Discover Paradise: A Stylish Guide to Royalton Saint Lucia's All Inclusive Getaway

Royalton Saint Lucia is located at the northern tip of the island, in a town called Gros Islet, which is just above Rodney Bay. It's about a 1.5-2hr ride from the airport by car, or 30 minutes in a Helicopter (which I highly recommend booking, as the winding mountain roads that make up the island can make some travelers get motion sickness. Pack dramamine if you think you'll feel ill.) The town has a bountiful marina, sites with rich history, and is away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the island. A perfect escapade for my birthday.

Truly, the "royal" part of its Royalton name proved to be true. Immediately upon arrival, our beach-view hotel room proved to be stunning. The room was spacious, with a grand tub, a huge balcony, and despite its proximity to the private Royalton beach, it was surprisingly quiet. That was a big concern of mine, as other hotels I've booked in the past this close to the ocean forbade their guests any sleep. Not the case here in Saint Lucia, thankfully.

When you first step out, you'll see a gorgeous hot tub overlooking the water next to one of the hotel's bars. But if you want to beat the heat, walk down the steps and either jump in the infinity pool, hit the pool bar or jump into the ocean. No Saint Lucia trip is complete without trying some Marigot Bay local rum, classic Saint-Lucian Piton beer or a Dirty Banana cocktail.

Fun fact that may surprise you, dear reader: Despite my love of the ocean and tropical destinations, I'm not the best swimmer. Most currents knock me down flat, and as a result I'm often the girl on a unicorn or flamingo floaty with a cute drink in hand. What made Royalton win me over is that their beach is safely insulated, with some of the most serene and clear waters I've ever encountered. It was so easy to see through the water that we even could spot so many of the adorable little fishies swimming around, and the staff was even kind enough to provide food for us to feed them! Feeding zebra fish in Caribbean waters has been one of the most magical things I've ever done.

Of course, the fish aren't the only ones who need feeding. After spending so many days in the sun, you tend to rack up an appetite. The resort has so many options to choose from: seafood, Japanese (teppanyaki style), Italian, Mediterranean, West Indies, private dinners on the beach and their indulgent 7-course, personal chef, Culinary Experience. Many of these restaurants gave me a special cake or sang happy birthday to me!

Nothing is more romantic than dining luxuriously and watching the sunset with a bottle of wine on the water. As for the Culinary Experience, our chef was shy and sweet, but his food commanded presence. Food combos like tiramisu topped with starfish, steak, lamb, salmon, lobster bisque, all paired with wine and cocktails. The chamber in which the culinary experience is located is visually stunning as well — blue flames adorn the walls that concave in a circular fashion, with soft velvet chairs to match. If you come by yourself or as a couple, you'll be seated facing other guests who booked that same night at the table, which can be a fun way to meet people. A grand time to be had, indeed.

Must-dos:

While you're at the resort, book one of their photographers as well! They have a whole office dedicated to photography. You can be shot swimming in the pool, dancing on the beach, in the hot tub, whatever you like. The photographers can pose you and/or provide ideas for the shot as well, for both individuals, couples and families. All the photos can be printed or emailed to you for a fee. They have packages as well.

Although we didn't do the Diamond Club package, if your budget allows for it, I highly recommend this as well. Not only do you gain access to both the Adults-Only Hideaway Resort, and the regular Royalton resort, you also have a private section of the beach and additional bars. Priority for swim-up suites and private pools as well.

Finally, no trip to Saint Lucia is complete without the following tours/activities:

• Horse-back riding on the beach

• Relaxing in the volcanic mud spas of Sulphur Springs (which get extremely hot, not suited for certain travelers)

• Visiting the Diamond Falls Waterfall, and the Toraille Waterfall

• Riding a boat to see the Pitons

• Making your own Saint-Lucian chocolate at Project Chocolat

Saint Lucia was spectacular. Royalton delivered on their promises, and I would be so thrilled to book clients at this hotel, knowing they could experience all the magical moments that I did, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Saint Lucia. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lucy On Locale’s guide, St. Lucia: Your Next Caribbean Getaway.