On Our Radar: Beach Paradises

Our post today comes from guest blogger Jamie Stone from Queen of the Quarter Life Crisis. Jamie volunteered to go to the Destination Wedding and Honeymoons event for us when we were out of town. Here are the destinations that impress her the most--they sure have us dying to grab our passport and head to the nearest airport!


Fiji- A country composed of over 300 islands in the South Pacific that also boasts “the friendliest people in the world.” There’s something so alluring to us about the secluded beaches, clear, crystal blue water and the fact that Jacques Cousteau named Fiji “soft coral capital of the world.” Fiji is a fabulous island destination whether you and your girlfriends want some adventure or want to relax on the beach. I’m not gonna lie to you, I’ve wanted to check out Fiji since I found out that Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey went there on their honeymoon…yes, I said it. In my opinion, we can all use a little more “bula” in our lives…


Turks & Caicos – Known as the “light of the Caribbean,” this set of islands is only one hour from Miami, making it the perfect destination for a long girlfriend’s weekend. Each island has something different to offer…Parrot Cay being the most exclusive and luxurious. West Caicos, known for its fabulous diving and East Caicos, for glorious stretch of private beach. And then there’s Providenciales or “Provo,” which is the most popular island and home to many ultra luxury resorts and spas lining the 12 mile Grace Bay Beach – frequently voted one of the world’s best beaches by Conde Nast Traveler magazine. JSG's pick for best hotel for a girls' getaway is the Gansevoort in Turks & Caicos (shown above).



Riviera Maya –The award winning Asian hospitality brand Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts has made its way to Mexico with the Banyan Tree Mayakoba resort. Located on Mexico’s pristine Riviera Maya amidst the exclusive and ecologically-sensitive Mayakoba development, this exclusive all-pool villa resort is the perfect blend of nature and luxury. With 16 spa pavilions and an extensive range of Asian-inspired massages, beauty and body treatments, the spa presents a truly holistic and rejuvenating wellness experience. On top of that, every guest has their own private swimming pool set in a secluded landscaped garden. Perfect for a girlfriend-bonding weekend…all only 30 minutes from the Cancun airport. (Note: the CDC lifted its travel advisory to Mexico on May 15.)