Handpicked Villas (The Caribbean)

20/02/2015

The glistening sands and lingering sunsets of the Caribbean have long been synonymous with romance. The sensual colours, soothing textures and decadent luxuries found across each of the islands make for a simply sublime recipe for adding some tropical spice to your relationship.

Take some inspiration from our 7 favourite couples retreats and book yourself a little quality time with that special someone in your life…

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/the-valentines-edition-our-top-7-couples-retreats/

The glistening sands and lingering sunsets of the Caribbean have long been synonymous with romance. The sensual colours, soothing textures and decadent luxuries

20/02/2015

Fridays have long been meant for winding down, catching up with good friends and the opportunity to take a little more time over your food. Fridays in the Caribbean are no exception, and out in the tropics, where better to rustle up some flavours than on a big old BBQ?!

Barbecue, BBQ, Bar-B-Q. However you spell it, this cooking method and essential outdoor apparatus create a culinary genre that is hard to replicate. Whether ‘low and slow’ or ‘high and fast’ this outdoor entertainment is an activity that brings families/groups together the world over.

What have you got in plan for your Friday night? Why not read our latest article below and try a classic Caribbean cookfest....

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/love-to-grill-enjoy-our-6-best-bbqs/

Love alfresco dining? The rich flavours and delicious scents of a poolside villa BBQ? Enjoy our 6 best in the Caribbean...

04/02/2015

Beach holidays offer enjoyment, serenity and refreshment, a complete contrast to the more populated urban settings that many of us are used to.

However, even with the beautiful vistas that adorn the Caribbean, it’s always useful to know how to make the most of your beach adventure.

Be on vacation in both body and spirit and read our top tips, our must-pack essentials and a few rather more unusual pieces of advice from our own personal experience…

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/the-secret-to-beachside-bliss/

Caribbean beach trips are relaxing and serene, but even the most seasoned traveller knows that it's all in the planning. Pack for the beach with our top tips...

04/02/2015

Ever wondered what it feels like to be waited on hand and foot whilst on holiday? To only mention your slight thirst during your poolside retreat and have a homemade, ice-cold cocktail carefully slipped into your view? To wake up each morning to the delicious sight of a lovingly prepared breakfast waiting on your table? To dine on some of the country’s most incredible culinary faire in the comfort of your own hideaway?

If the answer to each of those questions is a heartfelt YES, then read on...

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/our-guide-to-private-villa-cooks/

16/12/2014

There’s nothing quite comparable to the ice cold clink of a beer bottle, the crispy and delicious offerings from a beachside menu or the soothing sensation of sand between your toes. With a fabulous array of inlets dotted along the West Coast of St Lucia, the choice of locations to rest your well-travelled legs are plentiful.

Whether you’re looking to elegantly sip upon a rum soaked mojito or tuck into a lavish platter of the freshest seafood, explore our favourite waterside hideaways below…

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/st-lucia/st-lucias-best-beach-bars/

From Rodney Bay to Marigot Bay, there are many St Lucia bars to relax in. Beachside bliss can be found at any of these 4 incredible beachfront bars and

15/12/2014

ONLY 10 DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS!!!!

Tell us how you'll be spending yours....(personally, we're hoping for private beaches, endless cocktails and steel-drum beats!)

12/12/2014

What a fantastic idea!! A must-watch video for all travel lovers...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojdfIaYAMKg

Airbnb & KLM believe, for an amazing trip you need a great place to stay. And what could be cooler than booking a truly local one? So from now on, you can bo...

12/12/2014

LIKE if you fancy...
..a private island retreat nestled off the coast of Grenada?

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/advsearchr?search_id=22099

11/12/2014

Ever wondered what it feels like to be waited on hand and foot whilst on holiday?
To only mention your slight thirst during your poolside retreat and have a homemade, ice-cold cocktail carefully slipped into your view? To wake up each morning to the delicious sight of a lovingly prepared breakfast waiting on your table?
To dine on some of the country’s most incredible culinary faire in the comfort of your own hideaway?

If the answer to each of those questions is a heartfelt YES, then read on....

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/our-guide-to-private-villa-cooks/

Villas with chefs or private cooks make your Caribbean stay even more relaxing. Our staffed villas offer flexible, personalised service that is truly memorable.

10/12/2014

The BVI (British Virgin Islands) is a pristine collection of over 60 tiny, picture perfect, unspoiled islands, all within a 10-20 minute boat ride of each other. Every island is accessible, completely unique and unbelievably special.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT2IdCYkq5I

A fabulous video produced by Chris Norton. Thank you Chris for allowing to share this.

09/12/2014

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/business/opinion-future-manchester-airport-looking-8234550

Andrew Cowan, chief operating officer of Manchester Airports Group (MAG), on regional success

08/12/2014

For the early birds looking to catch the Caribbean worm, make sure you contact our Luxury Villa Specialists today to book your getaway!

www.handpickedvillas.net

Handpicked Villas specialise in selecting luxurious Caribbean villa rental properties that meet the highest standards for quality and luxury

05/12/2014

Knowing how to keep the little ones entertained in a new country can sometimes seem a daunting task. Whilst there are the beautiful beaches and infinite pools to consider, finding out what other adventures there are to be had can require insider knowledge.

Which is why we’re delighted to share with you our favourite fun-filled activities to plan with your loved ones...

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/st-lucia/keeping-the-kids-entertained/

St Lucia day activities for kids are of abundance on this beautiful island. There are many activities for families to keep all ages entertained.

05/12/2014

Welcome your weekend in style at the effortlessly chic Atelier House...

This stylish and newly built contemporary villa sits on a ridge and boasts dramatic sea views over an impressive gulley, which can be seen from the infinity edge pool. Designed by renowned architect Alistair Downie, Atelier House represents a level of style, elegance and design not normally available in Barbados.



http://www.handpickedvillas.net/atelier-house/view-details

This stylish and newly built contemporary villa sits on a ridge and boasts dramatic sea views over an impressive gulley, which can be seen from the infinity edge pool.

04/12/2014

Long have the benefits of Coconuts been raved about by many a nutritionist and lifestyle blogger the world over. The oil, water, flesh, milk and all other components have wonderful qualities, not least of which their delicate and truly tropical taste.

So, where better to indulge in a truly natural health kick than in the Caribbean? On many of the islands, gallons of the Coconut Water can be bought from supermarkets, roadsides and just about every vendable square metre.

Contact our Luxury Villa Specialists today for the latest rates and availability across our 10+ beautiful Caribbean islands...

https://www.coconutsecret.com/coconuthealthsecrets2.html

If you're anything like me, you prefer the basic facts highlighted for you in bullet point fashion ~ everything important you need to know about the naturally occurring health benefits of coconut tree products. So, I'll get right to it!

03/12/2014

Looking for the ultimate in golfing getaways?

Luxury villa rental marries perfectly with this timeless sport, ensuring that both budding golfers and their family and friends can all relax and pursue their own interests within the comfort of a fully staffed retreat.

Our handpicked guide gives you the lowdown on our favourite tropical golf courses, with all the key information you need to know to ensure the holiday of a lifetime. Choose from dramatic fairways, challenging greens and spectacular scenery all served up with a side order of true Caribbean hospitality.

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/villa-types/villas-for-golf

Stay close to the action on your golf travel trip with our exclusive luxury villa rentals. Everything you need to relax on your caribbean golf adventure.

02/12/2014

Getting Married in 2015?

How you choose to celebrate your wedding day, ultimately is a reflection of yourself and your partners relationship, your values and your traditions. Choosing to locate your wedding in the Caribbean, will allow you to share your vows in a picturesque location with weather that is guaranteed to be perfect, scenery that is guaranteed to be exquisite, and memories that are guaranteed to be unique.

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/celebrating-your-special-day-in-the-caribbean/

Handpicked Villas would be delighted to suggest our personal recommendations of the most efficient Wedding Planners, so please do not hesitate in getting in touch .

28/11/2014

If you prefer to your ice cubed then laced with delicate cocktails, rather than thickly caked on your windscreen, then spending your winter in the Caribbean might be the perfect solution for you.

Many of our guests choose to leave the bad weather behind over Christmas and escape to the tempting shores of the Caribbean.
Families, groups and couples of all ages find the pull of the azure waters, soothing tropical beats and silk-soft sands difficult to resist.

So, swap your mittens and scarves for sun tan lotion and get ready to celebrate Christmas the tropical way! We’ve handpicked our favourite Caribbean festivities for you to enjoy during your time abroad below and invite you to join us on the sunnier side of life….

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/travel-advice/festive-activities-in-the-caribbean-this-christmas/

With the help of Handpicked Villas they plan their festivities around the laid back lifestyle of the islands and the many yuletide events available.

27/11/2014

Happy Thanksgiving Everybody!

What are you especially thankful for today? We're thankful for powder-soft beaches, spectacular sunsets, gin-coloured waters and the immense intricacy and beauty of nature....

26/11/2014

Calling all party-goers, music enthusiasts, sun-worshippers and combinations of all three!! In January 2015, Jamaica will be hosting another incredible Jazz and Blues Festival and tickets are now on sale online!

For those of you looking to indulge in a little Winter Sun, Jamaica is truly the perfect getaway. With its endless white sands, colourful culture, lush rain forests and delicious food, there is no end to the delights this island can bring.

For the widest selection of luxury villas in Jamaica, contact our Luxury Villa Specialists today. They will be delighted to assist you with your plans and will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date rates and availability, plus travel advice, personal recommendations and much, much more!

http://www.jamaicajazzandblues.com

Jamaica Jazz and Blues 2015 music festival

25/11/2014

We're in a festive mood here at Handpicked HQ, which is why we're super excited to announce our official Countdown To Christmas!!

Just 1 month to go until the big day, and we'd love to hear how your yuletide planning is coming along! Are you looking to surprise someone with the holiday of a lifetime in 2015?

Let us know by commenting below...

24/11/2014

Whilst we know the allure of the Caribbean is mostly centred on it’s silky white sands, azure waters and dramatic landscapes, it’s reassuring to know that when the sun sets there are a multitude of excitements to tempt even the most party-shy.

For such a petite island, St Lucia offers a spectacular array of of culinary adventures, laid-back cocktail bars, beachfront hideouts and diverse rum joints. The islands natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop to such experiences, with the Pitons gently framing vistas and a bounty of beautiful beaches providing luring panoramas to many a relaxation spot.

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/st-lucia/nightlife-in-st-lucia-2/

St Lucia nightlife is some of the most entertaining amongst the tropical islands of the Caribbean. There are many things to do in St Lucia when the sun sets...

21/11/2014

For those looking to indulge in 18 holes during their time away, Jamaica is truly the Caribbean island of choice when it comes to a good game. The best golf courses in Jamaica are by no doubt located in Montego Bay, the island’s premier coastal hub to the North.

Luxury villa rental marries perfectly with this timeless sport, ensuring that both budding golfers and their family and friends can all relax and pursue their own interests within the comfort of a fully staffed retreat.

Our handpicked guide gives you the lowdown on our Top 5 Golf Courses In Jamaica, with all the key information you need to know to ensure the holiday of a lifetime. Choose from dramatic fairways, challenging greens and spectacular scenery all served up with a side order of true Jamaican hospitality.

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/jamaica/the-best-golf-courses-in-jamaica/

What to do in Jamaica? How about playing on some of the top ranked golf courses in the world? The best golf courses in Jamaica are located close to Montego Bay.

21/11/2014

For all those looking for a last-minute getaway, we have some incredible offers on Luxury Caribbean Villas until the 15th December!

Eden On The Sea, Barbados
£320* per night
Stay For 7 Nights, Only Pay For 6!!!

For more of our exclusive Special Offers, and handpicked expert advice, contact our Luxury Villa Specialists today!

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/eden-on-the-sea/view-details

This beachfront villa, located within the peaceful Merlin Bay community, offers unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea from nearly every vantage point, including a superb rooftop terrace.

20/11/2014

Guess what Handpicked Villas fans....
...it's only 5 Weeks Till Christmas!!!

So, each week we'll be giving you a rundown of our 5 favourite Caribbean villas as an early stocking filler!

In at number 5....Water's Edge Ridge Villa (Virgin Gorda)

This stunning villa has a an open concept floor plan in the great room and each suite has a private entrance. The villa features contemporary décor, using natural stone and glass throughout. The Master Suite is complete with king bed, two closets, en-suite bathroom featuring an outdoor shower and soaking tub. Three additional King Guest Suites include en-suite bathrooms and outdoor patios. The villa includes large pocket doors to embrace the stunning views, an open terrace with outdoor dining, grill and an infinity pool.

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/waters-edge-ridge-villa/view-details

Nestled into the hill on the North Side of Oil Nut Bay, Waters Edge Villa is perfectly positioned for amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, Anegada, Oil Nut Bay and the Resort Community. It is Oil Nut Bay’s version of high-rise living.

19/11/2014

Barbados; the 'Jewel' of the Caribbean, where the soft beat of steel drums floats through the air and luxury villa rental is abundant and spectacular.

As a firm favourite of many British guests for decades, this beautiful island is an ideal retreat for those looking for true relaxation, a sense of luxury and guaranteed Caribbean spirit.

With endless white and pinks sands, incredible barbados weather, some of the finest cuisine in the West Indies and more sightseeing opportunities than anywhere else in the Caribbean, our luxury villas in Barbados remain very popular.

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/barbados/about-barbados

Thinking of visiting Barbados? Our 120+ luxury villas are all hand picked from personal experience. Chat with our expert staff today...

18/11/2014

In the run-up to Christmas, we all look forward to spending quality time with out nearest and dearest. That well-deserved bonding that ensures your break is filled with lasting happy memories.

Family holidays are the same. The endless days spent reconnecting, enjoying beautiful surroundings, eating delicious food and being waited on hand and foot.

Handpicked Villas knows the importance of family, and our Luxury Villa Specialists would be delighted to recommend the most suitable villas for your Caribbean stay.

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/villa-types/villas-for-families

Hand Picked Villas have the ideal family friendly villas for you. Read about Caribbean islands and why they are the ideal location for your family.

17/11/2014

BRAND NEW to our luxury portfolio in Barbados, allow us to introduce the stunningly beautiful Cane End....

http://www.handpickedvillas.net/cane-end/view-details

This impeccable four bedroom, luxury property includes the main villa, infinity edge pool and a poolside gazebo, plus a charming guest cottage. The grounds have been lovingly maintained over the years and help establish this villa as one of the best on the Sugar Hill Estate.

14/11/2014

With Caribbean villa rental, there is already a high expectation of luxury. So, why not complement your fabulous surroundings with a decadent culinary treat?

Lobster has long been the symbol of extravagant dining, mainly because of it’s beautiful buttery texture and rich flavour.

Barbados is home to a large number of award-winning seafood restaurants and bistros, but we’ve picked our favourite 5 who really know how to cook up this crunchy little Crustacean.

http://blog.handpickedvillas.net/barbados/5-ways-to-enjoy-barbados-lobster/

The Best Seafood Restaurants in Barbados all serve beautiful Caribbean lobsters. Read our guide to ocean fresh fish and different types of lobster available in

14/11/2014