Privacy, The Ultimate Luxury

By Janice Tober

There’s never been a more perfect time to rent a villa for a Caribbean getaway

When it comes to making the most of your vacay time, some people love the fast pace of a large, full-scale resort. Others want a more chillaxing stay where peace and quiet are the main goals for the day.

If you lean towards the latter, there is no better place to recharge than at a villa in the Caribbean. Tranquil ocean views, tropical breezes and total seclusion beckon — with ample room to create your own private bubble for your family and friends. These days, privacy and having plenty of elbow space are the ultimate in luxury. Renting a villa fits the bill perfectly.

The following dreamy villas are just a few highlights that set the standard for an idyllic vacation in paradise. They’ve got amenities rivalling any big resort, from private chefs and on-site spas to tennis courts, pools that never get crowded, maid service and more. Villas come in all shapes, sizes and price points, so whether you’re travelling with your extended family or a small group of gal pals for a week or a month and more, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from in your favourite sunny hotspots. Here are five notable rentable villas for inspiration.

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ELEGANCE BY DESIGN: VILLA TARTARUGA

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Everything in this newly built villa with eight bedrooms just works on all fronts, from the modern design to the space-age movie theatre and elegant reflecting pools at the entrance. The walls, flooring and almost every imaginable surface are made of marble and coralina stone to underscore that luxe vibe. Revel in the beauty of it all in a free-standing tub where you can gaze up at the sky while you soak.

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If you want to peel yourself away from the villa in search of more active pursuits, you are in luck. Villa Tartaruga guests can use all the amenities available at the Puntacana Resort & Club. You can hit the links, practice your backhand on the tennis court, go horseback riding, or spend time in the water snorkelling and windsurfing.

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At the end of the day, you get to return to your fabulous villa, which accommodates up to 20 guests, enjoy a meal prepared by your chef and served by two waiters who are at your beck and call. Finish the evening in the hot tub, looking out over the Caribbean Sea. Two housekeepers will help keep everything tidy so you can focus on just chilling.

LOVE GOES UNDERGROUND: PROMISEAS

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

If some stress-free ‘us’ time is what you need, this gorgeous rental might just hit the spot. While most villas are geared to large gatherings, this contemporarystyle home-away-from-home can host more intimate get-togethers and celebrations. But don’t let the number of bedrooms (four in each of two separate villas) fool you. This property is spacious and rich with amenities.

Sitting beachfront with a pretty piece of coastline for swimming and sunbathing, it seems like the property was meant for two, but can accommodate up to 16 guests. There are two covered verandas with full dining rooms and seating areas, two infinity-edge pools and two indoor stylish sitting rooms. You’ll also find a tennis court and a gym. And the ultimate perk? Your own private spa in an underground cave, kitted out with a massage deck and hot tub.

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FEEL LIKE ROYALTY: LITTLE WHALE CAY

Berry Islands, Bahamas

If a villa alone isn’t enough to satisfy your quest for seclusion, how about an ultraluxe property on its own island? This villa is actually three homes nestled amongst the verdant foliage of a 37-hectare estate. It comes complete with a staff of 12, a private airstrip and a fleet of boats just waiting to be boarded.

The three houses that make up Little Whale Cay — Little Whale, Peacock and Flamingo — have their own charming style, but share beach-inspired interiors, exposed wooden beams, white and pastel furniture, plus plenty of period details. Once you’ve settled into your chosen house, it’s time to explore your kingdom.

An infinity-edge pool, private sand beach, yoga deck, tennis court and a gym mean you can be as active or as idle as you want. Go ahead and venture out to the lighthouse at the back of the house before heading back to the villa to toast another successful day of reigning over your domain.

BREEZY, BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL: BEACH HOUSE

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

This four-bedroom property is as pretty as a postcard with chic interiors dressed in white. When you close your eyes and think, “Take me to the beach,” there is a very good chance that the Beach House is what you’re imagining.

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Located on a private stretch of white sand beach, the suitably named villa comes with its own fruit groves, pool, volleyball court and guest house, with plenty of outdoor space to dine and unwind. But it is the bright and breezy interior that makes it so special and welcoming.

At over 500 square metres, this villa represents coastal living (for up to 12 guests) at its best, featuring an open plan design with pale wood floors and vaulted ceilings. Even if it’s steamy outside, you will feel cool and refreshed surrounded by those quintessential Caribbean colours and the tropical breezes wafting through all those wide-open spaces.

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WHEN 10 BEDROOMS AREN’T ENOUGH: THE GREAT HOUSE

Speightstown, Barbados

Sometimes you just have to go big. The Great House has got you covered. This tropical beachfront property, consisting of the Great House, Carriage House, Hillaby House and two cottages, can sleep up to 30 guests.

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The interiors are bright and welcoming in blues, white and soft yellow, giving it a cool, earthy feel. And while there are plenty of places to meet as a group, say for birthday or anniversary parties, you will also find more intimate areas to hang out as a couple or a small family unit.

Along with the large infinity pool and private beach, you’ll find pristine manicured gardens, a US Open-style tennis court and a motorboat or speed boat on the property, complete with inflatable toys, snorkel gear and kayaks. For quieter pursuits, you can find a cozy spot in the library, piano room or screening room, plus a gym and a game room to keep your posse occupied.

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