Story by Ken Panton

Many mega hotels and exclusive resorts attempt to corral their guests within the confines of the manufactured cultural ambience of the resort property. It is very refreshing to find a new hotel that has the spirit of the destination right at their doorstep. Allen Chastanet has brought style, luxury, and romance and more to the new Coco Palm Hotel on the charming island he calls home, St. Lucia. This fabulous boutique hotel is destined to become one of the jewels of the Caribbean by setting new standards for other hotels to follow. From the fabulously casual dining to the innovative swim-up rooms, The Coco Palm will delight and intrigue each guest. The moment you check into The Coco Palm it is evident that Mr. Chastanet has refined the art of hospitality and applied many of the lessons learned from his many years in the travel industry to this gem. Upon arrival, a dedicated host who becomes familiar with them and helps personalize their vacation experience greets guests. This eliminates the impersonal check-in experience, which is standard at even the most exclusive hotels. “After a long day of traveling, arriving at even the speediest check-in desk can seem like a chore. That is why at Coco Palm, check-in is done at your leisure, by an attentive team of hosts, available throughout your stay,” explains Chastanet.

After the arriving guests are shown the way to their swim-up room, guest room or one-bedroom suite, they are free to enjoy all the luxuries the Coco Palm has to offer. The rooms and suites are light and airy with a décor that is fresh yet luxurious. Each of the rooms and suites includes luxury amenities including Wi-Fi technology and Direct TV. The Coco Palm is a four-story hotel with 71 rooms, 12 suites surrounded by a very large and inviting swimming pool. The top floor of the hotel has a private roof deck for dining, weddings, and yoga and spa treatments. The signature restaurant Ti Banana is a Caribbean bistro and bar that brings the true flavors of the islands prepared by their award-winning chef. Appetizers like seared foie gras with sorrel-glazed ripe plantain and exceptional main courses such as the lobster and shrimp duo in coconut and curry sauce are just a sampling of the many delectable choices. After dinner, visit the Kafe Kaiso and try some of island’s best rums. Guests can also choose to stroll into the heart of nearby Rodney Bay Village, the liveliest spot on the northern part of the island, with over 20 restaurants and bars to enjoy.

During the day there are many activities available, including horseback riding, hiking in the rain forest. Or, visitors can try yoga and meditation under the watchful eye of Sue Darling on the Zen Catamaran Tour. Nature lovers will delight in the snorkeling, while a tour of the Diamond Botanical Garden and waterfalls, complete with a dip in the famous mineral springs, makes for a memorable day. For more adventure, visitors can rent jets skis and marvel at the views of at this lovely island. Guests may choose to spend the day on the beach and enjoy gourmet sandwiches, fresh fruit and cocktails served by the Coco Palm beach butlers.

Getting to St. Lucia is easy from the States as many airlines including Delta, American, US Airways and others serve the island. For visitors traveling from London, Virgin Atlantic is always a favorite. Once on the island, the Coco Palm is a scenic drive from the airport - but we would recommend trying St. Lucia Helicopters that operates from George Charles Airport. It is a beautiful 15-minute flight over the spectacular landscape to Hewanorra Airport. For more information, visit St. Lucia and Coco Palm Hotel.