Reimagined Amanyara Turks and Caicos is a Restorative Retreat

Surrounded by 18,000 acres of lush tropical flora and fauna on the island of Providenciales, Amanyara is an oasis of serenity and beauty. Aman Resorts are like no other in the world. The guest experience is of the utmost importance, and catering to the guest is what the staff does best. The stays are intimate, extraordinary, and magical. I am beyond happy for the chance to visit.

I land at the airport, grab my vintage LV duffle bag and meet my driver, who whisks me away to the far end of the island. We turn onto a sandy road through the island’s nature preserve and arrive at this five-star, world-class resort, which is more beautiful than even my wildest imagination could conjure. I’m greeted by a welcoming staff member and handed a cool refreshing concoction of juices—a true wellness welcome.

I tour the property, which recently underwent a reimagining. A collaboration between the Aman brand and Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston Architects, Amanyara’s new entrance pavilion sets the tone for my stay. Landscape architect Raymond Jungles has transformed the grounds of the resort, introducing large mahogany trees and the renovation of several tranquility ponds. Native plantings fill the breathtaking landscape. In the welcome pavilion, I take a moment to rest on one of the new luxe lounge chairs and drink in the feeling of well-being and calmness. Wooden backgammon and chess boards are on hand and entice a friendly game—or guests can just relax and spend a restful morning or afternoon reading or meditating.

A new pathway between the entrance pavilion and the kitchen also welcomes a casual dining area—a shady spot perfect for enjoying an afternoon apéritif. Across the central ponds in the renovated main restaurant, elegant art pieces add focal points to the elevated dining venue, while bespoke lighting design by international designer The Flaming Beacon and new furniture create a warm and welcoming ambiance day and night.

I decide to head to lunch down on the white sand at the Beach Club, which has pergola-shaded decks designed to take in the panoramic views overlooking the turquoise waters of Turks & Caicos. I sip a rum punch and enjoy my Caribbean conch salad with just the right amount of salsa and cilantro. I drink in the beautiful private beach listening to the lapping waves and settle in—knowing I am in for the stay of a lifetime.

After lunch I head to my private pavilion and am in awe of this seaside sanctuary. Nestled in native coastal vegetation overlooking the waters of the Northwest Point Marine Reserve, I find myself in a spot that I can describe only as heaven on earth. Overhanging eaves shade terraces on three sides, accessed by floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a combined bedroom and living area. A sandy pathway leads directly to the ocean. There is a bottle of Veuve Clicquot chilling for my arrival. I pop the cork and head down the short path to the water, breathing in the salt air and feeling the warm sun on my skin. This is truly a spiritual and restorative experience, and I just bask in the moment.

In the late afternoon I head to the spa for a massage to further deepen my relaxed state. This is wellness immersion in the truest sense. The resort offers a wellness concierge to work with you on creating the best possible outcome for your wellness journey. I am fully at peace after this most calming massage. I decide it is time to swim and snorkel the rest of the afternoon away. The perfect ending to the perfect day in paradise. After this restorative swim, I head back to my private sanctuary and take a bath in the deep, Japanese-inspired soaking tub. I pour another glass of Champagne and head to a lounge chair on my private deck and watch the sky over the horizon change to a pink hue as the sun sets. I could not be happier to be in this slice of heaven on earth.

What to do

Amanyara offers countless activities for those seeking adventure and of course the ultimate in relaxation for those just looking to completely unwind. Since Turks & Caicos abuts the third largest barrier reef in the world, snorkeling or diving are must-do activities. Amanyara creates bespoke adventures. Head out with private Eco Tours through Frenchman’s Creek Nature Reserve and West Caicos by kayak and paddleboard, or explore the landscape through nature walks and bike trails.

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