A healthy treat! Exercise classes from dawn to dusk, but all the food and drink you could want – it’s no wonder this St. Lucia resort remains as popular as ever.

My friend Neil and his wife are regular customers at BodyHoliday on the north coast of St. Lucia. Or, at least, that’s how they were until their little girl arrived, because this family resort with almost 40 years of existence is strictly for those over 12 years old during high season.

‘Any suggestions on things to do locally?’ I asked Neil.

“Not really,” he said. “In all the years we’ve been going, I think we’ve only left the place once.”

Each one to his own. But I can’t understand how people like Neil aren’t forced to see what’s beyond the doors.

Maybe it has something to do with the years I spent imprisoned in a boarding school and longing to roam more freely in the big, bad world.

Actually, the boarding school analogy works in BodyHoliday to some extent. There is much to do; You can learn new sports or brush up on old ones, and chances are you’ll make some friends, too.

Mind you, the food is a far cry from boarding school food, with several restaurants, including a pan-Asian one called Tao (reservations recommended) and Cariblue Windows (reservations essential).

There are several room categories, including some exclusive for solo travelers. Which I think is a nice touch. In addition, singles do not pay a supplement, a very nice detail.

Our accommodation overlooks the wide, inviting beach, with swaying palm trees, circling pelicans, and has its own pool.

“Give us your body for a week and we will give you your mind back,” is the mantra and it’s a smart one. He tells you that this is apparently a health retreat, with classes (all voluntary) starting at 7:15am with ‘Beach Fit’ and all day until 5:00pm with ‘sunset restorative yoga’.

But, according to the CEO’s welcome letter, “indulgence is also part of achieving a balanced vacation experience.” So, hallelujah, there is no deprivation of food or drink and all-inclusive means beer, wine and spirits 24 hours a day.

One of the big selling points is that everyone receives one treatment for each full day of their stay.

More than 40 therapists work in this huge spa. I was expecting a few light strokes, using a bit of spicy coconut oil, but I got nothing of the sort. In fact, my first day deep tissue massage is the best ever and makes me beg for mercy halfway through. There is no gain without pain.

With so much on offer, the atmosphere is purposeful, but I talk to an American with a belly even bigger than mine, who barely moves from his lounge chair, while his wife slinks away as if desperate to attend all the classes.

“I barely see her during the day,” he says. “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”

BodyHoliday is about 30 minutes from the capital, Castries, and its Saturday market. Failure to do this is a breach of duty. All life is here, including the chickens whose lives, on the other hand, will soon end; shrunken old men selling homegrown vegetables; Rastas trade in extravagant things; baskets; potions and lotions.

Also close to BodyHoliday is Pigeon Island, reached via a causeway built in 1972. The main attraction is Fort Rodney, built on the instructions of Admiral George Rodney between 1779 and 1782, primarily to spy on French naval ships. neighboring Martinique.

It’s a steep hike to the top platform, where a pair of rusty cannons stand guard, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort.

The inhabitants of Saint Lucia are friendly, polite and have a lively sense of humor. That’s definitely what we love about the BodyHoliday staff. I have no doubt that this hugely popular resort has attracted the attention of corporate giants, but thank goodness the British owners have resisted the temptation to cash in.

That may be the case for a long time. It may not be the catchiest name, but BodyHoliday is welcoming, expertly run, and a lot of fun.