This intimate 50-room escape enjoys a secluded hillside setting overlooking one of the Caribbean's most scenic bays. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation amidst idyllic tropical surroundings. Guests can stay on a no-meals or all-inclusive basis. To maintain a tranquil ambience, no children under 16 years are accepted. http://www.caribbeanmag.com/search/hotels/Antigua/dianbay/hotel/1891/24/ en-us Copyright 1998 e-TravelMedia.com/CaribbeanMag.com Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:23:18 EST Stunning views over the turquoise waters of the bay dominate most public and private areas, whilst key design features include low-rise ‘West Indian style' architecture, a landscaped three-tier swimming pool with waterfall and a thatched waterside restaurant and bar. In addition to the hotel's own small beach, the pristine white sands of ‘Lover's Beach' are accessed by a 2-minute water taxi ride across Dian Bay. Relaxation is definitely the daytime theme here, the swimming pool, non-motorized water sports and nature hikes complemented by rejuvenating spa treatments that include aromatherapy, facials and massages. After dark, the cocktails in the piano bar and alfresco waterside dining, not to mention the regular evening entertainment, all contribute to the low-key, yet sociable ambience. What to expect: Restricted to guests aged 16 or older, the locally owned-and-operated Dian Bay Resort attracts couples seeking restful holidays. Public by law, the two beaches used by guests are effectively private due to isolation. Grounds are thickly planted with palm trees and flowering gardens. There are no group activities other than power walks on request to Devil's Bridge. Note: Because of stairways to the pools, beach, and restaurant, this hillside resort is not suitable for people with physical disabilities. Amenity highlights: Dian Bay Resort stands on a terraced hillside above a narrow turquoise bay of the Atlantic Ocean. Two peninsulas form the nearly enclosed bay, protecting it from ocean swells. A small beach is at the base of the hill. Upon request, the hotel also provides complimentary motor-skiff transport to picturesque Lover's Beach across the bay. A three-level complex comprising three freeform pools is terraced into the hotel's hillside. Insider tip: Located on the ocean side of a narrow peninsula across the bay, the Devil's Bridge limestone arch is a prime island attraction. Swells spouting through blowholes can be seen from the resort. By road, Devil's Bridge is 2.25 km (1.5 mi) away. But guests may request complimentary motor-skiff transport that takes less than a minute. 16 Poolview/Gardenview (Approximately 355 sq.ft.) Located in a 2-storey building overlooking the swimming pool and gardens. These spacious rooms are tastefully appointed in a cool tropical style and general amenities include individually-controlled air-conditioning, cable TVs, in-room safes, hairdryers, clock radios, ensuite bathrooms with tubs and showers, as well as glass doors opening out onto private terraces or balconies. 34 Oceanview (Either 295 sq.ft. or 355 sq.ft.) Twenty-eight of these rooms are housed in three 2-storey buildings overlooking the ocean, whilst six more spacious rooms are located on the upper floor of the poolside building. All are tastefully appointed in a cool tropical style and general amenities include individually-controlled air-conditioning, cable TVs, in-room safes, hairdryers, clock radios, ensuite bathrooms with tubs and showers, as well as glass doors opening out onto private terraces or balconies. ACTIVITIES: Frangipani - Open-air, ocean-view restaurant with thatched roof. Located above beach. Buffet and late-morning Continental breakfast. Buffet lunch. Afternoon tea and pastries. À la carte dinner four nights weekly from three-course menu. Themed buffet dinners three nights weekly. Lagoon Bar - Open-air, ocean-view lounge above beach. Dartboard. Open mid-morning to late night. Live music some nights. Pool Bar - Poolside bar open mid-morning to late afternoon December 15 through April 14 (dates subject to change). Type: Resort No. of Rooms: 50 Beach Location: Beach Front (Directly on Beach/Water Front) http://www.caribbeanmag.com/search/hotels/Antigua/dianbay/hotel/1891/24/ Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:23:18 EST