When seclusion is paramount, Riu Palace St. Martin delivers. This all-inclusive gem is nestled between two mountains and welcomes guests with friendly staff, delicious dishes, and tropically-designed accommodations. Emmy-winning Travel Host Ashley Colburn heads to the French side of St. Martin to discover this slice of quiet paradise.
Says Colburn, “Hotel Riu Palace St. Martin offers an all-inclusive service for guests looking to have an unforgettable stay, surrounded by tranquility.”
A Quiet Paradise in St. Martin
One of the most important features of a resort is location, and Riu Palace St. Martin offers a serene setting in Anse Marcel, with direct access to the Anse Marcel Marina.
“We have an amazing location,” says Francisco Benito, general manager of Riu Palace St. Martin. “The hotel is secluded, so it’s quiet. It’s what we looked for in the hotel concept, and our clients are normally couples and families who seek relaxation. We work on this, and it’s one of the special aspects of the hotel.”
The suites range from junior to grand with great balcony views, and the rooms at Riu Palace St. Martin are slightly larger than most RIU properties. The added space relaxes and soothes guests with Caribbean flare and modern amenities.
To unwind completely, take advantage of the full service spa. “There’s no better way to feel refreshed while on vacation,” says Colburn.
Plus, paradise includes bars throughout the property, though Ashley’s favorite was Coco’s Bar at sunset with the breathtaking views of the pool and beach.
Related: Renew with RIU in St. Martin
The Crazy Game and Other Activities
The hotel offers enjoyable activities that accent its quiet nature, and “with daytime activities available for all ages, it’s easy to keep busy in paradise,” says Colburn.
The hotel’s entertainment manager, Roberto Mitso, lists water aerobics as one of the most popular activities, plus football, water polo, and kid activities.
However, perhaps the best activity at the hotel happens every day at one p.m. at Coco’s Bar.
“It’s called Crazy Game,” says Mitso, “because it’s a game that gets people to do crazy things, and we love it because when the guests enjoy themselves, we’re happy. We have fun, too.”
Find out what the Crazy Game is at 6:53!
Also available at the resort are non-motorized water sports, motorized water sports (for a fee), and catamaran excursions, and off-property, the downtown area offers island culture and exciting adventures.
Notes Colburn, “The colorful buildings will make some great photos to remember your time in paradise. You can also take a catamaran ride to some of the island’s best snorkel spots.”
Related: Paradise Found – Urban Paradise
All-Inclusive Caribbean Escape
Keeping to the theme of tranquility, Riu Palace St. Martin offers 24-hour room service and four restaurants, including Asian fusion eatery, a steakhouse, a buffet, and the only French restaurant in the Riu family of hotels.
Says Benito, “We are very focused on guest attention, so we take a lot of care about food and cleanliness.”
Benito believes that with a comfortable bed, a clean room, and good food, every guest can relax. This principle was what RIU Hotels & Resorts were founded on, and 60 years later, Riu Palace St. Martin upholds this tradition.
“Here in St. Marin, we were able to find the best of the Caribbean, thanks to the wonderful hospitality of Riu Palace,” says Colburn.
To find out about weddings, honeymoons, and special events at this quiet hideaway, watch Paradise Found: Riu Palace St. Martin now!
