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This week, Blue Sky Luxury celebrates the second annual Vacation Rental Week, March 8-12, 2021 designed to spread awareness about the many benefits of professionally managed vacation and holiday rentals.

To get in the spirit of the week, we’d like to take a moment to highlight the tremendous value of professionally-managed vacation rentals for guests, and to encourage you to book a stay for your next vacation!

Consider some of these key benefits professionally managed vacation rentals offer you over hotels and resorts:

Get inspired with our featured vacation rentals

 

Kiko: Choose wellness – gym, spa, sauna & bar

 

Royal Westmoreland-Seaduced: Somewhere, you have a bikini in this exact shade of blue

 

Royal Westmoreland-Sugar Cane Mews 4: Indulge in a chef prepared breakfast in bed

 

Glitter Bay Estate 310-Coral Isle: Salt life by day, pool vibes by night

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

The Blue Sky Luxury vacation rental portfolio contains some of the finest communities in Barbados. The locations are all stunning, and range from beachfront, tennis, island views and, golf communities like Royal Westmoreland. What makes Royal Westmoreland distinct, is its fantastic lifestyle bubble, high-end villas, and of course, one of the finest golf courses on the island. Explore this exclusive golf community with us, as we also share an intimate view of the 8 luxury vacation villas inside.

Amenities at Royal Westmoreland
We’ll begin with your lifestyle bubble. Royal Westmoreland is perfectly suited to those who love having everything within easy reach of a well-manicured finger. Restaurants, a tennis court, gym, and golf amenities are all impeccably kept and follow social distancing protocols. There are 3 restaurants offering light bites, the best pizza, and mouthwatering comfort food…in case you lose your golf game to Randy, the eternal boaster. One-on-one professional training at the Har-Tru Clay tennis courts with Cherise will make your backhand envious or, an early morning round after coffee at The Halfway House will put you in the best mood. Stunning sea views, lush greenery, and peaceful lakes are par for the course as you play the best game of your life. The onsite gym helps you to stay active and fill out those golf polos nicely. Tiger Woods never looked so good.

Blue Sky Luxury’s holiday rentals in Royal Westmoreland

Let’s dive in, whether you want to take advantage of the 12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp or get inspired for future travel. Choose the Barbados holiday rental at Royal Westmoreland that best suits your needs. Our inside scoop won’t put you wrong.

PS: In case you fall in love, Both Seaduced and Tradewinds are newly built and offered for sale with our sister company Terra Luxury. Honestly, we can’t see how you would not. Randy will envy you! Read on to see how. (wink wink)

 

1. Seaduced – Seaduced delivers on contemporary luxury. From the finest finishes to the showstopping illuminated water feature, opulent master bathroom with USB charging ports and digital mirror to the elite staffing with a butler provided at Christmas.

What we love: The negative-edge, circa 60ft long swimming pool, overlooking the golf course and sea beyond. It spans the entire length of the deck, with a “beach end” with sun loungers where you can relax to the sound of gently running water.

 

2. Tradewinds – This luxury villa rental is a statement piece. The villa truly is the destination and boasts fine finishes of coral, travertine, granite, and marble. The rooms are spacious, and the pool deck provides options for formal dinners under the stars.

What we love: When you stay at Tradewinds you’ll have the benefits of the owner’s golf membership, with preferred tee times. The Blue Sky Luxury Concierge team will be able to organise your tee times and tennis times in advance.

 

3. Sugar Cane Mews 4 – The sleek 4 bedroom townhouse gives a home away from home feeling with neutral but warm décor, al fresco dining with golf and Caribbean Sea views. There’s a cosy nook for remote work and fully air-conditioned bedrooms.

What we love: The private plunge pool is surrounded by tropical foliage affording privacy and intimacy. All you’d need is champagne for a romantic evening in.

 

4. High Spirits – Combine work and play at High Spirits. The décor is tasteful, the WIFI as strong as a good gin and tonic, and teenagers will love the 3D TV and Xbox system. An office space with a desk is tucked away in case you may need to check-in for work.

What we love: High Spirits is truly the perfect haven for remote work. We love that you can leave it all behind and go straight from the office to the pool or golf in seconds.

 

5. Bajan Heights – An absolutely elegant 5 bedroom villa with jaw-dropping views. Whether Randy wins at golf or not, you’ll return to sublime bliss with a private pool, wet bar, and a talented cook.

What we love: This villa includes one-hour free boat cruising on “Bajan Girl.” Spend some time waterskiing, tubing, snorkeling, or use it as a water taxi to a great West Coast restaurant.

 

6. Cherry Red – The staff is delightful and loves to ensure that guests have a seamless vacation. This elegant tri-level holiday home features 4 bedrooms, a private plunge pool and according to Pearl, the best views of the golf course!

What we love: The staff! “Kudos to David, Bianca, Samantha, Emma, Ja’Net and Pearl. This team collectively made our experience a memorable one.” The Luces Family.

 

7. Coral Blu – If you’re relocating your family to Barbados, take the plunge at Coral Blu. Plunge pool non withstanding, this 3-bedroom tri-level home is perfect for families. There’s a barbecue grill, plenty of space for lounging, and Mulllins beach is a short drive away.

What we love: The spacious covered balcony where families can relax and enjoy the stunning panoramic ocean views and tropical sunsets.

 

8. Sugar Cane Ridge 1 – Rich mahogany furniture, plush leather pouffes, and deep red curtains give this holiday rental a James Bond elegance. If this makes you want to grab a martini, you’re in good hands as guests simply love the warmth and service at Sugar Cane Ridge 1.

What we love: Trade your pool for the beach. Snorkel or swim with vibrant tropical fish and turtles. Services of the Beach Club include free shuttle service to Mullins Beach and Bell Captain beach services.

 

History & Awards

For 25 years Royal Westmoreland has been home to high-profile celebrities worldwide. Entrepreneur John Morphet, from the UK, is the brains behind the 750-acre master-planned community. One of the most loved features is the 72, 7,045-yard course designed by American golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The golf course and the apartments have received world-recognized awards from The International Property Awards sponsored by Virgin Atlantic and Yamaha. Notably:

Royal Westmoreland is a safe and well-established community with the accolades to prove it. It’s the perfect choice for a short or long-term stay. Thanks for letting us walk you through one of the most beautiful communities in Barbados. Until next time…

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

A visit to Barbados will bring you to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – hey, we have documentation to prove that. Alongside our outstanding beaches and sense of humor to match, the top 3 Beachfront Escapes are honestly no joke. Take a quick trip with us, see what our exclusive Barbados vacation rentals have to offer.

 

  1. Hemingway House, St James

Lauded for excellent service, Hemingway House is tucked away between the serenity of Barbados’ Gibbes Beach and the highly popular Mullins Beach. The 4 bedroom property offers a gorgeous and unique vantage point with Mullins Bay to the north, and the glistening, vast ocean directly in front.

What we love:

Favourite features:

 

  1. The Villa at The St. James, St. James

Our guests love waking up to the gentle lull of waves on the popular Paynes Bay beach. Situated on the ground floor of the West Coast’s newest luxury development and overlooking the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Paynes Bay, this 5 bedroom condo is a treasure for guests looking to enjoy the ultimate vacation experience in Barbados.

What we love:

Favourite features:

 

  1. Nelson Gay, St. Peter

Our enchanting 6 bedroom beachfront vacation rental, was originally built as the home of a United States Ambassador in the 1950s, and reflects a Palladian grandeur. A stay at Nelson Gay unveils six decades of charm and sophistication presented over 1.5 acres of mature and immaculately lush gardens. Swimming with the turtles, paddle boarding and watersports – that’s just the icing on the cake.

What we love:

Favourite features:

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

Travel trends have changed worldwide, and Barbados has seen a shift to mid-term rentals. Our guests are staying longer and to be honest, they are truly loving it here. A mid-term rental is determined as a period of 2-5 months, while a long-term rental is 6 months or more. That’s a longer stay to enjoy everything that Barbados has to offer. For the month of January, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 5 Barbados mid-term rentals that are the most viewed. What do they have in common? Pools, views and amazing décor. We hope you enjoy; our Barbados vacation rentals will definitely make you want to stay longer.

 

Royal Westmoreland – High Spirits
4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | Swimming Pool

• Breathtaking views across the Robert Trent Jones Jr. design golf course
• Family friendly – televisions, including a 3D TV and Xbox system
• Onsite tennis courts, fitness centre, spa, clubhouse with resort pool varied dining options.

Marsh Mellow
4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | Swimming Pool

• Custom designed villa on a ridge with panoramic sea and island views
• Master bedroom features a terrace with direct access to the pool deck
• Short drive to the beach and the popular Sea Shed beachfront eatery

Martello House
8 Bed | 8 Bath | Swimming Pool

• Villa overlooks the rolling fairways of Barbados’ Royal Westmoreland Golf Course
• Luxuriously furnished with unique statement pieces, marble floors and state of the art lighting
• Gym, games room, snooker room with kitchenette and a surround sound media room

Tom Tom
5 Bed | 5.5 Bath | Swimming Pool
• Luxury vacation rental located in Westmoreland St. James overlooking stunning West Coast views
• Harper Downie design with beautiful custom-made furniture imported directly from Indonesia and Bali
• Special features include outdoor tubs in a tropical courtyard and 2 new treehouse gazebos

Emily House
7 Bed | 5.5 Bath | Swimming Pool
• Beachfront villa overlooks the Atlantic Ocean on the Southern tip of Barbados
• Features an open plan deck with an 8 seater dining table and oversized sun loungers
• Proximity to many of the well known local surfing spots, Miami Beach and fishing town of Oistins

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

We explored the culinary delights of Barbados’ Top 5 South Coast Restaurants. Now it’s time for the West Coast. Also known as the platinum coast, the West Coast offers plenty of fine dining (beachfront of course), upscale barefoot beachfront eateries and if you’re actually staying at a Blue Sky Luxury villa, scrumptious chef prepared meals. Hey, you can treat your Barbados holiday rental as an intimate restaurant. The food is that exquisite. Here you go Barbados’ Top 5 West Coast Restaurants. With protocols constantly changing, it’s better to check with the restaurant when booking. Bon appétit!

 

Barbados’ Top 5 West Coast Restaurants

  1. Sea Shed
  2. The Lone Star Restaurant
  3. The Tides
  4. The Fish Pot
  5. The Seashed
  6. The Mews

 

Sea Shed 

Laissez-fair beach vibe

Think …Nikki Beach meets rustic chic but way sexier! With more rosé than you can drink (I highly doubt that I have faith in you), excellent service, and great vibes on the weekend, Sea Shed at Mullins Beach delivers on their “laissez-faire beach vibe.” Again, Chef Jeremy titillates us with a unique fusion of sea-to-slate offerings. If you are a pizza lover, our Group Knowledge Manager Tarik recommends the “Cabra” a mouthwatering combination of cream sauce, mozzarella, goat cheese, honey, and olives.

 

The Lone Star Restaurant 

Idyllic setting, celebrity clientele

Not to be outdone by the south coast restaurants, this gem on the platinum coast shines brightly with its cool, contemporary digs on the beachfront. Renowned for its celebrity clientele, their new and exciting menu offers – a fusion of Italian fare and to quote “much loved timeless Lone Star classics.” Choose from the Moules MariniereChicken Tikka MasalaPrawn Thai Green Curry, or Shredded Aromatic Duck. you’re in for a treat!

 

The Tides

 Top fine dining restaurant

If you have not been here before, The Tides calls a classic seaside Barbadian residence built after the 2nd World War it’s a historic home. Located in Holetown, St. James. I have personally enjoyed at least two decadent meals at The Tides. Fish is always a favorite of mine and The Pan Fried Flying Fish at The Tides does not disappoint. The service as well is worth mentioning, absolutely impressive!

 

 

The Fish Pot 

Quaint waterside eatery

A breath of freshness has been infused into The Fish Pot nestled in a little bay in Shermans, St. Peter. French-born chef Jeremy Dupire of international fame and a local culinary master behind top restaurants such as The Cliff and the newly opened Sea Shed has brought us even more culinary joy. The Fish Pot is a must-visit and the seafood antipasti platter, marinated flying fish panini and grilled Caribbean lobster are highly recommended.

 

The Mews

Farm to table experience

I’ve often had the pleasure to be invited to try the farm to table offerings from The Mews along with our concierge team. Set in the ever-lively 2nd street in Holetown, Chef Anife brings local fare to life! With various gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan offerings, there’s something for everyone. By that I mean yes, there is meat, meat lovers. Everyone should try the Blackened catch of the day with fresh parsley new potatoes, roasted butternut squash, basil oil, fennel seeds, and tzatziki.

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

From our family to yours, here’s our trio of villa offers to suit luxury your way. Join us here in Barbados to reconnect with your loved ones. No matter where you are, we will be thinking of you.

 

Last Minute Availability

Think of November 2020 travel? We offer up to 30% off stunning vacation villas. Get inspired. Sapphire Beach offers beachfront apartments on the South Coast. Perfect for couples or families.

View Offer >

 

Last Minute Christmas

Take back the holidays with a choice of family-friendly Christmas villas. Choose from relaxed beachfront to celebrity status villas. We’ve introduced flexible 7-night stays at Christmas, just for you.

View Luxury  Villa Offer >

View Casual Villa Offer >

 

Mid-Term stays – 2 Months +

Our Mid-term stays offer you a chance to experience Barbados or simply stay in a safe destination. You may just want to take advantage of the 12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp and extend your stay for a year!

Email us at for special rates >

 

As always, we are happy to hear from you. Email us if you have any questions on any of our offers.

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Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

We love the South Coast vibe. It’s laid back, plenty of drinking, dining and drinking options. No that was not a typo. If you’re a foodie at heart, this list is for you. Without further ado… drumroll… Here are the Top 5 Barbados Restaurants on the South Coast of Barbados, and yes, they are all open with full COVID 19 protocols in place. With protocols constantly changing, it’s better to check with the restaurant when booking. Bon appétit!

Barbados’ Top 5 South Coast Restaurants

  1. Buzo Osteria Italiana
  2. Salt Café
  3. Blakey’s on the Boardwalk
  4. Café Sol
  5. Champers

 

Buzo Osteria Italiana

Food, love, passion

You must check out this amazing Italian Restaurant on Hastings Main Road. A friend once recommended that I try the “Bistecca Ai Ferri” I did, and I’ve never been the same. It was excellent! but sadly, my Italian, not as good. Just ask for the Ribeye steak, red wine and red onion compote…it’s lit! no literally, they light it.

 

Salt Café

Hand-crafted comfort food

Ok, we all love poke (or do we?) Let’s ignore the naysayers for now. Salt is more than just poke. From truffle friesbaos and “banging salads” to crispy pig ears, the international flair of this cosy little restaurant on Hastings Main road will leave your taste buds clamoring for more. I highly recommend the poke… or did I say that already?

 

Blakey’s on the boardwalk

Good food, good lime, good music

Did someone say live entertainment, local delicacies, and drink specials? Honestly, I may just pop on over myself! Enjoy the cooling breeze at Blakey’s while local acts Jae Johansen, JJ & Chadd and many more serenade you. Have lunch, then take a stroll on the boardwalk after to walk off their delicious local pudding & souse and superlative drink mixes.

 

Café Sol

Authentic Mexican restaurant

Mentioned in our handy “Barbados Guide and Must-Try List” Café Sol is a Mexican restaurant at the entrance of the ever-famous St. Lawrence Gap. Taste the flavour of warm taquitoscheesy quesadillas, and a delightful array of mouthwatering margaritas. We would be amiss if we didn’t tell you to take a stroll through The Gap to check out the nightlife and to get a nightcap. (yes, that was intentional)

 

Champers

Leading South Coast restaurant

We head down the South Coast to Champers for a delightful seaside dining experience. Located in Rockley, Christ Church, Champers is undoubtedly one of the leading restaurants on the South Coast. What makes it unique is the vibrant art gallery where you can acquire a local piece after you try the highly recommended Herb Crusted Rack of lamb from our Concierge Manager Shernelle. That’s her favourite anniversary dish!

Look out for our Top 5 West Coast Restaurants coming soon!

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

Our Top Reasons to Skip the Hotel and Enjoy a Villa Holiday instead! 

Fun with family and friends. Relaxation, a flexible schedule, a chance to “just be you” and enjoy those who are most special. A unique setting, space, a home away from home. All of this can be enjoyed in a gorgeous holiday home – this is what vacations are made of. More-so, with the emergence of COVID-19, and the need for social distancing, villa vacations offer so much more than a traditional hotel stay and here are our top reasons why.

Stay, Safe

With the emergence of COVID-19, the world has changed. As a result of this, holidaymakers needs and expectations have changed as well. An open buffet with hundreds of strangers around brings a sense of anxiety. Having an entire space for you and your loved ones is an offer that a hotel simply cannot match. An increasing number of travelers are into wellness and villas with private gyms, pools and even movie theaters give guests the freedom to stay, safe and relax.

So Much More than Just a Room with a View

Vacation homes offer you so much more than a room with a view. Space to play, reconnect and make memories to last a lifetime. Villa holidays provide access to a world of one-of-a-kind opportunities. Have you ever dreamed of staying in a fully staffed beachfront home with more than 20 of your nearest and dearest friends? Or on a historic island estate with your family surrounded by tropical gardens? Or in a romantic apartment just steps away from fantastic restaurants, hot spots and white sandy beaches? It is time to stop dreaming and start living. All of these memorable vacations, and many, many more are just a few clicks away.

 

Personal Service … Plus Privacy!

Our experienced team can assist you with choosing the perfect villa from our extensive property listings based on your unique requirements. Ultimately, the villa you choose and all of its amenities becomes your private retreat…there is no need to share with throngs of other guests. To tailor-make your holiday even further, our concierge team of island experts are available to assist with creating your perfect holiday itinerary from the moment you book your home and will also be available to assist you throughout your stay. Many villas come with their staff who look after your every need – it is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that cannot be duplicated! Even holiday homes that are located within condo resorts are more private than hotels, thanks to the spacious designs and beautiful facilities and common areas.

Great Value 

Have you ever considered staying at one of the island’s top villas? Well if you travel as a group, this may very well be your reality! In comparison to hotel rooms with a usual maximum capacity of four persons, several of our villas sleep 10-plus guests. Therefore, traveling as a large group spells more value for money, since the cost is split over more guests at any one time. Additionally, many villas include extra amenities so you can enjoy relaxing at your home away from home rather than heading out daily for restaurant meals and activities.

The Joy of a Flexible Schedule 

Staying at a villa during your island getaway offers the perfect canvas to let your imagination run wild! Unlike hotels which have strict schedules for dining, housekeeping and other basic services, villas give you the luxury of sleeping in late and still enjoying a fantastic breakfast, midnight dips in the pool, as well as all the other perks you need to just go with the flow and enjoy at your own pace. After all, this is your holiday so we want you to enjoy it your way!

 

Kids can be just that…Kids!  

Don’t forget, children are very much welcomed in many of our holiday villas! If you have children traveling with you, you can let the frolicking resume as soon as they arrive at the holiday home, where kids have space to explore. Parents can easily keep an eye on the little ones, and won’t have to worry about their children venturing into restricted areas. Moreover – and probably most importantly – the youngsters won’t have to bridle their fun to avoid interrupting other guests! Preparing their food? Keeping to their nap and meal schedule? Villas have that covered too! After all happy kids mean happy holidays for parents too.

Enjoy an Authentic Barbadian Experience

Whether you choose a holiday home on the island’s south or west coasts, or a quiet retreat further inland, villas offer you a more intimate opportunity to explore the authentic Barbadian experience. Take a stroll to the local convenience store, or stop short and have some refreshing coconut water from a roadside vendor to really get a glimpse of how Barbadians live! Better yet, have your in-villa cook prepare the finest in local cuisine and indulge in the best the island has to offer!

Perfect for Families, Buddymoons & Landmark Celebrations

Our beautiful villas offer spacious rooms and grounds perfect for hosting groups of friends and family! You will be spoilt for options when trying to choose the perfect bedroom for each guest, and will cherish the time spent reconnecting by the sunny pool, sipping lemonade on the terrace or around the dinner table each evening. Villas are the top choice for families and landmark celebrations thanks to stunning venues, absolute privacy and the creation of vibrant memories. But, even after your special day has passed and the event lingers as a dear memory, you can bask in the afterglow with your loved ones at the very place where your memories were made. We invite you to make memories to last a lifetime.

Do you think you are ready for a villa holiday? Then visit our extensive listing of villas, condos and apartments to get started!

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Find a villa here

 

Download Our Relocations Guide

We’ve launched! Starting today, you can get all of the information needed on relocating to Barbados under the 12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp.  The Terra Group of companies (a bit below on us) has launched a comprehensive guide to answer any questions that you may have on relocating to Barbados.

When we learned of the 12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp, we instantly came together to see how we could pool our best in class selection of villas, houses, apartments and townhouses, all suited for long term rentals. That royal we in The Terra Group ladies and gents comprises Terra Caribbean, Terra Luxury and of course, yours truly Blue Sky Luxury. Ahem…let’s get back to the good stuff!

Other than giving advice on the best authentic local experiences, the best Barbados vacation villas, offering luxury your way, here’s how we can help you relocate to Barbados. Peep our 12 reasons why (yes, we’re playing on the series and the stamp) Blue Sky Luxury and our sister companies Terra Caribbean and Terra Luxury is the best team to help you through the process of relocation to Barbados.

Key information from our 12 Month Barbados Welcome Stamp relocations guide:

Barbados Facts

Residency Options

Special Entry & Reside Permit (SERP)

Obtaining your Barbados Welcome Stamp

Your choice of Barbados long term rentals

Life in Barbados

Download our relocations guide and contact us at 1 (246) 434-9000 or E: info@barbadoswelcomestamp.com  if you have any questions. We love to hear from you.

While you patiently await our bespoke long-term rental website with a wide selection of long term rental properties, sign up below to receive new updates!

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Launched in The Red Book 2019, The Blue Standard is Blue Sky Luxury’s response to the need for clear standards in the villas rental market in the Caribbean. The aim is to have benchmarks to ensure consistency in the quality of product and services offered to owners and by extension, their guests.

The Blue Standard initially focused on four core areas, primarily to ensure the best possible service delivered to owners. These core areas are:

The Blue Standard – Part 2

The next stage in development of The Blue Standard has evolved to include four areas we believe are crucial to also providing the best possible service to our guests.

These four areas outline specific experiences and facets that are important to the holiday rental traveller. They identify why each is important and to what level/detail the service is to be provided depending on the holiday home and how each home within a certain category will have its own Service Level Standards which will add value to a guest’s experience.

By differentiating and expanding on the added value provided by category, it helps to ensure that each home operates within, and thrives to its highest levels of service, there is consistency of service throughout the entire category of homes and therefore expectations can be set and we can deliver on this promise.

Arrival Experience

Direct contact is essential in ensuring that we understand the experience each guest wants. Keeping the communication channels open, asking the right probing questions and being an expert in our local, authentic experiences build the relationship and keep the guest engaged, excited and open to your suggestions.

The arrival experience deals specifically with how each guest is communicated with from the point of booking straight through to their arrival on island.

Regardless of the property that is booked, a Concierge agent is in communication with the guests within 48 hours of booking. We encourage pre-planning especially for the winter season, our team can facilitate requests for restaurant reservations and car rentals. ‘Must-do’ activities such as catamaran cruises should also be booked early so that guests do not miss out on some of the unique experiences Barbados has to offer.

The arrival experience must always be quick, personalised, relaxed and thorough. Luxury properties include their staff as part of the welcome experience, guests are introduced and the staff provide certain details about the home.
The assigned Concierge agent will also be present for the arrival.

Concierge and Staffing Service

The standard has been set for all of our Concierge agents; they are certified in one or more modules of the Certified Guest Service Professional. The role of a Concierge is to provide information and recommendations to the guest for their holiday as well as ensuring the smooth flow of all services requested while they are on island. Information on and assistance with restaurants, bars, and other activities is also very important, in addition to being available 24 hours a day, regardless of the category of the property.

Many holiday guests make return visits to homes in part, due to the caring and hospitable nature of the staff.

A concierge visits the guests daily at luxury properties almost serving as a personal assistant. While guests are on island, we help to guide them, and anticipating their needs is essential.

Many luxury properties allow guests to charge groceries, wines and beverages to their guest account that is settled prior to their departure.

For each level of property, minimum staffing levels for the home have been set. Properties in the luxury category provide different staff for varying needs; oftentimes a chef, butler and a various number of housekeepers and laundresses are available during the holiday. Many holiday guests make return visits to homes in part, due to the caring and hospitable nature of the staff. Cooks/chefs provide amazing meals and service and many times guests are blown away.

There are times when part of the planning of a holiday involves the need for additional staff. This can be organised by the Concierge, using our team of temporary staff who can be assigned on an as needed basis.

Amenities

Minimum requirements have been established for each home based on the category. Providing amenities at all levels increase the attractiveness to holiday rental guests. Simple recreational additions to the home such as books, puzzles, and board go a long way to show guests that their comfort is considered and important. Owners of luxury homes add amenities to the property; it may be the addition of an espresso/cappuccino machine or something impressive such as tennis courts or an in-house spa, unique touches that will differentiate them from the market.

Having a generator for emergency power needs and water storage tanks in cases of disruption of service are expected of a certain calibre home and owners’ awareness to these needs is growing.

Departure Experience

Regardless of the category of home, the departure process at all properties is no different – it must be quick, convenient and effortless. Twenty-four hours prior to departure all bills and any backup information are to be provided for easy settlement. A gift or souvenir and an offer to rebook are presented.

The departure experience doesn’t end on departure; as a standard, a thank-you email/card and follow-up is always sent. Providing feedback should always be easy and all guests are encouraged to do so.

With the latest upgrade of the Blue Standard we continue to evolve as we seek to ensure that our guests have the best holiday experience.