Caribbean Heather Lindstrom Caribbean Heather Lindstrom

A Boulder Adventure: The Baths on the Island of Virgin Gorda

If you find yourself on the island of Virgin Gorda a trip to the Baths in Devil’s Bay is a must! During our Azamara Caribbean Cruise last November we booked an afternoon to explore these gigantic boulders, created by volcanic activity, and the tranquil aqua blue grottos they created.

 
virgin-gorda-baths-curated-travel
 

If you find yourself on the island of Virgin Gorda a trip to the Baths in Devil’s Bay is a must! During our Azamara Caribbean Cruise last November we booked an afternoon to explore these gigantic boulders, created by volcanic activity, and the tranquil aqua blue grottos they created.

From the parking lot at the top of the mountain, we chose the route on the left to hike the meandering path, filled with scenic views, down to the beach. After we refreshed ourselves with swimming in the aqua blue seas, Mr. CT and I followed the clearly marked trail through the boulders and peaceful grottos. Wooden stairs and rope handrails are used here and there and, in some spots, we stretched ourselves up and over boulders. Though physically demanding over the boulders, splashing through pools was pure refreshment. This natural marvel is exhilarating adventure travel at its finest and highly recommended.

 
 

Pro Tips for the Baths:

  • Bring/wear water shoes or sandals for the hike and bath path.

  • Pack light since you will be carrying your things with you through the bath path.

  • When you arrive at the parking lot at the top of the hill, take the path to the left which will lead you down the gentler, meandering path to the beach. After a dip, gather your belongings and watch the arrows to follow the bath path to the other side. It’s a one way path and you will end at another beach with snorkeling, beverages and food available for purchase. The hike back to the top from this beach to the parking lot is more intense but much shorter.

  • Bookmark this info for your next trip to the Caribbean and contact us to help make your travel dreams a reality.

For More on Travel to the Caribbean

Read More
Caribbean, Travel Heather Lindstrom Caribbean, Travel Heather Lindstrom

A Sunkissed Postcard from the Caribbean

Baby, it’s cold outside but we found some Caribbean sunshine for you on our recent cruise. This trip we explored St. Martin, St. Barths, Haiti, Virgin Gorda, and Puerto Rico. Enjoy this sun-drenched peek at some of our favorite Caribbean moments.

St. Jean Beach on St. Barths

St. Jean Beach on St. Barths

Baby, it’s cold outside but we found some Caribbean sunshine for you on our recent boutique-style cruise on Azamara. This trip we explored St. Martin, St. Barths, Haiti, Virgin Gorda, and Puerto Rico.

Enjoy this sun-drenched peek at some of our favorite Caribbean moments.

For more info on these island destinations and resorts contact us at Curated Travel to create your sunny getaway.

Park Hyatt St. kitts

Read More
Caribbean, Travel Heather Lindstrom Caribbean, Travel Heather Lindstrom

CURATED TRAVEL: Postcard from the Crown Princess on the Eastern Caribbean

This is just a peek of life on the Crown Princess sailing on the Eastern Caribbean. After 8 days floating on this stately cruise ship, I have a new appreciation for the fine art of cruising. The Caribbean is just as beautiful as ever with the shimmering turquoise waters, sugar sand beaches and beguiling breezes.

Postcard from the Crown Princess on the Eastern Caribbean

This is just a peek of life on the Crown Princess sailing on the Eastern Caribbean. After 8 days floating on this stately cruise ship, I have a new appreciation for the fine art of cruising. The Caribbean is just as beautiful as ever with the shimmering turquoise waters, sugar sand beaches and beguiling breezes.

Sending sunshine your way today.

Wish you were here!

Read More
Caribbean, Travel Heather Lindstrom Caribbean, Travel Heather Lindstrom

Curated Hotel: A Sublime Getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica

In late August, Scott and I enjoyed a sublime getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica. We were celebrating his “retirement moon” and our 17th wedding anniversary. From the moment we arrived, served with cool towels and chilled prosecco, we felt “at home”; just as we always do at Zoetry resorts. This luxurious boutique, beachfront resort has only 49 suites which make for an intimate, relaxing stay of unlimited luxury.

zoetry-montego-bay-curated-travel

zoetry-montego-bay-curated-travel

A Sublime Getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay

"How was your getaway to Jamaica?"

I closed my eyes and thought back to late August...

A silver tray, a cool towel, a proffered chilled glass of prosecco and a "Welcome Home" from staff upon our arrival.

Turquoise waters and sun-splashed lounges with butler service poolside.

Water like glass at sunrise reflecting the pink and gold clouds over the sea.

Sheer curtains of our spacious oceanfront suite wafting in the tropical breezes during naptime.

Luxurious linens, plush terry cloth robes, and spa slippers in the suite.

A pampering couple's massage, fragrant with essential oils, followed by a dip in the spa pool.

Delectable dishes brimming with flavors of Caribbean spices and the freshest organic produce.

Time to simply be "us" again.

A cloudburst on a sailboat ending with a golden-fire sunset.

Shades of lavender, pale aqua, dusty rose, icy blue in a sunset that appears to wrap endlessly beyond the horizon.

"To say we had a wonderful time hardly does our getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay justice. It was sublime!"

 

In late August, Scott and I enjoyed a sublime getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica. We were celebrating his "retirement moon" and our 17th wedding anniversary. From the moment we arrived, served with cool towels and chilled prosecco, we felt "at home"; just as we always do at Zoetry resorts. This luxurious boutique, beachfront resort has only 49 suites which make for an intimate, relaxing stay of unlimited luxury.

 

After being introduced to our oceanfront suite, complete with walk-in shower and sleek soaking tub, we threw open the sheer curtains to these amazing views of the pool and sea from the spacious balcony.

"Find yourself at Zoëtry Montego Bay, a boutique resort in the upscale Ironshore neighborhood. Just steps away from the Caribbean Sea, all 49 suites were designed with a holistic approach in three main buildings: Wood & Water, Bamboo and Blue Mountain – a nod to Jamaica’s ecological tapestry. From open terraces and balconies to floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, guests will enjoy views of the ocean or the lush tropical landscape. All suites include butler service and a selection of suites offer access to private swim out pools." - Zoetry Resorts

This is one of my favorite pool, lounge and oceanfront destinations. The views of the Caribbean colors from sunrise to sunset from the picturesque dock are sublime.

From gourmet dining at two lovely open-air restaurants, to the Jerk Shack for authentic Jamaican chicken, to 24-hour room service, food and drink is plentiful at this luxury-all-inclusive resort. Our suite had the amenity of butler service, and our butler created a romantic dinner on our balcony for us one evening. 

Service at the pool and beach was also top notch!

 

 

"Connect with nature on our serene, private beach. Cleanse with organic, fresh and locally grown ingredients in each meal. Clear the mind with meditation and yoga. Rejuvenate at the spa. Set yourself to the pace of island life, relax and enjoy the Endless Privileges® experience." - Zoetry Resorts

Our suite at Zoetry Montego Bay

 

BOOK NOW

Our thanks to Saul Nunez, General Manager, and the warm, friendly, professional staff for making our stay unforgettable.

To find out more about Zoetry and other AM Resorts contact me

 

IMG_9381-cropped-1500.jpg
Read More
Caribbean Heather Lindstrom Caribbean Heather Lindstrom

CURATED TRAVEL - Dream Destination: Cobblers Cove, Barbados

I must have the Caribbean on my mind with a getaway to the tropics on the calendar in the near future. While each island has a unique personality it's hard to beat this one. The sugar sand beaches and fragrant breezes are unforgettable in Barbados. Scott and I were there in 2010 and the vibe of this tropical paradise is the stuff of daydreams.

While researching luxury destinations for a Caribbean honeymoon for travel clients, I discovered Cobblers Cove on the tropical island of Barbados. At Cobblers Cover, the pink and white striped umbrellas, plantation shutters, lush gardens and luxurious Caribbean style suites will take your breath away. Take a peek at this dream destination.

DREAM DESTINATION: Cobblers Cove, Barbados

11682_146_z.jpg

I must have the Caribbean on my mind with a getaway to the tropics on the calendar in the near future.  While each island has a unique personality it's hard to beat this one. The sugar sand beaches and fragrant breezes are unforgettable in Barbados. Scott and I were there in 2010 and the vibe of this tropical paradise is the stuff of daydreams.

While researching luxury destinations for a Caribbean honeymoon for travel clients, I discovered Cobblers Cove on the tropical island of Barbados. At Cobblers Cover, the pink and white striped umbrellas, plantation shutters, lush gardens and luxurious Caribbean style suites will take your breath away. Take a peek at this dream destination.

The details about Cobblers Cove Hotel

Cobblers Cove Hotel offers 40 guest suites (560 square feet) in six two-story white buildings with green trim, and in the three-story pink Plantation House built in the 1960s. Suites have balconies or ground-floor patios accessible through louvered doors and furnished with cushioned reclining chairs, footstools, and cocktail tables. Ceiling fans and air conditioners are available in all rooms. Living rooms contain sofa beds, wing chairs, two-chair dining sets, coffee tables, desks--all ivory-colored rattan--and wet bars. Bedrooms have caramel-colored rattan furniture and white bedspreads. Walls throughout are cream-colored, the ceilings white, and the floors terra-cotta tile accented by straw area mats. Bathrooms contain twin-sink marble vanities and shower/tub combinations, with bathrobes available. The resort is designed for rest and relaxation. Suites contain no televisions, radios, CD/DVD players, or VCRs though all are available on request.

Cobblers Cove overlooks a stunning white sand beach and man-made breakwater with an array of marine life. For relaxing on the beach or by the freeform swimming pool there are comfortable and elegant sun loungers and umbrellas. For those wishing to be more active, there is a variety of activities from tennis to water sports.

Activities

Water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, and Hobie cat sailing are complimentary, as well as a fully lit tennis court. Independent operators offer personal watercraft activities off the beach and parasailing and scuba diving nearby.

 

Spa

At the Sea Moon Spa, therapists trained exclusively in Pevonia Botanica, an all-natural line of skin care products for men and women of all ages, ethnicities, and skin types, tailor treatments to each individual guest after a careful assessment of the skin’s condition.

De-aging, exfoliating, stress reduction, and massage are some of the services offered. Tropical fruits such as mangoes, papaya, and pineapple, are known for their ability to soothe and moisturize the skin. These fruits enhance the complexion and deliver a youthful glow while being free of the harsh ingredients, chemical irritants, and emulsifiers found in many conventional beauty products.

The hotel is a member of Relais & Chateaux.  To learn more or book Cobblers Cove contact us!

 

Read More
Caribbean, Travel, Travel Tips Heather Lindstrom Caribbean, Travel, Travel Tips Heather Lindstrom

How to Create Resort Wear Out of a Bra & Belt (when your luggage is delayed)

Having no luggage for the first 4 days of our Caribbean vacation was a good reminder to always be prepared with well stocked carry on luggage. If you followed our trip to the Dominican Republic in July you will know that our journey took some unexpected turns.


Having no luggage for the first 4 days of our Caribbean vacation was a good reminder to always be prepared with well stocked carry on luggage. If you followed our trip to the Dominican Republic in July you will know that our journey took some unexpected turns.

Cancelled flights in San Francisco following a plane crash, and an unscheduled red eye to New York City, were just the beginning. The afternoon and evening of Day 2 were spent with a quick trip into Noho and a little slice of heaven at Piccola Cucina in a major heatwave.

Darn those men-they still look good after the red eye--day 2. #boyfriend #luckyduck

This was me-day 3 of our trip same clothes/no luggage, at the airport in Newark. With a hot shower, good night of sleep and my 'survivor' makeup essentials* I was feeling okay (a hat will hide a multitude of issues). #blessthehat

Another flight, tropical humidity through customs, a long drive with a cranky driver, finally arriving sopping wet at the resort and I made a decision.  It may have been more like a declaration...... I told my husband, Scott, "We are going in to the gift shop and not coming out until we are dressed in something else. Period."

There were itty bitty titty bikinis (no thanks!), a moo-moo that was road weary and one little flowy mini number that made my husband laugh. I felt a bit like a pinata.

That's where my fabulous DKNY bra comes in. In desperation (and a desire not to spend $200 on a moo-moo), I searched the rack of sarongs. Haven't I always praised the sarong as it 'rights' what is so wrong'?

How to create resort wear out of a bra and belt?

Thanks to my rather fashionable DKNY black bra (with gold detail), my black 'take me everywhere' belt, an extra necklace in my purse and gold sandals (Scott had put in his carry on last minute due to weight restrictions at the airport), I fashioned a new outfit that could take me to the beach and out to dinner at the resort.

Finally-something Fresh!!!

Dress%2B%2Bmake%2Bit%2Bwork.jpg

Next time my carry on bag will most definitely include:

  • Toothbrush/paste
  • Medications if needed #holyhotflash
  • Swimsuit (if beachy vacation)
  • A small size anti-frizz  hair serum or cream
  •  scarf/sarong
  • *The makeup essentials in my purse created my 'look' for 4 days.

Here's what I learned:

Lip color can add a touch of color and definition to cheeks and shimmer for the eyelids A touch up stick can hide a multitude of skin flaws and under eye 'baggage' Pressed powder smooths the look and adds some 'texture' to puffy hair.  An eye pencil adds definition to the eyes-even without mascara I was lucky to find a sample pack of Chanel Vitalumiere in my purse (I had meant to take it out but was so thankful it was there-and in nearly my shade!) Body Lotion can serve as day and night moisturizer and even lip balm at night Hotels generally stock toothbrushes and sample paste at front desk.

I'll admit, Day 3 I broke down and bought a bronzer at the pharmacy.

I was in the Caribbean after all.

Finally, our luggage arrived!!

Let's head to that gorgeous pool.....

And the only lounge chair at the pool had 'caution' tape since they were building a pathway.

It was non-stop adventure on this first leg of our journey.

We decided to head to the beach.......... #makeitwork!

Wishing you smooth travels and always having just the right bra-just in case.

xx, Heather

Read More

The Archives