Hip local bars in Antigua, The Bahamas, Cancun, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, St Bart’s and St Maarten
(August 7, 2007) – Itching to hit the Caribbean nightlife as soon as your plane touches down? Throughout her jet setting, AMPR president & CEO Andria Mitsakos has learned that for many travellers, a vacation just isn’t complete without a visit to the hippest local bar. Spanning The Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, St Maarten, St Bart’s, Antigua and the Mexican Caribbean, she has rounded up this season’s go-to spots for sexy cocktails and laid-back libations.
“Whether travellers are looking for an unknown spot or a trendy scene, we have it covered in our unofficial guide to the top ten Caribbean bars,” said Mitsakos. “We’ve even researched the best drink to sample at each one. So choose your locale, get on a plane and then raise your glass wherever you are – à votre santé.”
CARIBBEAN’S COOLEST: Pelican Bar, Jake’s, Treasure Beach, Jamaica
Every trip to Jake’s, part of the Island Outpost collection, calls for a visit to the nearby Pelican Bar. Surrounded by pristine waters on a sand bar 400 yards offshore, the bar is made out of tree bark – even the floor and stairs. Guests staying at Jake’s take a short ride to the Pelican Bar with local fisherman where they’ll meet with other guests and locals. They’re even encouraged to catch their own fish, which can be grilled on site.
Recommended libation: an authentic Jamaican Red Stripe Beer
Upon return at Jake’s, continue to chill at Dougie’s Bar, where local treasure Dougie Turner has concocted special tropical rum drinks for more than 15 years.
Recommended libation: Dougie’s Famous Pineapple Rum Punch
For more information call (876) 965-3145 or see Jake’s accommodation listing under Jamaica – South Coast at www.caribbean.com.
MUSIC HISTORY AT ITS BEST: Strawberry Hill, Blue Mountains, Jamaica
Perched atop the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, the Lounge Bar at Strawberry Hill affords patrons a panoramic view of the Caribbean’s most luscious of landscapes, and an insight to music history. Owner and Island Records founder Chris Blackwell once called this mountaintop retreat home. His awards and photos with friends serve as decoration, along with Bob Marley’s framed platinum albums. (Blackwell launched Marley to reggae stardom.) Other music legends such as Bono, The Rolling Stones, Shaggy and Grace Jones have also sought sanctuary here.
Recommended libation: Blue Mountain Martini
For more information call (876) 944-8400 or see Strawberry Hill’s accommodation listing under Jamaica – Kingston at www.caribbean.com.
MOST AUTHENTIC: La Canoa, Agua Resort & Spa, Uvero Alto, Dominican Republic
Indulge in pure Dominican fashion at the new Agua Resort & Spa’s La Canoa Lobby Bar and imbibe the finest Dominican rums — special rum and cigar tastings are offered to expand your palate. The property was designed by the prestigious Dominican architect Antonio Segundo Imbert who created the home of musical artist Julio Iglesias. La Canoa embraces traditional Caribbean architecture, complemented by natural stone, local hardwoods and a large cane thatched roof.
Recommended libation: Brugal Rum-Tini, highlighting the country’s very own rum
For more information call (809) 468-0000 or see Agua Resort & Spa’s listing under Dominican Republic – Accommodations at www.caribbean.com.
Spicy dance moves and hot encounters groove together at St Maarten’s sophisticated dance spot, Q-Club. Part of Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, Q-Club is open from 10pm nightly with mood-matching decor and the hottest hits from Europe, the US, Latin America and the Caribbean. Q-Club is just steps from the resort, which you’ll appreciate after a full night of dancing.
Recommended libation: Guavapolitan, featuring the island’s national drink, guavaberry liqueur
For more information call (800) 223-0757 or see Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino’s listing under St Maarten – Accommodations at www.caribbean.com.
HARMONIOUS HOTSPOT: Stir It Up, Marley Resort & Spa, Nassau, The Bahamas
At the new Marley Resort & Spa in The Bahamas, you’ll vibe and jive at Stir It Up, the casually cool outdoor bar. It’s the place to be on the island, where every night is like a family party with the Marley family. Enjoy signature concoctions, wine and spirits while mingling the night away, and dance to music videos shown on the flat-screen televisions surrounding the bar.
Recommended libation: Natural Mystic Martini
For more information call (305) 420-6154 or see Marley Resort & Spa’s accommodation listing under Bahamas – New Providence at www.caribbean.com.
PINKEST BEACH WITH THE BLUEST BAR: Blue Bar, Pink Sands, Harbour Island, The Bahamas
Travellers have flocked to the three-mile strip of rosy-hued sand on Harbour Island for years, but expect nothing less than understated chic at this popular retreat. The 25 pastel cottages may have a hot designer – and even hotter celebrity guest list – but this resort is all about being cool. The Blue Bar offers drinks, lunch and snacks – like conch salad – in a funky setting overlooking the gin-clear ocean.
Recommended libation: Champagne Rosé to match the beach
For more information call (242) 333-2030 or see Pink Sands accommodation listing under Bahamas – Out Islands at www.caribbean.com.
TRULY THERE IS NO OTHER: Le Sereno Lounge, St Bart’s, French West Indies
Sure there are plenty of “seen and be seen” spots on this island of beauties, but the lounge-y and mellow vibe of Le Sereno is the quintessential St Bart’s experience. Designed by Christian Liaigre, this stylish and relaxed setting features an eclectic mix of furniture designed by Liaigre, and lighting was specially designed by Arnold Chan to highlight the variety of colours.
Recommended libation: Ditto to Blue Bar, Champagne Rosé – after all, it is St Bart’s
For more information call 590 (590) 29 83 00 or see Le Sereno’s listing under St Bart’s – Accommodations at www.caribbean.com.
ANTIGUA AFTER DARK: Abracadabra, Antigua, West Indies
The true beauty of Abracadabra fully unveils itself with its metamorphosis at midnight. Its array of ever-changing international DJs and artists ensures that each night you’re in for both a visual and stereophonic extravaganza. With a complete service ranging from upbeat music to the freshest drinks and authentic late-night Italian snacks, Abracadabra provides everything needed for the ultimate in nightlife in Antigua.
Recommended libation: English Harbour Rum and Soda
A SNEAK PEEK AT TEQUILA TASTING: Turquoise Lounge, Unik Resort, Isla Mujeres (Cancun area), Mexican Caribbean (opening January 2008)
The ancient indigenous people of this romantic country drank the fermented juice of the agave in the same way that Europeans drank beer or wine. Tequila is a way of life in Mexico and often misunderstood by Americans. Now at Turquoise Lounge, plantation-style seating will set the mood in this richly appointed bar featuring a wall-to-wall wine cellar and a host of top-notch tequilas.
Recommended libation: El Tesoro de Don Felipe Reposado Tequila
For more information call 1-877-888-UNIK or see Unik Resort’s accommodation listing under Mexico – Cancun at www.caribbean.com.
Disclaimer: The information in this article/release was accurate at
press time; however, we suggest you confirm all details and prices
directly with vendors.
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