Living in a digital world certainly comes with it benefits, but we all strive for those moments of pure relaxation. This summer we felt the need to take a break where we could escape the modern world in search of a place to recharge and unwind. With this in mind we chose Palm Island in the Grenadines, owing to its reputation as a peaceful utopia for nature lovers.
After touching down in Barbados we were pleasantly surprised with the ease with which we connected our SVG Air flight to Union Island. We handed over our baggage tickets in exchange for boarding passes and after passing security we went through the departures lounge less than 10 minutes after disembarking the Virgin Atlantic flight. The connection was 45 minutes of spectacular island and ocean views, and was a truly enjoyable experience in itself!
Discovering Paradise
We were first to collect our luggage & board the golf buggy to take the short ride to the yacht club, and as we waited for the other guests we had the strangest feeling of pure silence which you certainly don’t expect at an airport. From that moment we felt our shoulders drop and we knew this was going to be the nine days of rest we so desperately desired. It wasn’t long before we were on board the boat destined for Palm Island, which glistened across the inviting turquoise sea. The cool fresh hand towels and bottled water were welcome as we made our 10 minute boat ride to Palm Island just as the sun was setting.
First impressions do not disappoint. Palm Island a true “Island Paradise” in every sense of the word. Long white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and lush vegetation all framed by swaying palm trees. As we pulled up to the jetty at Palm Island we were warmly welcomed by the management team with refreshing rum punch to set the mood. Horace the General Manager guided us to our beachfront room and we quickly unpacked, eager to get out and explore.
The island is set on 135 acres, meaning you can easily enjoy a 30 minute stroll around the entire island or jump on a bike and take a gentle ride around. The resort’s pristine beach is just steps away from the rooms, but if you like the idea of having a beach to yourself there several secluded beaches dotted around the island. There also some gorgeously peaceful spots across the island where you can enjoy a hammock with a pleasant sea breeze and the sounds of the ocean. It’s simply delightful.
Palm Island is the tranquil setting of which we had dreamed, with less than 50 rooms and suites scattered between the palms and along the beachfront. The rustic charm of the island is portrayed in the varying accommodations, focused on simple, comfortable cottage style rooms with all the basics that you need. For those with a digital addiction it provides a real detox as there are no TVs and WiFi is limited to specific spots in public areas.
Analogue Socialising
The social hub of the island is the beautiful beachfront bar next to the main restaurant. At around 6pm each evening the bar would slowly begin to fill as guests arrived for pre-dinner drinks as the sun set over the neighbouring Island. The bar tender Kenneth provides a warm welcome and within days he has your preferred drink ready before you’ve even taken a seat. The very nature of the bar lends itself to easy conversations with fellow guests, and many friendships are forged whilst sipping on your chosen cocktail in the absence of digital distractions. The evening entertainment is befitting of the tranquil style of Palm Island: low key but occasionally offering a few surprises! From Horace the General Manager singing to “betting” on Crab Racing to fundraise for local schools, a good time was had by all.
The dining experience was an absolute triumph, offering varied choices over interesting menus each evening. Every meal was freshly prepared with international options with some Caribbean specials mixed in to compliment the island setting. To top it all off, Palm Island dining always comes with the warmest of welcomes. Grafton in particular makes the effort to learn every guests name, creating a fabulous friendly feeling every time he greets you for breakfast or dinner. He never forgets!
Embracing Tranquility
The true charm of the Island is the absolute peace and tranquility it effortlessly provides. It’s a place where you can experience refreshing solitude and can make lifelong friends. At Palm Island we achieved our goal, discovering an island retreat where you can embrace a feeling of pure peace.
Must Do’s:
1. Take the nature trail walks and enjoy the island’s spectacular views! It’s a genuine moment of awe standing at the top of one of the islands highest points, feeling the breeze from the Caribbean Sea as you admire turquoise waters, palm-lined white sands, and coastal views.
2. The complimentary botanical island tour is a great way to explore the island. A guide will share their insight into the island’s history and its current inhabitants, creating an intimate connection with these beautiful landscapes.
3. Visit the Tobago Cays! The tour is easily available via the Pink Lady Sail boat or on the Yannis Catamaran, so there’s no excuse. The world famous Tobago Cays are a cluster of five uninhabited islands, and en route to the Cays you have the chance to enjoy a beautiful white sand beach at Mayreau. The first Cay is Petit Bateau Island, and ideal location for swimming in the shallow waters or snorkelling around the horseshoe reef. Lunch is served on the boat or the on a simply breathtaking white sand beach with fabulous views over to Petit Rameau Island, before you sail out into the national wildlife reserve to experience swimming with turtles in their natural habitat. Finally, you return to Palm Island via Petit Tabac Island, famously a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean. This beautiful crescent shaped powder white sand islet is covered with palm trees, and it’s worth the trip just for the views. This tour is simply unmissable.
Fancy a Treat?
Knowing how popular upgrades are with our clients, after a couple of days in a Beachfront Room at Palm Island we couldn’t resist upgrading to see one of the Islands Private Villas. We spent a week in the Southern Cross Villa which offers the ultimate in privacy. With a hillside setting on the opposite side of the island, this villa comes complete with an infinity pool overlooking a deserted beach with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Two air conditioned bedrooms come complete with en-suites that feature walk in showers and the option to open out onto a private view of the ocean. A living room and kitchen with vast opening shutters complete the feel of a luxurious open air living space. Terrace and decking space is also plentiful, offering multiple sun and shade options with numerous comfortable seats and sun loungers. Don’t forget your driving licence as this villa comes supplied with a Golf Buggy for personal use throughout the stay!
Palm Island really is a gem of the Caribbean. If you have the chance to experience it, you really must!
