I was considering where to spend our May holiday this year when all I could hear in the back of my mind was my nine year old daughter, Georgia, telling me…”it’s not quite Atlantis Dubai, is it Mummy?”
So, what was going to compare to THAT holiday at half term in a month when many of the usual long-haul destinations are entering their rainy season? A challenge indeed, but I recalled a stunning (pre Georgia) holiday I’d taken in St. Lucia with my husband, Paul. So I decided we should once again head west across the Atlantic to the sparkling Caribbean waters in the hope that Georgia would be captivated by the allure of this Island’s exotic beauty. That, and as many pineapple punches a nine year old can handle.
I chose the beautiful resort of Windjammer Landing situated in a unique setting, within acres of tropical gardens, and scattered across a hillside above a crescent-shaped bay. All guests enjoy stunning views from their rooms, about 150 in number, comprising mostly of suites and villas and styled to a cool, crisp white finish.
After a very welcome rum punch for us, a pineapple one for Georgia, and an easy check-in, we were taken to our two bedroom, two bathroom villa which came complete with its own plunge pool. On entering the villa we were immediately surrounded with joyous shouts of “Mummy, we have our own pool!” So far, so good.
We immediately felt relaxed, and more importantly, Georgia was impressed! We flung open the suitcases and grabbed our swimming gear to take a quick dip in our “own” pool, before heading out to explore this magical resort.
The first thing that struck me was the totally informal relaxed atmosphere here. Secondly, that it is very child friendly. We took a whistle-stop tour of all five restaurants and four bars, and the brilliant children’s club. As well as the many great swimming pools and white sandy beach. What more could we ask for, and Georgia was now beside herself with joy.
We filled our days with fun activities like snorkelling, kayaking and a kind of an attempt at windsurfing (blame the rum punch(es) for that one). There were plenty of kids of all ages around and Georgia very soon made lots of new friends and was totally absorbed in pool games arranged by the fabulous entertainment team.
Our evenings were spent sampling the various restaurants, and I must say the food was of an excellent standard across the board, as were the wines! We also indulged in many exciting cocktails – the mango daiquiri was to die for! Our favourite restaurants were Papa Don’s, an al fresco Italian dining oasis in a beautiful setting on the upper level of the resort, and Upper Deck, a steakhouse and seafood grill located on the seafront, which again was open to the night sky. The grilled filet mignon here was first class!
When choosing a family holiday it’s often tempting to stick to what you know and Atlantis in Dubai is without doubt a fabulous destination but this was equally enjoyable. Although it’s comparing chalk with cheese I loved the lusciously green and natural feel of the environment here which is quite unlike the man-made location of the Palm in Dubai.
But most important of all, Georgia absolutely loved the resort and her holiday. Mission accomplished.
THINGS TO KNOW
We opted for their all-inclusive package, which I recommend for a carefree holiday.
Pappa Don’s and Upper Deck both evenings only and reservations required
We travelled with Caribtours who are undoubtedly our preferred tour operator when it comes to the Caribbean. They offer some fantastic savings to the Caribbean particularly during our summer months. As this was approaching the rainy season we did unfortunately experience some rain, but to be completely honest it wouldn’t stop me travelling again at this time of year.
Visit Windjammer’s website here
Lisa Sharrad
Leisure Travel Manager
Call me on 01474 704 186 to personally discuss this destination or email lisa@sunways.co.uk
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