Strictly’s AJ Odudu banishes the October blues with a sun-kissed holiday to Antigua

Strictly star AJ Odudu (pictured) jetted off on a sunshine break to Antigua

Strictly star AJ Odudu swept away the October blues by jetting off on a sunshine break to Antigua.

The TV presenter, 34, described her holiday as a ‘sweet sweet fantasy,’ borrowing a lyric from the Marian Carey classic.

She stayed in the luxury five star adults-only all-inclusive Hammock Cove resort, enjoying pamper treatments as well as paddle boarding and snorkelling in the sea with close pal and talent manager Mikey Abegunde.

AJ says: ‘I loved Antigua from the very first time I visited for a yoga retreat a few years ago and was so happy to get the chance to go back.

‘It’s an absolutely stunning island with a laid back vibe perfect for taking a little time out.

‘The welcome from the Elite Island Resorts team at Hammock Cove was so warm, and I’m fully recharged after spending time taking in the beautiful views and enjoying some paddle boarding on the ocean too.’

AJ, who is currently hosting E4 shows The Big Blow Out and Married at First Sight UK: Unveiled, posed up in her tiny yellow bikini and red-patterned swimsuit during her stay, posting some of the pictures on her Instagram page to her 228,000 followers.

AJ (pictured on holiday) stayed in the luxury five star adults-only all-inclusive Hammock Cove resort, enjoying pamper treatments as well as paddle boarding and snorkelling in the sea

The TV presenter (pictured paddle boarding in the Caribbean), 34, described her holiday as a ‘sweet sweet fantasy,’ borrowing a lyric from the Marian Carey classic

Summing up her trip, the star, who reached the final of the 2021 series of Strictly before pulling out with injury, wrote: ‘This holiday has been a sweet sweet fantasy baby and I’ll never listen to Mariah Carey and Brian McKnight in the same way again.’

The Hammock Cove resort is located next to Devil’s Bridge National Park, overlooking a protected Caribbean bay with breath-taking pristine views.

Each of the 42 suites features a wrap-around deck, private infinity-edge plunge pool, dedicated concierge and its own cocktail bar which guests can choose to fill with whatever drinks they like.

The resort also features a spa, water sports, tiered pool, yoga pavilion and two restaurants.

The Hammock Cove resort where AJ stayed (pictured) is located next to Devil’s Bridge National Park, overlooking a protected Caribbean bay with breath-taking pristine views

The Lighthouse offers fine dining from culinary director and executive chef, Marco Festini Cromer, who has worked at Michelin starred restaurants and leading hotels in Europe. 

And the second eaterie, Irina’s Bistro, provides light, more casual fare with regional and craft beers.

Outside of the resort and the spectacular white and pink beaches in Antigua and Barbuda, visitors can time their stays on the island with prestigious events including the World Class Antigua Sailing Week, Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua Sports Fishing and the annual Carnival, considered the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival.

Each of Hammock Cove’s 42 suites features a wrap-around deck, private infinity-edge plunge pool, concierge and a cocktail bar which guests can fill with whatever drinks they like

Seven nights all-inclusive at Hammock Cove including return flights from £3490 per person for departures in May 2023.

For more information visit eliteislandholidays.com and to find out more about Antigua and Barbuda, check out visitantiguabarbuda.com