The name Sandal is synonymous with exclusive, sexy weddings. Their commercials are everywhere, travel agencies love to promote them, and you can’t open a magazine without seeing an article from one of their ultra-exclusive resorts. But is it worth the hype? I had the opportunity to go there not long ago, and let me tell you, I was blown away.
The hardest part about taking a Sandal vacation is choosing one of the dozen places to relax. For us, Antigua feels like a honeysuckle, with little private huts overlooking the west side of the island. According to their website, Sandals Antigua is the “World’s Most Romantic Resort”.
We booked a round trip flight from Dallas to Antigua with a stopover in Puerto Rico through American Airlines. It was steep for two $180 tickets. (I have to add, Sandal’s often allows vacationers to book their flights through Sandal’s website for added convenience. But I recommend shopping around for the best price you can find.)
Our mid-flight left Dallas and we spent almost five hours in the air before landing in Puerto Rico. This was supposed to be nothing more than a one hour layover. But we quickly realized that our flight would be delayed until the early morning hours. I finally made it to Antigua at 2:00 p.m. We were surprised to find a small airport painted in bright watermelon colors with several local vendor carts selling things like souvenirs and produce too!
Potor was waiting for us from the opposite side of the airport to take us and three other couples to the Sandal rally. After boarding the empty board without clothes, seat belts or shiny seats, we held on for our lives. Cab drivers on the island fly through poorly lit roads with no regard for stop signs or other traffic, leaving long enough. to the sound they fly around corners and dark rough streets. We were told that airport transportation was included in the price of the trip. We were also told that no tipping is allowed at Sandal Antigua. However, we were not sure that we had a driver’s cab. Neither of the couple had any money on the boat. We broke up, and our meeting stopped at the sound of the wolf.
But, from the moment we set foot on the property, it was like walking in a dream. We were greeted with a baggage handler who retrieved our bags from us and escorted us to our rooms. The resort workers dressed in tuxedos and white gloves immediately welcomed us with a pleasant champagne accent and a beautiful face. Check in was very smooth and we were even given a $200 tip and spa credit to reserve one of their rooms. After being driven through the private, moonlit beach, we finally made it to our private cottage around 3 p.m.
We stayed in Rondavals in private butler service and a minion locked inside. Our butler service checked multiple during the day to make sure our bed was constantly made and the bar well stocked. of soda and water and various local liquors and wines. Some villas also include a private garden pool that is accessible only to you and your significant other.
An optional but informative orientation was given to us first thing in the morning on the island. That said, all amenities, food, drinks, entertainment, and water sports were absolutely free. However, day trips and world class spas were added.
We wanted to spend the first two days relaxing in some of the many pools and private pools around our resort. The foliage is beautiful and completely dry twenty-four hours a day. However, do not be frightened by the giant lizards that roam the island. They look scary, but they are completely harmless as long as you leave them alone.
There are many activities and competitions to participate in during the day including the favorite, sand volleyball. My husband spent a lot of time water skiing while sipping ginger beer on the beach. The spa is simply heavenly. I enjoyed a one hour Swedish massage which was absolutely divine. They do, however, offer manicures and facials.
Many meals are well suited. However, it is suggested that dinner reservations be made at the restaurant of your choice one day in advance. Lunch is at Bayside Restaurant in an open and airy setting overlooking the crisp blue ocean. An endless array of fresh fruits, waffles, pancakes, cereal, and more to choose from. There is also a bistro nearby that is open all night long serving gyros, salads, sandwiches and burgers so you will never go hungry. Dining choices include nine restaurants. We chose three of them to tell you.
Mari’s restaurant is a beautiful Italian restaurant, and by far my favorite for a romantic evening. The food is excellent. We ordered two appetizers and three meals at what felt like a five star restaurant with a gorgeous view of the ocean. A low chandelier sets the mood as you feel the cool sea breeze flowing into the restaurant. Evening dress is required and reservations are recommended.
Kimono was a great teppanyaki grill restaurant which we enjoyed immensely. Sugar was our personal chef name and enjoyed a great laugh throughout the evening. Unlike most local teppanyaki grills in America, Kimono’s doesn’t choose between chicken, fish, shrimp or steak. but they fill you with everything. The mahi-mahi was so buttery, I could have sworn it was chicken. A great sushi bar right next to it, which is great for lighter fare.
The OK Corral was an octagonal restaurant with a Texan feel. They serve themselves Tex-Mex, but the food is not impressed. However, I live in Texas and I know good Tex-Mex. If there isn’t an abundance of food options where you are, well, enjoy the good stuff at the OK Corral. I suggest trying Caribbean cuisine at Eleanor’s though if you’re in the mood for a little spice.
After lunch there is much to do at Sandal Antigua. The parrots roam freely in the yard while they play in the pool. Many beautiful sitting areas flow from room to room. Every night there is a place with a dancing place, performances on iron drums, and a man who walks in stilts. There is a large bar upstairs piano, and for those who are not ready to turn up in the morning, a dance club open until the early hours.
Our stay at Sandal Antigua was quite pleasant. I would recommend it to anyone going to a wedding, or even for a quick weekend trip. The other Sandal resorts I assume are similar to the Antigua resorts, each offering special amenities to set it apart from the rest. For families looking to bring the kids along, Sandal has created Beaches Resorts to be kid and parent friendly. These resorts offer activities to keep the kids busy while allowing parents to enjoy some private relaxation together. For more information, visit www.Sandals.com or see your travel agent. This is a very beautiful and unique convention to attend at your discretion.
