Welcome back to the Top 20 of 2021! It's time to wrap this up and move on, after all it's nearly 2023! While all the luxury resorts making the top 20 are top notch and incredible choices for vacation travelers. I feel the need to just top this off in one go. So today you are getting the Top 7 in one post. Yes, I know this isn't fair to these luxury resorts, to not get their individual prop post like 20 through 8 did, but I want to move on, post on different travel topics and updates, and knowning this was still seven posts from finishing, I wasn't even sure I could find the time to do the rest of the countdown as individual hotels by the end of the year. When you take into consideration these resorts, remember that 2021 was in the middle of pandemic and most of the international world of luxury resorts was closed off to US travelers, except for the Caribbean and Mexico.
These will therefore be summaries of each resort, and I will include booking link to each one and each ones VIP preferred partner client perks. I will start at 7, and end at 1. Let's go.
As always this countdown is based on overall agency clientele revenue in 2021.
Top 20
#7 - Wymara Resort & Villas, Turks & Caicos
With the widest stretch of beach on Grace Bay, the third-longest barrier reef in the world, and a 7,000-square-foot infinity-edge swimming pool, Wymara Resort And Villas exudes a sensual island vibe. Of the 91 guest rooms, 84 are beachfront, and all feature Frette bedding and glass-enclosed rainhead showers. Seven newly built four- and five-bedroom villas are available a short distance from the resort. Organic-certified, our Spa offers an array of treatments and daily classes. Stelle restaurant offers modern Mediterranean cuisine with local specialties like conch and seafood. The casual beach bar and grill, Zest, is open for lunch and dinner.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
Book Online: HERE
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (excludes Two Bedroom, Penthouse, and Villas)
- Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom, served in restaurant (Continental breakfast to be delivered to Villas)
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
My personal notes & thoughts:
"My luxury clients LOVE Wymara, during the holiday season of 2021/22, I had clients in a luxury villa elsewhere on the island for Christmas. At the end of their rental period they didn't want to leave the island, they asked me to find them luxury resort accommodations on the island urgently so they can stay longer. I sent them (YES they had availabilty....incredible!) to Wymara, under VIP client preferred status. They came home VERY HAPPY! Wymara upgraded both client couples for their entire stay!"
#6. Cheval Blanc, St. Barth
Set on Flamands Bay, one of the island’s finest, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France is home to 61 beautifully appointed rooms, suites, and villas hidden in lush gardens or with panoramic sea views. All Ocean and Beach Rooms and Suites unveil a new Caribbean flair imagined by French designer Jacques Grange. La Case restaurant serves a locally inspired cuisine for a culinary journey to the carefree rhythm of the Caribbean, while La Cabane is the perfect setting for a relaxed meal a few steps away from the sea. The Cheval Blanc Spa offers Guerlain rituals, exclusive to the Caribbean, for a well-being interlude.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
Book Online: HERE
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Full or A La Carte Breakfast for two guests per bedroom, served at the restaurant.
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
My personal notes & thoughts:
"I had an anniv. couple, wanted something very special & luxurious on St. Barth. I gave them a few options, with my lean towards Cheval Blanc. They went along with it, flying semi private charter to the island via San Juan, their VIP client preferred partner vacation getaway at Cheval Blanc absolutely blew them away, and returning back to the US, they immediately let me know they will be returning."
#5. Albany, Bahamas - New Providence
Island life meets luxury at the resort community of Albany, on 600 oceanside acres on New Providence in The Bahamas. The collective vision of its founders, Albany features an unparalleled combination of surroundings, architecture, sporting amenities, and service. Moor your mega-yacht at the 71-slip marina or take off on an island excursion. Fitness buffs find their own dedicated fitness hub, with spinning, yoga, and Pilates classes. Riders of all levels can take part in equestrian programs, and when it’s time to relax, enjoy the numerous pools, holistic spa and wellness center, 18-seat cinema, and a variety of beachside dining venues.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
View Online: HERE (you cannot book preferred status online)
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Complimentary daily full breakfast for two guests per bedroom
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
#4. Four Seasons Resort, Anguilla
One look at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla reveals that this is not a typical island resort. Chic design elements and custom-made furnishings from trendsetting design guru Kelly Wearstler highlight this luxury oceanfront Caribbean hideaway. The resort features 24 stand-alone four- and five-bedroom Villas, and most accommodations feature plunge or private pools and gourmet kitchens. Dine at any of the four unique restaurants, stroll two of Anguilla’s best beaches, and indulge in the spa’s treatments.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
View Online: HERE (you cannot book preferred status online)
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Continental breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom, in restaurant
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
My personal notes & thoughts:
"Four Seasons final entry into our Top 20 of 2021, is the Four Seasons Resort & Residences in Anguilla. Oddly enough the 4th Four Seasons entry in the Top 20, but hey thats nearly 25% ownership in the countdown, so wow & bravo to 4S. The resort is beautiful, has two beaches that are like wings off of the resort, with the main central part of the resort on the bluff in the middle. One side of the resort is the private residences & on the bluff on the other side is the resort rooms and access to the other beach on that side. The resort is well known to have one of the best upscale dining venues on the island, and has an incredible sunset view from the bluff. It is an ultra appealing Four Seasons in the Caribbean where not many 4S's are yet found."
#3. Las Ventanas al Paraiso by Rosewood, Cabo
Offering “the windows to paradise,” Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort sets the standard for luxury in Los Cabos. Every accommodation is a spacious suite, complete with a marble shower, conchuela limestone floors, and a telescope for viewing the night sky. The Signature Beachfront and Oceanview Villas are steps from the legendary Sea of Cortés. From private, infinity-edge pools to the expansive bathroom, with its steam and rainhead shower and infinity bathtub for two, this authentic Mexican villa awakens all senses to the wonders of this private paradise. Don’t miss the recently added beach cabanas with private Jacuzzis.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
Book Online: HERE
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Full breakfast for two guests per bedroom, available in El Restaurante, Sea Grill, or through in-suite dining
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Margarita & Taco Sampler from Taqueria, once per stay, per accommodation (maximum 2 people)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
My personal notes & thoughts: "While there is not shortage of incredible luxury resorts in Cabo, the only luxury resort in Cabo to make our top 20 of 2021 was Las Ventanas. With Mexico staying open to pandemic travelers through most of the time except the very early stages of it. We could've ended up with many luxury Cabo brands & properities within our top 20, but no only Las Ventanas made it. This on its own, surely says how clients favored this beautiful resort in the San Jose del Cabo region. The rooms luxurious open air hacienda style is stunning, and so in touch with the local landscape. Rosewood scores another entry in our Top 20 of 2021."
#2. Rosewood Baha Mar, Bahamas
Encapsulating the essence of the islands, Rosewood Baha Mar is a serene sanctuary for the discerning traveler on Nassau’s Cable Beach. This effortless tropical escape, set along 3,000 feet of that famous white-sand beach, boasts personal, sincere service, exquisite accommodations (including beachside villas), authentic dining experiences, a full-service Sense® spa, and a vast selection of leisure activities on land and at sea. Guests can tee off on the Jack Nicklaus signature course, volley on the tennis courts, and gather in well-appointed beach cabanas for conversation and beachfront cocktails.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
Book Online: HERE
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily American or Continental breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom at Café Boulud. (Not inclusive of alcoholic beverages)
- $100USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
My personal notes & thoughts:
"Rosewood Baha Mar is part of the massive Baha Mar complex on Cable Beach, which consist of the Hyatt and the SLS as well. Hyatt is much bigger than the Rosewood in room capacity, and the SLS is the little baby boutique luxury. In the middle of those size wise you have the Rosewood, with its stunning luxury style and sophiscation that Rosewood is known for. As well as incredible dining venues and resort facilities. With clients wanting a bit more luxury than the Hyatt, yet not the hip trendy SLS style, Rosewood in the Bahamas, won over a lot of travelers looking for quick tropical luxury beach getaways. Rosewood scores its final and overall third entry in our countdown of 2021."
#1. of 2021: Jumby Bay Island, Antigua
Named for the playful spirits believed to roam the West Indies, Jumby Bay Island is sure to enchant. Situated on a 300-acre private island with two white-sand beaches, the resort offers plenty of playful diversions, from snorkeling and sailboarding to biking and sunset cocktail cruises – all gratis. Choose from 40 oceanfront guest suites or 36 villas and Private Residences. Blending seamlessly into the island’s landscape are four restaurants: The Estate House, serving European classics with West Indian flair; beachfront Veranda restaurant and bar; the oceanfront Pool Grille; and the casually authentic Beach Shack with a Casamigos popup bar.
My Preferred Partner Benefits Include:
Book Online: HERE
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Full Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
My personal notes & thoughts: "What can I not say about Jumby Bay, Antigua is stunning on its own with some of the best sandy beaches in the entire Caribbean. Yet Jumby Bay is exclusive, you are wisked away by private boat and arrive at Jumby Bay Island a small private island off the coast of Antigua. the entire island is Jumby Bay, consisting of all private suites & residences, a complete luxury escape, with gourmet dining, beautiful beach and the villas/residence are epic luxury. With high end families looking to get away during the pandemic. The private suites & residences of Jumby Bay appealed to many, and helped make it #1".
To wrap, I will be very interested to possibly do this countdown based on 2022, as now with most of the international travel world accessible to client travelers, to see how a full global take on luxury resorts ends out 2022 is extremely appealing to me. Europe was insanely popular this year, as were other destinations, and that will be interesting to see how/if these Caribbean & Mexico luxury resorts hold onto being within the Top 20 of 2022. Guess you can say .. To Be Determined!
All Images Courtesy of & used with permission by each resort & on behalf their proper photograper credits.
The Top 20 of 2021:
- #8 - Curtain Bluff, Antigua
- #9 - Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
- #10 - Dorado Beach, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, Puerto Rico
- #11 - Rosewood Mayakoba, Mayakoba Mexico
- #12 - Casa de Campo, D. Republic
- #13 - Eden Rock, St. Barts
- #14 - Four Seasons Maui, Hawaii
- #15 - Paws Up, Montana
- #16 - Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kona/Hawaii
- #17 - The Breakers, Palm Beach
- #18 - Sea Island, Georgia
- #19 - Four Seasons Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- #20 - Montage Healdsburg, California (Sonoma/Napa Region)
Derek Schemonitz