Singapore-based hotel owner and operator Raffles International has opened its first resort in the Caribbean – the Raffles Resort Canouan Island.

Canouan Island measures 3sq miles and is located in the middle of the Grenadines, eight miles south of Mustique and 110 miles west of Barbados. It has one of the world’s largest coral reefs and is surrounded by white beaches and small bays.

With 156 Mediterranean villa-style properties ranging from guest rooms to luxury suites with private pools, Raffles Resort Canouan Island also boasts four restaurants, two bars, an 18-hole Trump International Golf Club course, gaming casino, children’s club and complimentary snorkelling, water sports, fitness centre and boxing ring.

A 17th century Anglican church, which was brought to the island in the 19th century stone by stone is also part of the resort.

Another lead attraction of the resort will be the Raffles/Amrita Spa which features nine treatment palapas with a thatched roof on one side to ensure privacy – each with a private spa pool – scattered up a hillside overlooking the beach.

Two more palapas, which will be positioned over the water and reached only by boat, are due to open early next year.

Two airlines will now offer a daily service to the resort via San Juan and the Raffles Resort also offers a private executive jet with club seating for up to eight passengers.

Markland Blaiklock, managing director of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are very excited to bring the Raffles brand of luxury and impeccable service to the Caribbean. A unique team of partners worked together to create this amazing luxury destination. We are confident that Canouan Island will be the Caribbean’s most sought-after elite destination.”

Raffles Resorts now has a portfolio of 13 luxury hotels around the world. Details: www.raffles.com