The Caribbean's Spice Island is robust with all of the region's romantic offerings and an untouristed, castaway feel. Here's one couple's honeymoon diary at this paradise found.
By: Jenna Mahoney-AS SEEN IN BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE-
The Caribbean, with its 13 island nations and another 13 territories all edged in pristine powdered sands, kissed by tradewinds and surrounded by tourmaline waters, is one of the world's most popular honeymoon destinations. It’s here that the days are sun-soaked and blissfully unscheduled with the exception of the evening spectacular, when activities come to a standstill as guests look to the sea, hoping to spy the elusive green flash as the brilliant sun slips below the endless horizon.
Of course, such sessions are often complete with sundowner rum cocktails enjoyed poolside or on loungers in the sand. And while such experiences are universal to this sweet island region, each spit of sand has its own personality. Grenada, the Spice Isle, which is located at the southern portion of the Caribbean, just 100 miles off the coast of Venezuela, is blissfully removed from the hustle and bustle of the more northern destinations. And its vibe is decidedly laid-back romance in paradise, found.
Miami-based couple Ali Huber and Alexander Esquivel escaped for a week to the luxury-included, adults-only Sandals Grenada after their wedding. They enjoyed lounging in their private pool, candlelit dinners and spectacular sunset shows. Here, they share their happily ever after.
BRIDAL GUIDE: How did you choose to honeymoon at Sandals Grenada?
ALI HUBER: I had visited Grenada on a work trip a few years ago and was just so enamored by the beauty of the island. And when I saw Sandals Grenada’s accommodations, I knew I had found the perfect honeymoon spot. When the time came to start planning our honeymoon, we always knew we wanted to stay in one of the — ridiculously amazing — SkyPool Suites. Each has an infinity-edge pool on the balcony. Come on — it doesn't get any better!
BG: What was your room like?
AH: We booked into a dreamy SkyPool Suite. When we walked into our beach that was truly incredible. We had a four-course gourmet meal, under the stars, right in the sand. Candles around the table, romantic music playing in the background enhanced the incredible ambiance executed by the Sandals team.
BG: Where did you view the sunset?
AH: There’s an amazing spot on the pier with a chair made for two. Here, you can watch the sunrise, sunset, and simply enjoy each other’s company to the soundtrack of waves crashing. It’s also a beautiful vantage from which to view the resort and its firepits. It’s a romantic place to sit in the evening and star-gaze.
BG: Did you enjoy the property’s beach during the day?
AH: The resort sits on Pink Gin Beach, one of the most beautiful strands on the island. It has soft white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s very calm, so swimming and sailing on the included Hobie Cats are very enjoyable. Off property, Grand Anse Beach is a must-visit. It’s a local hangout spot with the bluest water, the best Caribbean beats and local cuisine. We enjoyed local beer and had some jerk chicken that was out of this world.
BG: What excursions did you experience?
AH: We went on a private island tour with Island Routes (an exclusive outfitter). Our personal guide brought us across the island. We went to the House of Chocolate, walked around St. George, visited the Spice Market and looked for mona monkeys in the interior. The chocolate experience was so cool. During the visit, we learned the history of cocoa and how it’s made. We ground our own and sampled loads, including 100% cocoa, and nutmeg- and ginger infused chocolate.
BG: Do you have any favorite natural attractions?
AH: Annandale Waterfalls is a gorgeous location, surrounded by tropical flowers and green vegetation. It has the best photo spots. Afterwards, we went to a fun, trendy restaurant called the White Orchid, where we had lunch and local beers with a breathtaking view of the waterfall.
BG: What did you bring home?
AH: Grenada is known as the Spice Isle, so you definitely have to stop by the local spice market and buy a few fresh spices. We took home nutmeg, cinnamon, and turmeric (room rates start at $705 for two per night and are all-inclusive; sandals.com).
