"What's this place like? This is an old-school player that's a clear voice above the fray. A great lick of beach, sublime food, fabulous spa. Quiet, steady, and calm, it's a hotel as a deep breath, an original standard bearer for the COMO group. Tell us more about the people behind this hotel. Opened in 1998, this is one of the first properties in Christina Ong’s wellness-focused COMO brand, and it was a blueprint for the brand’s success. It’s set on its own private island, alongside private villas owned by Donna Karan, Bruce Willis, and Keith Richards, who’s known to frequent the bar here. What are the rooms like? One-bedroom beach villas are the epitome of breezy island living. A high-pitched roof, white-washed walls, and wooden furniture—with a four-poster bed swathed in Italian linens and mosquito netting. Other than Wi-Fi, there’s no need for technology. There’s a private plunge pool, a yoga mat stashed in the dressing area, and direct beach access. What's on the menu? Fruit-filled açai bowls and buffet for breakfast. The bar offers incredibly fresh foods like green juice and a fantastic salad with a side of tostones topped with lobster and avocado at the beach bar. How's the service? Seamless and well-rehearsed. Lisa Manser is very involved with the day-to-day details—and there are a lot of them, with a full program of fitness classes, meditation, and Ayurvedic consultations and treatments from Dr. Parth Mahajan every day. Guests will find that a one-on-one early morning meditation on the beach sets the tone for the entire stay. Who's most likely to book a villa here? Sun-seeking wellness-worshippers. Is there much to do in the surrounding area? Most people stay on the island the entire time, though of course you can hop on a boat and visit Providenciales or embark on a snorkeling expedition. Anything else we should know about this place? A recent renovation—the hotel was closed when Hurricanes Irma and Maria hit the island in 2017—updated the rooms and villas and expanded the beach club, adding a new kids’ club. So why are we choosing COMO Parrot Cay? Aside from the wellness factor, this is an utterly beautiful, throw-your-cares-away hotel on a private Caribbean island loved by A-list celebrities." - Laura Itzkowitz
