When it comes to expanding its footprint in the Caribbean, Royalton Hotels & Resorts takes a thoughtful approach.
"Everything is driven by the traveler's interests. We look at destinations with connectivity, unique and diverse offerings like nature and culture, and we prioritize the destinations that have them," said Alejandro Rodriguez del Peon, vice president of marketing for parent company Blue Diamond Resorts.
That's how it was in 2017 when the brand opened the Royalton Saint Lucia, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort.
"Back then, there were no big brand names in the destination," he said. "Now St. Lucia has many big players and is one of the Caribbean's most trending destinations. This is how we make our decisions about where to expand."
That thought process continued when it came to bringing the adults-only Royalton Chic brand to Antigua and Barbados.
Antigua, with its white-sand coastline and increasing appeal as a luxury destination, was a natural choice for the brand. The Royalton Chic Antigua stands out as a destination for adults seeking an elevated experience. The resort brings its signature Party Your Way concept to the island -- a sophisticated yet energetic all-inclusive atmosphere for celebrations among friends, solo travelers or couples, combined with all the trimmings to disconnect and relax.
The Royalton Chic Barbados, meanwhile, is set to debut in 2026 in another destination that's seen as a perfect fit for the brand's modern luxury concept.
"Royalton Chic Barbados will be our most sophisticated and posh resort," said Rodriguez del Peon. "In this region, there have not been resorts like Royalton Chic. Barbados has a lot of all-inclusive resorts, but in the adults-only market specifically, there isn't much. This is what makes us think Royalton Chic would be a good match, as it complements what already exists."
The overwater bungalows at the Royalton Chic Antigua are a first for the Chic brand. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Royalton Chic Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
The Royalton Chic Antigua
The Royalton Chic Antigua brings a fresh approach to the island with its design and focus on experiences for adults.
One of its standout features are its overwater bungalows -- a concept reminiscent of luxury resorts in the Maldives and Southeast Asia. This is not Royalton's first foray into overwater accommodations: They are also featured at the Royalton Antigua, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, the brand's all-ages property on the island. However, this marks the first time the Chic brand has incorporated this feature, setting it apart from other adults-only options.
The Royalton Chic Antigua's layout is another defining feature. The property is divided into four distinct areas: the lively entertainment plaza with restaurants; the high-energy pool and DJ booth; the serene beach area for relaxation; and a tranquil pool zone with chill music and a laid-back ambience. This segmentation of spaces ensures guests can strike a balance of excitement and relaxed sophistication.
Pescari is the Royalton Chic Antigua's overwater seafood restaurant. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Royalton Chic Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
The resort's restaurant, Pescari, is another standout feature, thanks to its overwater dining room and its live entertainment -- a concept Rodriguez del Peon calls "dining-tainment."
Not only does the restaurant serve elevated mixology and a seafood menu with stellar sunset views, but a team of entertainers called the Royalton Chic Angels also performs throughout the duration of dinner service.
Pescari does carry an additional charge, but Diamond Club guests have the restaurant included in their room rate. Included restaurants for all guests are the Hunter Steakhouse, Olympus Mediterranean Cuisine, Vespa for Italian, and the casual Haven Grill.
Pool cabanas at the Antigua resort have private plunge pools. The Barbados property will, as well, when it opens in 2026. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Royalton Chic Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Coming to Barbados
The Royalton Chic Barbados will bring adults-only luxury to the island's Gold Coast.
Rodriguez del Peon described the property as Royalton's "most sophisticated and posh resort." Royalton's first resort on the island, the Chic will have 220 suites, many featuring oceanfront views or swim-out access. Guests who book the Diamond Club category will have dialed-up amenities like personalized butler service and access to a private lounge.
Seven restaurants and five bars round out the food and beverage offerings, but the signature spot at this resort will be its Level 12 rooftop bar. Inspired by the popular Level 18 at the Royalton Chic Cancun, this high-energy entertainment spot will combine funky, fun nightlife with gorgeous coastal views.
With 19 properties -- 13 in the Caribbean alone -- and a milestone 15th anniversary in 2025, Royalton says it is committed to staying relevant in the all-inclusive resort space.
Rodriguez del Peon emphasized that expansion is part of the brand's DNA. "We have a lot of plans to increase our footprint in the Caribbean," he said, although he did not tip his hand as to what may be on the horizon for the brand.