Fodor's Expert Review La Créole Beach Hotel & Spa

The magic at this 10-acre complex with a contemporary, colorful lobby, cosmopolitan bar, and dual pools lies in the fun atmosphere the staff are able to create as they unite the disparate, mostly French clientele. The separate Mahogany section is the hotel's pride, holding the fully renovated, minimalist standard rooms and two-bedroom, bi-level suites. Large terraces with kitchenettes, have sea views. Expert, Parisian-trained technicians staff the Payot spa; La Créole Spa welcomes nonguests as well. So do the laudable, moderately priced restaurants, Zawag and Route des Epices. Whether you enjoy aqua aerobics, yoga stretch, playing pétanque (French boccie), or moving to a zouk band, there's always something to do. The bar hosts a piano player and serves the best rums from throughout the Caribbean.