Travel Intel

How The Hurricanes Changed The Winter Vacation Map

By: Staff

Hurricanes Irma, Jose and Maria wreaked havoc on the Caribbean and Florida, and many of the top resorts in the region remain closed (see our updated list for the latest status). One indirect result is that other sun-and-sand destinations are busier than ever, as travelers whose plans were thwarted by the storm are now looking to book elsewhere.

That’s especially true for the weeks around Christmas and New Year’s, always the most popular time of year to visit the tropics. If you haven’t made plans for a holiday trip, NOW is the time to do it! Our list of places that remain unaffected by the hurricanes is below, along with information on availability for the “Festive” season.

ARUBA

Aruba sits outside the so-called “Hurricane Belt” and rarely gets hit by storms. 

The Ritz Carlton Aruba on sandy Palm Beach is the best luxury option on the island. Holiday Availability: YES.

BAHAMAS

Skirted by both Irma and Maria, the Bahamas was up and running within days. Plenty of nonstop flights make it an easy choice.

One & Only Ocean Club, the former estate of A&P heir Huntington Hartford II, is a bastion of colonial elegance. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.

See our other Bahamas hotels

CAYMAN ISLANDS

The Caymans were spared the storms’ wrath and are especially good for beach-goers and snorkelers who appreciate good value.


Kimpton Seafire is set on Seven Mile Beach, with an expansive spa and great sunset views. Holiday Availability: YES.

COSTA RICA

Activities in Costa Rica operated on a regular schedule, with the coastal town being unaffected by the hurricanes.


Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort is a coastal gem surrounded by the untouched nature ranging from Costa Rican rainforests to the pristine Papagayo beach and Culebra Bay. Holiday Availability: YES, for November 21- 28.  


Hacienda Alta Gracia, an Auberge Resort is an ultra-private retreat in the southern region of Costa Rica, occupying the opulent mountains of Pérez Zeledón and its accompanying flora and fauna. Holiday Availability: YES, for December 23 - January 6. 


See our other Costa Rica hotels.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The storms largely spared the Dominican Republic, with damages limited to downed trees and branches.  

Casa De Campo sits on the southern coast of Dominican Republic and has been a favorite among Hollywood elite for over 40 years. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required. 


See our other Dominican Republic hotels

GRENADA

Grenada remained fully operational as usual, with Irma and Maria not touching the Caribbean island.


Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa has one of the best in-house spas in the Caribbean, offering several holistic treatments with a focus on spiritual well-being. It’s ideal for guests looking to be re-charged and enjoy a relaxing getaway. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.


Spice Island Beach Resort is an all-inclusive resort with spectacular beachfront suites and pools villas, bringing luxury alive on the Isle of spices. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.

MEXICO

RIVIERA MAYA
The Riviera Maya and Tulum were not affected by either the recent earthquakes or any of this season’s storms and are always a top choice for a beach getaway.  


Grand Velas Riviera Maya is perfect for visitors who want the convenience and value of an all-inclusive without sacrificing luxury. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.


Nizuc Resort & Spa has one of the most secluded and scenic addresses in the Cancun area. With over six restaurants, spa activities and miles of white sand beach - it’s the perfect destination for both families and couples. Holiday Availability: YES from December 29. 


See our other Riviera Maya hotels


LOS CABOS 
Baja California also was unaffected by the earthquakes.  


Chileno Bay Resort & Residences sets the standard for luxury in Los Cabos. Holiday Availability: YES but very limited for December 28- January 4.


Esperanza feels more intimate and cozy than Palmilla and is particularly popular with families. Holiday Availability: YES for December 23 – 30. A minimum stay may be required. 


The Resort at Pedregal has a dramatic setting and is supremely romantic. Holiday Availability: YES for December 23 – January 6.


See our other Los Cabos hotels.


PUNTA MITA 

Punta Mita was unaffected by the earthquakes. 


Four Seasons Punta Mita has Jack Nicklaus–designed golf courses, oceanview villas, and traditional Mexican decor. Holiday Availability: YES for December 23 – January 6. A minimum stay may be required.

ST. KITTS & NEVIS

St. Kitts and Nevis are fully operational, having been spared major damage from Irma and Maria.


Belle Mont Farm is a unique farm-to-table resort set on a mountainside with incredible views. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.  


Four Seasons Nevis is the perfect blend of tropical adventure and serenity. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.  

ST. LUCIA

The hurricanes steered clear of St. Lucia, leaving its lush rainforests and golden sands intact.  


Sugar Beach Resort is set in a pristine rainforest and boasts panoramic views of the Caribbean. Perfect for families and couples. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required.


Jade Mountain is supremely romantic. All rooms have a fourth wall that’s open to incredible views of the twin Piton peaks. Holiday Availability: YES. A minimum stay may be required. 


See our other St. Lucia hotels