com, email usa@plazaresortbonaire.com or call 1-800-766-6016.

Sand Dollar Condominiums – Save with Sand Dollar Condominiums “Ride to the Reef” package this winter season. The package includes 7 nights’ accommodations, 6 days of unlimited tanks for shore diving provided by Dive Friends Bonaire, free Nitrox upgrades, truck rental and government room tax. Weekly rates begin at $688 per diver, based on 4 people sharing a two bedroom/two bathroom condominium. This offer is valid for travel for December 21, 2013 – May 3, 2014. For more information visit http://www.sanddollarbonaire.com, email res@sanddollarbonaire.com or call 1-800-288-4773.

Windsock Beach Resort – Windsock Beach Resort is offering their “7 = 6 Discount” package. For every 7 nights stay, guests only pay for 6 nights. Weekly rates begin at $1,156.25 per person, based on double occupancy. This discount is valid for travel now through April 15, 2014. For more information visit http://www.gowindsockbonaire.com, email windsockbonaire@gmail.com or call +599-795-3791.

Getting to Bonaire

United Airlines operates weekly non-stop flights to Bonaire from Houston, TX and from Newark, NJ (the Newark flight is seasonal). Starting January 1, 2014, the Houston flight departs on Friday afternoon, arriving Friday evening. The return flight departs on Saturday morning, arriving later that same day. The Newark flight departs on Saturday morning, arriving Saturday afternoon. The return flight departs on Saturday afternoon, arriving later that same day.

Delta operates a weekly non-stop flight to/from Atlanta on Saturdays. Other flights from North America generally arrive in Curacao or Aruba; Insel Air flies from Charlotte, NC and Miami to Bonaire via Curacao. Flights between Bonaire, Aruba and Curacao are available on Insel Air and Tiara Air. Divi Divi Air flies between Bonaire and Curacao.

Located eighty-six miles east of Aruba, the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire offers year-round sunshine, low annual rainfall, pristine coral formations and the most abundant fish population in the Caribbean. World renowned for scuba diving and snorkeling, it is also ideal for adventurers and explorers,  offering a myriad of eco-adventure activities from sea and mangrove kayaking to windsurfing or kite boarding and more. For those who want to kick back and relax, not having traffic lights on the island makes it easy to stroll into town or hop on a scooter or bike to peruse the island at their own pace.  Accommodations range from full-service oceanfront resorts and condominiums to intimate guesthouses, small inns and private villas.

For 20 consecutive years, Scuba Diving magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards, has selected Bonaire as the number one Shore Diving destination in the Caribbean/Atlantic. This year, it received 17 awards, more than any other Caribbean destination. It was also voted number one for Beginner Diving, Advanced Diving, Macro Diving and Underwater Photography in the Reader’s Choice Awards.  Most recently, Bonaire’s Marine Park was named one of the Caribbean’s Best Places for Snorkeling by Frommer’s.

For more information on Bonaire, contact the Tourism Corporation Bonaire at 1-800 BONAIRE, email usa@tourismbonaire.com or visit Bonaire’s official web site at http://www.tourismbonaire.com. Follow Bonaire on Twitter and Facebook.

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Spice Island Beach Resort, Granada, Has “Child Stay Free” Deal Through Dec 15

Spice Island Beach Resort has a “child stay free” deal valid through Dec. 15.

Spice Island Beach Resort (www.SpiceIslandBeachResort.com), the luxury Grenada property just recognized as the #1 rated hotel in the Caribbean according to TripAdvisor reviewers, is offering a “child stay free” offer. One child 5 – 11 years of age can stay free in one of the resort’s charming Oleanander or luxury beachfront Sea Grape Suites (Sea Grape Suites pictured right) – a savings of $230 each per night. This promotion is valid now through Dec. 15, 2013 and can be combined with other offers.

Spice Island Beach Resort appeals to discerning affluent travelers with its reputation for service, luxury beachfront and private pool suites, inventive spa treatments incorporating local spices and ingredients, and an unmatched culinary program featuring seven-course dinners which range from diet-friendly to decadent.

When parents need some alone time, kids are well taken care of at the Nutmeg Pod, a supervised children’s program with complimentary enrollment for children ages three – 12 (children must be toilet-trained). A weekly schedule of organized activities is available to keep children entertained daily from 9 am – 5 pm, and includes arts and crafts, board games and more.

The Nutmeg Pod features a Nintendo Wii, a movie viewing area, the Nutmeg library and Sleepy Hollow, a place for resting and recharging between activities. A colourful mural created by local Grenadian artist Nadine Baksh tells the story of an Enchanted Spice Forest with local indigenous characters such as Manny the Manicou and the Nutmeg Princess.

When it is time to reluctantly depart, as a last rite, children are encouraged to dip their hand in a colorful paint and leave their handprint on the wall with their name and age. When they return on their next family vacation, they are eager to revisit the place they literally left their mark.

Guests staying at the resort from now through Dec. 15, 2013 can enjoy all-inclusive nightly rates as low as $946 per room, based on two people sharing an Oleander Garden Suite.

For the ultimate in casual elegance, vacationers can choose one of Spice Island Beach Resort’s signature Sea Grape Suites (pictured right) which open up directly onto magnificent Grand Anse Beach just steps away from the sparkling Caribbean Sea from $1,146 per room, double occupancy.

All suites are air-conditioned and outfitted with spectacular five-star amenities including a large whirlpool, LCD flat panel televisions with cable, dvd player and iPod docking station, the softest and smoothest Italian Frette bathrobes and linens, Molton Brown bath and body amenities, mini-bar, CD player/clock radio, iron, ironing board, hairdryer, direct dial telephone with Internet access, safe, coffee/tea facility, toaster, chaise lounges and patio or balcony. Several suites feature a private pool.

The award-winning Spice Island Beach Resort features 64 elegantly-appointed suites, the full-service Janissa’s Spa, a Cybex® fitness center, Oliver’s beachside gourmet restaurant, the Sea & Surf Terrace for light lunches, the Sea & Surf Bar for refreshing cocktails throughout the day, a central swimming pool with swim-up whirlpool, an Omnicourt® tennis court, the Nutmeg Pod children’s activity center, the Gatsby Boutique and more.

Spice Island Beach Resort is a proud member of the esteemed Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) collection and the first and only resort in Grenada to be featured in the exclusive Virtuoso network’s Hotels & Resorts Program and Signature Hotels & Resorts Collection.

To book directly, contact Spice Island Beach Resort toll-free at 1-800-501-8603, tel: 473-444-4258, fax: 473-444-4807, e-mail: reservations@spicebeachresort.com, or visit www.SpiceIslandBeachResort.com.

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Lionel Richie to Headline 2013 St. Kitts Music Festival, June 27-29

Multiple award winning singer/songwriter and popular American musician Lionel Richie will headline the upcoming 17^th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival, which takes place from Thursday, June 27 to Saturday, June 29, 2013, rounding out an impressive lineup of artists for this year’s event.

“We feel privileged to have such a global musical icon as Lionel Richie visit St. Kitts to add his remarkable talent and numerous award-winning songs to this year’s Music Festival,” said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of Tourism & International Transport, Trade, Industry, Commerce & Consumer Affairs. “Blending renowned international acts such as Mr. Richie with rising local stars and top Caribbean artists in a festive, block-party type of atmosphere is what keeps patrons coming back to our Festival year after year. This year, I expect the festivities to continue ‘all night long’.”

In addition to Lionel Richie, Shaggy, Beres Hammond, Konshens, Tessanne Chin, the Cayon Pantastics, Andy Narell featuring Relator with special guest Etienne Charles, Superblue (Austin Lyons), Fay-Ann Lyons and Bunji Garlin were also announced as performers for the 2013 event

Shaggy, whose hits include “Boombastic,” “Luv Me, Luv Me,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and “Angel,” returns to the St. Kitts Music Festival for the third time in 2013.

In 2006, Shaggy said, “Being from Jamaica, the people of the smaller islands have a flavor of my extended family, everyone knowing each other. The energy, the love and the level of friendliness is absolutely magical. St. Kitts, here I come!” Best known internationally for his dancehall hit “Tempted to Touch” and the critically-acclaimed “Fire,” Beres Hammond also returns to the event, having last performed at the 2009 St. Kitts Music Festival to an enthusiastic crowd.

These artists complete a well-rounded musical roster, which also includes previously announced top local acts including Small Axe Band, Nu Vybes International, Grand Masters, Dejour, The Kore Band, Dagah and Charles Emanuel. The nightly line-up of performers is as follows-

Thursday June 27, 2013 Friday June 28, 2013 Saturday June 29, 2013

Small Axe Band Dejour The Cayon Pantastics

The Kore Band Dagah Andy Narell featuring Relator

Nu Vybes International Charles Emanuel with special guest Etienne Charles

Bunji Garlin Tessanne Chin Lionel Richie

Fay-Ann Lyons Konshens

Superblue (Austin Lyons) Shaggy

The Grand Masters Band Beres Hammond

Now in its 17^th year, the St. Kitts Music Festival attracts both locals and visitors alike. It features a wide range of musical styles on the popular market, including R&B, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Soca, Calypso, Gospel and Contemporary music. Past artists have included such prominent acts as John Legend, T-Pain, Michael Bolton, K.C. and the Sunshine Band, UB40’s Ali Campbell, Wyclef Jean, Ne-Yo, Air Supply, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Toni Braxton, The Commodores, Dionne Warwick, Billy Ocean, Sean Paul, Boyz II Men, King Konris, Stephen Marley, Regina Belle, Maxi Priest, Roberta Flack, Biggie Irie, Bunny Wailer and Lord Nelson.

The Festival begins at 8:00pm nightly and tickets are US $40 per night. For more information, including places to stay in St. Kitts, visit www.stkittsmusicfestival.com or “like” the St. Kitts Music Festival’s Facebook page.

St. Kitts is currently ranked at #2 in a list of the 16 Best Caribbean Vacations and #4 in a list of the 12 Best Islands in the World by US News & World Report. Last year, St. Kitts was named one of “5 Caribbean Islands to Discover Now” by MSNBC. It was also named one of the “Top 12 Spots that should be on your list for 2012” by Caribbean Travel + Life magazine and the island’s Brimstone Hill Fortress was named one of “10 Great Places To Explore The World’s Best-Kept Secrets” by USA Today. St. Kitts was also named a top destination for 2011 by both AOL Travel and British Airways.

Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, it offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the region’s only scenic railway which connects the island’s former sugar plantations, visiting the Caribelle Batik factory, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, ziplining, and more traditional vacation pastimes such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Accommodations range from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels and resorts.

For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn, visit www.stkittstourism.kn, or connect on Facebook, Twitter and/or YouTube.

See also:

Exploring St Kitts, Caribbean island rich in heritage, natural attractions (Photos)

St Kitts Marriott, with top golf, spa, casino, beach, Kids Club is ideal getaway (Photos)

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Dominica, the ‘Nature Island’, Celebrates Spring with Hike Fest, Jazz’N Creole, DomFesta Artisan Showcase

From music to hiking to the island’s artisan history, Dominica offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to the island from April to June. Known for its many festivals, the Nature Island has something for everyone year ’round.

Dominica (pronounced Dom-in-EEK-a, and not to be confused with the Dominican Republic), a spectacular green island of rugged mountains, lush rainforests and rushing rivers in the Eastern Caribbean, is a haven for adventure travelers seeking a unique vacation experience.

DOMFESTA Celebrates Dominica’s Artisan History

From April into early June, the Dominica Festival of the Creative Arts—or Domfesta—showcases the island’s varied arts and culture. Visitors to the Nature Island during this annual festival witness the talents of hundreds of local artists. Playwrights, poets, artists, singers and musicians all come together to present their interpretations of Dominica’s rich heritage in the arts. Held throughout the island, communities from north to south and east to west demonstrate their history and future by presenting village feasts, theatrical plays, art expositions, poetry and drumming festivals, as well as creole competitions and concerts. A highlight of this two-month festival is the Golden Drum Awards, which recognizes organizations and individuals for their contributions to the arts and culture of Dominica.

Enjoy Dominica’s Many Hiking Trails During Hike Fest

Hike Fest is the ultimate opportunity to experience Dominica by walking with nature on the Nature Island. Held the first three Saturdays in May (4th, 11th, and 18^th), Hike Fest offers treks through Dominica’s pristine, untouched natural trails that follow routes ranging from easy to moderate to difficult. Some of the routes form part of the Waitukubuli National Trail, 115 miles of trails spanning the entire length of Dominica.

Hikers are amazed by the spectacular scenery, hidden beaches, cozy bays and fascinating rock formations that jut out into the sea. Visitors experience agricultural farmlands, parrot habitats and countless panoramic viewpoints including the French neighboring islands of Martinique to the south and Guadeloupe to the north. Hike Fest is the definitive way to embrace the exhilarating Atlantic breeze and be enchanted by the calming sound of the ocean, all the while exploring the natural wonders and hidden gems of the Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica.

Jazz ‘n Creole: Five Musical Days in May

Visitors indulge in an experience that is authentically Dominican by joining locals for Jazz ‘n Creole from Wednesday, May 15, to Sunday, May 19. The festival culminates with a daylong mainstage event that includes a fusion of jazz and creole music, scrumptious food and a celebration of local culture. This rhythmic event is held at Historic Fort Shirley, Cabrits National Park in Portsmouth. Built in the 18th century to protect Dominica from invasion by the British and French, Fort Shirley is one of the most impressive military installations in the West Indies.

This fun-filled, family friendly event is set to a homegrown musical masterpiece with festival goers being serenaded by the uniquely Dominican combination of jazz and creole.

Dominica (pronounced Dom-in-EEK-a, and not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) is a haven for adventure travelers seeking a unique vacation that includes: hiking and adventure, cultural events/festivals, diving and water sports, whale/dolphin watching and canyoning adventures. Dominica lies south of Guadeloupe and north of Martinique in the Eastern Caribbean. Air travelers can connect to Dominica on American Eagle, BVI Airways, LIAT or Seaborne Airlines (beginning April 2013) from the surrounding hubs of Puerto Rico, Antigua, British Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Barbados and St. Lucia.

Learn more about Dominica and the many exciting activities on the Nature Island by visiting www.discoverdominica.com, contacting a travel professional or calling Discover Dominica Authority toll-free from the U.S. and Canada at 1-866-522-4057.

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Enjoy Off-Season Value at Award-Winning Grand Isle Resort & Spa, Bahamas

Delightful warm weather and quiet beaches await visitors who want to take advantage of 30% off luxurious 1- to 4-bedroom tropical villas at Grand Isle Resort & Spa, on the shores of Emerald Bay’s azure clear waters.

Available for reservations of three or more consecutive days from October 30 – December 18, 2012, the special value villa rates can easily be booked, along with airfare, by calling 866-380-5213 or +214-393-2841, or e-mailing reservations@grandisleresort.com. All villa configurations are eligible for the off-season prices.

Grand Isle has just completed enhancements to the resort, including expanding the al fresco dining room and bar and modernizing the kitchen. At The [newly refurbished] Palapa Grill, meals begin with a Caribbean flair. Bahamian Chef Romeha Forbes is creating a new menu of regional dishes, from blackened red snapper with plantain, accented by chutney spice, to freshly caught tuna or wahoo. Avid fishermen can bring their day’s catch to Chef Forbes, and request him to prepare it for dinner. Guests can unwind with the signature Exuma Blue cocktail or traditional island Sky Juice, among others. Chef Forbes has also added house made tropical ice cream in flavors such as guava, coconut and mango. In-villa dining is offered for a more intimate experience, along with a variety of excellent catering options perfect for destination wedding receptions.

For a first-hand preview of accommodations, enjoy the Grand Isle Experience, an enticing look at the resort named by TripAdvisor as among the top ten luxury resorts in the Caribbean, and winner of the AAA four-diamond rating. Grand Isle will complete the restaurant renovation and reopen on October 30, 2012.

Located on Emerald Bay in Great Exuma, a magnificent island located in The Bahamas, Grand Isle Resort & Spa is a stunning ocean front villa resort. The exclusive gated community consists of 78 luxuriously appointed 1- to 4-bedroom villas, decorated in color palettes inspired by the sea, lush landscape, and tropical ambience. The villas range from 1,250 sq. ft. to over 5,000 sq. ft. and offer a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, high-end amenities, and extraordinary views. Getting around the resort is quick and convenient, as every villa is equipped with a personal golf cart. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet is also available.

Grand Isle is ideally suited for family holidays, romantic getaways, destination weddings and honeymoons, or for simply enjoying the beach, a luxury villa vacation at Grand Isle is an experience never to be forgotten.

Contact reservations at 866-380-5213 (US toll-free), 214-393-2841 (US direct) or reservations@grandisleresort.com. Villas are available for sale or rent. Visit http://www.GrandIsleResort.com for more information.

For more travel features, visit:

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