The 2007 hurricane season is predicted to be especially active, with a forecast of 17 named storms; 9 of them are expected to become hurricanes, with 5 blossoming to intense hurricanes (although we thought hurricanes were, by nature, already intense). Of course, these are just predictions: the 2006 season was also expected to be unusually active and it ended up being, as these things go, pretty ordinary. The truth is, until the season ends on November 30 (it begins on June 1), there's just no real way to know what will happen.
Which is why now might be a good time to take a Caribbean getaway. Many hotels have already lowered their rates from the winter season highs, and are either using low summer season rates or not-as-low but still favorable shoulder season rates. Spring weather can't be beat - you'll definitely feel some heat while avoiding the blistering rays - and possible storms - of summer.
Where to go? The possibilities are endless, but here are just a few places of interest that we've ferreted out for you.
Harbour Village Beach Club, Bonaire
One of the newest members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Harbour Village Beach Club is often touted as the best hotel for stays on Bonaire. Accommodations range from simple guestrooms to the more luxurious one and two-bedroom suites. Bonaire's Marine Education Center hosts a Sea & Discover program on the property for families, which includes classroom activities as well as snorkeling and diving options.
Harbour Village suite patio
copyright, Harbour Village Beach Club
Summer rates began on April 12. Courtyard rooms are $265 per night; beachfront suites are $460 and $645 a night for one and two-bedrooms respectively; premier suites, which come with fully-equipped kitchens and Bosch appliances, are rented weekly, beginning at $3,325 for a one-bedroom. Children under 16 in the same room as their parents stay free.
Bluff House Beach Hotel & Yacht Club, Abaco, Bahamas
With only 32 accommodations, Bluff House is an intimate resort with activities centered around the water: the hotel will connect you with well-known local guides for snorkeling, diving or fishing lessons. Split-level suites, villas and the Yachtsman Cottages provide the best options for families, with villas and cottages offering kitchens.
Bluff House accommodation
copyright, Bluff House Beach Hotel
The Silver Season runs from January 1 to September 5th: rates begin at $170 per night for a split-level suite and go to $650 per night for a 3-bedroom Yachtsman's Cottage.
Cuisinart Resort & Spa, Anguilla
Boasting a hydroponic farm and organic gardens that are used in the resort's cuisine, the Cuisinart Resort manages the triple feat of being luxurious, health-conscious and child-friendly. The delicious meals here feature the freshest ingredients flavored with local flare. Another dining plus: daily complimentary breakfast, served poolside. The farm can be toured 3 days a week, and a children's playground is complemented by special activities planned around the usual school vacation periods. The smallest of rooms here is spacious, and all rooms feature a 24-hour air purifying circulation system, although your doors will most likely be open for the stunning ocean views.
Cuisinart Resort room copyright, Cuisinart Resort & Spa Starting April 22, rates start at $400 a night for a luxury guestroom. The resort also features suites.
Montpelier Plantation Inn, Nevis
Children 8 and over can stay at the 17-room Montpelier Plantation Inn, where a full breakfast and afternoon tea are included in the room rates. While the Inn itself doesn't have special activities for children, the 30-acre estate and private beach beg to be explored. Off the property, a lush botanical garden is a mere 5 minutes from the inn while mountain biking, horseback riding and golf provide more active entertainment.
The Great Room at Montpelier
copyright, Montpelier Plantation Inn
Spring season is from May 1 to May 31; rates start at $390 per night for a Premier room.
Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands
For all its focus on tranquility and relaxation, Little Dix Bay still manages to provide children and their parents with quite a bit to do. The Children's Grove is the center of activity for little ones, with counselors leading children in dress-up, arts and crafts, and other playtime fun. Tennis clinics, snorkeling and spa treatments keep adults busy. Of course, there's always the fallback - snoozing on the patio, with views of the beach and barrier reef below. Accommodations, which range from garden-view rooms to full villas, are nestled in nooks and crannies off of paths that wind throughout the property.
The beach at Little Dix Bay
copyright, Rosewood Hotels
Spring rates, valid from April 10 to May 31, begin at $550 per night for a garden-view room. The resort does not charge for one child under 11 staying in the same room with parents.
Note: Many hotels offer lower rates during hurricane season. Should you decide to book for the summer, be sure to acquaint yourself with the hotel's policy on dealing with hurricane issues, both for guests already at the hotel as well as those who need to cancel before arrival. And as always, purchase independent travel insurance.
