It’s best to think of this clear liquor as a sort of mezcal from the Mexican state of Jalisco, as the historic definition of mezcal means anything distilled from the agave plant.  That means even mezcal from Oaxaca is a type of mezcal. Producers Rio Chenery of the distillery Estancia Raicilla and Esteban Morales of the La Venenosa Raicilla consortium agree that raicilla is, “really a mezcal, we just can’t call it that because of location.”

Originally distilled as a type of “Mexican Moonshine” for farmers and fishermen in the western part of the state, it was taxed by the Spanish during the 18th century to make way for imported liquor and wine. As a result, the spirit moved underground, and up until recently, it was technically illegal and production haphazard. Though availability of the spirit has legitimized, you can drive through Jalisco and buy unregulated raicilla on the roadside, where it’s often sold in nondescript plastic bottles.

Fast-forward to today, where it’s become popular (and legal) again, thanks to tourism. Morales said most of the time he encounters raicilla outside of Jalisco, it’s in a gringo-heavy area, like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. Chenery explains that there are two distinct styles of raicilla: de la Costa (from the coast) and de la Sierra (from the mountains).  Most of the major producers are de la sierra, and the designation is further broken down into two roasting techniques. Pit-roasted agave produces a smokier taste, similar to better-known Oaxacan mezcals, and clay-roasted agave gives the raicilla a cleaner, more herbal characteristic, not unlike a strong gin. Some of the clay-roasted raicillas even have cheesy or grassy undertones. Morales says, “One of my favorite ways to drink raicilla is in a Negroni, as a gin substitute. It’s an excellent mixer.”

Morales also asserts raicilla has a lot in common with wine. “Terroir is very important, as is the type of agave. A different kind will produce a different taste, as will its location.” This is seen in Oaxacan mezcal, as well, but not in tequila, which relies on monoculture farming of the blue agave. “There are towns in other areas of Jalisco that produce a similar spirit but don’t call it raicilla,” Morales says. “Since they can’t call it mezcal or tequila, I am trying to invite them to be with us. They use different agaves and techniques, but we can still call all of it raicilla.” This has led to a council of raicilla makers lobbying for Denominacion Origen status, like Oaxaca has with mezcal and tequila in another part of Jalisco.

For now, though, raicilla is available throughout Mexico, as well as in the United States and certain European countries. Both Morales and Chenery tell us that the spirit has caught more traction overseas, as preferences take time to change and curiosity is harder to grow at home. Morales says it’s more popular in the Mexico as a mixer and sipped straight overseas. Chances are though, wherever you enjoy it, you’ll be the first of your friends to do so.

Written By:  Jackie Bryant

There is no shortage of yachtmakers in the world, but finding the perfect fit of timeless style and custom luxury? That’s a unique challenge. We favor yachtmaking companies that take the time to craft boats by hand, in the process granting their clients’ wishes with each custom feature and one-of-a-kind twist. With the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show just around the corner, we decided to round up our favorites, along with our favorite destinations for discerning mariners to show off their new favorite toys.

Perini Navi

The Maltese Falcon

If you’re not familiar with Perini Navi, look up Tom Perkins and his iconic boat, The Maltese Falcon. Though this boat is spoken for, whether you’re in Europe or North America, Perini Navi has a solution for you. The Italian boatmaker from Viareggio, Italy also has a full sales operation in Newport, Rhode Island, making themselves fully available to a large range of clientele. Thanks to their four companies under the Perini Navi umbrella, they are also able to offer several different boating options, though they are known primarily for sailing yachts: racing sailing yachts, fast cruising sailing yachts, large sailing yachts from 131-197 feet, extra large sailing yachts over 197 feet and motor yachts. In case you’re not ready to take the plunge, they also offer charters for those who want just a taste of the good life.

Burger Boat Company

Superyacht by Burger Boats

The Manitowoc, Wisconsin’s latest project, a 103-foot-6-inch yacht outfitted by famed Miami-based designer Luiz de Basto, promises to be one of Burger’s most stylish endeavors. For everyone else, Burger Boat Company employs designer consultations and client visits to initiate the client into its hands-on process. They’re religious about the client aiding in hull design, exterior styling and interior floor plans, making sure any bells and whistles come future operator-approved.

Sunseeker

Sunseeker 155

Founded in 1969 by Robert Braithwaite, Sunseeker has grown into one of the most recognized names in custom yachtmaking today. The company grew from humble beginnings: Braithwaite started the business from the ashes of Owens Cruisers’ United Kingdom business, using the molds to produce smaller leisure boats. Eventually, their growth in the Mediterranean brought a needed for bigger craft, culminating in their largest delivery to date in September 2014. This 155-foot beauty is Sunseeker’s 100th performance motor yacht, but is the top of the line – they’re still producing luxury craft of all sizes.

Christensen

M/Y LADY JOY – 157′

Dave Christensen, founder of his eponymous Vancouver yacht company, is obsessive about details. That’s why his custom fiberglass yachts are true feats of engineering, employing large-scale vacuum infusion combined with proprietary in-house technology that creates a boat more solid than steel. The hulls are fully insulated, eliminating the “double boiler” heating effect that afflicts boats traveling in warmer climates and ensuring there will be no condensation-causing corrosion, interior finish damage or mold infestation. Christensen’s inspiration? Other builders’ low standards. He sought out to build a yacht in 1982 and couldn’t find a builder who met his requirements. The rest is history, and he is now building custom boats up to 212 feet in length.

Trinity Yachts

Finish Line by Trinity

One of Hurricane Katrina’s great redemption stories lies with Trinity Yachts, now based out of both Gulfport Mississippi and New Orleans, Louisiana. Their shipyard was destroyed by the storm in 2010, as it brought a 15-foot wall of water into the yard where it then ruined most of their manufacturing equipment. To add to the destruction, most of Trinity’s employees were scattered around in the aftermath. By an incredible stroke of luck, two almost-completed yachts and a handful of hulls in-progress survived the storm, providing the basis to rebuild company from the ashes. Founder John Dane III, knowing a good opportunity when he sees one, made good on this small fortune and set out to rebuild as quickly as possible, acquiring the Gulfport shipyard in the process. Today, Trinity is fully back in the game and operational in its two locations, with a 168-foot tri-deck yacht slated for near-term delivery.

Aerial view of Christophe Harbour

Now that you’ve got the goods, where to? Two of our favorite yacht destinations include Christophe Harbor in St. Kitts and Island Gardens Deep Harbour, on Watson Island in Miami. Christophe Harbor is fully outfitted with a deep-water superyacht marina, a members-only beach club, a beach bar, real estate options, a retail village, a golf course and the Caribbean’s first Park Hyatt, slated to open next year and taking reservations as of March 2017.

Island Gardens Deep Harbour

If you’re staying stateside, the United States’ first superyacht marina has anything you would want out of an on-shore experience. The marina can accommodate yachts of all sizes, even those exceeding 500 feet, and offers docking options for tenders and smaller powerboats, as well. As for the amenities, services include charter options, aircraft facilities and United States Customs capabilities. On the more fun side, there is a social club, called The Deck, which hosts an open air lounge and restaurant.

Written By:  Jackie Bryant

Found on the island of Martinique, the Neisson distillery has come out with a limited edition of Neisson Bio Esprit (“bio” is the french word for organic), which is claimed to be the first organic rum  in the Caribbean. If you’re going to all organic, you might as well throw in the rum too!

In the town of Le Carbet, you’ll come upon acres of waving sugar canes which surround the legendary rum house of Neisson. Here is where a tremendous project is taking place that might change the rum world in a big way. The “rhum argicole,” is a made from pure sugar cane juice unlike the majority of other Caribbean rums that are distilled from molasses. Bottled at 66 percent ABV, the Neisson Bio Esprit is a bold, grassy, vegetal rum with a strong, earthy flavor.

Due to an intense process of working the sugar cane, there will only be 5,000 bottles produced this year. In a recent interview with the Caribbean Journal, Neisson Master Distiller Gregory Vernant, one of the leading innovators in the world of Caribbean rum, stated that this is a long-term project and they will be looking to increasing their cultivated sugar cane fiends year after year.

For a rum to be considered organic the requirements are; you can’t use chemical products, only natural fertilizer, and must use your own yeast. On top of this, all products are checked twice a year to ensure that they meet organic standards.

For those interested in this fine organic rum, Neisson has to be contacted directly to check whether shipping is available to your country.

Neisson Rhum Distillery is one of the few family owned distilleries on Martinique. Since being founded in 1931, this small plant has been a treasure to the rum industry as a distillery that offers an impressive selection of 100% authentic Caribbean rum and recently its one-of-a-kind organic bottle.

Original article and featured photo credit: Caribbean Journal.

The small futuristic pod measures 7.5 meters long providing seating for up to 9 passengers. It features a V-shaped hull completely constructed from fiberglass with the lines of a futuristic space pod. It’s high tech equipment includes electrohydraulic steering, a Simrad VHF radio and chart plotter, and a Bose audio system among other things. There are various customization options for the Jet Capsule ranging from a cabin with a kitchenette, beds, and a bathroom or a militarized model with a bulletproof body and windows. For commercial use it can easily be built into a limousine that seats 13 people comfortably.

As if it’s eye-catching appearance isn’t impressive enough, the Jet Capsule is fully equipped for speed as it features; a 325-hp Yanmar diesel engine along with a Hamilton water jet. This gives it the power to reach speeds of 18 knots and a maximum speed of 25 knots. For the ultimate ride there is the smaller Super Jet Capsule, that measure 6 meters able to seat seven, and powered by twin 250-hp boosters, shooting you through the water at a speed of up to 70 knots. When the captain says, “hit it”, hold on!

Pricing and more information on the Jet Capsule can be found on their website:  http://www.jetcapsule.com/

Displayed at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show in September, the iconic Lürssen superyacht Coral Ocean, is now available for charter for the first time ever. Following a refit at the shipyard’s facilities, the elegant Lurssen vessel is widely admired throughout the yachting world and offers a luxurious and unrivaled experience on the open seas.

Kept exclusively for private use until this year and maintained in pristine condition since 1994, the recent refit of Coral Ocean prepared the vessel for charter and to conform to commercial regulations and charter standards.  While technical systems were updated, much of the 238-foot superyacht remains the same.

Boasting five decks, an interior gym and spa, a beach club at the stern and a saloon on an open-air balcony, Coral Ocean is a testament to the forward-thinking and innovative design of Jon Bannenberg and the Lurssen shipyard.

What is sure to be one of the most sought-after yachts of the coming year, Coral Ocean’s main deck can accommodate parties for up to 80 guests, panoramic views can be found from the owner’s top deck sleeping quarters and a neutral palette creates a calming interior through the superyachts expansive spaces.

The sun deck with pool features plenty of seating and its own bar while the gym and spa come complete with steam room and state-of-the-art equipment.

Decor of burr-oak furniture, rough marble, and fractured-and-polished-glass tables from Italy combine a plethora of materials and textures that are understated yet highly elegant. Large windows, carpeting in virgin wool from New Zealand and endless details at every turn make this superyacht one of the most intricately designed and luxurious.  Designer Jon Bannenberg even purchased an entire exhibit from a New York City art gallery which included art from Africa and Asia and used the exhibit pieces to decorate the yacht.

A true team effort by the most experienced Aston Martin designers, this new nautical vessel combines innovative technology and the iconic craftsmanship associated with Aston Martin. Naval Architect Mulder Design worked in collaboration with the AM team and Quintessence Yachts engineered the design making the AM37 one-of-a-kind in the yachting world.

“AM37 is a pure translation of the Aston Martin DNA into an entirely new maritime concept. The powerboat reflects our values in terms of power, beauty and soul. The most important attribute for Aston Martin is the design language and proportion, we have transferred this DNA into AM37. It was important to us when considering this project to make sure that the boat design was as beautiful and timeless as our cars, the AM37 is a striking boat with fantastic proportion and elegance.” – Aston Martin’s EVP & Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman

The AM37 is a day cruiser that can be transformed into an overnight berth. The cabin is well appointed with mood lighting and air-conditioning and with a refrigerator, microwave oven, coffee machine and lavatory on board – absolute comfort is guaranteed.

The exterior features a design that is simple yet immaculate in appearance and detail. With extreme double curvature it sets a new industry standard and its carbon fibre dashboard echoes styling elements from Aston Martin’s most advanced sports cars.

It includes fine leather with functional features and the boat’s navigation, control monitor and entertainment systems are all integrated with advanced multimedia functions.

The 37-foot model is available in two versions – the AM37 with an estimated top speed of 45 knots and a choice of two 370 hp Mercury diesel or two 430 hp Mercury petrol engines.  And the AM37S version with an estimated 50 knots derived from its twin 520 hp Mercury petrol engines.

“We are so proud to present the AM37, an exclusive powerboat for the yachting world. With this project Aston Martin, the icon of style and technological innovation, confirms its place as a top luxury brand. The Aston Martin Art of Living is a way of life that captures the very essence of the Aston Martin brand, and AM37 is a fine example of this philosophy.” – Katia Bassi, VP of AML & Managing Director of AM Brands

For more information please visit AstonMartin.com

Luxury Living International’s Best of Paradise: Top 12 Beach Bars Blenders, Beach Bars & Bikinis

Anyone can stick up a shack on the sand, stock it with beers and call it a beach bar. But what makes a great beach bar? It could be the sand-in-your-toes factor, or the washing and hissing of the waves nearby, or the sunsets or the people you meet. But the truth is there’s no formula, no magic ingredients that will guarantee a place in a list of the world’s best beach bars—just a perfect confluence of feeling and atmosphere. We’ve included spots that range from the chic and the elite with smooth lines and mesmerizing cocktail waiters, to the haphazard, thrown-together shacks constructed from scavenged driftwood.The only thing these places have in common is that once you’ve been, you inevitably start planning to get back there—someday, somehow.

So, sit back and imagine you’re on a hammock laying under swaying palm trees, watching clouds float by, and sipping on a drink poured into a hollowed-out coconut while you peruse our list of the best beach bars in the Americas. Raise a glass with us—and to the steel drum music and reggae beat of island living—and check out these rum-soaked pieces of tropical paradise.

1. The Soggy Dollar (Jost Van Dyke, BVI)

Sometimes, the original is the best, and “The Dollar,” as it’s called by regulars, is the original home of the Caribbean’s signature drink, “The Painkiller,” as well as one of the best island bars in the British Virgin Islands—and, honestly, the world.

Located at the White Beach on Jost Van Dyke, The Soggy Dollar has recently become accessible by road, though most patrons still swim up from their anchorages. Thanks to their journey, the dollars are often wet, hence the term “Soggy Dollar.” In fact, there is a line where the bills are clipped up so that they can dry off. Hammocks are strung from the trees providing a tropical retreat where you can sip away the pain and sun yourself to your heart’s content, or partake in any number of bar games provided before swimming back to your boat.

2. Willie T’s (Norman Island, BVI)

There can hardly be a discussion about beach bars without referencing the amazing Willie T’s in the British Virgin Islands. Located in floating pirate ship anchored in Bight’s Cove off Norman Island, this hideaway is rumored to be near the fabled treasure trove of Long John Silver.

If the idea of drinking on a pirate ship in the Caribbean isn’t compelling enough, try some of their notoriously strong drinks, such as the “shotski” or their infamous “bodyshots”. As the day goes on at Willie T’s, the crowd gets rowdier and clothing becomes optional. Many pirates-in-training end up “walking the plank” or jumping off the stern, clad only in their birthday suits, much to the delight of their fellow onlookers below.

3. The Office (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico)

Settling in for a day at The Office in Cabo San Lucas is worlds away from your desk job. In addition to their classic margaritas and tequila-based cocktails (it is Mexico, after all), The Office has some of the best finger food around, especially their ever-popular breakfast served on tables twenty-five feet from the surf.

In fact, heading to The Office is all day—and night—event. Spend your day lounging around on their portion of Mendano Beach and then head up to a table for one of their bar specials during happy hour, and then dance the night away as things heat up when the sun goes down. This might be the one office gig where you don’t mind working late into the night.

4. Barefoot Beach Bar (Placencia, Belize)

Located on the best beach in the entire country of Belize in the middle of the quaint fishing village of Placencia, there lies a vaunted institution of the Caribbean bar scene: the Barefoot Beach Bar.

This small bar sits about seventy feet from the Caribbean sea and only steps from the village’s picturesque main street, which was dubbed “the worlds smallest main street” by Guinness Book of World Records. It’s essentially a long sidewalk that winds through the village hosting art galleries, t-shirt shops and a few other beach bars—but none can beat the reggae vibes or perfect location of Barefoot.

Barefoot not only sits on a great beach but offers thirsty tourists great bar food and cheap tropical drinks, as well. Their most popular beverages are Belikin Beer (Belize’s official brew) and One Barrel and Coke (Belizes’s official rum), but they offer all your tropical favorites. Don’t miss the reggae bands that play live on most weekend nights, when people from around the world gather under the palms to dance the night away, One Barrel in hand.

5. Nikki Beach (St. Barth’s)

Enjoy a taste of the good life at Nikki Beach in St. Barth’s, beach bar to the fabulous and famous. Nestled up to the beach of St. Jean, Nikki Beach is the place to be see and be seen on the island, yet it still manages to keep that chilled out Caribbean vibe that we know and love. White on white beds, drapery and an abundance of pillows complement the chic European-style beach oasis, and you can expect to be rubbing shoulders with the VIPs and celebrity clientele at this Instagram-worthy hotspot. Resident DJ Jacques Dumas spins a mix of music from around the world while models and tourists alike enjoy the music, the sun, the sand, and the amazing cocktails at this beach bar to the stars.

6. Rick’s Café

This lively bar on Jamaica’s western tip is a nonstop show—from locals performing aerial acrobatic dives from even higher cliffs, to tourists psyching up to take their own leaps from one of five rocky platforms descending from the bar’s clifftop aerie (ignoring red warning signs detailing the risks). Grab a local beer, because is there anything better on a hot Jamaican day than a cold bottle of Red Stripe? Rum drinkers go for Rick’s Famous Planter’s Punch, a sweet, classic blend of rum and fruit juices that is, as the bar menu reminds, “a way of life here, mon.” Consider bringing some extra cash for offering the local divers a tip. And don’t forget to watch for that glorious sunset.  RicksCafeJamaica.com

7. Woody’s (St. John)

“Happy Hour is the reason I get up every afternoon” read the server’s shirts at Woody’s in St. John—and they aren’t kidding. Woody’s is the top destination for the five-to-seven crowd on this island.

Naturally, the small blue and white shack is always packed during those key hours, and accordingly, the food coming out of the kitchen is amazing. Conch fritters and seafood platters are all offered at a very reasonable price, coupled with dollar beers and discounted drink specials, making this this a must-stop-spot in St. John. Never fear, the festivities are not restricted to Happy Hour —you can find a party at Woody’s every night of the week.

8. Foxy’s (Jost Van Dyke, BVI)

Foxy’s is an institution on Jost Van Dyke. Hosting one of the world’s top New Years Eve parties, they are known for their hospitality, relaxed attitude, and general pursuit of a good time. Owner Foxy Callwood is a sixth generation Jost Van Dyke native, and he’s renowned for his original songs and jokes, along with his unique rum and microbrews made on the premises (insider tip: ask for a tour).

The bar hosts many regattas and is always jam packed with sailors and their friends looking for a great time, a rocking band and an icy cold drink in a setting that’s colorful and full of high spirits—both in the form of the bar’s libations and from the company!

9. Encanto (San Juan, Puerto Rico)

At the El San Juan Hotel in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean goes glam at the groovy Encanto. Known for the unique traveling cart stocked with seven varieties of their signature mojitos wheeled around to patrons as they lounge poolside in luxurious canopied daybeds and pod chairs, guests at Encanto get to experience the Caribbean equivalent of table service at a hot night club—except for that this service is complementary and its offered around the clock.

At Encanto, there is also the option to rent a tiki hut cabana complete with wi-fi access, flat screen televisions, a full minibar and of course visits from the roaming drink cart. This isn’t exactly a “sand in the toes anything goes” kind of beach bar, but it is a fantastically posh oasis where you can definitely get away from it all.

10. Cow Wreck Beach Bar and Grill (Anegeda, BVI)

Nestled in the sand on the pristine undeveloped island of Anegeda, the Cow Wreck Beach Bar and Grill is a hidden gem of a destination for Caribbean travelers. In fact, the funky bar stands alone surrounded by nothing but unspoiled stretches of sand, palm trees, and crystal blue waters on both sides, making it feel like you’ve stumbled on a crazy party in the middle of a desert island.
In fact, that’s what really sets this bar apart—while the freshness of the delicious food, the strength of the drinks, and the low-key attitude of the guests and staff alike are reason enough to visit, the absolutely stunning location makes it an unforgettable beach bar.

And, by the freshness of the bar menu, we mean seriously fresh: the close proximity to the waters means that their lobster is kept live in underwater cages, and also a la carte are the local sharks that the barman catches every morning. The peaceful beach is great for a lazy day of snorkeling, eating and drinking—plus, you can hit the bar when the sun goes down.

11. Banana Beach (Santa Teresa, Costa Rica)

Banana Beach is a relatively new bar situated right on the beach in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. Located just in front of the old Luz de Vida, this is a great place to unwind and enjoy the sunset from a day bed, lounge chair or even a hammock style swing, ice cold cocktail in hand.

Plus, you can rent a cabin and stay right on site – snorkel, swim, and surf during the day, enjoy amazing food and cocktails by night – it’s a little piece of Costa Rican paradise that you’ll never want to leave – Pura Vida.

12. Da Conch Shack and Rumbar (Turks & Caicos)

Da Conch Shack is perhaps the most popular beach bar on Turks & Caicos – and that’s definitely saying something, considering the many popular spots for castaways to wash up on these island shores.

Known for the “Conchknocker”, their signature drink that features plenty of rum, this vibrantly hued ramshackle beach shack is justifiably famous for their fresh conch and seafood dishes, all broiled, spiced, cracked, and fried to perfection. All best enjoyed with your toes in the sand or hanging off the wooden deck on the water’s edge, of course!

There are also live reggae DJs on Sunday afternoons, theme music nights, and even some friendly stray dogs at this beach bar that keeps a neighborhood vibe even though it has achieved international attention.

By Jackie Bryant

When deciding on a yoga retreat, there are a few things that are absolute musts. Skilled teachers? Yes. Inspiring views? Probably. Good weather? Definitely–especially if you’d like to practice outside. And, not to be overlooked, a comfortable and beautiful hotel and nourishing, delicious food are probably high on the list too. Ideally, would-be retreat-goers want nothing short of perfection, which is exactly where we come in. We’ve scanned the tropics looking for the most luxe retreats in the most idyllic locations. These are our 10 picks for yoga retreats in paradise.

Resort at Pedregal – Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico

One of Cabo’s finest luxury resorts, beachside Resort at Pedregal is offering a special retreat for guests who want to get in touch with the power of the moon. The package includes two private yoga classes, a moon meditation and a night yoga class under their oceanside palapa. Also included is a moonstone flow treatment at the resort’s Luna y Mar Spa, which offers energy work and a massage intended to heal and regenerate according to the phase of the moon. $520 USD

Anamaya Resort – Montezuma, Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Anamaya’s perch in the jungle overlooking the Pacific Ocean has earned it cult-like status in the yoga practicing world. They offer many styles of retreat: month-long teacher training programs, surf and yoga hybrids, yoga and adventure hybrids, scuba and yoga, and others. At the end of whatever long day you have, relax in the resort’s saltwater infinity pool and retire to one of the many unique styles of rooms: some are treehouses, some have outdoor bathrooms. There might be no better place to integrate with nature and bliss out. Rates start at $895 USD/week for dorm occupancy

Amansala – Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Celebrities and yogis of all kids flock to Amansala, an eco resort on the Riviera Maya of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Even Mandy Ingber, who teaches celebrity clients like Jennifer Aniston, counts Amansala among one of her hallowed places to relax and regroup. Between vinyasa sequences, breathing and meditation workshops, indulgent spa treatments and simply lounging on the resort’s pristine beaches, yogis often take time off to explore the quaint town of Tulum and nearby Mayan ruins. Rates for a 6-day Beach & Bliss retreat begin at $1,775 for triple occupancy

Rachel Brathen Retreats – Aruba

Instagram star Rachel Brathen, otherwise known as “Yoga Girl,” designed an island retreat with her husband so all of her adoring yoga-practicing disciples could come practice with her. She’s Swedish, but has been holed up on Aruba for years now. In addition to some personal enlightenment with Rachel, participants will engage in a Stand-Up Paddle Board Yoga session, take a sunset sail, visit Aruba’s natural pool, lounge on the beach and hike on the island’s north shore. Meals will be prepared by an in-house chef and are promised to be nourishing and delicious, and guests will bed down at nearby Costa Esmeralda. Starts at $1,405 USD for 5 days, quad occupancy

Como Parrot Cay – Turks and Caicos

Como Parrot Cay’s retreats are legendary in the yoga world. Beyond yoga, the retreats offer Ayurvedic treatments, aromatherapy, Pilates and other holistic treatments to help guests achieve true mental, physical and spiritual balance. The facilities are pristine and top of the line: a yoga shala that invites natural breezes, an outdoor jacuzzi garden, nine treatment rooms, double massage rooms and Japanese baths. And, of course, guests get to stay in the luxe digs at Como Parrot  Cay, one of the premier resorts in Turks & Caicos. Their next retreat, hosted by the Curry sisters, will be held on May 1st. Beginning at $6,753 USD for double occupancy, 5 days

Jungle Bay – Dominica

Jungle Bay is a wellness-oriented eco resort on the naturally bountiful island of Dominica. They’ve become famous on the yoga circuit for their retreats and facilities, which are top notch and immersive. Accommodations include eco cottages, which are hardwood and elevated on wooden posts for a prime treetop view of the Caribbean Sea. Even the yoga studio is made of reclaimed rock. Each comes equipped with an outdoor raindrop shower and a spacious patio with hammock. Their retreats host a rotating cast of yoga teachers from around the United States, like Elena Brower and Rodney Yee, and in addition to daily classes, retreat-goers will enjoy organic food, nature hikes, detoxifying spa treatments and plenty of beach relaxation. Jungle Bay is currently closed for renovation but is accepting reservations for 2018.

Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat – Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Santa Teresa is best known for being the sleepy little sister to Costa Rica’s bigger surf towns, garnering a reputation as a more secluded, low-key destination. In other words: perfect for yogis. Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat was built by the same group that runs nearby Florablanca, so you’ll know comfort and style are first rate here. Pranamar specializes in surf and yoga packages, which include daily surf and yoga classes, a massage, daily breakfast and accommodations in the resort’s villas and bungalows. All retreats and classes are designed from input from their in-house yogi, Nancy Goodfellow, who specializes in tantric hatha yoga. Begins at $1,005 USD for a 5-day package

Xinalani Retreat – Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

With a capacity of just 54 people, a retreat at Xinalani is truly just that–a retreat. Its 23 rooms are all oceanfront and are stilted, palm-thatched cottages on stilts in the jungle. Our favorites are the Eco Chic suites, offering a sprawling terrace with the best views on the property and a hammock to enjoy them in.  Xinalani was designed with retreats in mind, and in addition to yoga they offer meditation classes, steam bath sessions and Tamazcal rituals to cleanse mind, body and spirit. Single occupancy in an Eco Chic suite starts at $2,950 USD for a week yoga retreat

BodyHoliday – St. Lucia

Known as St. Lucia’s premier wellness resort, BodyHoliday has guests covered for everything from top-of-the-line rooms to its specially-designed yoga programming from in-house, resident yogi Natascha Zeller. They offer many different styles of yoga and combine the tradition with Ayurvedic techniques and practices to offer another avenue of healing, reintegration and reinvigoration for your mind and body. In particular, we love their “Octoba Yoga” theme month, which is essentially an immersive month-long, resort-wide retreat experience with special spa and massage treatments; Ashtanga, Hatha and Katti yoga classes; and special yogic foods and teas. In addition to yoga, they also offer a full suite of fitness and wellness activities–from horseback riding to scuba diving–for a well-rounded experience in the most beautiful setting. Rates are variable depending on room choice, season and length of stay, but Standard Garden View rooms start at $3,574 USD for one week during high season

Petit St. Vincent – St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Petit. St. Vincent is a tranquil paradise  on a small island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, about 40 miles south of St. Vincent. With the boutique luxury resort’s two open air palapas, one facing the Atlantic Ocean and the other, Conch Bay, the property was built to accommodate yogis and groups of many sizes. Petit St. Vincent offers not one, but two on-site yoga instructors, meaning careful attention and a range of different styles and activities. They also lead instruction out on the pier, which juts out into the Atlantic Ocean. Their Tranquility Package offers three private yoga sessions, a range of land and sea activities, three massages and a sunset cruise. Double occupancy in a one bedroom cottage starts at $6,300 USD for the seven night Tranquility Package

By Jackie Bryant

The dream is real: you float in a warm, turquoise sea as schools of patterned fish meander past. Corals reach out. A turtle lifts its beak from snacking on a sponge to notice your bubbles and returns to eating. Diving is an exquisite experience and the Caribbean as well as  the east and west coasts of Mexico host many of the best dive sites in the world. If you’ve caught the diving bug, the question is only where to make the dream come true.

What kind of diving experience do you long for? As a new diver, or once certified but out of practice, a resort dive to freshen skills with attentive dive masters will turn you into a relaxed and happy bubble blower. If you’re experienced, confident and looking to add colorful or rare species to your log book, finding a dive operator with deep local knowledge makes all the difference between a so-so trip and a satisfying sojourn.

If you only have a few days off, consider how close dive sites are to your resort or home. Spending hours getting to dive spots and returning cuts into water and vacation time. A live-aboard boat, or hiring a bare-boat charter with crew, also assures that you spend maximum time in the sea. Not only that, but settling permanent in a location well-suited for divers means you’ll never have to factor in travel time ever again.

Options abound throughout the Caribbean and Mexican waters. Here are several locations to make your dive dreams come true and the best places to live if you’re a diver.

Diving Baja Mexico

Loreto

There are five protected islands within the Bay of Loreto National Marine Park with volcanic dive sites, finger reefs, and massive, underwater rock formations. All of them teem with sea life. Dive legend Jacques Cousteau had good reason to call the Sea of Cortez the “Aquarium of the World.”

Within two hours from Los Angeles, the stark Sierra Giganta mountains tower above a bright blue sea, dotted with red volcanic islands. The trim Loreto airport is no stranger to divers and fishermen hauling bags and coolers in and out of the boarding areas. Dive expeditions leave from town, from resorts or from various moorings nearby.

The Villa del Palmar Beach Resort is statuesque on a private bay about ten miles south of town. A dedicated dive staff with gear and small boats wait a few steps from the bathing beach. PADI training for dive certification is also available and the curious can sample diving in one of the pools. The spacious suites in the Villa del Palmar face the bay, and hiking trails, fine and casual dining and the Sabila Spa and Wellness Center are near. The Loreto region has long been an expat destination, so the city and area is dotted with many luxurious accommodations and mooring facilities.

La Paz

Diving tours at La Concha Beach Hotel

A world-class dive destination, La Paz is a three-hour flight from Mexico City or Los Angeles. The drive north of the vacation capital of Los Cabos takes just as long—but be prepared to share the road with buses, trucks and cows. There are at least a dozen dive operators in the area. While famous for large pelagic species such as hammerheads and whale sharks, divers can swim through bait balls, play with sea lions and night divers encounter schools of Mobula rays. Consider the location of your accommodations and dive operation as most of the dive sites are a 30 minute to hour-long boat ride from the closest resorts.

Hotel Cantamar, the furthest northern dive resort, has an impressive squadron of new dive boats with Spartan resort rooms and vacation rental facilities. Shuttles run from downtown accommodations to the dive launch, about 20 minutes away. While close to diving, the Cantamar dining offerings don’t compete with the cafes and finer options along the Malecon or tucked within the main village.

La Concha Resort, ten minutes from downtown, is the home of the PADI 5 Star Cortez Club dive operation. The rooms have a ‘rustic chic’ style with gated condominiums adjacent to the hotel.

A pair of luxurious villas are available close to the Cortez Club dive operators in the Playa de La Paz gated community, but you could also live in Los Cabos and make frequent trips up.

Diving the Mexican Riviera

Cozumel

The island of Cozumel, home to a wide variety of cherished dive spots, is close to the coastal playground of Playa del Carmen – a fifteen-minute ferry ride separates the two. Cozumel is well known as a sheltered underwater playground. Cruise ships dock close and the waterfront is dotted with boutique to moderate hotels, which are closest to the dive sites. Further out the road, major resorts dot the leeward side of the island.

The Sabor Cozumel Resort, formerly a Wyndham property, stretches along the longest beach on the island, about ten miles from town. The adult only, all-inclusive resort hosts a dozen lounges, bars and restaurant choices. Sand Dollar Sports has their own pier and PADI dive operation on-site. Scuba-to-advanced diving certifications are available. If you’re traveling with non-divers, helmet diving, snuba and snorkel tours are offered as well.

Isla Mujeres

A short boat ride from the Yucatan playground of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is warmed by the sunrise as the easternmost point in Mexico. Mayan ruins and pioneer artifacts, marine parks and an underwater sculpture garden tempt visitors but the small island is famous as an ocean-focused destination for water lovers. There are diving options but many visit for the chance to snorkel with Whale Sharks who feed nearby during late fall and winter.

Everything is close on the petite island. The sleek, Euro-luxe Privilege Auxles Hotel is a few steps across from guide boats to the shark sites. Divers can delight in the underwater MUSA Sculpture Museum off the southern tip of the island. Glass bottom boats and snorkel tours are available. The project was opened in 2010 as a man-made reef for coral and marine life which are transforming the pieces.

Those looking for a secluded experience might favor docking at the private pier of the Mia Reef Isla Mujeres. The resort hides on the northernmost tip of the island above reefs and tidepools. Being a diving hub, there are plenty of first-rate dive resorts, but there are also plenty of private yacht experiences catered to divers.

Diving the Caribbean

The British Virgin Islands

Live a trade-wind fantasy while exploring more than 60 unspoiled islands, mooring in private bays, tying up dockside for happy hours only open to sailors and diving on a whim in emerald seas. The BVI’s are home to hundreds of dive sites scattered amongst islands and reefs. Most are only accessible via small sailboat and catamarans within view of cruise ships, whose draw confines them to deeper waters.

American visitors may arrive in the BVI’s through San Juan, Puerto Rico, after a short flight into Tortola. Another option is via inter-island ferry from St. Thomas, in the United States Virgin Islands. Door-to-door express service to Tortola is available via the Dolphin Express.

For the particularly dialed-in, diving from Peter Island is luxurious adventure. Visitors arriving in Tortola are served by ferry, helicopter or the resort’s private yacht. Underwater film maker, Chuck Nicklin, has returned several times after filming ‘The Deep’ in the mid-seventies with Nick Nolte and Jacqueline Bisset. He and the crew stayed in the cottages and none were of a mind to ‘dress for dinner,’ Chuck says, ‘I’m sure the island was happy to see us go.’ Today the dining traditions continue.

No boat or skippers license? No problem, as there are many live-aboard yachts and bare-boat charters available. Divers needing equipment and tanks are serviced at several dockside operations throughout the islands.

Live aboard diving offers great freedom. The dive masters travel with you from site to site. Equipment and tanks are serviced on board. The indulgence of having help getting into gear and at the end of the dive, getting back on board makes diving 3 or 4 times a day easy. Dives can be tailored to the group and most boats carry fewer than two dozen guests.

The BVI’s National Parks Trust has installed more than 200 mooring balls to help preserve popular anchorages. There are nearly 30 mooring sites scattered through the islands. Charts and electronic navigation mapping are required for those skippering their vessels. Yachts and Catamarans can be rented, mostly for minimum of a week through several charter companies. And, if you’re in need of a place to permanently bed down, this house is still on the market.

Cayman Islands

Divers touch down on Grand Cayman before flying off to the smaller islands of Little Cayman, one of our must-visit locales for 2017, and Cayman Brac. Each is dedicated to diving but there are still diversions for non-divers with lush Caribbean dining, and milky-white beaches bordering crystal blue seas. The Cayman Brac Beach resort is all-inclusive and features first class, ‘valet diving’ services for new and experienced divers. Real estate has been heating up on the big island of Grand Cayman, making it the ideal place to purchase a home while traveling to the smaller islands for frequent dive excursions.

Bahamas

Diving in the Outislands of the Bahamas.

The Bahamas are home to wrecks, reefs, walls and sharks. Divers venture to Nassau and most dive with Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas adventures. Stuart Cove has built his dive services in Nassau over thirty years and has received awards for educating the public about sharks in the Bahamas.

If the Hilton British Colonial was good enough for James Bond it works for divers in Nassau as well. Spreading over 8 acres of the Old Fort the hotel defines sophisticated luxury with contemporary touches. It’s located a short walk from markets and nightlife. There are shuttles to the dive boats from the hotel dock. A boutique hotel full of the island’s Junkanoo flavor and culture, Compass Point Beach Resort is ten minutes from the airport with 18 brightly colored huts; the closest accommodations to the Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas facility.

Belize

The UNESCO World Heritage site, the Belize Barrier Reef, is the second-largest coral system in the world. With more than seven marine reserves and over 400 cayes,  90% of the Belize Reef has yet to be researched – a tantalizing prospect for divers. International diving hotspot, the Hole, was made famous by Jacques Cousteau. It’s about 1,000 feet across and a little over 400 feet deep with immense stalactites and circling schools of Reef sharks. Visiting bubble blowers can find pampering or simple tropical getaways across the atolls and islands.

Lighthouse Reef, is closest to the Great Blue Hole and home to the Huracan Dive Resort. Staying there comes with the privilege of diving the Hole free from crowds. Private resort boats arrive twice weekly from Belize City and helicopters are available for hire.

Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort is a top vote winner in TripAdvisor polls for service and hugs several hundred feet of beach. Guests may choose to sleep in a private treehouse or a beachfront suite then mingle in the Great House, reminiscent of a plantation home.

Concierge diving experiences are available from Premier divers at Ambergris Caye. Their commitment to environmental best practices is helping preserve the natural beauty of the area through careful diving and supporting conservation projects.

By:  Elaine J. Masters