THIS IS A GEM OF A RESORT, tucked away in a secluded and sophisticated setting among lovely tropical gardens on a magnificent and quiet white sand beach on Antigua’s golden west coast. Truly one of the Caribbean’s most delightful and charming smaller hotels, Galley Bay has long been a favourite of those who want a true get away from it all vacation in idyllic environs. There are no crowds and the sound of the surf breaking on the shore and the rustling of the palm fronds nestling the low buildings just add to the relaxed and laid back ambience. This is an authentic Caribbean resort and the style and décor mirror this with usage of thatch, terracotta, bamboo and wonderful wooden terraces, oceanside dining and a staff offering superior service.

This hideaway appeals to couples of all ages who prefer a more intimate and elegant atmosphere and an opportunity to enjoy a social camaraderie with like minded people from a number of countries including the US, the UK and many other European nations. It is decidedly romantic and the 32 new beachside premium suites that the resort added last year are a real attraction.

These plantation style accommodations have luxurious mahogany furnishings and a décor rich with muted earth tones, very much the colors of today. Each of these spacious 568 sq.ft suites has a separate sleeping area with a sunken living room with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows affording the finest views of the ocean and beach. There is wireless internet access and a marble-top wet bar. One of the loveliest aspects of these suites is the ability to step out onto a private terrace or balcony just steps from the beach and sun or relax in the comfortable lounging sun beds. Each suite also has an entertainment system consisting of a 32-in flat screen satellite TV, a DVD player and an iPod docking station. The king size sleeping area has pampering 400-threadcount sheets and sleek tile floors. The oversized bathroom – bliss – has His and Hers showers, a corner soaking tub for two and a full length mirror. The resort anticipates guests’ needs with such items as a hairdryer, safe, phone, radio alarm clock and a coffee maker. There is air conditioning and ceiling fans.

This all inclusive property boasts two restaurants, The Seagrape with its waterfront setting for breakfast, lunch and dinnner and the more intimate Gauguin Restaurant for specialty dinners, a fabulous open air Teepee bar and deck and the more quiet Lounge bar as well as offering an array of watersports, a freeform freshwater swimming pool, a tennis court, bicycles and a jogging trail. There is nightly entertainment as well. No wonder that the resort has won several awards including being recognised as one of the Caribbean’s Top 20 Resorts, according to Condé Nast Traveler readers. Photo courtesy of Galley Bay .