Virtual Vacation Series: The Obligatory Beach Day (Day 2)

The beach at La Creole

Something I’ve noticed around the Caribbean is that many hotel beaches aren’t exactly the best (many are manmade - which is why its always best to venture out and explore). However, the beach at La Creole is pretty nice albeit small, though the water is crystal clear and crystal BLUE as well. The perfect place to spend your first full day on island after a long day of traveling.

Coconut + Concrete trips do not follow a rigid itinerary. It is your vacation to do as you please while having the comfort in knowing you’re traveling with a group of great women. This first full day after arriving is laidback because this evening we’ll be getting together for a little meet and greet reception. In the meantime, you can use this day to become acquainted with the hotel and all it has to offer (beware - getting back to your room can be a little tricky! On my first night here it took me 30 minutes to find my room. It can be a bit of a maze, but then again I don’t have the best sense of direction either!).

If you’re a person who likes to get off the hotel grounds and explore immediately, you can do that too! Remember, it’s YOUR vacation.

But today it’s all about catching the rays for me. See you later!

*Puts shades on and lays back*

Virtual Vacation Series: Day trip to the island of Les Saintes (Day 3)

The ferry to Les Saintes

One of the things I love and look for when planning my group trips are opportunities to island hop (there’s always at least ONE group activity). Guadeloupe is one of my favorite islands because of this; there is the main island of Guadeloupe which has TWO varying sides; Grande-terre, which is where we’re staying in Gosier. This side of the island offers mostly flat land, is tourist friendly and has beautiful beaches. On the other side there’s Basse-terre; here you’ll find the rain forests, mountains and plenty of eco-tourism. Guadeloupe offers the best of both worlds.

In addition to this, there are also islands you can hop a ferry to. Les Saintes (the one we’re visiting today), Marie Galante and La Desirade. Each one is very different than the next and I’d highly recommend doing your research before deciding to go (just so that you know what to be prepared for).

For now, let’s focus on Les Saintes (from Basse-terre, roundtrip ferry to the island costs about $30 per person). It’s a long drive to the ferry terminal but it’s a short (and sometimes rocky) nautical trip across - about 20 minutes. Upon first glance while disembarking from the ferry, you’ll see that the little village before you has a quiet Mediterranean flare. There are many shops and sidewalk cafes to enjoy. Local artisans have also set up shop here.

From the ferry dock, you can walk up to Fort Napoleon to see the amazing views. Beware - This walk can be steep at times and may not be for those who have mobility issues. Definitely wear comfortable footwear.

Views from the top of Fort Napoleon

From the top of Fort Napoleon, you can see neighboring islands (on a really clear day you can see all the way to Dominica!). Spend some time inside the fort learning about the history here; there’s a love story involved.

After visiting the fort you will have worked up an appetite! Hop in a taxi and take a short ride over to Hotel Kanaoa for lunch with splendid views. The Coconut Punch is a MUST have here; be sure to have one (or three).

The Coconut Punch and gorgeous lunch view at Hotel Kanaoa

After the fort, hop back in your ride and tell the driver to take you to the beach! Spend a moment dipping your toes in the water at Pompierre Beach. I absolutely loved the vibe here; there goes that Mediterranean feel again.

Pompierre Beach in Terre-de-haut, island of Les Saintes, Guadeloupe

After the beach, you may want to head back to the ferry (unless you plan to spend the night on the island). Otherwise, it’s a long journey back to Gosier. Stop to enjoy the sunset along the way if you can.

Sunset in Basse-terre, Guadeloupe

Tomorrow is our last full day on the island. See you soon!

Virtual Vacation Series: The do "YOU" Day (Final Day 4)

Views from the grounds at La Creole Beach Hotel and Spa

Today is our last and final full day in Guadeloupe! On a Coconut + Concrete getaway this day is usually set aside for you to do YOU. This is the time where I’ll visit the spa and get in my last few minutes at the beach (if I can - I’m usually running around trying to make sure everyone is HAPPY). Enjoy those last conversations with new friends and really just take in every moment. You’ll be back in the real world in less than 24 hours.

Some ladies like to use this time to go into town and shop. Others may be going on their own excursions. The great thing about this trip is that you can do whatever it is you please.

So, use this time to reflect on the wonderful time we had and don’t forget to say your goodbyes; some ladies may be leaving at the crack of dawn while some may not be leaving until later in the day.

Hey Wes! Why Nevis?

Strolling through the lush grounds at Paradise Beach Hotel

I’m going to be completely transparent here: Nevis has been incredibly hard to book! There could be many factors as to why (deposit amount, not all-inclusive, etc.) but going off the beaten path is just that - you end up doing things differently.

I’ll be starting this series for each new group trip. Find out why it was selected, the benefits of going and much more.

I’ve never even heard of Nevis, Wes! Where is it and how is it pronounced?

Nevis (pronounced Nee-vis) is located in the northern part of the West Indies and is the sister island of St. Kitts. It is one of the most unspoilt and relaxing islands in the Caribbean.

Okay, what is there to do in Nevis?

RELAX, UNWIND and UNPLUG. The culinary scene is also amazing (so bring your appetite!). Coconut + Concrete will be visiting in July for the Mango & Food Festival. Nevis Peak is visible from just about anywhere on the island (there are also opportunities to climb the peak if you’re adventurous!).

Why’d you choose Nevis for your group?

Whenever I visit a new location I’m constantly thinking about what women would like. Would they feel safe? Would they enjoy themselves? Do the accommodations meet my very picky approval? So much thought and consideration goes into selecting a location. Most times I do try to select an all-inclusive resort but some locations don’t offer them. I don’t think people should cancel out a place if it doesn’t provide an all-inclusive experience. Many times the locations that don’t have them are the ones that are able to provide a truly authentic and cultural (non-touristy) vibe.

Nevis felt EXTREMELY safe to me (I would definitely travel there on my own and feel completely safe). The hotels are very intimate on the island and the staff will know you by name (your mom could literally call the hotel looking for you and they’d know who you are! Seriously). One of the things the islands boasts is true hospitality.

I also love island hopping and you’ll have the opportunity to spend time in St. Kitts as well (it’s literally a 6 minute water taxi away). You’ll get to see 2 islands on one trip.

Hmm this sounds really good. I’m a hardworking mom, I’m a true foodie, I rarely take time out for myself - this may be just what I need. How do I get to Nevis?

Getting to Nevis is easy! There are nonstop flights out of JFK to St. Kitts and American Airline offers daily flights out of Miami to St. Kitts. From St. Kitts you’d hop that 6 minute water taxi over to Nevis (which is included in your reservation!).

Wes, I think I’m sold. Where can I drop my deposit?

Simply click here. See you on island in July!

The mystical Nevis Peak