Hot and Spicy

The obsession with flavor moves far beyond the simple smell or taste of a spice, but rather is gently stirred into every corner and dish at the Spice Island Beach Resort on the island of Grenada in the southern Caribbean. The all-suite, all-inclusive resort is an ideal romantic getaway for honeymooners or for couples looking to slow down and escape from it all.

Late last year the resort finished a $12 million renovation after the property was virtually destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. The resort’s new contemporary Caribbean decorating scheme incorporates the colors and names of spices like saffron and cinnamon into the design. This is echoed throughout the lobby and into the 64 individual suites.

A unique feature of the Spice Island Beach Resort is the 34 beachfront Sea Grape Suites that sit gracefully on the white sand of Gran Anse Beach. This amazing location allows guests to stroll a mere 30 or so yards from the suite’s back patio to the sea.

The rooms were also designed to take full advantage of the incredible beach view. This is most evident in the row of folding shutters over the whirlpool tub. When open, clients can soak in fragrant bubbling water while taking in an ocean view. The luxury continues with dark hardwood furniture in the living room and media area, Italian porcelain tiles, marble countertops and bathroom fixtures designed by Philip Stark. Each suite also features a back patio with a small table and chairs, couch, double hammock perfect for tanning or gazing at stars and a couple of beach chairs. While staying in this suite I couldn’t resist, no matter what time of night it was, to throw on my swimsuit and take a romantic moonlight swim.

If your clients crave total privacy book a pool suite. These pool pavilion suites are a destination on their own. With a private entry, plunge pool and garden, your clients will find it difficult to leave their own private Eden. For a fairytale honeymoon, book one of the Royal Collection Pool Suites. These elegant mini villas have private saunas, large whirlpool tubs that comfortably accommodate two and the larger 16-by-20 foot pool.

Guests of the hotel enjoy fine dinning at Oliver’s Restaurant. The open-air dinning area features a backdrop of white-sand beach and turquoise water along with a very attentive wait staff. The six-course dinners are best described by general manager Brian Hardy, who said, “Oliver’s incorporates simple local ingredients into world class gourmet cuisine.”

The restaurant also serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Diners are also treated to live calypso and reggae music.

Clients can pamper themselves at the Janissa’s Spa and Fitness center located on the property. The spa was designed to let guests come straight from the beach and receive treatments. There are lockers, showers and a changing area. The spa offers a long list of tempting spa treatments, but be sure to tell your clients to book their sessions early.