3. Aruba – The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. 
The little island off Venezuela’s coast finally said bon bini to a new international luxury brand with the arrival of The Ritz-Carlton. Located on a stretch of glam Palm Beach, the resort’s 320 rooms are kitted out with private balconies, Asprey toiletries and tropical – but not over-the-top – decor. Four restaurants, including local seafood in a sophisticated setting at Les Crustacés, offer up a good amount of variety. The resort ’s enormous 15,000sqft spa borrows natural elements from Aruba that are worked into the treatments – the Zoya Hamaca Experience is inspired by the island’s vast sky and includes a “zero gravity” massage while rocking gently in a hammock.
4. Dominican Republic – Gansevoort Playa Imbert. 
From Manhattan to the Caribbean, this New York brand brings hip opulence to a secluded tropical beach. A cosy collection of 48 suites have floor-to-ceiling windows framing the crescent-shaped beach, chic interiors and natural stone finishes; guests can stay in lofts, apartments or even a penthouse with a private rooftop pool. Outside the lavish rooms, there’s a three-tiered infinity pool to lounge by, and Mediterranean and Asian-inspired fine-dining at Baia Lounge, led by executive chef Giancarlo Fioro whose credits include the former three-Michelin-starred El Bulli. There’s no chance of boredom with an on-grounds fitness centre, a spa with a hammam-style sauna and yoga garden, and activities like kiteboarding, golfing and horseback riding a short drive away.
Where to Stay – Caribbean Escapes
