In April, I had the pleasure of visiting the All-Inclusive Galley Bay Resort in Antigua, a true paradise for those seeking luxury and tranquility. The serene atmosphere immediately captivated me, and the beachfront rooms offered breathtaking views, complemented by lush gardens that enhanced the resort’s tranquil vibe.
Upon arrival, I was struck by the beautiful historic sugar mill, a charming touch that added to the resort's unique ambiance.
The Gauguin Suites are to die for. These uniquely designed rooms feature whitewashed interiors with cool stone and light wood accents. Each suite has a bedroom with a king-size bed, a living area with a wet bar, and an expansive bathroom/dressing area with a shower. Sliding glass doors from the living room lead onto a private sun deck with a plunge pool. Nestled between the resort’s beach and lagoon, these suites are ideal for couples seeking more privacy.
The Premium Beachfront Suites also stand out, offering guests the option to be either on the beach level with direct access to the beach, or the upper level with 30 ft vaulted ceilings and a private balcony with glorious ocean views. These rooms have light chic interiors with king-size beds and sunken living rooms complete with wet bars. The generous-sized bathrooms feature large bathtubs plus his-and-her showers and basins.
Indulge Spa was a highlight of my tour. From the moment I saw the cute "use your spa voice" sign, I knew it was a special place. The spa’s bamboo-constructed walls and rainbow river rock pool created a serene atmosphere. Set in the heart of tranquil gardens on the edge of the lagoon, the spa felt like a sanctuary.
One treatment that caught my eye on the menu was the Harmony of Tropical Fruit Wrap. This 60-minute papaya-pineapple body wrap is enriched with Crème Fraîche natural butter, calcium, vitamin A, pomegranate extract, and other anti-aging ingredients. The luscious Crème Fraîche formula is applied all over your body for a glorious sensory escape. This two-step treatment unites a unique blend of tropical fruit extracts and promotes quick deep absorption, refreshing and firming skin texture. It sounds like an excellent anti-aging treatment.
One of the most charming aspects of the resort is the weekly Manager’s Cocktail Party. Meeting the general manager and getting to know the friendly staff while sipping refreshing cocktails and sampling delicious hors d’oeuvres amid tropical sea breezes seemed delightful. It’s a great opportunity for guests to mingle and share their experiences.
Another highlight is the Caribbean Barbecue, where guests can indulge in an array of island flavors, including spare ribs, steak, local kingfish, and chicken, along with fresh salads and vegetables. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious food make for a memorable evening.
On Tuesday mornings, the Garden Tour spotlights the resort’s many flowers, plants, and wildlife. This fun learning experience includes a look at the source of the resort’s farm-to-table cuisine, the on-site vegetable and herb garden. It’s fascinating to see where the fresh ingredients used in the resort’s dishes are grown.
The Cooking Demonstration is another fantastic activity. The resort’s chefs share some of their favorite recipes and cooking techniques, allowing guests to take home the tastes of the Caribbean. Sampling the delicious dishes they teach you to make adds to the fun.
Movie Night is a unique experience. Guests can pick a spot on the beautiful beach, sit back, relax, and watch a great film under twinkling stars while the surf rolls in. Personal headsets ensure this silent movie experience does not disturb others, making it a peaceful and enjoyable evening.
The Rum Tasting event is equally impressive. The evening begins with a walk-through of the extensive selection of local and international rums. Guided by the resort’s rum-ologist, guests learn about rare blends and vintage rums from the region. Seeing, smelling, and tasting the aromas that come out of the glass is an enriching experience. The Rum Shack’s design, which pays homage to local culture and uses reclaimed wood and galvanized roof materials, adds to the authentic Caribbean feel.
Another nice touch is the availability of day rooms you can utilize on the day of check-out, so you don't miss out on any of the resort’s offerings and can enjoy every last minute of your stay.
Galley Bay Resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination in Antigua. For more details, or a personal quote reach out to Sherry Brisson at Go Travel.