Viceroy Snowmass is easily the most luxurious resort in Snowmass Village, and is packed with top-notch amenities, including a 7,000-square-foot spa with a stunning relaxation room, a solid fitness center, and a lovely pool area with heated saline pool, cabanas, and fire pit. It also offers phenomenal ski valet service (valets will take care of everything from scheduling lessons to putting your boots on for you) and a prime ski-in, ski-out location. There’s a daily resort fee, and you’ll have to pay for valet, but that’s to be expected at a resort of this caliber.

The Gant, Aspen

A popular choice among families, The Gant sits near the base of Aspen Mountain and features 140 one- to four-bedroom condos with Aspen-inspired decor (leather and wood accents, rich colors, and scenic mountain artwork). The hotel is on a large piece of land, and has two heated outdoor pools with accompanying whirlpools.

One Ski Hill Place, a RockResort, Breckenridge

One Ski Hill Place is one of the most luxurious lodges in Breckenridge, with attractive condo-style units featuring gourmet kitchens, beautiful bathrooms (almost all with soaking tubs), and moss rock gas fireplaces. It also offers the most features of any resort in the area, including a two-lane bowling alley, two screening rooms, a billiards room, and an indoor pool area. It has a ski-in/ski-out location right on Peak 8, but getting to Main Street requires a trip on the Breck-Connect Gondola.

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole

The 132-room Hotel Terra is a trendy, eco-friendly ski lodge that offers a nice break from the often-standard mountain-lodge decor found in other area hotels. The lobby has the characteristic fireplaces and antler-adorned walls, but they’re complemented by pops of color and modern furniture. The rooms are sleek, with flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, free Wi-Fi, and organic toiletries in the bathrooms (complete with heated floors). Perhaps most importantly, the hotel is just a short walk from the slopes and has on-site ski rentals and a ski valet.

Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa, Jackson Hole

The small 32-room Rusty Parrot Lodge is decidedly upscale for the area and notably quiet despite its central location. The property embraces a rustic chic decor, including in the super spacious, bright rooms (some with fireplaces) with clean, white-tile bathrooms. It hits all of the requisite apres-ski offerings: an ornate reading room with heavy leather chairs, an outdoor lounge deck with a whirlpool and fire pits, and a stylish bar manned by knowledgeable mixologists. Even though the on-site restaurant Wild Sage has delicious food, guests are still only steps away from Jackson’s restaurants, shops, and bars.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is a five-star full-service resort in the mountains above Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort. Along with luxe rooms, a huge spa, and fine dining, the Ritz-Carlton offers ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes and many other recreational activities — including multiple outdoor pools and whirlpools that are open year-round. The only resort built in the area in the last decade (it opened in 2009), the Ritz has, without a doubt, the most luxurious rooms in Lake Tahoe. They feature cozy leather chairs, fireplaces, balconies, deep soaking tubs in the marble bathrooms, and modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and iPod docks.

Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, Lake Tahoe

The four-star Tahoe Mountain Resorts Lodging offers direct access to Northstar-at-Tahoe ski resort, with plenty of nearby upscale shopping and dining found via cobblestone streets. Housed in separate lodges in the quaint Village at Northstar, the spacious, luxe rooms include kitchens, surround-sound TV systems, and fireplaces. A heated pool, underground parking, and the beautiful mountain setting are added bonuses, and what makes it particularly special is that it has the world’s only in-lobby gondola.

Montage Deer Valley

The Montage in Deer Valley is a large, luxurious resort with a ski-in/ski-out location. The rooms feel like upscale apartments, with warm wood accents, chandeliers, high-end artwork, fireplaces, and marble bathrooms complete heated floors, soaking tubs, and separate showers. The hotel has a massive spa (with free access to its pool, steam rooms, and saunas) and several restaurants, one with fine dining and another with a bowling alley.

The St. Regis Deer Valley

The St. Regis offers a true five-star experience for visitors to Park City. The expansive, well-maintained property has a spacious fitness center with personal trainers and a yoga and Pilates studio, a high-end spa, a spacious heated outdoor pool and whirlpool, a fine-dining restaurant, and elegant rooms with modern amenities and spectacular views. The property swells with A-listers during Sundance (as do the prices), which is no surprise thanks to its on-mountain location in posh Deer Valley.

Four Seasons Resort Vail

The Four Seasons Vail opened in 2011, and is one of the area’s top hotels. All the rooms have warm colors, stone fireplaces, balconies, and huge marble bathrooms with standalone soaking tubs, and almost every amenity impresses, particularly the upscale spa (one of the best in Vail Valley) and lovely outdoor pool area.

The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort

This rustic-luxe, chalet-inspired lodge is one of Vail’s premier options, with a location in the heart of Vail Square, near the Eagle Bahn lift. The 62 luxurious rooms feature massive bathrooms, stone fireplaces, and scenic balconies, and both the lavish spa and rooftop lap pool pack serious wow factor.

Four Seasons Resort Whistler

The Four Seasons is one of the most luxurious, beautiful resorts in Whistler. The property features a heated outdoor pool; a top-notch fitness center (complete with a yoga/cycling studio) and spa; and large rooms and residences with fireplaces, gorgeous bathrooms, and of course, great mountain views. The upscale “ski lodge” lobby exudes a cozy vibe, with wood-paneled walls, wood beamed- ceilings, and chandeliers, as do the bar and steakhouse (with amazing mountain views).

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

This 550-room Fairmont Chateau is perched amid Bavarian-styled buildings just outside of Whistler Village, with magnificent views and close proximity to ski lifts. The interior decor is typical of a Fairmont, but with a mountain-esque twist — think crown molding meets exposed wooden beams and stone-tiled walls. The excellent Wildflower restaurant serves contemporary American fare, and the restaurants and bars in Whistler Village are a 15-minute walk away. The two eucalyptus steam rooms and multiple whirlpools make it easy for guests to warm up after a day in the snow.

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1. Excellence Oyster Bay, Jamaica

Excellence Club Pool at the Excellence Oyster Bay/Oyster

If you’re coming to Excellence Oyster Bay expecting easy access to the rowdy beaches and bars of Montego Bay, you’ll be sorely disappointed. Opened in 2018, this all-inclusive property enjoys a peaceful setting at the end of a private peninsula. The away-from-it-all vibe is only enhanced by the adults-only policy, which naturally lures couples seeking a romantic retreat. Don’t expect a dull property, though. After dark, theater shows liven the atmosphere, and the Martini Bar buzzes until late. Aside from that, you won’t be bothered by noisy parties, vendors on the beach, or spring breakers. Everything, from the gorgeous pool to the pristine beach to the numerous dining options, is elegantly casual. Rooms are contemporary and feature spacious terraces, plus private jetted tubs, plunge pools, or beach views in most. There’s also a full gym and a beautiful spa featuring a hydrotherapy circuit. Just note that this top level of luxury comes with a high price tag to match.

2. Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos

Beach at Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos/Oyster

Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos, an adults-only all-inclusive that opened in 2018, gives guests little reason to venture off its picturesque grounds. Located on a beach between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, this property offers everything you might need for a week (or more) of pampering: numerous excellent restaurants and bars, a pretty outdoor pool complex, a proper gym with trainers and classes, a massive spa with a free hydrotherapy circuit, and gorgeous sunset views from many vantage points. To top it off, rooms are large and tranquil, with balconies that overlook the pool and/or beach.

3. TRS Cap Cana Hotel, Punta Cana

Pool at the TRS Cap Cana Hotel/Oyster

If the swanky yachts filling the nearby marina are any indication, the 115-room TRS Cap Cana is all about luxury. Opened in late 2018 following extensive renovations, the adults-only property invites guests to rest, rather than party, with its quiet, relaxing atmosphere. The serene grounds house two stunning pools (including one with a swim-up bar), three restaurants, a well-equipped fitness center, and a spa with saunas and steam rooms. The stylish rooms have balconies — some with direct access to a shared pool — and the free 24-hour room and butler service are stellar perks. There’s also a small on-site beach, though many visitors opt for the free shuttle service to a longer, nicer stretch of sand just a short drive away.

4. TRS Coral Hotel, Playa Mujeres

Pool at the TRS Coral Hotel/Oyster

In 2018, the TRS Coral set up shop on a wide, white-sand beach in Playa Mujeres. With an adults-only policy, plus a location away from the party scene further south in Cancun, the all-inclusive property has an upscale, mature ambience. The 469 rooms all have terraces with hydro-therapy tubs or swim-out pool access, and the generous all-inclusive plan includes free food and drinks at multiple bars, buffets, and a la carte restaurants. Guests also get access to the amenities at the family-friendly Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa next door. Still, the highlight might be the free night at Chic Cabaret, which offers amazing performances and gourmet multi-course meals.

5. Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, Playa Mujeres

Adult Pool at the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa/Oyster

6. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Mujeres, Playa Mujeres

Pool at the Hotel Riu Palace Costa Mujeres/Oyster

Looking for free-flowing booze without the raucous spring break vibe? Check out the Hotel Riu Palace Costa Mujeres, a 2018-opened all-inclusive with a strict “no spring-breakers” policy. Both families and couples are catered to, with five swimming pools (two with swim-up bars), six restaurants, a spa and fitness center, a kids’ club, and a beautiful white-sand beach lined with palm trees. Guests also get access to the next-door water park, plus rooms come with liquor dispensers, well-stocked minibars, and balconies (some with swim-out access).

7. Iberostar Cancun Star Prestige

Beach at the Iberostar Cancun Star Prestige/Oyster

8. Melia Salinas, Lanzarote

The Level Pool at the Melia Salinas/Oyster

Designed in the 1970s by famous local architect Cesar Manrique, Melia Salinas was fully renovated in 2018, though much of the structure and landscape have been preserved. The adults-only beachfront property is tucked away in a quiet part of Costa Teguise, and as such, is suited for couples wanting to get away from it all. Entertainment comes in the form of fitness classes, such as yoga and Pilates, as well as some live music in the evenings. The 270 rooms and suites are stylish, with a wide range of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, Dreamax beds, and minibars. For something even more special, villas have private pools.

9. Panama Jack Resorts Cancun

Main Pool at Panama Jack Resorts Cancun/Oyster

As one of the best bang-for-your-buck properties in all of Mexico, this upscale, all-inclusive resort in Cancun draws a fair number of partiers and families. The former comes for the drink-slinging bars and poolside activities, like tequila volleyball, while the latter enjoys the two pools, kiddy splash park, and evening entertainment. The reasonable rates, as well as multiple restaurants that include buffet and Italian options, lure both. Renovations in 2018 left the property with an overall stylish, modern look, and the rooms with hammock-equipped terraces (some with stunning views).

10. Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica

Lagoon Pool at the Sandals Montego Bay/Oyster

Although Sandals Montego Bay opened its doors in 1981, the beachfront all-inclusive is mostly modern, thanks to renovations in 2018 (some of the 264 rooms have colonial-style decor, though). Guests here are spoiled for choice, with plenty of on-site restaurants (including specialty Italian and Japanese options), ocean-view pools and whirlpools, a full-service spa with a free-to-use sauna and steam room, unlimited non-motorized water sports, and daily entertainment. An upbeat vibe, plus events such as weekly foam parties, draw younger couples, though the majority of visitors are folks who don’t want to travel far from the nearby airport and cruise port. On the downside, planes from the airport can be noisy.

11. Hilton La Romana, An All-Inclusive Adult Resort, Dominican Republic

Aerial Photography at the Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Adult Resort/Oyster

12. Haven Riviera Cancun

Haven Riviera Cancun/Oyster

13. The Grand Reserve At Paradisus Palma Real, Dominican Republic

Swim Out Pool at The Grand Reserve At Paradisus Palma Real/Oyster

14. The Reef 28, Playa del Carmen

Pool at The Reef 28/Oyster

15. The Level at Melia Caribe Beach, Dominican Republic

The Level at Melia Caribe Beach/Oyster

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Islands Affected (and Unaffected) by Hurricane Dorian

Relaxation Area at Hilton at Resorts World Bimini/Oyster

Grand Bahama and the Abaco chain, the northernmost islands in the Bahamian archipelago, were Dorian’s hardest-hit victims. Great Abaco has been rendered unlivable, with roads ripped from the ground, power lines torn down, and nearly every structure decimated to rubble. Rescue efforts continue across the island — Dorian claimed more than 40 lives on Great Abaco, though the toll is expected to climb, as many residents remain unaccounted for more than a month after the storm made landfall. In what looks more like a war zone than a vacation destination, the Bahamian military patrols the streets to stop looting as rescue workers continue to search for victims in the rubble. The stench of decay on Great Abacao is said to be overwhelming. 

On Grand Bahama Island, residents who stayed to ride out the storm were forced to evacuate when rising flood waters reached roof-high levels. Immediately after the storm, Freeport’s Grand Bahama International Airport was underwater. Now, it’s a field of waste and remains closed indefinitely. The island’s once busy cruise port is now only open for aid. It will take years for the Bahamian government to resurrect the islands’ infrastructure and for locals to rebuild their homes and businesses. 

Despite the devastation across Grand Bahama and the Abacos, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism desperately wants travelers to know that its other islands, largely unaffected by Dorian, remain open for business. Of the Bahamas’ 700 islands, 14 of the most-visited spots, including Nassau, Paradise Island, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, the Exumas, Bimini, and Andros, were minimally affected by Hurricane Dorian. Their hotels, restaurants, and local businesses are eagerly awaiting tourists to return.

Why You Should Travel to the Bahamas Now

Beach at The Cove Eleuthera/Oyster

The economy in the Bahamas is heavily dependent on tourism, which supplies nearly half of the country’s annual GDP. It’s estimated that 70 percent of Bahamians rely on tourism, whether directly or indirectly, as part of their income. As the nation prepares to rebuild, it needs tourist dollars more than ever, especially as displaced residents from Grand Bahama and Abaco search for employment on unaffected islands. If you’ve been toying with the idea of a Bahamas vacation, don’t let the devastating news coverage of Hurricane Dorian dissuade you from visiting. Expect hotels and resorts to run attractive deals for the remainder of the year, in an effort to entice Caribbean travelers.

Where to Stay in the Bahamas

Pool at SLS Baha Mar, Nassau/Oyster

Ready to book your Bahamas vacation? The island chain caters to all types of travelers, from spring breakers to families to couples. Our guide below will help you narrow down your options and pick the Bahamian island that’s best suited for your travel needs.   

Our Pick for a Party Hotel in the Bahamas: SLS Baha Mar

SLS Baha Mar, the trendiest hotel in the new Baha Mar complex, takes its party-oriented cues from its sister properties in Miami and Las Vegas. Alongside Instagram-worthy rooms and celebrity chef restaurants, the SLS is known for its scene-y poolside parties and happening rooftop bar (the first in the Bahamas).     

Our Pick for a Family-Friendly Hotel in the Bahamas: Atlantis Paradise Island

Atlantis Paradise Island is the definition of family fun. The beachfront mega-resort is composed of five hotels, ranging from the budget-friendly Beach Tower to the upscale Royal Towers to the luxurious Cove and Reef. The resort’s 154-acre water park complex is a highlight, with six thrilling waterslides, a quarter-mile river adventure, several kiddie splash zones, and a marine habitat where guests can snorkel, scuba dive, and interact with dolphins, sharks, and stingrays. Throw in a baker’s dozen of restaurants, more bars than you can count on two hands, and one of the Caribbean’s largest casinos, and you’ve got a jam-packed itinerary.    

Our Pick for a Romantic Hotel in the Bahamas: Coral Sands Hotel and Pink Sands Resort

Couples looking for quiet seclusion can head to Harbour Island, a tiny island off the coast of Eleuthera, for untouched beaches, chic hotels, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. Hotels like Coral Sands and Pink Sands cater to a well-traveled clientele who prefer intimate boutique properties to larger all-inclusive resorts. Plus, since Miami and Fort Lauderdale are the only U.S. cities with direct flights to Eleuthera, travelers can expect fewer crowds than neighboring islands.  

Our Pick for an All-Inclusive Hotel in the Bahamas: Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis and Spa Resort

Stress-free all-inclusives take the hassle out of vacationing. When you arrive at Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis and Spa Resort, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is the location of the next beachfront bar you want to park yourself in. As its name suggests, this adults-only resort is home to an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and a luxurious spa, as well as seven restaurants and three gorgeous outdoor pools. 

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But it doesn’t have the same effect as the drug, and proponents are convinced that it helps treat numerous ailments, from poor digestion to anxiety. (Between sketchy airline food and nervous fliers, how did folks ever fly without it?) There are a few restrictions, though: Your product must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration and contain less than 0.3 percent of tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in marijuana. That’s to meet the standards of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, in which derivatives of hemp and cannabis with “extremely low” levels of THC do not qualify as controlled substances. This means that unlike marijuana, they can be legally manufactured and sold. 

So why did the TSA change their regulations? It was because of last year’s FDA approval of Epidiolex, a seizure drug for children. “TSA was made aware of an FDA-approved drug that contains CBD oil for children who experience seizures from pediatric epilepsy,” Mark Howell, regional spokesperson for the TSA, said in a statement. “To avoid confusion as to whether families can travel with this drug, TSA immediately updated TSA.gov once we became aware of the issue.”

Does this mean that it’s okay to join the “mile-high” club? Not exactly. Some CBD products and oils, such as those infused with cannabis, are still banned, even though you may be able to legally buy them in one of the 42 states where some forms of medical and/or recreational marijuana are legal. Local laws are irrelevant to the TSA, though. “TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers,” read a statement on the TSA website. “Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.”

Gulp. The good news is if you bought your CBD legally — either online or in a shop — it’s likely labeled with the exact amount of CBD and/or THC it contains, so you’ll know immediately if you can slip it into your carry-on. The bad news is that because the regulations are so new, some TSA agents might not yet be familiar with the products, which could make for some awkward moments at the scanner. However, as more TSA agents are briefed on the new regulations, you and your CBD will be breezing through security in no time.

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