Meagan Drillinger
Anguilla is one of the Eastern Caribbean’s most popular destinations, due in large part to its white-sand beaches, luxury accommodations and culinary scene. And this British Overseas Territory will likely only enhance its standing in the new year, with new infrastructure developments and new luxury experiences.
Anguilla’s economy has gotten a fortuitous boost, thanks to its country code domain of “ai” that has surged in value amid the artificial intelligence boom. And revenue from businesses registering with the “.ai” domain has funded some pivotal initiatives. From expanding the Clayton J. Lloyd Airport to improving healthcare for seniors and establishing a vocational technology training center, this revenue is having a major impact on the island. It has even contributed to a National Wealth Fund that is aimed at future hurricane recovery efforts.
For travelers, this means they’ll find an island that is bulking up its modern amenities and commitment to sustainable development.
Easier access: The expansion of Lloyd Airport includes a new passenger terminal set to open in the fall and runway extension planned for 2026. These improvements will accommodate larger aircraft and no doubt increase direct flight options.
Meanwhile, nearby Princess Juliana Airport in St. Maarten, a quick hop across the Anguilla Channel, has completed its reconstruction, ensuring better connections for travelers heading to Anguilla. Airlines are also stepping up: American Airlines has added a third nonstop Saturday flight from Miami this month, and Tradewind Aviation will provide connections from San Juan, St. Barts and Antigua in the new year.
Luxury developments: Anguilla’s resort scene is undergoing an evolution with the introduction of high-end properties and marinas. Highlights include:
• Ani Private Resorts: Opening in 2025, this 15-suite luxury retreat on Shoal Bay East will feature a spa, gym, tennis courts, and a beachfront pavilion.
• Altamer Marina and Luxury Resort: Set to debut its marina phase in late 2025, this development will eventually include a five-star hotel, branded residences and beachfront villas.
• Savannah Bay Marina and Resort: A sprawling luxury project featuring a hotel, villas, condominiums and a yacht club.
Established resorts raise the bar: Anguilla’s existing resorts are also upping their game. Malliouhana celebrated its 40th anniversary with a host of new offerings, from a wine cellar tour featuring more than 4,000 vintages to a new recording studio experience for local students. Renowned Anguillian chef Kerth Gumbs — best known for his London restaurant Fenchurch, at Sky Gardens — has joined as culinary director, as well.
Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel introduced family-friendly activities like kite-making workshops as well as new spa treatments. Meanwhile, Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has partnered with St. Bart’s Hotel Manapany to offer a dual-destination luxury package.
For a more intimate experience, CeBlue Luxury Villas has upgraded accommodations and sustainable power initiatives, while Little Harbour Estates has added pickleball courts and on-property wellness and creative experiences.
• The Last Resort podcast: Aurora Anguilla Resort
A culinary and cultural revival: Anguilla’s dining scene continues to thrive. New additions include Dames Anguilla, a chic restaurant and event space, and Rendezvous @ Tasty’s Beach Club, offering beachfront dining by chef Dale Carey.
For culture seekers, the island is hosting several standout events in 2025. The Anguilla Culinary Experience (April 30 to May 3) will showcase local and international chefs, while the Moonsplash Music Festival, the Caribbean’s longest-running independent music festival, returns in March. Additionally, the inaugural Angular Music Tourism Convention in November 2025 will spotlight the island’s growing role as a hub for music tourism.
Commitment to sustainability: Anguilla has positioned sustainability as one of its core values, working harder to protect its marine and coastal ecosystems. That includes things like a partnerships with the Anguilla National Trust and the development of a Blue Economy initiative, a government strategy to promote sustainable economic growth by leveraging marine resources, including fisheries, marine tourism and renewable ocean energy, at the same time prioritizing the conservation of the marine ecosystems.
In addition, new voluntourism experiences launching this winter will enable visitors to contribute to community projects.
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Publish date : 2024-12-23 16:00:00
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Author : theamericannews
Publish date : 2024-12-24 16:27:22
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