Rent Caribbean Villa

FINE DINING ON ST. THOMAS:

St. Thomas offers a wonderful and wide selection of restaurants in a variety of price points.  A variety of local fresh cuisine may be enjoyed as well as traditional fare.

The Agave Terrace is a favorite and offers stunning panoramas of St. John and the nearby British Virgin Islands.  The restaurant has earned more than six gold medals in regional Caribbean cooking competitions. 

Cafe Wahoo id located on the East End and offers wonderful seafood.  The chef gets first pick from the fisherman who bring their catches across the dock at the nearby Yacht Harbor.  Recipes are Euro-Caribbean and entrees include fresh seafood, fish as well as steak and pasta dishes.

Craig and Sally's is located in Frenchtown and boast and extensive and exotic menu as well as wine list.  The menu changes daily but be sure to try the eggplant cheesecake and pinenut garlic bread crust. 

Romanos is located on the East End, near Coral World, and offers superb Northern Italian cuisine.

The Herve Restaurant and Wine Bar is located next to Hotel 1829 and offers a creative menu of Caribbean and contemporary French and American cuisine.  The tables are exquisitely set with linen, silver and fine crystal. 

The Banana Tree Grille offers one of the best views of Charlotte Amalie as well as excellent food.  Call ahead and be sure to ask for a table as far to the edge as possible on the terrace.  The portions are generous and seafood is wonderful.

Private villa rentals are a wonderful option for vacationers to St. Thomas.  While private villa rentals all boast their own private pool and fully equipped kitchen, they still make an excellent base for exploring the island's many restaurants. 
The Ventana is a stunning villa located on a dramatic hillside on over two acres of land and offering exceptional and panoramic views of nearby Charlotte Amalie's Harbor and sublime sunset views.  The interiors are nicely furnished and feature original artwork.  Built on two levels, the villa offers four air-conditioned bedrooms and baths.  A covered dining areas and furnished verandah is located just off the Great Room and provides an ideal spot for relaxing and dining alfresco.  Meandering brick patios and walkways lead to the spectacular private swimming pool.  Guests will enjoy the awe inspiring view of the harbor, passing cruise ships and the twinkling lights of Charlotte Amalie at night.   http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/ventana

Cote Sud is a recently renovated villa offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.  Set on 1.5 acres of land behind an electronic gate the villa is near a pebble beach and offers a 100 foot concrete landing dock complete with a swim ladder for ocean access.  The interiors are well furnished and offer original art and local island pieces.  Built on several levels, the villa offers four bedrooms and four barths.  A beautiful deck is bordered by an infinity styled swimming pool and a private hot tub is just to the side.  A staircase leads from the deck to the shoreline and concrete pier.   The landing is furnished and serves as a delightful spot for sunset cocktails.    http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/cote-sud

Crosswinds  is a charming villa set atop a bluff right above the ocean's edge and offering exceptional views of Hans Lollick, the British Virgin Islands and blue seas beyond.   The interiors feature tiled floors and colorful fabrics.  The villa offers one air-conditioned bedroom and bath.  French doors open to outdoor stairs which lead to the deck and swimming pool area.  http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/crosswinds 

Secret Gardens is a located on Picara Point and offers plush intimacy.  The interiors feature imported timbers from Tobago and hand painted murals.  Fully air-conditioned, the home features lovely furnishings inspired from Bali, Africa and the Mediterranean.  Secret Gardens offers two air-conditioned bedrooms (both master suites)  and two baths.  Outside, there is a spacious sun deck complete with a private infinity edged swimming pool.   http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/secret-gardens

Casa Azure is located on a very private cliffside overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offering panoramic views of nearby St. John, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola and Pillsbury Sound.  The villa is built on two levels and offers full air-conditioning.  The interiors feature elegant furnishings and state of the art amenities.  The villa has three air-conditioned bedrooms and en-suite baths.  An expansive sun deck, swimming pool and lounge chairs provide endless hours of well deserved relaxation.  http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/casa-azure

St. Thomas offers exceptional cuisine and restaurants as well as spectacular private villas available for rent.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES ON ST. THOMAS:

St. Thomas is a wonderful choice for families as the island offers such a variety of attractions sure to please a variety of ages. 
 
The island offers exceptional white sand beaches which are sure to entertain all ages.  Many of the beaches offer great snorkeling for beginners as well as well as a variety of watersports equipment.
 
The Coral World Ocean Park should not be missed.  Visitors can witness the  beauty and magic of live both above and below the Caribbean Sea.  The park features an undersea observatory which permits visitors to stay dry and observe non-captive fish and other marine life as they about their daily life on the reef.  Children of all ages will be delighted by the changing life that can be observed from turtles, large schools of fish and sometimes even an occasional barracuda.  Another highlight of the park is the Sea Trek which offers an underwater helmet diving experience where visitors can walk in zero gravity while surrounded by an abundance of aquatic life.  Guides lead visitors through the coral reef that surrounds the park and fish swim right up to the visitor.  A helmet provides the air, weight and stability to permit visitors to walk upright under the water while their heads and hair stay completely dry and breathing is normal inside the helmet.
 
The Paradise Point Tramway is an exciting activity for families as well.  Visitors fly skyward in a gondola much like a ski lift 700 feet up the hill to Paradise Point.  Simply breathtaking views can be enjoyed of colorful Charlotte Amalie and the harbor. 
Stables on St. Thomas offer guided horseback rides through trails trails that wind through lush, green hills to beaches. 
Deep-sea fishing is some of the best in the waters off of St. Thomas and makes for an exciting day out on the ocean.  The waters are known for blue marlin and  several 1,000 pound plus blue marlins have been caught on the famous North Drop near St. Thomas. 
Chartering a boat for the day is another wonderful option for families.  St. Thomas is the charter boat mecca of the U.S. Virgin Island's and visitors can choose from sailing vessels with crew or take boasts out on their own.
Virgin Islands Ecotours offers guided trips on two man sit-atop ocean kayaks with stops for swimming and snorkeling.  These kayak trips are an excellent way to explore the island's waters and beaches. 
Families will, also, enjoy the ability to take inexpensive ferries to neighboring islands such as St. John and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.
The preferred accommodations for families on St. Thomas are private villa rentals which provide all of the comforts of home as well as private swimming pools which are always crowd pleasers.  Families will find full sized homes complete with full kitchens, entertainment areas as well as multiple bedrooms so everyone has some privacy.  Villas Caribe offers a lovely collection of private villa rentals. 
Villa Diva is lovely hideaway set on a lush hill and offering panoramic views of famous Magen's Bay.  The villa is built as two pavilions that are separated by a covered walkway, hot tub and swimming pool.  The interiors are spacious and tastefully decorated.  The home features three air-conditioned bedrooms and three baths.  http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/villa-diva

The enchantment villa is a gated property located in the exclusive Estate Peterborg area of the island and offers exceptional ocean views.  The home is spacious and almost 8,000 square feet and prides itself on privacy and comfort.  Villa Enchantment offer eight air-conditioned bedroom suites and eight bathrooms.  Outside, the villa boasts a lovely private swimming pool complete with built in table and sun umbrella.  http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/villa-enchantment

The Moonlight villa is located within the prestigious Mahogany Run Golf Course community.  It is nestled on a secluded hillside and offers mesmerizing ocean views.  Moonlight is built on two levels and is fully air-conditioned.  The interiors feature tiled floors and stylish furnishings.  The home has three bedroom and three and one half baths.  Outside, is a comfortable deck and private swimming pool.   http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/moonlight 

St. Thomas is an excellent choice for active families looking for a variety of land and sea activities.

BEST BEACHES ON ST. THOMAS:

St. Thomas offers some of the most gorgeous white sand beaches to be found anywhere in the Caribbean.  The island offers many beaches from it's famous Magen's Bay to more quiet beaches along the island's western shores.  Indeed, beachcombers will surely find a beach to suit their tastes.
 
Magen's Bay Beach has been named one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world.  It is a public park and offers a wide stretch of white sand as well as snorkeling.  The beach, also, has a snack bar and snorkeling equipment and small sailboat rentals are available as well.
 
Coki Beach offers calm, clear waters and is an ideal spot for scuba and snorkeling.
 
Sapphire Beach is a gorgeous beach which offers stunning views of the nearby British Virgin Islands.  The beach has reef areas just off the beach which are great for snorkeling.  The beach, also, boasts a marina, restaurant and a beachside dive shop that rents equipment.
 
Bluebeard's Beach is known for it's windsurfing..  The beach is framed by coconut palms and offers views of nearby St. John as well as lots of passing sailboats.
 
Bolongo Bay is located on the south shore and offers some great snorkeling.  Snorkelers will find shallow grass beds to colorful reefs and coral crusted boulders.  The beach offers a full service dive shop and restaurant as well.
 
Limetree Beach is a perfect beach cove and a popular spot for iguana watching.  Beach chairs are available for rent and there is a restaurant at the beach as well.
 
Morningstar Beach provides the perfect spot for a sun filled date.  Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available for rent as well as snorkeling and windsurf equipment.  Sunfish and sailboard rentals are available as well.  Additionally, there are two bars at the beach.
 
St. Thomas offers gorgeous white sand beaches and some spectacular beachfront and waterfront villas to rent.  Villas Caribe offers a classic collection of private home rentals on the island.
 
The Sand Dollar villa is an exceptional property located just above its own gorgeous white sand pocket beach on the calm shores of Magen's Bay.  The property offers luxury and seclusion just steps away from the crystal blue waters of the ocean.  The villa has been a popular choice for celebrities and heads of state for years and continues to entice the most discriminating guess.  The interiors offer fully tiled floors and an eclectic blend of contemporary and island decor.  Dramatic pillars and beamed ceilings punctuate the interiors which open to the vast views of the bay.  Sand Dollar has seven bedrooms and seven baths but can easily accommodate up to 22 guests.  The private swimming pool is set on an expansive multi-leveled deck.  The villa, also, has decks with a hot tub, shaded gazebo and spacious dining area perfect for alfresco meals.  Stairs cascade around 35 feet below to the gorgeous white sands below.    http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/sand-dollar-estate-st.-thomas
 
Casa Bougainvillea is located behind an electronic gate at the edge of the sea.  Fully air-conditioned, the villa  is located on a coral beach which offers great snorkeling.  A short walk down the beach leads to a nice sandy area which is ideal for swimming.  The villa is fully air-conditioned and offers five bedrooms.  Outside, there is a private swimming pool, an open air gazebo and a fountain and lily pound.   http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/casa-bougainvillea

The Coral Gardens Beach Estate is located at the end of Peterborg on the dramatic Picara Point peninsula.  It offers exceptional down island views as well as of Magens Bay.  Set on two acres, the villa is perfectly situated between the Atlantic and Caribbean Seas.  Built on two levels, the villa is fully air-conditioned and offers expansive living areas that are perfect for entertaining.  The villa can accommodate up to 24 guests in it's 9 bedrooms.   Outside, there is a large deck and private swimming pool.  The villa is located on a white sand pocket beach that comes and goes so it either offers great swimming or provides a special place to fish.  http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/coral-gardens-beach-estate

Beach lovers will surely love the many gorgeous beaches on St. Thomas.  For added enjoyment, a variety of beachfront villas are available for rent.

SHOPPING IN ST. THOMAS:

St. Thomas is a shoppers paradise!  The island is duty-free and a shopping mecca of the Caribbean.  The colorful town/port of Charlotte Amalie boasts some of the best shopping in the Caribbean.  Visitors will enjoy strolling and browsing the shops along the Waterfront and Main Street where restored seventeenth and eighteenth century warehouses which once housed rum and exotic spices now play host to a variety of unique shops.

What to buy?  Shoppers will find excellent bargains on perfume, liquor, cameras, china, crystal, leather goods, jewelry and gold as well as local handcrafts.  Prices can represent up to a 40% discount less than the United States and liquor and cigarettes are often up to 60% less than stateside prices.

The stores are generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Saturday.  During the winter season when cruise ships are in port, some of the stores are open on Sunday mornings as well. 

Some of the most desirable items shoppers seek are fine Lladro porcelain figurines, Swarovski crystal, Baume & Mercier & Patek Phillippe & Tag-Heuer watches.  Gorgeous jewelry may be found at Little Switzerland, Columbian Emeralds.    Boolcharnds offers a variety of cameras and video camcorders as well as luxurious tablecloths.  Boolchands is the largest retailer of photographic equipment for over 50 years and carries such top name brands as Canon, Kodak, Richo, Konica, NIkon, Olympus and Vivitar.  Boolchands actually has 17 stores throughout the Caribbean and so it is able to buy in greater volume and extend the extra savings on to clients.

Columbian Emeralds is one  of  the most famous names for jewelry in the islands.  While it's specialty is emeralds the stores also offer impressive selections of diamonds, rubies, sapphires and designer gold pieces.  Columbian Emeralds is, also, one of the Caribbean's most trusted sources for famous timepieces. 

Little Switzerland is a wonderful store that offers extraordinary duty-free prices on watches and jewelry as well as fine china, crystal and figurines.  Little Switzerland, also, offers many famous name brand watches to include Rolex, Tiffany and Zodiac as well as Omega.  Those looking to complete their place settings will find the famous china lines of Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, and Royal Albert as well as Waterford, Baccarat and Orrefors crystal. 

Mr. Tablecloth offers incredibly reasonable prices for to quality tablecloths and accessories such as runners and place mats.  The owner travels to China to personally choose the very best in quality and workmanship.  Imported tablecloths in pure cotton, organdy and Irish linen may be found. 

AH Rise gift and liquor stores which have been a landmark on St. Thomas since 1838,  offer some oft he world's finest names in jewelry, watches, perfumes and cosmetics as well as china, crystal and flatware. 

Since the island is duty-free, U.S. citizens are permitted to bring home up to $1,600 duty-free.  The $1,600 is twice the amount permitted from any other Caribbean island.  For purchased over the $1,600, a flat rate of 6% is charged.  Additionally, shoppers may mail home an unlimited number of gusts worth $100 or less to friends and relatives.

Visitors to the island will find that private villa rentals are the preferred accommodations on this island.  Private villas offer the added bonus of several bedrooms, plenty of living space and fully equipped kitchens.  Additionally, most of the private villas boast exceptional views and private swimming pools.  Villas Caribe has been in business over 19 years and offers an exciting collection of private home rentals.

The Caribbean Countess is a luxury villa nestled on a very private hillside.  The home offers gorgeous ocean views from all of it's room.   The villa is built as three separate buildings providing the utmost in privacy.  The villa offers four air-conditioned bedrooms and the master bedroom is in it's own private building.   The interiors are comfortably furnished and offers a colorful collection of original Caribbean art.  Outside, there is a large tiled pool deck that offers exceptional views of Magen's Bay Beach.  http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/caribbean-countess

The Silk Cotton is a gorgeous hillside villa located on Mafolie Hill overlooking picturesque Charlotte Amalie Harbor.  The villa offers 180 degree panoramas of the green hills, ocean and cruise ships.  Indeed, when the sun sets and cruise ships begin making steam the twinkling lights of the ships and town are truly magical views.  Silk Cotton offers exceptional architecture and all of the upscale living spaces pen to the pool which overlooks the harbor.  The Great Room is expansive and well appointed.  It is framed by native stone archways onto the sunny 16 x 45 pool and it's spacious tiled deck.  The villa offers five bedrooms and five baths.   http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/silk-cotton

The Sea Star villa is an upscale waterfront villa located on quiet Cabrita Point on the East End of the island.  It is located just 24 feet from a coral beach and offers views of Great Bay, Great St. James Island, St. John and is within walking distance of the Ritz Carlton Resort.  The villa is built on two levels and offers full air-conditioning.  The interiors feature seagrass and teak furniture in a Caribbean style.  Sea Star offers five bedrooms and five baths.  Pocket doors open to the villa's seaside which is bordered by sun deck and the infinity pool.  Covered pavilions are located on each end of the pool which provide the ideal spots for reading, relaxing or just taking in the peaceful views.  While the beach is coral and not soft sand, excellent snorkeling may be enjoyed off shore and a nice sandy beach is within walking distance of the villa.   http://stthomas.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/sea-star-st-thomas

Shoppers looking for wonderful treasures are sure to find them on St. Thomas!  An added bonus is a stay at a fabulous private villa complete with a private swimming pool.

NIGHTLIFE ON ST. BARTHS:

In spite of it's small size, nightlife on St. Barths can be found and enjoyed.  A number of restaurants "morph" into lively bar and dance scenes late at night complete with live music and dancing.  Additionally, there are a fair amount of nightclubs that get hopping shortly after midnight and provide entertainment until the wee hours of morning.  While there are no casinos, visitors to St. Barths will find plenty of nightlife to keep them busy (and tired the next day).
 
The Yacht Club on Gustavia Harbor and Casa Nikki offer dance floors and music until the morning hours.  The Le Feeling club in Lurin is known for it's mind altering drinks. 
 
Many of the island's restaurants have independent cocktail bars and offer lively ambiances and many times DJ's.  Bete a Z'Ailes, La Plage are such places.  One of the most notable is Le Ti which offers fashion shows several nights during the week as well as a Saturday late night extravaganza complete with live DJ, models, fashion show and culminating with everyone getting on top of the tables to dance. 
 
A new bar the "Bar'to" is located at the Guanahani Hotel and a great spot for after dinner drinks in an elegant atmosphere. 
 
The music and film festivals held throughout the year wind up extending to many clubs where there are fabulous parties and places to dance all night long. 
 
Sailors and many locals can be found gathering for drinks and stores at Le Select in Gustavia where live music is often offered.
 
Visitors to St. Barths frequently choose to rent a private vacation villa to stay in for their stay.  Private vacation villas offer more space, more bedrooms, larger living areas, full kitchens and usually private swimming pools.  Villas Caribe has been renting villas in the Caribbean for over 18 years and offers a fabulous collection of private vacation villas on St. Barths. 
 
The Angelina villa is located hillside overlooking the picturesque Gustavia harbor.  The interiors are striking and the villa offers three bedrooms and three baths as well as a private swimming pool.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/angelina
 
Casa Del Sol is located hillside in Petit-Cul-de-Sac and offer glorious ocean views.  The villa has stunning and open interiors that are tastefully furnished.  Casa Del Sol offer three air-conditioned bedrooms and three baths. A large private swimming pool is surrounded by a terrace. http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/casa-del-sol-st-barts
 
Pasha is a stunning and very private villa located on the hillside of Lurin. It offers extraordinary views of St. Jean Bay, St. Martin and the soothing ocean.  The interiors feature terracotta tiles imported from Mexico and the south of France as well as exotic woods.  The interiors are decorated with the highest quality furnishings in an Indonesian style.  Pasha boasts six bedrooms and six baths.  Outside, there is a large private pool as well as a Jacuzzi surrounded by a tropical garden.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/pasha
 
The La Plantation a deluxe villa is located in Petite Saline.  The villa offer the finest in luxury, refinement and elegance.  The interiors are spacious and tastefully decorated with red marble floors and original designer furnishings.  The villa has three bedrooms and three baths.  OUtside, there is a magnificent  private swimming pool. http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/la-plantation 
 
While the primary focus of nighttime activity on St. Barths is fine dining, those seeking more thrills will certainly find enough haunts to keep them entertained. 

ST. BARTHS SPAS & FITNESS:

The wonderful island of St. Barths is a wonderful destination for those seeking the ultimate in spa services.  Visitors can indulge in soothing massages as well as wellness programs in addition to the standard beauty services of manicures, pedicures, waxing etc.

The Spa at Hotel Isle de France is a special sanctuary devoted to the harmony of body and mind.  The spa features a variety of therapies with exotic ingredients.

The Eden Roc Resort & Spa is located in St. Jean and offers a full range of spa services.  Guests will delight in facials, massages and body wraps as well as hair and nail services.  The spa, also, offers a fitness center complete with indoor rock climbing, aerobics classis and martial arts. 

The Guanahani Spa offers the highly touted Clarins line of treatments and Fekkai hair care. The spa boasts 5,000 square feet of ocean view facilities.  Both sexes will enjoy the spa's age defying facials as well as wonderful body treatments. 

The Institut Venus is located in Gustavia and is a wonderful place to de-stress.  A variety of relaxing massages and anti-aging skin treatments are available. 

The Espace Beaute is located in Grand Cul de Sac and offers sumptuous body masks made from fresh papaya, sand and yogurt.  Manicure and pedicures are available as well.

 The well known skin care products of LIGNE ST. BARTH are exclusively manufactured on St. Barths and all contain active ingredients from the plants, fruits and flowers of the Caribbean from which they are extracted.  All of their produces are PABA free, approved by dermatologists and are not tested on animals. 

Visitors to St. Barths in search of the serenity of the island which may be enhanced by soothing spa treatments will love indulging in in a stay at a private vacation villa.  Villas Caribe offers an outstanding collection of private vacation villas most with amazing views and private swimming pools.  Indeed, visitors can arrange to have a variety of spa services performed in the privacy of their own villa. 

The Cest la Vue villa is a relatively new villa located in the exclusive Pointe Milou area.  The home offers expansive ocean and dramatic sunset views.  The villa is comfortably and tastefully furnished and offers two bedrooms and baths.  A delightful terrace faces the ocean and is the location of the private swimming pool.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/cest-la-vue 

Guilluame is a charming home located hillside and surrounded by lush tropical gardens that provide a feeling of calm and tranquility.  The villa is nicely furnished and offers amazing views.  It has three air-conditioned bedrooms and two baths.  Outside, there is a large furnished deck and private swimming pool.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/guillaume

La Desirade is a stunning villa nestled on a St. Jean hillside offering sensation views of the bay.  The interiors are spacious and well furnished.  The villa offers four bedrooms and four baths.  An expansive wooden deck surrounds the private heated swimming pool that is comfortably furnished with large sitting areas.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/la-desirade

Beau Bijou is a delightful villa located on a hillside in Vitet.  The home offers exceptional views over the islands of Tortue, Toc Vert, Fregate, Anguilla, Marigot Bay and Grand Cul de Sac Lagoon.  The interiors are nicely furnished in contemporary style.  The villa has three bedrooms and three baths.  Beau Bijou offer several terrace that offer outdoor living and alfresco dining as well.  A private swimming pool is located on the lower terrace.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/beau-bijou

St. Barths is a perfect choice for those seeking the ultimate in spa experiences.  A variety of pampering services may be enjoyed that range from facials, massages, body polishes, pilates, yoga and well being therapies.

SHOPPING ON ST. BARTHS:

St. Barths is a shoppers paradise!  I n spite of being such a small island, St. Barths offers some of the most glamorous shopping this side of New York and the Riviera.  Indeed, what other island can boast road signs pointing to Cartier?    Indeed, Forbes has named St. Barths one of the World's Beat Shopping Destinations.  

St. Barths is a duty-free port and offers outstanding shopping.  Visitors will be delighted with the range and number of shops on this tiny gem of an island.  The largest concentration of shops is in Gustavia followed by St. Jean. Shoppers will find some of the world's most famous designers as well as exceptional selections of beachwear.  

Connoisseurs of fine art and luxury goods will find something to satisfy their dreams.   The island offers outstanding stores that offer exquisite collections of fine jewelry and beautiful watches.  The Carat store in Gustavia offers some of the best worldwide brands to include David Yurman, Dewitt, Harry Winston and Piaget.  Designer shoes may be found at Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Mephisto and Tod's.  The Human Steps stores offer such distinguished names in fashion as Prada, Gucci, Miu Miu, Yves St. Laurent and Paul Smith. 

Hermes, Dior, Tod's Lacoste, Faconnable, Chopard, Louis Vuitton and Bvlargari  all boast their own stores on St. Barths.  

The Made in St. Barth store offers a wonderful handpicked collection of designer linges as well as their own private label.

Shoppers seeking great looking swimwear and beachwear will find incredible shopping at Alohah, the Black Swan Boutiques (2 -one in Gustavia and one in St. Jean), Hip Up, Ilena, St. Barths style and Quicksilver Boardriders Club

Shoppers looking for great art may fine exceptional pieces at the many art galleries.  Les Artisans, Galieri Asis and Spindler offer wonderful collections.

Shoppers seeking local products will find the women of Corossol and Colombier offer woven native palm straw baskets, handbags and hats.  Additionally, locally produced beauty lotions made from island plants make lovely gifts. 

Please note that, as in France, many shops close for long midday dejeuner (2-3 hours) but then stay open as late at 7:00 PM.  Many of the shops close on Wednesday afternoons, too.

For shoppers seeking the utmost in accommodations, a private villa rental is the way to go.  Villas Caribe offers a plethora of private villa rentals, most with private swimming pools.  

As in France, many shops close for a long (two-three hour) midday déjeuner but stay open as late as 7 PM. Many are closed on Wednesday afternoons as well.  

Captain Cook is a lovely villa located in Pointe Milou, one of the most exclusive areas of the island.  The villa offers ocean views and a delightful blend of sophistication and comfort.  The villa has four bedrooms and four baths.  Outside, there is a gazebo which provides the perfect spot for alfresco dining.  Additionally, the villa boasts a private heated swimming pool as well as Jacuzzi for eight.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/captain-cook

The Dove Nest villa is located on a lushly landscaped hillside acre in St. Jean.  A tropical oasis, the villa was selected by Town & Country in 2000 as one of the "7 best houses in St. Barths".  The interiors feature Mahogany and exotic furnishings. The villa has three bedrooms and three baths as well as a private infinity swimming pool.   http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/dove-nest 

The Plein Ciel villa is a new home located on the hillside in Marigot with fabulous ocean views of the Bay, ocean and the small island of "Tortue" in the distance.  A large and open styled home the villa features a tasteful blend of decorating from all over the world to include Japanese and Indonesian.  The villa has three bedrooms and two baths.  An expansive lap pool is set on a furnished terrace and the villa boasts a private Jacuzzi as well.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/plein-ciel

St. Barths is truly a shoppers paradise.  Visitors will delight in the amazing array of duty-free items available on this beautiful island.

FABULOUS DINING ON ST. BARTHS:

St. Barths offers incredible beaches, shopping and some of the best dining to be found anywhere in the Caribbean and the world.  The island is known for it's fabulous cuisine and great variety of restaurants.  Choices range from world class French restaurants to West Indian,  Italian, Thai, African, Vietnamese and fusion.  Fabulous dining may be found on St. Barths in it's more than  80  restaurants  that  offer a wide range of cuisines to choose from as well a variety of price points.     Visitors will find a tempting variety to include  exquisite dining rooms to casual sidewalk cafes to beachside grilles.  

 With provisions flown in from Paris, and often paired with local seafood, dining  on St. Barths  is considered to be the best in the Caribbean, and rivals any city in the world.
Visitors will find that each of the island's restaurants offers it's own particular ambiance that ranges from upscale dining experiences, hotel restaurants, casual beach restaurants and party places.  Visitors will find that the fusion between the available local products and gourmet ingredients and the creative dishes of the local chefs is what gives St. Barths it's own special flavor. 
Fabulous dining on St. Barths can be found at a variety of restaurants.  Le Ti offers great food, abundant champagne, an extensive wine cellar and lively fashion shows with DJS from the music capitals. Chef Pascal serves wonderful and interesting cuisine and the restaurant has become a legend in it's own time.

La Marine is owned by the same people (Carol Gruson) as Le Ti and is located on the harbor in Gustavia.  It offers some of the freshest local fish and imported seafood all served in a casual but elegant portside dining room that offers fabulous views and ambiance.  Visitors will not want to miss Thursdays and Fridays when the freshest mussels are served. 

Jao is located downtown and offers exceptional Thai cuisine.  Visitors can expect authenticity in the dishes and recipes ads the Chef and his wife are from Thailand. 

La Route de Boucaniers is located in GUstavia on the harbor as well and offers casual waterfront tables with amazing views.  The restaurant offers an extensive menu and features a nice amount of dishes showcasing Creole cooking. 

La Plage is a beach restaurant open throughout the year that offers local fish and wonderful tropical flavors. 

Le Gaiiac is located at the deluxe  Le Toiny Hotel and is considered to be one of the island's most exceptional restaurants.  The restaurant offers a blend of gourmet French cuisine with a subtle hint of Creole flavors.  Be sure to sample the restaurant's famous Sunday brunch. 

The Mayas Restaurant provides a casual and elegant setting in which to enjoy a light and imaginative cuisine.  The menu features a blend of the best from Asia, France, Italy and the Caribbean.   A popular spot, reservations are recommended. 

The Rock is top notch restaurant located at the Eden Rock Hotel which offers exceptional views of the ocean.  Moonlight nights are truly magical and the food is exceptional. 

Le Sapotillier is a charming spot that serves traditional French classics.  Diners will enjoy the seared fois gras, frogs legs and duck confit.  Very expensive but very, very romantic.

The wonderful delicacies and wines that are served in the top restaurants may, also, be picked up at a number of excellent delis and markets.  Many of these shops offer gourmet take-out as well.  Do be sure to sample the wonderful breads and pastries as well as exceptional French cheeses. 

Visitors to St. Barths seeking fabulous dining experiences will equally enjoy staying in a private villa with a private swimming pool.   Indeed, visitors to the island can enjoy fabulous dining in their own private villa with a fully quipped kitchen.  The range of foodstuffs available at the local grocery stores is top notch.  Additionally, the island offers a variety of local catering services.   Visitors to St. Barths have been renting private villas for well over 30 years and the island is certainly one of the most desired for exceptional villa rentals.  Villas Caribe has been in business over 18 years and offers an exceptional array of private villas in a variety or price ranges.  

The Key Lime villa is a charming beachfront hideaway located on Anse des Cayes with direct access to the beach.  The villa offers lovely sea views and is nicely decorated with contemporary furnishings.  The villa offers two equal sized bedrooms with en-suite baths.  Outside there is a lovely terrace with private swimming pool. 
http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/key-lime

The Amancaya villa is located in Anse des Cayes not far from Gustavia.  The villa offers outstanding ocean views and is set in a lush tropical garden.  Amancaya offers spacious interiors that are tastefully furnished.  The villa has five air-conditioned bedrooms and five baths.  A private swimming pool is set on an expansive furnished sundeck.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/amancaya

Alize d'Eden is nestled high on a hill in exclusive Pointe Milou and offers spectacular ocean and sunset views.  The interiors are nicely furnished and the villa has two bedrooms and two baths.  A large deck is punctuated with a private swimming pool.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/alize-d-eden

Canopee is a charming St. Barth's style villa located on a hillside in St. Jean.  It offers stunning panoramic views of the nearby Baie of St. Jean.  The interiors are tasteful and set on tiled floors against a backdrop of color washed walls.  The villa is built on two levels and offers two bedrooms and two baths.  A large deck surrounds the private swimming pool.  http://st-barts.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/canopee

For a real treat,  visitors should consider  hiring one of the island's private chefs to prepare a meal at  their  villa.   Visitors may enjoy fine dining at their own private villa  without preparing the meal. 
Fabulous dining is one of the main attractions of St. Barths.  Famous chefs from Europe and the US frequent the island and many wind up opening their own restaurants.   St. Barths is truly a paradise for gourmets.  Visitors will find some of the restaurants very expensive but there are plenty of affordable options as well that offer a charming ambiance.  Reservations are generally recommended and certainly a must during the high winter season.

GOLF ON BARBADOS:

Bolf on Barbados is exceptional making Barbados one of the most popular golf vacation destinations.  The island offers several world class golf courses and facliities and most golf clubs offers professional instruction.
 
Several golf tournaments are held throughout the year on Barbados and attracting participatns from a number of countries including Europe and North America.  The World Golf Championships World Club was held on Barbados in December '2006 and in '2004, Tiger Woods chose Barbados for his wedding. 
 
On the WEst Caost of the island, the two major golf courses ardre Royal WEstmoreland and the Sandy Lane.  THe Royal Westmoreland is an 18 hole Robert Trent Jones !! chaponsihop courese.  Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed the Royal Westmoreland which is a superb 6,870 yard, par 72 course of spectacular beauty offering ocean views at every hole.  Royal Westmorlean has gained a reputation among the rich and famous. 
 
The Sandy Lane is a champtionship course that has been reveloped under Tom FAzio. The course is known for it's spectaular landsacpes and mangnificent greens.  It is a par 72, 18 hole championship course. 
 
The South coast of the island offers two golf courses as well.  TRhe Barbados Golf Club is a new 18 hole chapionship course   that offers players a fair and challenging game for golfers of all levels of skill.  Re designed and re-opened in '2000, the Barbados Golf Club is the island's first public 18 hole championship golf course.  The course is a links style 6,705 yd., par 72 course.  Club Rockley Barbados has a well maintained 9 hole resort course. The Rockley Golf Course is the oldest Golf Club in Barbados.    The course is notabel for its narrow shots and a perfect course for beginners.  A 2,800 yard course, it has a par of 35. 
Golfers on Barbaedos have an extensive collection of private, staffed villas available for their stay on the siland.  Villas Caribe offers a stunning collection of private villas to choose from and all include the services of Villas Caribe's personalized concierge service.
 
The Aurora villa is located on over two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and affords commanding panoramic views over the Sandy Lane Estate and the Caribbean Sea beyond.  A stunning Georgian style villa it offers five air-conditoned bedrooms and five baths.  Aurora boasts a large, private tiled swimming pool and private tennis court.  A private cabana is available for guests to use on the exclusive Sandy Lane Beach and the villa includes a full staff.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/aurora-barbados
 
Caprice is a gorgeous villa located on the exclusive West Coast of Barbados and offers breahtaking views of the ocean.  A spacious home, it is built on two levels and offers the highest quality fixtures and furnshings.  The villa has four air-condtioned bedrooms and four en-suite bathrooms.  Outside, there is a private plunge pool complete with waterfall and several comfortably furnished decks.  Rental of the villa includes the services of a full staff.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/caprice
 
The Colina Del Mar villa is located on the fashionable West Coast of Barbados.  The interiors are gracous and feature Italian tiled floors and elegant furnishings with European antiques.  Built on two levels, the villa features three air-conditoined bedrooms and three baths.  Graceful arched doorways open to the garden, pool and beachfront terraces.  A private plung pool complements this lovely property and excellent snorkeling may be enjoyed in the reef at the beach.  A full staff is included in rental of the villa.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/colina-del-mar
 
Klairan is a deluxe property located on over an acre of tropical gardens within the exclusive Sandy Lane Estates.  A gorgeous villa, it offers total privacy and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.  The interiors are spacious and elegantly furnished and set on marble floors.  The villa has five air-cohditioned bedrooms, all with en-suite baths and all very nicely appointed.   Most of the bedrooms are fairly equal in size, making Klairan an excellent choice for several couples.   An expanisive cloumed and furnished verandah complet with a powder room, shower and wet bar and mini-fridge overlooks the private swimming pool, gardens and ocean beyond.  Guests of the villa have use of the Sandy Lane Beach Facilities on the exclusive Sandy Lane Beach.  A full staff complements this exceptional property.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/klarian
 
  Azzurro at Old Trees Bay is a dazzling beachfront condominium located just south of the Sandy Lane  Hotel and golf course.  The complex consists of 14 units and each unit has a private plunge pool.  Additionally, there is a large shared pool at the complex for all guests to enjoy.  Azzurro is a two bedroom, two bath fully air-conditioned property that enjoys magnificent views.  The interiors feature luxurious finishes and appointments such as marble floors, granite countertops and Sub Zero appliances.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/old-trees-bay-azzurro
 
Barbados is increasingly regarded as one of the top islands for a Caribbean golf vacation.   The island offers the opportunity to play on Caribbean golf courses designed by architects such as Ron Kirby and Robert Trent Jones Jr. and there are exquisite, staffed private villas available for rent.

FAMILY VACATIONS IN BARBADOS:

An ideal island in the Caribbean to speand a wonderful family vacation is on the island of Barbados.  The island offers a wide range of activites as well as exceptional beaches and watersports.  Activites abound from fun things to even educational experiences.

Favorites include a submarine trip and even helicopter rides to view the island from above.  Safari trips are available as well.  

The Barbadops Wildlife Reserve is a forest where animals roam in freedom.  Children (and adults!) will enjoy catcthing a glimpse of the famous Barbados green monkey as well as otters, mongooses and other creatures.  

Harrison Cave is the only cave of its kind in the entire Caribbean and one of the leading wonders of the world and sure to delight families vacationing in Barbados.  Public tours are offered via a special tram and the cave houses carved limestone caverns as well as underground streams and a 40 foot waterfall that plunges into a lagoon.   IN many ares, stalactites have reached down to join with a stalagmite and form spectactular pillars. 

HIstorical buffs will enjoy exposing their families to some of teh Bajan heritage and natural wonders.  The island offers musems, visitor centers adn maintains a collection of historical churches.  Tours of sprawling plantation homes as well as chattle houses are available as well. 

Families on Barbados can even enjoy the Harry Bayley Observatory which is home to the Barbados Astonomical Society.  Of course, since there is not much light pollution on the island, families will also enjoy turning off of the lights at the villa they've rented and laying out perhaps by their private pool at night and watching falling stars.

Farley Hill National Park offers visitors the ruins of a once grand plantation house.  The OUghterson Zoo should not be missed either.  The animfals live in teh zoo uncaged and in their natural habitat.

Families will surely not want to miss "1627 And All That" which is one of the island's only combined historic and cultureal visitor attractions.  The show is offered several nights each week in the courtyard of the historic Barbados Museum.  The show demonstates the mixing of English and Africian cultures from the period of colonization in 1627  to the present time to illustrate who the very unique and special "Bajan" culture developed.  The show features music of the drum as well as dance and drama.  A spiriuted performance as well as a delicuous dinner is included and will surely be enjoyed by all. 

Private villa rentals are available through Villas Caribe and are the perfect choice for a family vacation on Barbados.  The majority of the villas have private swimming pools which provide hours of fun for children and they all include the services of a staff to include at the very minimum a cook and housekeeper/laundress so Mom need never lift a finger.  After a day of adventure on Barbados, families will enjoy returning to the peace and space that only a private villa rental can offer them.

The Coral House is a lovley home set in lush tropical gardens and within a 5 minute walk of the gorgeous white sands of Gibbs Beach.  The villa is bulit on two levels and offers specaoius and tastefully decorated living areas.  Coral House has three air-conditioned bedrooms and two baths.  A private swimming pool is nestled admidst lush gardens and a fabulous covered outdoor veandah is adjacent to the pool and is an inviting spot for reading and alfresco dining.  A full staff is included in the rental rate of the villa.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/coral-house

The Blue Lagoon villa is located on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offers private access to the small, tidal beach cove below.  The villa offers pristine interiors and a large furnished and covered verandah just perfect for reading, napping or playing games with the family.  Blue Lagoon has three air0d0onditoned bedrooms and they are all under the same roof which is nice for families with young children.  A spacious deck surrounds the private plunge pool and steps descent to the tidal cove beach below.  A full staff is included in the rental rate of the villa.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/blue-lagoon-barbados

The Emerald Beach properties are a wonderful choice for families and provide an excellent value for the dollar.  The property consists of just six luxury tonwhomes located on over an acre of grounds at the edge of the spectacular white sands of Gibbs Beach.  Each unit features terra cotta tiled floors and tasteful furnishings.  All of the units consist of three air-conditioned bedrooms and three en-suite baths.   The living and dining areas open to a covered and furnsihed terrace that is the perfect spot for alfresco dining.  In addition to the excellent swimming from the beach, the property boasts a large freshwater swimming pool for the exclusive use of the residents.  Emerald Beach works for small families as well as for large families as many of the units may be rented together to accomodate larger groups.  All of the units are fully staffed.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/emerald-beach-1-solandra

Large families vacationing in Barbados would do well to consider the luxurious San Flamingo villa set witih an exclusive location near the Polo Field.  The villa offers Spanish Mediterrean archtitecutre set within beacutifully landscaped gardens.  The interiors are spacious and the furnishings well chosen.  The villa offers five air-conditioned bedrooms and five bathrs.  Three of the bedrooms are located down an interior hallway making San Flamingo and excellent choice for families with young children.  Outside, there is a large private swimming pool and a private tennis court for activie families.  The villa is fully staffed.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/san-flamingo

Dene Court is another great option for families vacationing in Barbados.  The villa is set on an acre of lush tropical gardens within the exclusive Sandy Lane Estates.  The villa offers spacious interiors and attractive furnishings as well as five air-conditioned bedrooms and four baths.   A large patio area provides informatl seating and alfresco dining with fabulous views of the evening sunsets.  The patio overlooks the private swimming pool and the villa is fully staffed.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/dene-court

The Dudley Wood villa is a perfect choice for families and it is located directly on the beautiful Gibbs Beach which offers exceptional swimming and watersports.  The interiors are tastefully furnished and the villa has three air-conditioned bedrooms and three bathrooms.  Gorgeous and lush gardens lead out to the dining gazebo complete with a coral stone bar, BBQ and a private swimming pool.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/dudley-wood

Oyster Bay is another ideal choice for families.  IT is located on a fabulous beach and offers spacious interiors.  The villa is built on two levels and features four bedrooms.  A large outside terrace is comfortably furnished  around the large private swimming pool and steps lead down from the pool to the superb white sand beach which offers excellent swimming.  http://barbados.villascaribe.com/villa-listing/oyster-bay

Barbados is an excellent choice for vacationing families and parents can even find some special time to themselves as Villas Caribe concierge service is happy to arrange babysitting sersvices.

Dazzling beaches and watesports, a wealth of Bajan heritage and natural wonders all contribute to making Barbados the prefect choice for family vacations.