Before my trip to Ambergris Cay in Turks and Caicos, I researched the property, read every page on the website (multiple times) and thought I had a sense of what my trip had in store. But the all-inclusive private island paradise exceeded all of my expectations. The views, the level of service, the beautiful villas, the ability to unplug and recharge in complete privacy created an experience that will be hard to ever top.
It all started when I hopped on a private plane for a complementary transfer from Providenciales International Airport. The spacious lounge filled with snacks and drinks showed what kind of service would be in store for the rest of the trip. The 20-minute plane ride flew by as I stared at the turquoise waters. When I landed, I was greeted by friendly staff with champagne in-hand who whisked me via golf cart through the dusty roads winding around the 1,100-acre property to the place I’d call home for the next few days, Dream Pavilion.
There are eight three-to-six bedroom villas available with private ocean-facing pools, direct beach access and fully stocked kitchens filled with local beers and plenty of rose — a dedicated butler is also just a call away for anything else needed. Beachfront pool suites are another option at Ambergris Cay. 10 suites with open plan bedroom and living spaces are located directly on the beach and come with a private plunge pool — ideal for romantic getaways. Dream Pavilion is the biggest residence on the island with six bedrooms, a private garden and two swimming pools. Plus, it’s the only villa on Ambergris Cay with a private chef and butler.
Even though the rooms and villas are expertly designed and have tranquil views at every turn, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on the island when you want to get out and explore. There are water sports like paddle boarding, onshore fishing and kayaking or guests can ride around the grounds on electric bikes or take advantage of the free tennis lesson with a pro that comes with each stay. At the gym, yoga classes are provided on a rooftop pavilion with gorgeous views of the property.
A highlight is venturing to the Tiki Bar — a floating bar in the middle of the water (a speed boat drives guests out), where a smiley bartender is ready to mix any drink craved. Hop off the boat and wade up to the beach where staff is waiting to serve delicious grilled meats on the beach with an array of sides including a potato salad so good I went back for seconds and thirds. Other special elements can be arranged, like private dinners or snorkeling excursions.
Aside from native iguanas and an occasional chicken, the dirt roads were mine for exploring (Ambergris Cay is car-less and each villa comes with an electric golf cart). I rarely encountered another guest other than when at the gym or enjoying the two dining venues on the property. It’s part of what makes the stay unlike anything else. Privacy is there when you need a recharge and mingling is at-the-ready when it’s time to dig into the delicious food, served up by chef Sebastian Palmer.
The Beach Club is where lunch is served with options like delicious pizzas or tasty tacos. There are also lounge chairs along the beach and water sports at-the-ready. Calico is the second dining venue, located at a pool that all guests can enjoy. The golden sunsets make cocktail hour a must (if only for the ‘gram) and since the menu changes each night, there’s always something new at Calico.
During my stay, moments of total tranquility would wash over me throughout the day, especially when I stopped to notice just how remote I was in a location so far from anything else (Providenciales is about 50 miles away). I decided it was impossible not to feel all the worries of every day life slip away, with only blue skies and teal waves on the horizon. Any “real life” concerns can get addressed another day because when you’re at Ambergris Cay, it’s paradise.