By Adam Michael

The Caribbean is an area of white sand beaches, tropical palms, crystal oceans and friendly locals, a destination renowned for its laid back atmosphere and year round sunshine. It’s no surprise then that the islands welcomed an astonishing 18 million visitors in the last 12 months alone, an impressive feat for a region almost eight times smaller than North America.

However one question lingers in the minds of everyone who travels to these tropical shores, amidst all the stunning resorts and boutique hotels: Which one is the very best? Well, we’ve done the ‘hard’ work for you and come up with the top 5 list of places to stay in The Caribbean.

1: Blue Waters – Antigua

Recently voted Antigua and Barbuda’s best hotel for the fourth time, Blue Waters is the very epitome of Caribbean luxury. Situated on the northern tip of the island, the resort enjoys calm waters, semi-private beaches and a family-run atmosphere.

With five-star service, immaculate grounds, delectable food and the most luxurious suites the Caribbean has to offer, it’s an easy choice for our number one slot.

2: Sandy Lane – Barbados

An iconic name amongst Worldwide Hotels, Sandy Lane has long been considered one of the best Caribbean resorts, and it’s easy to see why. With an 18-hole golf course, a 7,000 square foot pool and a recent refurbishment costing $200 million, Sandy Lane offers its guests the very best in VIP treatment. It’s no wonder that most of its guests are high profile celebrities, including football players, musicians and members of the aristocracy.

3: Ritz Carlton – St Thomas – U.S Virgin Islands

A 30-acre estate fronted by powder sand beaches and warm seas, the Ritz Carlton lives up to the hype afforded by this famed chain.

With just 152 rooms housed in colonial style buildings and numerous facilities, including an 18-hole golf course, luxurious spa, and a 125-foot infinity pool, the property maintains a small and charming ambience while offering the facilities and service normally reserved for larger resorts.

4: Parrot Cay Resort & Spa – Turks & Caicos

Caribbean Islands don’t come more tropical than the Turks and Caicos. From the eight sun-drenched isles to the 40 plus tranquil keys, Turks and Caicos is a firm favorite for those seeking ultimate relaxation.

Parrot Cay is the place those who want to relax come to really wind down. With dinners on the beach and private boats trips a daily occurrence, it’s easy to see why.

The resort itself features an abundance of facilities, with a 500 square meter infinity pool, nine spa treatment rooms, outdoor Jacuzzis and a private yoga studio. It’s no wonder the resorts enjoys celebrity visitors including Demi Moore, Bruce Willis and David Copperfield.

5. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club – Nevis

With just 36 cottages dotted amongst swaying palm trees and beachfront hammocks, Nisbet Plantation is designed to blend with its natural surroundings. All of its rooms are furnished with wicker, and such is the resort’s minimal impact on the environment that Green Vervet Monkeys are regularly spotted around the grounds.

The staff are quick to remember your name, learn your favorite drink and pick up on your preferred meal choice; it’s part of the atmosphere and allows the resort to be less formal, more laid back and thus more true to the philosophy of the Caribbean.

Bio: Adam Michael is a content writer working for Blue Waters, a luxury five star resort nestled on the Northeast corner of Antigua.