St James Club & Villas Antigua, part of the Elite Island Resorts Group, recently welcomed The X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger and her six contestants, after being selected as an official location for the exciting Judges' Houses part of the popular ITV show. 

In between singing for their place in the live shows and meeting Nicole’s guest mentor Mary J Blige, Nicole’s contestants found time to enjoy the resorts beaches, restaurants, as well as some downtime at the Tranquility spa. 

Paula Whitehead, European managing director, Elite Island Resorts, said: "We were delighted to welcome the show, judge and contestants to our resort. In between filming and the contestants' rehearsals, it was great for them to really enjoy the aspects of our resort so many of our guests come back year after to year to enjoy – from our waterfront dining, pools and beach locations to the spa menu and stunning room and villa views.  We're a slice of glamour and pampering available to all travellers."

Antigua and Barbuda have been a long-time celebrity retreat and Nicole Scherzinger and her guest judge Mary J Blige  are now among other A-listers including Eric Clapton and Giorgio Armani who have been spotted holidaying on the island.

Pierce Brosnan and Oprah Winfrey are also big Antigua fans whilst Princess Diana counted Barbuda as one of her favourite holiday spots. More recently JLS's JB and legendary cricketer Sir Vivian Richards have been spreading the word on the stunning islands they call home.

Activities on the island range from visits to historic Nelson's Dockyard and sailing in the numerous regattas to swimming with stingrays and island safaris.

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