The Venetian on Grace Bay

Somewhat removed from hustle of the island's busier areas, the Venetian on Grace Bay is just far enough off the tourist path to give a sense of privacy. Immediate neighbors include the almost identical sister property, the Tuscany, and a (somewhat wild) natural beach landscape full of green plants. Access to the property through the white entrance gate is granted via an intercom system. From here, the road is smooth and paved (rare for the island) and the verdant landscape is perfectly manicured. Guests pass the tennis courts as they drive toward the property's reception area.

Check-in is done at a large wooden desk in the lobby (where guests can also find the fitness center, public bathrooms and showers, and spa treatment room). The lobby space feels larger than it actually is thanks to an open floor plan, arched ceilings, and two open-air entryways. Decor is contemporary and upscale and reflective of the beach environment. Expect sand-colored marble floors, blue and white cushioned chairs with a paisley pattern, and beige walls. There are a few palm plants and flower paintings, and hanging chandelier lights add a touch of elegance. Through the lobby is the courtyard pool area where a sparkling blue pool is surrounded by plastic sun loungers, padded cabanas, and a tropical green landscape. There are open-air walkways flanking the pool, each disguising the individual unit spaces within the covered parking area on the other side.

Overall, this property feels open, natural, spacious -- and miles away from the crowded tourist areas and all-inclusive resorts. Because of the large outdoor garden spaces, nice stretch of quiet and natural beach, and huge self-catering condo units, there is a sense of privacy and exclusivity. While there are some spring break bookings, for the most part, the Venetian on Grace Bay is used by families and groups of couples looking for a relaxing retreat.

The Venetian on Grace Bay can be found down a quiet, two-lane street just a few turns off Grace Bay Road, one of Provo's two main roads. The hotel itself is located directly on Grace Bay Beach, giving guests direct access to one of the world's most beautiful beaches. While there is not much in the immediate area save next-door sister property, The Tuscany on Grace Bay, a stroll down the powder sand beach will bring guests to a few of the other area resorts such as the Ocean Club, Beaches, Club Med Turkoise, and Grace Bay Club. Guests can explore some of the dining options and bars at these resorts (depending on the public access rules of the hotel).

A car (or multiple taxi rides) are needed for exploration of the island's nightlife scene, restaurants, activities, and shopping. As a self-catering property, guests can stock up on provisions at the Graceway IGA grocery store, a five-minute drive from the property gates. That same area has a local craft market, strip malls, and the Ports of Call Shopping Plaza with a dive shop, souvenirs, restaurants, ice cream, and bar. The Venetian is about a 15- to 20-minute drive from the island's main airport.

All of the Venetian's units are enormous. Each condo includes three bedrooms with private baths, a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living room, plenty of windows, a large ocean-view balcony or terrace, dedicated laundry room (with detergent and ironing facilities), and extra half-bath. However, units can be converted to one- and two-bedroom condos for smaller parties. Penthouse Plus Media Rooms are even more spacious with the addition of an extra "media" room (basically, another living room), and a huge screened-in porches -- in addition to the standard, spacious stretch balcony. Balconies and terraces can be accessed by sliding glass doors from both the living room and the master bedroom, and some units may have smaller "balconettes" off of the dining room.

All units are immaculately maintained and cleaned. Each has individual decor, but all are upscale. Sleek appliances, large cushioned sofas and chairs, large flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and well-coordinated decor accents such as globes, beach-themed artwork, and worldly curios fill the spaces.

Master bedrooms are the largest of the three rooms, have two walk-in closets, and bathrooms with marble tile and modern fixtures. While the master bath contains a tub, not all the other bathrooms do -- but all rooms come with slippers, bathrobes, fluffy towels, and luxury toiletries. Flat-screen TVs and iPod docks are also available in all rooms, with the master bedroom usually having a media player as well.

The common space has an open-plan style, with a full-sized modern kitchen and high-end appliances -- although the brands vary from unit to unit. Kitchens come stocked with cutlery, dishes, pans, and almost any other possible kitchen device you may need, although again, exact details vary (reception has a list of available appliances should your unit be missing something specific). Kitchens also have trash compactors, eat-in bars with stools, and dishwashers. The dining area is large enough to seat at least six.

Outdoor spaces get sea breezes and have practically panoramic views of the beachfront and sea, with corner units on higher floors having the best views. Upscale patio furniture allows guests to either lie on loungers or sit around a table while taking in the view. Penthouse porches are twice the size of balconies and terraces, and are screened-in, covered spaces with a complete lounge area and patio dining set.

The Venetian is located along one of the world's most beautiful beaches, so guests get direct access to Grace Bay's white powder sands and incredulously clear turquoise waters. The property is far enough away from larger all-inclusive resorts that this stretch of beach is quiet and feels more private. The landscape, while groomed, still retains its natural feel with sea grass, ocean succulents, and a few birds.

The property's courtyard pool setting is much the same. While the sand has been replaced with fine cement tile, clear blue water is found in the swimming pool and its adjacent overflow dipping pool (which is not a hot tub, despite its appearance). This area is immaculate and peaceful, thanks to the open space and lush landscaping. Plenty of sun chairs with umbrellas line the deck, although the few cushioned cabanas are first-come, first-served.

Off the pool area, there is a small barbecue area with two, big grills, but no seating areas for dining. Other outdoor activities include tennis and basketball. The basketball hoop is on the tennis courts, and guests can check out rackets and balls from the lobby office. Bikes are located in the parking area and can be rented from the lobby office, too. The lobby is also home to a large fitness center with a floor-to-ceiling mirrored wall, stereo, water cooler, cardio machines, free weights, one weight machine, and a few exercise balls. Just off the fitness room are two bathrooms, complete with showers, available for guest-use -- usually upon early check-in or after check-out. The by-appointment only Spa Treatment Room is also located off the lobby, and is a simple room with massage table, lotions, and a sink. Free Wi-Fi is available and each unit has dedicated, covered parking included.