An Alternative All-Inclusive Approach: Where Wellness Rules

Recently I visited Saint Lucia, eager to explore beyond the familiar all-inclusive territories of Ikos and Club Med resorts. The destination was BodyHoliday, a distinctive all-inclusive retreat nestled on the island’s secluded northern coast. This report offers a refreshing perspective on an alternative all-inclusive vacation, highlighting the enduring appeal of resorts that prioritise well-being and authentic connections over flashy amenities.

Expansive view of the ocean, with guests participating in daily aqua gym.

Background - What is BodyHoliday?

Established in 1988, BodyHoliday Saint Lucia is a pioneering all-inclusive wellness resort nestled on the secluded Cariblue Beach. Renowned for its holistic approach to health and well-being, the resort offers a unique blend of relaxation, fitness, and therapeutic experiences. In line with its success, BodyHoliday is set to expand into Europe with a €158 million five-star retreat in Portugal’s East Algarve, scheduled to open in 2027.

Concept & Philosophy

BodyHoliday’s mantra, “Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind,” encapsulates its commitment to transformative wellness. Unlike traditional resorts, it offers an extensive array of inclusions, surpassing counterparts like Ikos and Club Med. Notably, guests receive a complimentary 50-minute spa treatment daily, access to a myriad of fitness classes, and a variety of water and land-based activities including scuba-diving.

The wellness centre with 33 treatment rooms

Activities & Wellness Offerings

What sets BodyHoliday apart is its unwavering commitment to holistic well-being. The resort offers an impressive array of activities, from daily spa treatments and scuba diving to yoga sessions and water sports—all included in the package. This comprehensive approach caters to guests seeking an active yet tranquil escape, fostering a sense of community reminiscent of classic holiday camps.

Fitness & Sports:

• Over 200 weekly group classes, including yoga, Pilates, spinning, and aqua aerobics.

• Land sports such as tennis, golf (with an on-site pitch and putt), archery, and beach volleyball.

• Water sports including waterskiing, kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing.

Beautiful gardens and tennis courts

Scuba Diving:

• Certified divers can enjoy complimentary shore dives.

• Additional diving experiences, such as boat and night dives, are available at an extra cost.

• PADI certification courses are offered for guests seeking to enhance their diving skills.

Wellness Centre:

• Features 33 treatment rooms, including the Caribbean’s only Ayurvedic temple.

• Offers a range of treatments from massages to thalassotherapy sessions.

• Hosts specialized wellness programs focusing on areas like weight loss, fitness, and mindfulness.

Huge gyms with lots of classes every day

Accommodation & Facilities

The resort comprises 155 rooms and suites, designed with comfort in mind. While the accommodations are well-maintained, they reflect the property’s age, with rooms being modest in size compared to newer luxury resorts. Facilities include multiple swimming pools, a well-equipped gym, and serene communal areas that foster a sense of community among guests.

BodyHoliday - room tour

Dining Experience

Guests can indulge in diverse culinary offerings across several restaurants:

• TAO: An East-West fusion fine dining experience.

• Cariblue: Offers buffet-style meals with international cuisine.

• Wellness Café & Pavilion Grill: Casual dining options focusing on healthy choices.

• I-TAL Experience: A unique farm-to-table experience rooted in Rastafarian traditions.

All meals and beverages, including premium alcoholic drinks, are included in the stay.

Wellness cafe serving delicious cakes all day long

Guest Demographics & Atmosphere

The infamous blackboard with daily activities

BodyHoliday predominantly attracts English-speaking solo travelers and couples seeking an active yet relaxing retreat. The resort fosters a communal spirit, with staff often addressing guests by their first names, enhancing the personalized experience. The daily handwritten activity board adds a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of traditional holiday camps, and encourages guests to engage without the distraction of digital devices.

Notable Highlights

• Celebrity Patronage: The late Amy Winehouse was known to frequent the resort, occasionally performing impromptu sessions at the bar, much to the delight of fellow guests.

• Repeat Guests: A significant portion of the clientele comprises repeat visitors, underscoring the resort’s ability to cultivate lasting relationships and a loyal customer base.

• Secluded Location: Situated in a private cove with no neighboring hotels, the resort offers unparalleled tranquility and exclusivity.

The bar where Amy Winehouse sang unexpectedly for guests

How does BodyHoliday compare to other high end all-inclusive resorts?

To better understand BodyHoliday’s unique positioning in the all-inclusive resort landscape, it’s insightful to compare its offerings with those of Club Med and Ikos Resorts.

• BodyHoliday Saint Lucia: Distinguishes itself by offering a daily 50-minute spa treatment per guest, a rarity in all-inclusive packages. The resort emphasizes wellness and activity, providing a comprehensive schedule of fitness classes, water sports, and land-based activities. Notably, certified divers can enjoy complimentary shore dives, with additional diving experiences available at extra cost.

• Club Med: Known for its extensive range of activities, Club Med offers various sports and entertainment options. However, spa treatments and scuba diving are typically not included in the standard package and incur additional costs.

• Ikos Resorts: Focuses on luxury and relaxation, with a strong emphasis on gourmet dining and upscale accommodations. While offering some activities and spa services, these are often limited compared to BodyHoliday, and certain services may come at an extra charge.

BodyHoliday Saint Lucia stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a comprehensive wellness retreat. Its blend of extensive inclusions, personalized services, and a vibrant community atmosphere creates an environment where guests can rejuvenate both body and mind. The resort’s commitment to holistic well-being and guest satisfaction makes it a top recommendation for active singles and couples desiring a transformative Caribbean escape.

Book with us and get exceptional perks!

Booking BodyHoliday Saint Lucia through Expeditioner unlocks an exceptional suite of Virtuoso-exclusive benefits that go beyond the standard offerings. In addition to the usual perks—such as a room upgrade upon arrival (subject to availability), daily breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability), and complimentary Wi-Fi—guests receive a complimentary 50-minute spa treatment (once per stay), a 30-minute fitness session (tennis or golf), a 30-minute wellness clinic consultation, and an invitation to the resort’s weekly sunset cruise.

To plan your personalized stay at BodyHoliday Saint Lucia and take advantage of these exclusive Virtuoso benefits, please contact us at Expeditioner.