We are considering Ladera for a 7 night deluxe suite stay. It looks fabulous, but we are concerned about mosquitoes and the amenities. Do they have room service, how nice is the plunge pool and how about the beach nearby? Thank you!

Well, I"ve only eaten there, not stayed, but I can answer a few questions. The view is phenomenal--very romantic and dramatic, especially at sunset. The food at the restaurant Dasheene is terrific. Mosquitos weren't an issue the evening I was dining, as the breeze was steady. Of course it could be different for overnight guests, but I would imagine the architects had that in mind when building and have done everything possble to alleviate bug problems in the design.

You have the option of going to the beach at the Jalousie Hilton, which is small but stunning as they have imported white sand that creates a stunning contrast with the deep indigo of the water.

I'm not positive, but I believe Ladera guests can use the lounge chairs at Jalousie free of charge, but might have to pay extra for use of a beach hut or shade. I think for insurance reasons that Ladera guests may not use the Jalousie pool. The snorkeling is actually really colorful right offshore along the base of one of the Pitons. The area is roped off for the snorkelers, and the water gets disconcertingly deep very quickly.

My wife and i spent our honeymoon here...October 2000. Im sure some things have changed since, but we found the place incredible. It is so unique and the view is unmatched. Mosquitos were not a problem for us. The beds do have mosquito netting that we used but I think we could have skipped it. We had booked a deluxe suite but were fortunate enough to get upgraded to one of the villas (B I think). It was amazing...3 bedrooms with a nice sized pool with a waterfall. Our pool was heated...I think some are not. We saw a couple other rooms and both were nice. For some reason I recall suite S being one that was recommended. The food was at the time great. I believe there is room service, but realize this is not a resort where someone is going to be there to kiss your behind at every turn. Its a great place i would recommend to anyone who likes something different and adventurous.

Thanks for the info. We have decided to stay at Ladera and have an adventure! Thanks for the suite recommendation. Anyone else have a suite recommendation?

No problem with mosquitos, but the beds have the netting if needed. The views are incredible and the food is fabulous. The shuttle will take you down the mountain to the beach at the Jalousie Hilton. Great snorkeling right off the beach.

Take water taxis to Anse Chastanet to spend the day on the black beach and eat lunch there too.

Take the water taxis (instead of land) to Castries and visit the market. The water taxis are waiting off the beach at the Hilton. On return visits, I stop by my favorite boat and arrange my trips for the week. They will also take you to great offshore snorkeling sights if you wish.

The hotel will arrange a taxi to take you on a tour of the island - GREAT!

The food at the restaurant, Dasheene, is incredible - as are the views.

The pool is small but perfect. It was used in the film, Superman 2. It's where Superman flew to get a flower for Lois Lane when she was in the ice cave.

You will adore Ladera.

Oh, check to see if Bang still does the great dinner and show on Wed nights. It's right next to the Hilton.