Why it’s a classic: This Providenciales pioneer’s flagship, Grace Bay Club, has something for everyone: There’s a low-slung, adults-only wing with super-spacious rooms, family-friendly suites with access to a comprehensive kids’ club, and ultra-luxury villas. And despite its broad offerings, the resort still feels intimate and fresh, with loyal staff that have a great eye for detail.
Why go now: Advani has been a key organizer in the regeneration of Turks & Caicos. First, he banded together with nearby resorts Gansevoort, Amanyara, and the Palms to cook for displaced locals; together, they’ve also been rebuilding homes across the island. Now, with Providenciales largely back on its feet, Advani is leveraging his relationships with regional and global tourism organizations (such as the Caribbean Hotels Association, Virtuoso, and Small Leading Hotels of the World) to drum up awareness for on-the-ground nonprofits. Bonus: His own GoFundMe campaign, which will help rebuild the homes of Grace Bay staff members and their families, has already raised more than $24,000, and Advani will soon start offering interest-free loans for further rebuilding.
Jade Mountain, St. Lucia
Why it’s a classic: A regular on world’s best lists, the family-owned Jade Mountain is best known for the fact that its 29 suites only have three walls apiece. With open, loft-like floor plans that flow seamlessly from living room to bathroom to private plunge pool, they keep your eyes trained on the stunning Pitons, volcanic spires, just across the bay.
Why go now: Co-owner Karolin Troubetzkoy is leading up the “One Caribbean Family” initiative through the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association, which is collecting donations to help get the region the support it needs. Through the end of 2018, she’ll also funnel $50 to the fund for every booking at Jade Mountain. Guests who donate will get resort credits of up to $250.
Curtain Bluff, Anguilla
Why it’s a classic: This all-inclusive playground for the rich and famous is ideal for those who’d rather not sit on a beach lounge all day—activities include tennis, squash, and deep-sea fishing. But beach it up you should: The resort is set on strip of land that juts into the ocean, with quiet Caribbean access on one side and big Atlantic waves on the other.
Why go now: Incredibly, Anguilla was left unscathed by the storms while Barbuda—less than 100 miles away—was left devastated, with 95 percent of its buildings destroyed. So Curtain Bluff is raising funds from donors and travelers via its 43-year-old charitable arm, the Old Road Fund. Already, it has sent more than $15,000 of material support to its sister island, with more on the way.
Atlantis, Bahamas
Why it’s a classic: For families with kids of varying ages and varying preferences, there’s no better place: The über-resort has programming for toddlers, preteens, and teens, plus eight sections of accommodations of varying levels of luxury. In other words, you’re well taken care of, no matter what a vacation means to you. The famous waterslide is icing on the cake.