How Gil Bellows Unwinds in Antigua and Barbuda: A Journey of Wellness, Creativity, and Inspiration.
Gil Bellows, an actor, director, producer and screenwriter—best known for his breakout role in The Shawshank Redemption and memorable performances in Ally McBeal and The Handmaid’s Tale—recently visited Antigua and Barbuda, the twin islands at the heart of the Caribbean. During his stay, which was filled with creativity and inspiration, he connected with both professional and aspiring filmmakers. With wellness tourism on the rise, he also took the time to experience the islands’ wellness offerings and renowned hospitality.
In July 2019, the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) introduced a nine-point list of criteria for regions to meet before being recognized as Wellness Destinations. As a result, Antigua and Barbuda became the first destination to be officially acknowledged for meeting these requirements. The twin islands’ combination of pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and wellness offerings — such as professional services and activities tailored for rejuvenation — earned them this esteemed recognition. This designation ultimately spotlights Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to promoting wellness tourism and establishing itself as a premier wellness destination.
Diving into some highlights from his recent stay, Gil recently sat down with HOLR to discuss how he took part in an industry mixer featuring notable guests such as Antiguan actor Lucien Laviscot (Emily in Paris). He also spent time mentoring local high school theatre students. Keep reading to learn all about Gil’s latest visit and overall wellness journey, which included a luxurious stay at a boutique property, a stop at the Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda, a scenic tour of Shirley Heights, and a dining experience at the island’s new NOBU restaurant.
What inspired you to visit Antigua and Barbuda, and how did you find the overall experience of the islands?
Well, I’m lucky enough to be invited. I was always intrigued by those two islands and was very curious about the experience of visiting and what it would be like, but the invitation was absolutely something I was not going to ignore or walk away from. That was, I was blessed with an invitation which I took and am eternally grateful for.
Can you tell us about your involvement with the local film community during your trip? What were some memorable moments from meeting aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals?
It was special and inspiring. There is so much talent coming out of those islands and I feel like there is a passion and appetite for creativity that is something that speaks to me and is something I would like to continue to participate in. I met a really wonderful group of people and had a lovely night sharing my story and hearing their stories. I have continued to communicate with a number of people since then, which I am very, very grateful for.
You visited some iconic spots during your trip, like the Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda and Shirley Heights. What was the most memorable place you visited, and why?
I visited many wonderful places during my time in Antigua and Barbuda. I would say that my tour of the island of Antigua with Bert Kirchner, the film commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda and Tameka Wharton, the Director of Tourism at Antigua and Barbuda’s Tourism Authority, seeing all the incredible beaches and different perspectives of the island and how St. John’s is the hub but really the little towns and various beaches were really the pull for me. Walking along the pink sands beach in Barbuda with nobody around and a beautiful blue sky and incredible water was just amazing. The most memorable place for me outside of those experiences was being in the water. I would get in the water two or three times a day and I think about that water every day. Especially on cold and rainy days in Vancouver.
Antigua and Barbuda are now recognized as a Wellness Destination by the Wellness Tourism Association. How did the wellness offerings there contribute to your personal reset?
The fact that Antigua and Barbuda are considered wellness spots is not surprising. The weather, the vibe and the experience of just being in that rhythm relaxes you. It encourages rest and regeneration. Being in that water is undoubtedly good for the mind, body, and soul.
You had the chance to meet with local high school theatre students. What advice did you share with the next generation of actors and filmmakers?
It was amazing. They were incredibly talented. There was a performance of a play that was written and performed by the students that was as good as anything I’ve ever seen young people do. It had a very powerful message within it. I just had a chance to share with them a little bit about my story and say that moments of personal adversity are really the doors and windows to opportunities moving forward. Sometimes we get knocked down in life and it’s just how you get back up that mainly defines you and charts the path of your life.
Your stay included time at a boutique luxury property and a visit to the new NOBU restaurant. How did these experiences tie into your trip’s focus on relaxation and wellness?
The place I stayed, Keyonna Beach, was amazing. I was also flown by helicopter to Barbuda and had an unforgettable lunch at NOBU. All I’ve got to say is that staying in beautiful, high-quality environments where food and rest and connection with nature are going to really give you a sense of peace. Let me tell you, everyone should have a meal at some point in their life at NOBU Barbuda. That is a once in a lifetime experience.
As someone who has had a diverse and extensive career in acting, from The Shawshank Redemption to The Handmaid’s Tale, how did your recent trip to Antigua and Barbuda influence or inspire your approach to future creative projects?
I’ve been lucky in my life where I’ve gotten to film all over the world. It’s a real privilege and blessing as a part of the experience of doing what it is that I get to do. My hope is at some point, I’ll be able to make something in Antigua and Barbuda. That would be a full circle blessing.
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Published by HOLR Magazine
Image Credits: Gil Bellows and https://keyonnabeachresortantigua.com/