By Victoria Zindell



In the world of luxury travel, I’ve come to expect a certain standard. But as I stood at the front desk on my first day at BodyHoliday, facing a string of hiccups, I was reminded of something I’ve learned from years of travel: it’s not always about perfection, and sometimes it’s about how a place—and its people—can shine when turning a lackluster experience around.
That lesson turned what began as a disappointing experience into one of the most rewarding trips in recent times.

A Rocky Start
Let me be transparent. My arrival didn’t go as planned. The driver lacked the welcoming touch I expected, and at check-in, we were informed that most dining options were closed, with scones being the only suggestion—unfortunately, not my favorite. However, venturing to the Pavilion Grill, we discovered a cozy atmosphere with a variety of small bites and beverages, which was a pleasant surprise. While there were some frustrations—like aggressive birds vying for food and needing to upgrade our room for a better view—the experience started to turn around, setting the stage for what would ultimately become a wonderful stay.
It was a reminder of something I often share with my clients: sometimes, the magic lies in giving people the chance to make things right.


Turning It Around: The BodyHoliday Way
And they did.
BodyHoliday isn’t just a resort; it’s a community, and it became clear within a day that this is what sets it apart. From the warm hospitality of Patricia, the genuine attentiveness of Whitney, and the incredible team who make guests feel like family, I was reminded that the heart of a destination is its people.
The accommodations, while solidly 4-star, are elevated by the genuine warmth and attentive care of the staff, who bring heart and hospitality to every interaction. The upgraded villas and premium suites, such as the Penthouse and the Aurora & Calypso Suites, are unbelievable—well worth the investment if your budget allows and sure to make your stay truly memorable. Whether it was the personalized tai chi lessons by the waterfall, the joy of group archery tournaments or simply soaking in the serenity of the Caribbean Sea, BodyHoliday delivers an experience designed to connect, rejuvenate and inspire.

Why It’s Worth It
BodyHoliday is more than just a destination for relaxation—it’s a place to grow. For solo travelers, it’s perfect. The social activities during my stay, like the Beach Olympics or the Champions Dinner, made it easy to connect with others while still providing ample space for solitude.
Even more impressive is the depth of their wellness programming, with offerings that go far beyond the ordinary. From military-style boot camps led by Olympic-trained athletes to the laughter-filled aqua aerobics classes (yes, I went back for a second session!), the energy and expertise of the instructors create an experience that’s both effective and entertaining. Guests can also enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences like the iTal garden tour and cooking class—a hands-on culinary journey that blends nature, wellness and incredible flavors.
A personal highlight of my visit was spending time with Tina Lond-Caulk (@thenutritionguru), the week’s featured guest practitioner. Known for her expertise as a registered nutritionist and author, she brought warmth, practical wisdom and insights that resonated with everyone. Her presence exemplifies the resort’s themed weeks, which regularly feature specialists across health, fitness and wellness disciplines.
Every experience delivers an enriching and enjoyable result. Whether you’re dancing by the beach, challenging yourself in a workout or connecting with like-minded travelers, every moment feels intentional and unique.

Final Thoughts
BodyHoliday isn’t perfect—and that’s its charm. The resort’s authenticity and the people who make it run are what transform an ordinary trip into an unforgettable experience. For those willing to embrace the unexpected and allow a destination to reveal its true self, BodyHoliday offers something far richer than luxury: a genuine sense of connection and renewal.
As a travel advisor, my job is to provide honest recommendations, and I can confidently say this: if you’re looking for a resort where you can both lose and find yourself, BodyHoliday is it. Just stay a week—you’ll thank me later.


Favorite Moments at BodyHoliday:
- Sunset Saxophone and DJ on the Beach: An idyllic setting with live music and a dreamy ambiance
- Silent Disco by the Shore: Dancing under the stars with headsets, switching between two DJs—it’s as fun as it sounds
- Military-Style Boot Camp: A challenging yet rewarding workout in the sand, leaving you sweaty, sore and exhilarated
- iTal Experience: A farm-to-table culinary adventure that combines gardening, food prep and an unforgettable lunch
- Manager’s Reception: A Wednesday tradition at stunning locations like Villa Firefly, offering a chance to mingle with the team and fellow guests over light bites and cocktails

What to Know Before You Go
- Accommodations: While the Ocean Front Junior Suites and penthouses offer exceptional views, avoid the Standard Garden View rooms—they don’t match the overall experience.
- Activities: BodyHoliday’s calendar is packed, from water sports and golf to wellness experiences tailored to teens and adults alike. A personal favorite? The daily archery lessons and the Stairway to Heaven—a climb that’s worth the views at the top.
- Dining: From casual bites at the Pavilion Grill to fine dining at Tao, the culinary offerings are varied and thoughtful. Don’t miss the “Merenga” shots at the Wellness Café—grab healthy bites and drinks there anytime between activities and spa sessions.
- Getting There: Helicopter transfers are available for $199 per person, but keep in mind there’s still a 25-minute drive from the landing site.
- Spa: Schedule a dosha intake session at the start of your stay and most importantly book your spa appointments well in advance. If you need to adjust reservations, visit the spa in person during quieter times (10 minutes after the hour to 20 minutes before the hour); consider exploring advanced wellness options like thermal scanning and imaging.
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