If you think all-inclusive family holidays are not your thing, Jumby Bay will probably change your mind.
Just a short boat ride from Antigua in the Caribbean, this stunning five-star hotel is set on a private island and is far from your typical all-inclusive package. Citizen Enfants checked in to discover how Jumby Bay has redefined all-inclusive in the most stylish and discreet way.
The Vibe
The real world is left far behind as you arrive on the shores of Jumby Bay, a short seven-minute boat ride from mainland Antigua. Set on its very own 300-acre island, this Oetker Collection resort is a true masterclass in warm Caribbean hospitality, offering a seamless experience as you forget about everything and instead focus on enjoying the exclusive and discreet space.
From the moment you arrive (and are greeted with a rum punch) the benefits of not thinking about costs or bills become apparent. Jumby Bay very deliberately operates an all-inclusive system and while the term may conjure up uncomfortable clichés, the concept at this property is a world away from the usual – with fine food and drink as standard. As you quickly fall into island time, it becomes obvious that here all-inclusiveness doesn’t just relate to price, but to a spirit of freedom and spontaneity.
The hotel is spread out across a private island, which gives such a feeling of space, and the resort’s commitment to sustainability is enhanced by the stunning natural surroundings. The island is largely self-sufficient and it’s clear that this is a hotel that knows how to offer five-star service in harmony with its environment.
The Rooms
The different accommodation options at Jumby Bay are all perfectly suited to families. Forty spacious suites come in a variety of sizes, some with two or three bedrooms or their own pools; private villas have their own butler and the option of a private chef; and the much larger private residences can be rented for holidays or longer stays – offering up to six bedrooms, they make a great choice for larger groups. A natural colour palette in every suite mirrors the island scenery in shades of sand, turquoise blues and greens, capturing an indoor-outdoor lifestyle with lofty ceilings and wide verandas. Those travelling with little ones can request cots, high chairs and any other baby equipment needed, while each room is given their own bicycles for kids and adults to get around the island (golf buggies are also available, and much of it is walkable).
The Food + Drink
Not only does this resort have a superb selection of restaurants, they cater for families too, and understand that it’s often uncomplicated dishes that little ones love. There are plenty of simple-but-delicious options, whether grilled fish or pancakes with chocolate sauce. At The Veranda, casual-chic dining is the order of the day in a no-fuss spot that’s ideal for eating with kids; it’s safe to say that if they don’t already, children will know how to confidently navigate a sumptuous buffet by the time they leave. Or opt for the restaurant’s à la carte lunch next to the sea. On the beach, a variety of treats are brought to your lounger – it’s a different selection every day alongside ice creams at 3pm. Expect to see happy little faces.
A highlight is the weekly White Night Beach Barbecue Party at The Veranda. With live music and a family-friendly vibe, it’s a wonderful way to give children their first experience of a steel band – and an insight into the local culture. For something more traditional that evokes the island’s rich history try the fine-dining menu at The Estate House, where the menu draws on the culinary history of the region, blending classic and modern flavours. This is more of a grown up spot – leave your children in the capable hands of one of the hotel’s team of babysitters. Genny’s Bar is not to be missed for sundowners. This thatched bungalow set right on the sand, surrounded by towering palm trees and wild orchids, pours a rum punch for adults and a non-alcoholic Shirley Temple for kids.
The Child’s Play
While it would be easy to simply let children play on the beach (and there is no reason not to) there are so many other fun things on offer to them at this resort. The excellent Explorers’ club centres around The Camp Jumby Pavilion which is the hotels ‘headquarters for fun, games and discovery’. Here you’ll find a ton of activities for kids aged three to 11, including cooking classes, singing sessions and outdoor learning. Sporty types will love the watersports programme which includes sailing and paddle boarding, as well as tennis with coaches available for private lessons. With a constant eye on conservation, the hotel is keen to engage guests of all ages in taking care of the island. With this in mind, Jumby Explorers also offers a unique opportunity for children to take an active part in the island’s conservation efforts. Under the direction of specialist researchers, youngsters can witness turtle nesting and participate in the release of hatchlings into the sea. They can even ‘adopt’ a turtle.
The To-Do List
Jumby Bay offers guests the chance to do exactly what they want. Do nothing, do everything, do a little of this, a little of that. Every day of the week a different activity is offered as part of the all-inclusive experience, ranging from island tours, guided nature walks and snorkelling trips, to cooking classes, plus rum and wine tastings. There is also a full spa and gym plus three pools.
But the beach is the stand-out feature. Stepping out of your room to be met by the expanse of white sand, shady palm trees and glistening sea is just a delight. With shallow waters this is a perfect beach for young children too – made even more dreamy by the fact you can order churros right to your sun bed.
The Jumby Bay Water Sports Center offers snorkelling, sea kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boards, an array of sailboats, water skiing, wakeboarding and tubing (among other things), and all sports are available to complete beginners under the capable care of the trained team on the beach.
Nearby, spend an evening at the newly opened restaurant The Hut, Little Jumby. A sister eatery to the cult favourite found on the Isle of Wight, this chic spot is taking over Little Jumby, a smaller private island next to Jumby Bay Island from this November through to next July.
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