Fodor's Expert Review The Meridian Club

On one of the most beautiful beaches in Turks and Caicos, the Meridian Club is the place to de-stress—guest rooms lack phones and TVs (even cell-phone use is frowned upon, though there is Wi-Fi throughout the resort), and the simple beachfront rooms and cottages, most of the staff, and what is perhaps the world's smallest airport (in truth, a gazebo with thatched roof) have all stayed pretty much the same over the years. Choose from the 12 oceanfront rooms, two cottages, or one of the private homes around the island. The 2½-mile (4-km) stretch of beach is deserted, and instead of roads, you find nature trails and sun-dappled paths that crisscross the island, which can be explored by bike or on foot. Here you'll feel not isolated, but part of a small community. There’s a dining hall next to the pool where guests meet at mealtime—or at the bar. The food is excellent, with fresh seafood and delicious sweets served at lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea. Guests are mostly overstressed executives, mature couples, and honeymooners; a large percentage are repeat visitors. Children over 12 are always welcome, but those between 6 and 12 are allowed only in June and July and over the Christmas and New Year's holiday period.