Gotham — December 2005

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Swept Away Yearning to leave all the hassles and hubbub of city life behind for a few days? Try a trip to one of these amazing tropical getaways.

The Turks and Caicos Islands, located just east of the Bahamas in the Caribbean, have long been celebrated for the private Parrot Cay resort and Bruce Willis' celebrity rental retreat (where Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner tied the knot not long ago). But the newer, more luxurious Caribbean-vacation resort neighboring those popular spots is The Palms. Celebrities and privacy seekers alike are abuzz over the top-shelf amenities, cuisine, and sugar-sand beaches, not to mention the quiet.

The Palms' restaurant, Parallel23, is the best on the island, and its menu's pan-tropical fusion of Asian, Indian, Mexican, Moroccan, and Caribbean flavors-could compete with any 5-star eatery in New York. Chef Jasper Schneider, who worked with Eric Rupert at Le Bernardin's West Coast output, Azur, brings in specialty organic meats, and the catch of the day is always fresh and varied. The restaurant also boasts a wide selection of both old-world and newer wines, plus delectable gourmet sweets (try the chocolate tasting for your dessert course).

The true serenity of The Palms lies in the cool Barbadian coral stone used for its Caribbean architecture. And the interior marble floors, mahogany furniture, hand-tufted mattresses, fine linens, and Acqua di Parma toiletries in every balconied, seaview suite make it a perfect choice for a romantic weekend getaway. Families are welcome, as well - the kids' club (ages five to 12) offers daily activities of all kinds, from water sports to arts and crafts. And if you're looking for a spot of kidless kinship, babysitters are available, too.

The spa also offers the most relaxing massages and facial/boy services in the Caribbean, in cabanas surrounding a tranquil water garden. The Zareeba, a tented 80-minute custom detoxifying steam-and-massage treatment designed by a Caribbean herbalist, is a must for any weary traveler. For a little more action, non-motorized water sports, croquet, tennis, a state-of-the-art fitness center with a yoga studio, and a neighboring golf course provide other alternatives to the serenity of doing nothing at all. But a leisurely lunch by the pool while enjoying the soft Caribbean trade winds will have you in "maximum relaxation mode" again in no time.

The Palms, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, 866-877-7256; thepalmstc.com; rooms from $950.

Cristina Greeven Cuomo

The Regent Palms
Turks and Caicos

Regent Logo The Regent Palms Turks and Caicos is a 72-suite resort, situated on world-famous Grace Bay Beach just steps from powder fine sands and azure waters. Guests enjoy The Regent Palms' beautiful interior settings and lush tropical grounds, as well as elegantly appointed luxury rooms and one, two and three bedroom Suites. World-class amenities include the 25,000 square foot spa and two signature restaurants, Parallel23 and Plunge.

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