The swim-up bar at Secrets Resorts is one posh paradise,
According to a recent story in Travel Weekly, all-inclusive resorts are raising the bar, and making their properties more luxurious than ever. There’s been an upscale shift, the story said, due to popular demand for the best and the most Instagrammable resorts; all-inclusives, which usually target families, are now targeting a wider demographic of people who want the highest-end, most plush and posh experience they can have. And the trend isn’t going away anytime soon.
Erica Doyne, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications, AMResorts, told me, “We never lose sight of shifting market conditions and continue to adapt to meet the needs and preferences of guests. For instance, most recently we introduced an omakase restaurant and a Hammam at Secrets Moxché Playa Del Carmen and are introducing Secrets Impression Moxché. The Impression concept further optimizes this luxury all-inclusive segment, elevates the already high standards and strong foundation of the Secrets Resorts & Spas brand, and meets luxury travelers where they are.”
She added: “The reimagination of the all-inclusive model has provided an opportunity to expand and reach new audiences and demographics that may not have opted for an all-inclusive vacation previously. Historically, all-inclusive properties were primarily considered an attractive option for families and couples. Now, we’re seeing the demographic of travelers and stay occasions change as well – wellness getaways, solo travelers, family reunions, milestone celebrations, romantic celebrations, and even those looking to “workcation.”
One all-inclusive property that you may want to consider – and which I just discovered – is the Secrets brand, which is now a member of World of Hyatt. You may specifically want to visit one of Secrets’ newest properties, in St. Martin.
The marina view of Secrets St. Martin will have you yearning for ocean activities.
Exclusively situated in the remote Anse Marcel cove, Secrets St. Martin Resort & Spa is AMR Collection’s first all-inclusive, “Unlimited-Luxury” (their trademarked name) resort located in St. Martin. With a stunning view of the island of Anguilla and a pristine, calm-watered beach, Secrets St. Martin holds claim to being one of the best locations on the French side of the island. The all-inclusive resort allows guests to take in the rich culture and island charm of St. Martin while enjoying all the inclusions of Unlimited-Luxury.
A quick, bulleted list of these lavish luxuries follows.
• Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required
• Unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits
• Unlimited natural fruit juices and soft drinks
• 24-hour room and concierge services*
• Pool and beach wait service**
• Daily refreshed mini-bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer
• Daily maid service
• Daytime activities and live nightly entertainment
• Theme parties, oceanfront bars and entertainment venues
• No wristbands required
• All taxes and gratuities included
• Enjoy free Wi-Fi
*temporarily 10pm
**pending capacity levels of resort
Junior Suites are beautifully designed to house every comfort.
Unlimited-Luxury includes unlimited dining, drinks and pool and beach wait service at six restaurants and five bars, including a swim-up bar
Guests can spend their days basking in the sun and snorkeling along St. Martin’s famous Orient Bay Beach, lounging in the largest infinity pool on the island, relaxing in the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia, traveling off-resort to one of the many local French markets, or indulging in gourmet dining, curated cocktails and nightly entertainment. The 258 suites feature spacious accommodations with partial ocean, marina and mountain views and — my personal favorite — swim out options.
And here are some posh points about Secrets St. Martin:
· At Secrets St. Martin guests can discover the two distinct cultures on the elegant island. To the south is the Dutch side, with its cosmopolitan capital of Philipsburg, duty-free shops, glitzy casinos, and nightspots. To the north is the French side with its chic boutiques, cafés and amazing views.
· Largest infinity pool in the Western Caribbean
· Guided walking tours in the surrounding lush natural areas
· Nightly entertainment
If you’ve never considered going to an all-inclusive before – now may be just the right time. From my personal experience of going to all-inclusives, once you stay at one – you’ll never want to go back to a regular hotel where you are nickel-and-dimed for everything. This way, you can put your wallet in the safe – and enjoy the rest of your trip without having to worry about your budget – and you can easily and happily enjoy that second pina colada or dessert!
For more about my Wanderlust Travels, please Follow me on Instagram at @DebbiKickham.