www.lux-review.com Page 45 Page 44 www.lux-review.com LUX 2021 Resorts and Retreats Awards LUX 2021 Resorts and Retreats Awards Being one of Aruba’s first timeshare options, Playa Linda first opened its doors in 1983, sitting on a prime beachside spot and being an iconic part of the island’s landscape. Almost right from the start, Playa Linda was seeing almost sold-out status year-round, and this is still the case today. Many of the original owners of the resort still return each year with family and friends, with multiple generations comprising of the same family group. In the 2000s, all three of Playa Linda’s construction phases were realised through efforts of local visionary industry leaders, including developer Raymond Maduro of SUN Development, architect Dan Oduber, contractor Henk Bijen of ALBO Aruba, and Rene Nieuwkerk, Playa Linda’s first general manager. Each played their own part in making Playa Linda what it is today, distinctive for its design and remarkable for its upscale yet friendly, community atmosphere. Continuous rounds of upgrades, innovations and improvements in the delivery of an outstanding vacation stay have kept Playa Linda a top resort choice in Aruba. In the last five years alone, Playa Linda effected a full renovation and expansion of common use areas, now offering an additional pool and Jacuzzi in an enhanced poolside environment, as well as a redesigned lobby, with new guest amenities. Modern design and comforts can also be appreciated in Playa Linda’s suites, all of which, in every suite category, were refreshed and refurnished by 2020. Suites, adorned in cool Caribbean accents that complement the beauty of Aruba’s natural environment, are available as one-bedroom, two-bedroom, as well as a penthouse suite, each complete with stunning balcony views to wake up to every morning. Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is an award- winning luxurious island vacation destination in Fiji in the South Pacific. The glimmering Savusavu Bay sits in the background of this resort, and the island’s rich forestry and crystal clear waters surround this authentic Fijian treat. Named Fiji’s Best Overseas Family Resort, awarded by Luxury Travel Magazine’s gold list awards in 2018, and this year recognised as the Best Luxury Eco Resort 2021 by LUXlife Magazine, Jean- Michel is reaching new heights. So, what is it that sets this resort apart? Ultimately, it is its invitation to enjoy a luxury family resort holiday, combined with cultural immersion, that allows visitors to give back to the community by supporting remote island communities. Moreover, with specially prepared local- inspired meals that features all organic, locally grown produce and seafood, Jean-Michel’s chefs fashion meals that suit all tastes and connects guests with the surrounding culture. By using responsibly sourced ingredients, the resort is making eco-friendly choices that encourage guests to do the same at home where possible. Its Bula Club is a complimentary award- winning children’s program that contains fun, educational games, exploration, and more. This program encourages children to engage with their natural surroundings. Guests can also visit the local areas with their families to get a taste of Fiji together. Jun21478 Jul21673 Playa Linda Beach Resort Best Tropical-Style Beach Hotel – Aruba Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji Best Luxury Eco Resort 2021 – Fiji Playa Linda also offers a stand-alone townhouse option which provides roomy two- storey accommodation in an elegant setting, and space away from the general hubbub of the main building. Whether guests just want to know the best spots to lay out on a beach lounger, or if they want to get out and explore all that Aruba has to offer, Playa Linda is surrounded by plenty of things to do. The resort’s concierge can recommend handpicked activities, attractions and events and make reservations for guests, utilising their expansive knowledge of the island’s best and latest. For those who are looking to keep their little ones busy, Playa Linda offers a complimentary kids’ club which provides customised attention to the resort’s youngest guests through organised activities of arts and crafts, sports, games and special events. A dedicated activity centre, exceptional club leaders and weekly schedule keep kids engaged and happy, leaving parents a portion of time to pursue separate interests. Playa Linda also offers a Members’ Lounge which is a central location for guests to gather, meet, relax, or even get some work done. This multi-use space is located in the resort’s lobby and features a library, computers, and a printer in an attractive and modern setting. The space also features a big screen TV, perfect for movie nights and big game days, with comfy seating. When it comes to spending some time outside, Playa Linda has do-it-yourself BBQs available for the perfect beachside picnic. The resort provides the grill, prep area, seating and utensils, and the guests bring the menu items. In terms of more recent developments, Playa Linda has been working on implementing technology in light of the pandemic and seeing that guests want to be able to check- in/check-out contact-free. It is currently fine-tuning this process so that it can run as smoothly as possible. Regarding the pandemic, Playa Linda has put some very strict protocols in place, mainly within the housekeeping department, having adapted pretty quickly to the new way of doing things. Ultimately, the beautiful and pristine resort of Playa Linda and its friendly and helpful staff provide guests with a home away from home and a truly relaxing break to remember. Jean-Michel is also known as an idealistic couple’s retreat, where it thinks of everything a couple would want. From Bures and villas to luxurious spa facilities, Jean-Michel encourages couples to relax and or adventure together in an unforgettable location. Its world-class spa facilities are there to provide guests with the opportunity for the highest form of relaxation and rejuvenation. All of its ingredients for spa treatments are natural and locally sourced, so that guests can feel even more at ease in the knowledge that they are making a difference with every luxurious treat that they receive. The spa’s extensive portfolio of treatments and therapies have been passed down through generations, so visitors can feel immersed in the culture and traditions of Fiji. Naviavia is a secluded retreat that is just a short boat ride away from the main resort. This is a place where guests and their loved ones can escape together to a private, undisturbed island like those of their wildest dreams. Jean- Michel provides a tasteful, satisfying picnic alongside beach necessities so that couples can enjoy some alone time in style. Not only does Jean-Michel introduce Fijian culture and breath-taking experiences to its guests, but it also offers couples the chance to be wed on the island. With a shimmering sea backdrop, framed in all shades of blue, couples can say “I do” in a fantastic setting that will be remembered for a lifetime. No matter what its guests are looking for, Jean-Michel has something for each of them. With so much to offer, it looks forward to hosting you for your next holiday escape. Contact: Christine McCann Company: Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji Web Address: https://www.fijiresort.com/ Playa Linda is a rich-history timeshare resort offering 215 spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens and all the comforts and conveniences a guest could want and need, whether they are solo travellers, couples, families, or groups of friends. It is a resort that has led the way in defining island comfort and ambience, and also in demonstrating a dedication to sustainable development. Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a family-friendly, culturally rich, and otherworldly experience that suits all of its guests. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation or a romantic getaway, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From fine dining to spectacular spa treatments, nature filled days to fun education for kids, and much more, this resort is inspiring each of its visitors. Company: Playa Linda Beach Resort Contact: Sulaika Kelly Email:
[email protected] Website: www.playalinda.com