CuisinArt, Caneel Bay, and The Buccaneer: Legends of the Caribbean by Paul Rubio

Long before minimalism, modernism, and multitudes of massive all-inclusive resorts conquered the aquamarine shorelines of the Caribbean, luxury tourism in the region was defined by just an exclusive handful, self-contained complexes of leisure and pleasure. These enclaves offered ample acreage to stylishly indulge in everything fun-in-the-sun while maintaining sensational intimacy with limited room inventory. Flash forward decades later, and these stewards of old school glamour are still going strong. From CuisinArt’s Grecian extravaganza on Anguilla’s stunning Rendezvous Bay, to the snorkeling haven of Caneel Bay nestled within Virgin Islands National Park in St. John, to the lesser known sands of St. Croix at the family-friendly Buccaneer, these are three legacy hotels that refuse to change their iconoclastic styles and show no signs of bowing down to the region’s surfeit of newcomers.

The Overall Rundown: The Buccaneer, St. Croix

St. Croix is one of the least known islands in the Caribbean and that’s exactly its charm. Untainted by the touristy vibe in so many other islands, the largest of the US Virgin Islands is a diverse land well worth exploring. Family owned and operated since its humble beginnings as an 11-room inn circa 1947, The Buccaneer (800-255-3881; www.thebuccaneer.com) in the northern capital of Christiansted has been hosting intrepid Caribbean travelers for decades; and with its recent expansion of luxury villas and refurbishment of its original units, this Caribbean Queen is staying at the top of her game.

The 40s vintage flair of the exterior remains as the resort celebrates its 65th anniversary, but the interiors have been refitted with full range of modern amenities, and every unit has its own balcony or terrace. The Buccaneer has its own beach areas called Mermaid and Grotto Beach, ideal for sunbathing and the non-motorized water sports, which are included in all overnight stays. The service here is excellent, recalling a level of innate hospitality representative of a time bygone.

A rental car is recommended to see the island’s varied sites, like the easternmost point of the U.S., the historic towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted, the global headquarters of Cruzan Rum, and the island’s countless foodie hotspots.

The Amazing Gay Skinny: The Buccaneer, St. Croix

St. Croix is the gay-friendliest of the Virgin Islands but don’t expect a pride parade anytime soon. The Buccaneer is very welcoming of gay travelers. There’s a strong gay community on the island and even a large gay guesthouse called Sand Castle On The Beach Hotel & Resort. Travelers looking for upscale accommodations stay at The Buccaneer and play at the Sandcastle. There’s somewhat of a small-town style singles’ scene on weekends at the beach near the Sandcastle.

The Overall Rundown: CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, Anguilla

The name may sound familiar, and it should. First, CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa (800.943.3210; www.cuisinartresort.com) took center stage in the 2011 season of "The Bachelor," creating the idyllic backdrop of sun and sand for riveting reality-TV romance. Second, CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa shares its name with one of the world’s most iconic brands of kitchen supplies, foreshadowing a heavy emphasis on cooking and great cuisine. Upping the stakes on its food offerings in 2012, (pun intended), the resort has launched two new signature restaurants, Italia and Tokyo Bay. As always, the on-site mega-hydroponic farm is the source for all fruits and vegetables used in the resort’s award-winning restaurants.

Great gastronomy notwithstanding, the resort’s true appeal lies in its Greek Isle inspired architecture and exalted location on some of the finest sands and crystalline waters in all the Caribbean. Surveying the land’s clusters of white washed, arched low rises, it appears as if a small slice of Mykonos washed up on the other side of the Atlantic. Inside the Greek mini-castles, pops of tropical colors contrast the white floors and old school wicker furniture while keeping an emphasis on the ever-changing hues of Caribbean blues outside the oversized windows. The addition of a new 16-treatment room spa in 2009 branded CuisinArt’s “Venus Spa” the largest in the Caribbean. There’s even a special “Men’s club” offering the full gamut of treatments just for the guys. What’s more? The resort recently acquired an 18-hole Greg Norman designed golf course. So don’t just pack your Speedos; bring your khakis and visors, too!

The Amazing Gay Skinny: CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, Anguilla

While the Caribbean is not necessarily known for its gay-friendly vibe, Anguilla’s laid-back tourist scene is quite progressive and tolerant. Gay couples will feel comfortable at CuisinArt and other GBLT favorites - Viceroy Anguilla and Anacaona Boutique Hotel. Don’t expect a singles’ scene or a gay bar, pub, or lounge; for that, you’ll have to take the 20 minute ferry to St. Martin.

The Overall Rundown: Caneel Bay, St. John

Originally part of Laurence Rockefeller’s Rockresorts hotel chain circa 1956, this national treasure located within Virgin Islands National Park stands as one of America’s most iconic hotels and resorts. Retaining the original charm of the park lodges while upgrading amenities to warrant a Rosewood branding, Caneel Bay (888.ROSEWOOD; www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/caneelbay) caters to multi-generational families and couples seeking to experience America’s finest underwater rapture while immersing themselves in the Virgin Island vibe.

With over 170 acres of land and several miles of coastline, the daily agenda includes plenty of snorkeling, sunbathing, and bike riding through the nature trails. Straddling a peninsula on St. John’s northwestern reaches, Caneel Bay offers a total of seven world class beaches– from the more gregarious family beach at Caneel Bay proper to the quiet paradises of Turtle Bay or Hawk’s Nest Bay beach, where you’ll likely be the only ones on the downy sands. Hotel maps show the prime snorkeling areas, which are some of the finest and most diverse in the Caribbean. Meals are served in the historic sugar mill at Equator Restaurant or the seasonal Turtle Bay Estate House. While most guests hardly leave the great expanse of Caneel Bay, St. John’s awesome dining and bar scene is a short cab ride away. If you only leave the property once, don’t miss the restaurant Rhumb Lines (www.rhumblinesstjohn.com) and order the tuna. It’s epic.

The Amazing Gay Skinny: Caneel Bay, St. John

While a territory of the United States, St. John in the Virgin Islands harbors a high degree of homophobia outside of major resorts. Gay travelers would feel comfortable at the hotel though there is a strong emphasis on families here. Don’t expect a singles’ scene or a gay bar, pub, or lounge; for that, you’ll have to take the ferry to St. Thomas (weekends only).