W
ith eight high-end Caribbean hotels— seven on Barbados, one on St. Lucia— the folks behind Elegant Hotels know a thing or two about genuine hospitality. Guests feel at home at each property in the brand’s portfolio of traditional, adults-only and all-inclusive resorts: Colony Club, Tamarind, The House, Crystal Cove, Turtle Beach, Treasure Beach, and Waves Hotel & Spa on Barbados; and The Landings Resort & Spa in St. Lucia. At all Elegant Hotels, guests enjoy an array of complimentary services and activities, such as breakfast, WiFi, fitness center and classes, and water sports like kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Beach and pool ambassadors provide constant attention and are at your service with everything from sunscreen to chilled fruit popsicles. In addition, with the Dine Around Program in Barbados, all-inclusive guests have the opportunity to dine at any the four other all inclusive properties. There is a supplemental charge if a guest is staying at a non-all-inclusive but would like to dine at an all-inclusive.
Barbados Bound I recently had the pleasure of visiting Barbados, an independent British Commonwealth nation in the eastern Caribbean, known for its breathtaking beaches and crystal blue water, lush gardens and plantation houses. The House, located on the western Platinum Coast of the island, was my home away from home for three lovely, relaxing days. The serenity I found at this luxe adults-only retreat was a most welcome break from my hectic city life.
On-property dining options include the lobby lounge, the oceanfront deck, private beach cabana or in-suite. All day and nighttime menus are available as well as room service 24 hours. Complimentary daily Champagne breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails are served in the lobby lounge right off the main living room overlooking the pool and beach. Adjacent is Daphne’s, combining the fine Italian menu of its famous London counterpart with island flavors and fresh seafood (the lobster pasta was among the best I’ve ever had). There’s also the 1703 Mount Gay Rum Bar on-site, which is the perfect spot for sundowner cocktails. Another dinner option is the Laguna Restaurant, the nearby Colony Club’s signature eatery, serving up an international feast with fresh local seafood, prime cuts of beef and produce seasoned with island and global spices. Follow with a decadent rum-and-chocolate pairing at the Rum Vault. Off-property dining is also wonderful, especially lunch at oceanfront Round House, which serves local specialties with American and British details using fresh local ingredients.
LIVING GOOD
All-inclusive excursions, both on and off the property, include cultural and historical tours, beach cricket and neighborhood walks. For an additional fee, guests can take island safari tours highlighting iconic spots, such as the Caribbean’s oldest windmill; rum tours; catamaran cruises; horseback rides on the beach; cave tours; and submarine trips. For travelers seeking something extra special, the LX by The House package is the answer. It includes polo lessons, a private rum tasting and tour, a VIP shopping experience, luxury airport transfers, a three-hour sunset catamaran sail and the option to fly to the neighboring islands of Mustique or the Grenadines. 888.996.9948, eleganthotels.com/the-house.
ISSUE No. 6
Rest and relaxation are in order in the light and bright guest accommodations, where it’s easy
Days can be spent relaxing poolside (which I did) or lounging on the beach, one of the best on Barbados’ west coast. The staff has the knack of knowing exactly when to come by to see if another cocktail or snack is desired. They’re perfectly attentive, but not intrusive.
Gio
Designed to emulate a chic Caribbean beach house, the charming 34-room, all-suite haven exudes comfort and sophistication. Checking in was a breeze. Without a formal front desk, the super-quick process was carried out by a personal property ambassador from the comfort of a plush white couch in the living room. Whether you want an ice-cold cocktail, a beachside massage or an offshore excursion, the ambassadors can make it happen. Other extra-special touches at The House include a complimentary 30-minute jet-lag revival massage and welcome drink; a daily Champagne breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapés.
to feel at home. Each features soft ivory linens, feather-topped beds, iPod docking stations and marble bathrooms with rain showers and a full tub with body jets in each room. Large patios or balconies are the perfect spot for reading a book while sipping wine and taking in the views.
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