First, because my wife is a national and that entitles us to many opportunities and advantages not easily obtained by outsiders. Second, St. Lucia is one of the most striking islands of the entire Caribbean, with mountainous rain forest, sparkling waterfalls, and beautiful beaches, St. Lucia has kept a relatively low profile in the last decade, and is the secret of loyal groups of repeat visitors. And the word is getting out due to a new crop of upscale hotels and resorts that attract guests like Oprah Winfrey and Martha Stewart.

Among the new resort offerings are the Landings, a $165-million property with a private harbor, a 7,000-square-foot spa, and no fewer than seven pools. The Discovery at Marigot Bay, on the northwest coast, also has its own marina and contemporary interiors — think pink glass chandeliers and Philippe Starck ghost chairs. At Anse Chastanet Resort, long an island favorite, owner and architect Nick Troubetzkoy has built the new Jade Mountain, an annex of 24 suites, each with its own infinity pool and only three walls per room, with a fantastic view of the twin Piton mountains. Then there is the Westin's Le Paradis at Praslin (with a Greg Norman–designed golf course). With American Airlines' new thrice-weekly nonstop from New York supplementing Air Jamaica's four weekly direct flights from JFK, St. Lucia is poised for the mainstream. We only hope that with all this newfound attention the island retains the friendly, low-key vibe that made it so damn appealing to begin with.

Just recently, St. Lucia has become one of the most popular regions for tourists. The accommodations and facilities are top of the line, and the restaurants and activities fabulous. The north side of the island is comprised of white-sand beaches to dazzle even the most seasoned and experienced traveler. The water is a glorious blue-green, and the atmosphere is a majestic combination of beach and lush gardens. With the exception of the area between Castries and the northern peninsula, the island is unspoiled and a lot of it only inhabited by exotic animal life.

Banana plantations, green-mantled mountains, valleys, wildflowers, a bubbling-volcano, and interesting fishing villages are only the beginning of this incredible paradise. The majestic Pitons mountains that rise from the sea in dramatic and breathtaking fashion, are a one of the scenic wonders of the world. Taking a tour around the island is like watching all of the best cinematography out of your favorite movie. The sights and sounds will dazzle your senses and the beauty will boggle your mind. St. Lucia is truly an experience. The beaches and wide array of outdoor sports are marvelous and you could not ask for more activities and fun-filled events to occupy your time.

The best part about the island is that if you do choose to have a day out of the sun, the shopping, dining, and indoor relaxation on St. Lucia are magnificent, and Skeeterz Rum Bar is always ready when you are...check out a few of the St. Lucia Resorts!