My Anguilla Bliss

In 1987 there were whispers in the tourism community about the new exclusive property in Anguilla called Malliouhana. I saw a brochure and photos and was completely in awe of this high end hotel. Malliouhana is a Mediterranean style elegant property on picturesque Meade’s Bay.

For the next 23 or so years I read updates, press releases and news tidbits on “Mali”. I read about the rich and famous who found an escape here and was always dreaming of a visit to Mali someday.

Last week I was invited to tour the property by manager and windsurf email friend  Bart Vandeventer.  Bart has recently been hired as general manager. He is a true professional and a warm and welcoming host.  Bart brought me around the property and carefully explained in detail the various room categories, the history of the hotel and then brought me for a tour of the spa. All I can say is wow!! The menu is staggering encompassing a wide variety of treatments including an Indian Head Massage, Banana Body Glaze, Moor Mud Wrap and Lomi Lomi Massage to name a few. I was so impressed with the facility. This would be the perfect pre wedding treat for the bride or groom or the bridal party. The Spa Suites are simply enormous and so tranquil. They even include a seaside balcony.

Photo Courtesy of Mark Harrold

Speaking of weddings this hotel exudes romance. I cannot imagine a more perfect setting for someone’s nuptials. There are full range of  wedding services for perhaps a small intimate ceremony to a larger group experience. Ms. Quinlan is the Wedding Coordinator who can make your dreams come true.

I need to go back and speak to the rooms. Bart started our tour with a view of one of the oceanview doubles. It was a lovely 800 sq foot room with a master suite, marble bath with bidet and lavish furnishings. Next I viewed an 1800 sq foot oceanview suite. There was a private terrace and sweeping views of Meade’s Bay.  Overlooking private Turtle Cove are the Jacuzzi suites. They are a staggering 1900 sq feet.  Last but not least was the true statement in luxury, the  5000 sq foot pool suite. This is truly a villa style suite with a 300 sq foot bathroom equipped with a whirlpool and marble. There is a private plunge pool and private access to Turtle Cove.  This is perhaps the most luxurious room on Anguilla.

Families will love Mali. I was in awe of the water park complete with a 60 foot slide, shallow pool, play area and mini park. There is ping pong, games, a poolside lunch spot for hotdogs or lighter fare as well.

Mali is indeed a high end property but offers some amazing specials throughout the year. A favourite is the Mallihauna Romantic Interlude. This is a 4 night package  for summer 09. The price is 2835.00 USD and includes transfers, accommodations in a luxurious 700 sq feet oceanview room, continental breakfast daily en suite or in the dining area as well as wine, petit fours and a three course dinner at Mali’s award winning restaurant. The restaurant is supervised by renowned chef Michele Rostang and features one of the Caribbean’s finest wine cellars.  Of course tax and gratuities and all hotel amenities are included. Spa services are extra.

I had a lovely time in the sea view lounge. The bar staff made me one of the best lime squashes. It was served in a gigantic glass and came with homemade potato chips with a homemade salsa. What a great way to watch the sunset!

Mali has a fitness center, 4 lit tennis courts, boutique and beauty parlor.

Mali is celebrating it’s 25th anniversary. There is no better time to treat yourself to a little bit of heaven.