A tennis lesson can offer insights into life. Midway through a session with a pro at Amanyara, a luxurious beachfront resort in Turks and Caicos, it becomes clear that the key is to relax. The tennis coach’s instruction resonates, urging a gentler, more thoughtful approach. “Tell me about it,” comes a quiet admission, the heat of the day causing beads of sweat to trickle down. This lesson comes after snorkeling at the world’s third-largest barrier reef, with plans for a bike ride and a sunset swim later. Adjusting to the pace of this tropical escape while shaking off the frenetic energy of New York is a task in itself.
The tranquil atmosphere of Aman resorts promotes a retreat from daily pressures, allowing a reset with minimal decisions to make aside from dinner time. However, this serenity comes at a cost: one-bedroom pavilions start at $1,700 per night, and the recently renovated villas, featuring amenities like personal hosts and private chefs, can reach $30,000 for the most extravagant accommodations. Artist Villa No. 33 boasts a private stretch of beach and a lavish infinity pool that seems to draw attention away from its top-tier gym. Positioned within an 18,000-acre nature preserve, these accommodations offer not just luxury but profound privacy amidst natural beauty.
“Here, no one expresses regret about not doing enough,” states Mili Jovovic, the destination sales manager at Amanyara. “Guests often cancel activities to enjoy a day at the beach with their families.” Yet, numerous options await for those seeking more engagement. The Clubhouse features a plethora of activities, from tennis to beach volleyball, with new outdoor courts for pickleball and padel tennis. Special programs, like the “Legends” clinics, bring renowned sports figures to interact directly with guests.
Each year, a select group of guests is granted access to retreats with celebrated athletes, including tennis icons like Maria Sharapova and U.S. Open competitors such as Leylah Fernandez. Basketball enthusiasts have been trained by Kevin Love, while football fans have engaged with professionals like DeMarcus Lawrence. Novak Djokovic also plays a crucial role as an Aman Global Wellness Ambassador, leading retreats focusing on recovery and mobility. These events not only sharpen players’ skills but also address mental training. This June, competitive freediver Alexey Molchanov will host a “Depth of Breathing Discovery Retreat,” suitable for athletes and wellness seekers alike.
Robert Rieger
Engaging with celebrities during vacations has become common, yet experiencing intimate training sessions with them is remarkable. These wellness retreats, linked to prestigious resorts like Aman and Canyon Ranch, offer unique interactions for dedicated enthusiasts. Recently, Broadway artist Sutton Foster invited fans to join her at Canyon Ranch for a weekend of dance and self-discovery amid the Berkshires. Foster’s personal video invitation, featuring her in a cozy, relatable manner, presented a refreshing approach to reconnecting.
Such exclusive experiences solidify loyalty to places that turn dreams into reality—often dreams unimagined until they unfold. This journey emphasizes personal privacy and exploration rather than immersing in local culture. The focus is on exceptional service, curated experiences, and personalized touch, ensuring that every need is met without the guests having to lift a finger—unless prompted by the tennis pro, of course.
This article updates previous information, clarifying that Novak Djokovic serves as a global wellness ambassador rather than participating in the Legends program.
