Recently I had the privilege of making my first visit to the beautiful island of Anguilla, in the British West Indies. It was a delightful experience. Ask me what I remember most about this island, the beaches. They are absolutely breathe taking with several shades of turquoise green water and white powdery sand that feels soft and embracing on your body. The island is three miles at its widest point and sixteen miles long. There are approximately 33 beaches in Anguilla, but none more popular than Shoal Bay East which is rated one of the top best beaches in the world! Their island slogan ‘Tranquility Wrapped in Blue’ very appropriate.
There are no fast food establishments, restaurant chains, or large shopping malls, and theatres on the island. Instead, there were quaint local eateries serving a variety of Anguillan specialty foods, and meal choices that would appeal to many palettes. It is not difficult to locate fine dining restaurants on the island that could rival any on famed restaurant rows.
Anguilla markets to a high end clientele. Because of the many villas and quaint resorts it is a huge draw for visitors and celebrities who want to get lost in the crowd. It is said that Anguilla is where guest go to hide instead of being seen. There are many lavish, beautifully furnished and well appointed villas. Most have their own pools, Jacuzzi, theatre, recreation/game rooms, saunas, exercise rooms and many other amenities. Many have four to eight bedrooms and are very appealing for small corporate retreats, corporate meetings, and incentive programs.
I found that many of the hotels did not exceed 100 sleeping rooms and were limited when it came to meeting room space. I stayed at the Malliouhana Hotel & Spa (55 rooms) which is on 26 acres overlooking Meads Bay and Turtle Cove on the northwest coast of the island. Like some of the hotels my room did not have a television, radio, clock, ironing board or coffee maker. However, included in your overnight stay are many water sports, snorkeling, windsurfing, catamarans along with complimentary snorkels and fins. While there I visited several other resorts with spas, Cap Juluca, Cuisinart, Altamer (villa), Viceroy Resort & Residences, and two smaller hotels, Carimar Beach Club and Paradise Cove.
The island of Anguilla grows little produce, except for the 9.5 lb. sweet potato that found itself in the weekly newspaper. Fishing is plentiful, which was evident by the 840 lb. marlin that was caught off the coast of Anguilla. And they have little rain fall per year. Along with their claim to fame ,their beaches which are absolutely beautiful their other natural resource are the Anguillan people who are warm, friendly and inviting. They love their island home and usually return after they finish their education to give back to their communities. When you are planning your next retreat, board meeting or need a private get away think easy breezy Anguilla. The island will be waiting for you!
Written by: Rosa L. McArthur, CMP
