James Meets Vanessa Sumpter of Settlers Beach...

Q.'You have been in Barbados for over ten years. How different is life from New Zealand?'

Vanessa Sumpter
‘It’s quite different. It is a very active lifestyle in New Zealand. There are so many chances for outdoor living and an active lifestyle in addition to the cultural side of life. Some things are similar, though. Much of life is outdoors and there are some sports. From a cultural point of view, it has taken a while to adjust, but the social life is very good in Barbados. There is a hub here on the West Coast, which has a certain glamour to it, so that is interesting to be a part of.’

Q.‘How did you become involved in the hospitality industry?’

Vanessa Sumpter
'In the early Nineties I helped to set up hotel management school in my home town, New Plymouth, the new Pacific International Hotel Management School. As well as administration I was in charge of Sports and Recreation. In Barbados I worked at Sugar Hill Resort for six years before coming to Settlers a couple of years ago.’

Q.‘Settlers is different from much of the accommodation on the West Coast of Barbados because it is a villa resort. What other things set it apart?’

Vanessa Sumpter
‘Settlers Beach is small and so there is greater interaction with the guests and this gives it a particularly homely feel. It is a very strong draw and one of the reasons that so many people come back. Also, Settlers attracts a particular type of independent traveller, who has their own schedule and who doesn’t want to be dictated to by the rhythms of hotel life. By day they go off and explore the island and then in the evenings they vary things. Sometimes they eat in at Spago, our restaurant on the waterfront, and then on other nights they eat out – everyone goes out at some stage. But they will also organise a cook for a couple of nights in their villa.’

Q.‘What’s your feeling about the future in the current economic climate?’

Vanessa Sumpter
‘It’s not been an easy time recently it is true and some of the big building projects in Barbados have been put on hold. But while the low season until December is looking slow, there is a good spike coming over the summer and forward bookings for next winter season are strong with the returning guests, so it’s not all gloom. We’re being very pro-active at the moment too, in order to attract people. Generally speaking Barbados is pretty lucky because we have the airlift. Other islands are suffering and have lost clients from outside. And from around the Caribbean actually. Local travel has reduced as well.’

Q.What is like to work in Barbados?

Vanessa Sumpter
‘Barbados is an exciting place at the moment and it’s great to live in a place that’s improving itself. It’s a country on the move, constantly changing and it is growing. The island can be frustrating, there’s no doubt, but in terms of business and the services we are able to access it gets steadily better and better. There are constantly better suppliers and trading companies - actually it is a bit of a learning experience to decide who and who not to use. We’re lucky though, as we can get pretty much anything that we want. Even the little luxuries that people like and which make so much of a difference.’

Q.'What are the pleasures and frustrations of living in Barbados?’
Vanessa Sumpter
‘People always ask me knowingly if I ever get island fever, but it’s never been the case. It doesn’t feel hemmed in, living on the island. It does take tome to get things done and you have to learn to be patient. But on the good side it can feel like the best of both worlds – an executive lifestyle which is balanced and in which you can take the time to appreciate what you have.’

For more information see our Definitive Caribbean Review of Settlers Beach Villa Hotel.

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The Pilot’s Eye View

The Grenadines, a string of outcrops, cays and sandbars scattered over the 60 miles between St Vincent and Grenada, are some of the prettiest islands in the Caribbean. In a new type of article on Definitive Caribbean, we present a photo essay of the Grenadines as seen by the pilot of a small plane. Pilots are lucky, it seems. They have a fantastic view from their cockpit. Oh, they have a few responsibilities too, but from 5000 feet they can see for fifty miles or more. This is living geography - every tidal pattern is visible around an island, every breaking wave, even fish moving underwater at times. At Kick ‘em Jenny, a submarine volcano nearer Grenada, pilots have seen the results of seismic activity beneath the sea. All the photographs in the following series are courtesy of Paul Gravel, owner of SVG Air, a Caribbean airline based in St Vincent. We hope you enjoy them.

Please see our St Vincent and the Grenadines Photo Essay.

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Cricket rivalries can last for decades between teams – even forever between some players – though if you throw in some rum, a little soft white sand and a dash of reggae you might just find that things even out a bit.

Alternatively, if you like gladiatorial battles and you can make it to Grenada for the second week of October for the Grenada Cricket Classics, you will enjoy seeing cricketing legends rekindling their combative flames. Curtly Ambrose, Richie Richardson and Sir Viv Richards will be taking on their old English foes Allan Lamb, Derek Randall and Devon Malcolm in all manner of competitive activities such as … quizzes, liming… and… - oh yeah – cricket.

The event has been growing in popularity since its inception back in 2004 and it offers a unique opportunity to rub shoulders with these former West Indies and England players at parties and events during a week of festivities. This year’s line up of ‘fetes’ includes a couple of pool parties, the Classics Party at True Blue Bay, which will headline Spirited (Curtly Ambrose’s reggae band), a fun cricket match at La Sagesse and a ‘Dinner & Quiz’ with the players, featuring a guest speaker - Bob ‘the Cat’ Bevan MBE.

And of course this is not to forget the main action on the field, the two Twenty20 matches to be played at the Queen’s Park stadium. On October 10th the development squads of Grenada and Barbados face each other in the opening game followed by the main event - the England XI against the West Indies XI. The same fixtures take place again the next day with slightly different squad members - and after the Windies knocked England out of the Twenty20 World Cup in June, no doubt the golden oldies will be more than keen to prove they still have it, even if Twenty20 is a new format for them! The games should be a great spectacle. Also there’s an additional highlight with a social game at La Sagesse – two teams picked from the guests for a ‘Village Green’ match Caribbean style, with beers on the beach afterwards...

Just Grenada can help with travel arrangements. They have a special package with accommodation at either The Rex Grenadian or at The Calabash. For moments when you are not watching the cricket - or perhaps playing it on the beach - you can explore the island with the help of trusted Grenadian tour company, Caribbean Horizons. There is plenty to do on the Isle of Spice, including visits to plantation farms and rum distilleries, golf, sailing, hiking or simply wandering around The Carenage…the prettiest harbour in the Caribbean. For more information about what to do on the island, please visit our Definitive Caribbean Guide to Grenada.

Grenada Cricket Classics 2009 Itinerary

October 10th - Grenada v Barbados 20/20 match
                         England v West Indies 20/20 match
                         Classics Party at True Blue Bay with                          live music from SPIRITED (featuring                          Curtly Ambrose & Richie Richardson)

October 11th - Grenada v Barbados 20/20 match
                         England v West Indies 20/20 match

October 12th - Free Day
                         7pm “Dinner & Quiz with the players”
                         Guest speaker - Bob ‘the Cat’                          Bevan MBE

October 13th - Cricket match at La Sagesse

Twenty20 Squads so far:

The Blue Hour by Lilian Pizzichini (Bloomsbury)

Lilian Pizzichini’s new biography of Jean Rhys casts the reader into the life and into the mind of the iconic twentieth century writer from Dominica. The title, The Blue Hour, (which apparently derives from a perfume of Rhys’s time in Paris) gives a hint of the gloom that pervaded the author’s life and the book itself does nothing to dispel her reputation as a difficult and irascible person, but it is a compelling and revealing read. And it shows how some of Rhys’s character, and her writing, was informed by the Caribbean and her formative years in Dominica.

Read our Review of The Blue Hour on the Definitive Caribbean Blog.

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So, what of this credit crunch? It is affecting people in different ways. On the one hand it is clear that property prices have fallen pretty much everywhere. But at the same time so have interest rates… So perhaps it is unclear whether it’s better to keep savings where they are, or whether now is the time to look for other avenues that can bring a better return.

If you are interested in buying property abroad, it’s certainly a good time to be looking at the Caribbean real estate. As a general indicator, prices in the region haven't seen a downward trend in more than 30 years – in keeping with the general maxim that property is a safe bet in the medium to long term. However, clearly this is with the exception of the current climate, in which prices have certainly gone down in the islands. Some agents have slashed as much as 40% off the asking price in order to make a sale.

And with the decrease in interest rates, the prospect of buying becomes even more attractive if you consider a buy-to-let property in the Caribbean. Some give a return of up to 15% starting in the first year. (You should always look closely at the small print and ask questions locally.) Mortgages are still available too.

There are some very good deals available in Caribbean real estate at the moment. Some properties that were on the market at inflated prices have been reduced to a fair market value, even below. And with things as they are there’s a good chance that you will be able to negotiate the price down yet further…

In line with the theme of this current newsletter we have picked out some of the outstanding properties for sale in the Caribbean with a lean towards those that are child-friendly or family orientated -

      

Silver Point, South Coast, Barbados
At Silver Point there are 86 one- and two-bedroom beachfront apartments surrounding an extensive pool area, spa, fitness suite and a two-storey restaurant with roof deck Martini bar. It is a gated community with on-site security and property management. Purchases are freehold with six weeks free accommodation outside the rental pool. Ideally suited to a family with slightly older children looking for fun holidays with a little autonomy in a safe environment.
Asking price: From BBD$450,000 (Less discounts up to 15%)
Agent: Harry Manning Associates

Beach View, West Coast, Barbados
Designed by Gillespie and Steel, Beach View is a condominium complex overlooking Paynes Bay. There are two- and three-bedroom apartments in four buildings watching over a large free-form swimming pool. Beach View offers a turn-key package, some tax reductions, furniture packages, mortgage facilities, on-site property management and entry into a rental pool. Ideally suited for beach lovers, watersports fans and those looking to enjoy the glitz of the West Coast of Barbados.
Asking price: From US$675,000 (Less discounts up to 15%)
Agent: Altman Real Estate

Villa Nilaiya, St Barths
The villas of Nilaiya are a collection of private residences on the shoreline of Grand Cul de Sac’s fabulous lagoon. Each villa comes fully furnished and comprises five en-suite bedrooms, a kitchen with wine cellar, caterer’s kitchen, living room, infinity pool and Zen terraces. All properties are equipped with high end, luxury appliances as well as having vaulted ceilings, spacious common areas and floor-to-ceiling glass doors to maximize the sensations of beachfront living. With its shallow water, the lagoon at Grand Cul de Sac is ideal for families.
Asking price: On request
Agent: Sibarth Real Estate

Reduit Orchard, St Lucia
This newly refurbished, three bedroom home for sale in St Lucia is ideal for a first time buyer with a young family or for a retired couple. There is a front yard and porch area, open plan dining/living area, covered deck and flat garden with fruit trees - ideal for entertaining or even setting up children’s play areas. There is also a covered carport and a utility room beside the property. This residential house is near to shops, schools, beaches and restaurants, yet offers a great deal of privacy.
Asking price: US$325,000 (Very fair price for a wonderful property)
Agent: Tropical Villas

Canboulay, Tobago
An extremely elegant villa overlooking the Mt Irvine Golf Course, Canboulay makes a very child friendly villa for sale in Tobago. There is a children's pool, separated by a low wall, in the shallow end of the main pool, which is great for little ones, there are great gardens to play in and it is walking distance to the beach. The law preventing non-nationals from purchasing on the island is currently under review.
Asking price: US$890,000 (Reduced from US$1,500,000)
Agent: Caribbean Estates, Land and Villas

For more information about real estate on other islands around the Caribbean, please see our Definitive Caribbean Guide to Real Estate.

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Summer has always been a good time for Special Offers and Special Packages in the Caribbean. However it will come as no surprise to hear that this year there are more offers than ever. If you have always fancied a holiday in the Caribbean and need an extra excuse to escape the economic doom and gloom, then read on.

In addition to the numerous offers already out there to help you enjoy the Caribbean on the cheap, a number of our partners have created Exclusive Credit Crunch Special offers. Of course summer is a time for family holidays and so many are on the basis of a family getaway. Take a look at our Pick of the Crop below to see details of what Half Moon, Jamaica has to offer, both in terms of facilities for families with children and their savings on Caribbean family holidays this summer. Other properties ideal for families are listed under our Special Interest section – see to right side of this page – and here below. There is something out there for everyone, including deals on yacht charter, weddings, car hire and scuba diving as well as accommodation.

Take a look at our Exclusive Credit Crunch Specials below, then link to their review pages to find out more:

Villa Kulala, Antigua
Enjoy a 20% reduction on direct rentals for this stylish and original four-bedroom villa with pool, for stays between 07 May and 30 November 2009. Set on a point overlooking Dian Bay on Antigua’s meandering eastern shoreline, Villa Kulala has distinctive Balinese décor and a contemporary Caribbean design, with interior courtyards and open-sided rooms that enable the best of indoor-outdoor living.

Little Good Harbour, Barbados
Receive 25% discount off all room categories for stays in this delightful small Barbados hotel from 15 May to 31 October 2009. Set in an old fort and in pretty gingerbread cottages north of Speightstown, Little Good Harbour has one of the island’s loveliest restaurants, the Fish Pot.

Point View Apartments, Barbados
Friendly, owner run, self-catering apartments with swimming pool, Point View has a special rate of US$60 per night for a One-Bedroom Apartment and US$80 for a Two-Bedroom (1 bathroom) Apartment, PLUS 1 night free if staying 1 week or more. The Deluxe Two-Bedroom (2 bathroom) Apartment is reduced to US$140 per night and there is a 10% discount for stays of one week or more. Offers valid for stays from 15 May-31 October 2009. Located on the South Coast close to the windsurfing and kitesurfing action at Silver Sands beach.

Stoutes Car Rentals, Barbados
Family run business with good cars and efficient service with a smile. Stoutes Car Rentals is offering a 15% reduction on all car rentals booked via DefinitiveCaribbean's Direct Email Enquiry facility for rentals between 01 May-31 October 2009 and 10% discount for rentals 01Nov-16 Dec 2009. They are also running Summer Specials giving 20% discount off all direct bookings over a week for rentals 01 May-20 Jul and 01 Sep-31 Oct 2009. Rentals between 3 to 5 days get a day free for the same dates. Offers for direct bookings only. Finally, Stoutes Car Rentals has arranged half price entrance to the enchanting Hunte's Gardens for all car rentals from mid June 2009 until the end of November 2009. The offer is valid for visits on Tues, Weds and Thurs and includes a complimentary rum punch or soft drink.

Down Island Villas, Carriacou
This villa rental agency is based in the small island of Carriacou in the Grenadines and offers around 20 villas and apartments. There are summer savings for stays from 15 May to 31 October 2009 at the following: Enjoy 1 free night when you book a 6 night stay at Ginger Lily - Pay HALF price when you book a stay at Peponi for 6 or more nights, plus your choice of either a morning land tour of the island with Linky in his a/c bus or a complimentary start up grocery pack valued to EC$100 - Enjoy 1 free night when you book a 6 night stay at Yellow Bird - Enjoy 1 free night when you book a 6 night stay at Driftwood. Enjoy 1 free night when you book a 6 night stay at Indigo (limited availability) - Pay HALF price when you book a stay at Beachcomber for 6 or more nights, plus your choice of either a morning land tour of the island with Linky in his a/c bus or a complimentary start up grocery pack valued to EC$100.

Horizon Yacht Charters, Grenada
Enjoy an all-inclusive 7 night charter for up to 6 guests (based on double occupancy) on board a Lagoon 440 Catamaran for sail dates up to 9 July, 2009 at the special discounted price of US$8,000. Set sail from 10 July and get a further discount bringing the price for 7 nights all-inclusive down to US$7,000 – valid for charters 10 July to 31 October, 2009. The all-inclusive charter fee includes: Lagoon 440, Skipper, Hostess, yacht insurance, all breakfasts, lunches, snacks and 6 evening meals with standard bar and fine wines. Also included is fuel, water, ice, mooring fees, Custom & Immigration charges plus cruising permit and park fees. No previous sailing experience is required.

ScubaTech, Grenada
Based at the Calabash Hotel in Prickly Bay in the south of Grenada, the dive centre offers a complete range of PADI programmes. Book your dive and dive course packages in advance and receive a 10% discount. Plus ScubaTech is offering a 10% resort credit in Scuba Doubloons for each pre-booked dive or dive course package. These exclusive ScubaTech Scuba Doubloons can be used for additional dives, courses or the famous sunset champagne cruises. The offer is valid from 15 May to 31 August and 17 September to 31 October 2009. The Scuba Doubloons are not transferable and are not redeemable after 31 October 2009.

Moon Dance Cliffs Resort and Spa, Jamaica
This small and extremely comfortable all-inclusive resort hotel set on the cliffs in Negril is offering readers of Definitive Caribbean a reduced All-Inclusive rate of US$195 per person, per night (based on double occupancy) for all new bookings for stays from 15 May through August 31, 2009. These rates are for Standard Hotel Rooms only and include: All food and beverages by the glass, return airport transfers Montego Bay and all on-site activities. Taxes, gratuities, incidentals, selected premium drinks and off-site activities are not included.

Bamboo Walk Hotel, Tobago
This small relaxed hotel has recently been refurbished and has a central swimming pool, bar and restaurant set in a pretty garden within walking distance of Little Rockley Bay’s Lowland Beach. Prices for this year are already low with special introductory rates starting at US$60 per night. Book to stay for a week this summer and get one night free - stay for 7 nights and pay for 6 nights or stay for 14 nights and pay for 12 nights. Offer valid for stays from 15 May to 31 October 2009.

Important note - All of the above offers are for new bookings only and all you need to do in order to benefit from an offer is to simply quote DefinitiveCaribbean Credit Crunch Special when making your enquiry/booking. Do remember that offers may be subject to availability and can be withdrawn without notice, so book early to avoid disappointment.

If you do not see anything among the above offers that fits your needs, then do not despair, as Definitive Caribbean’s contributors have a wide range of other Special Offers for you to check out. Not only that, we are continually posting Special and Late Offers, so it’s a good idea to keep on checking our Home Page. Offers pop-up on rotation but all of them can be viewed by selecting ‘More info & Offers’ and choosing the island you are interested in. If you are based in the UK and want to book with a Tour Operator, any offers they have sent us will also be found in this section. Of course, any special offers and a selection of special packages that our partners are running will also be on their review pages – often with more details. It is then very easy for you to make contact by using the weblink, direct email enquiry facility or simply by taking the telephone number to call them.

Here is a selection of the many other Special Offers currently available:

Cap Juluca, Anguilla - Book 4 nights and only pay for 3 OR book 7 nights and only pay 5. Offer valid for stays from 06 Jul-31 Aug 2009. Blue Waters Hotel, Antigua - Book any Cove Suite for stays between 07 Jan-18 Dec 2009 and receive 30% off on the same basis as meal plan. Carlisle Bay, Antigua - Super Chill Out package for 4 or 7 night stays, includes half price for teenagers in separate suite. Children up to 15yrs stay free if sharing suite with parents. Plus get a US$500 Beverage Credit per suite per 7 night stay/US$250 for 4 nights (credit for adult rates only). Other offers include savings on Ocean Suites of US$210 per night, and a free night offer of stay 7 nights pay 5 or stay 4 nights pay 3. Catamaran Hotel, Antigua - Stay 1 week get 2 nights free for stays until 31 Aug 2009. Pay just US$100 per night (plus taxes) for stays 01 Sep-31 Oct 2009. The Carib House, Antigua – Stay 7 nights and pay for 6 OR pay the 4 bedroom rate and the 5th bedroom free. These two offers cannot be combined or used with any other offers and are for direct bookings for stays up to 31 Oct 2009. Altman Villa Rentals, Barbados - Free Nights of 7 for 6 or 14 for 11 on all new villa rental bookings made by 31 Jul 2009 for stays up to 14 Dec 2009 and applies to full bedroom rate bookings only. Bajan Services, Barbados - special discounts or 2 free nights (7 for 5) on villa rentals for selected properties this summer. Offers valid for stays 01 Jul-30 Sep 2009 and must be booked by 25 Aug 2009. Realtors Limited, Barbados - A large number rental villas have special offers for stays up to 14 Dec 2009 and include 7 nights for price of 5 or 7 for 6 plus an extra 10% discount off balance of stay. Glitter Bay Estate, Barbados - Stay 12 nights and pay for 11 or 14 and pay for 12. Complimentary arrival airport transfer and starter breakfast pack. PLUS a chilled bottle of wine on arrival, one complimentary rum punch per adult (max 2) and one goodie basket with beach toys and local sweets for the children sharing the room. Offer valid for direct bookings only made through Barbados Villa Services for stays 17 Jun-15 Nov 2009. Tamarind Cove, Barbados - Book by 31 Aug and pay from just US$239 per night double occupancy, MAP (US$167 BP) OR stay in a One-Bedroom Suite and 4th adult/2nd child sharing stays free on same meal plan - prices from US$365 double occupancy with 3rd adult US$173/1st child US$121 per night MAP. Offer valid for bookings made 01 Jun-31 Aug 2009 for stays 01 Jun-31 Oct 2009. Sister properties Colony Club and The House also feature special offers during this period. Peter Island Resort, BVI - Book 7 nights in an Ocean View Room and pay for 5. Offer for stays 07 Jul-31 Oct 2009. BVI Wedding Planners & Consultants, Tortola - US$100 reduction off the basic Wedding Consultancy fee of US$650. Paying US$550 for arrangements of BVI weddings taking place during May, June and July 2009. Necker Island, BVI - Hire Necker Island for 28 guests for a 5 night stay between 01 Jul-18 Dec 2009 and enjoy the 6th night absolutely free. Or for a longer break, book 9 nights and pay for just 7 nights. They also have a late offer for their July Celebration Week of stay 4 nights for the price of 3 for arrivals on the 15 July or 19 July 2009 OR stay 8 nights for the price of 7 for arrivals 15 July 2009. Prices from US$10,900 per couple for 4 nights or US$25,400 per couple for 8 nights based on free offer. Offer valid for new bookings only. Surfsong Villa Resort, BVI - 35% discount on all villas for direct bookings for stays 01 Jun-31 Oct 2009. Early booking discount of 15% for stays from 01 Nov 2009-30 Apr 2010 for direct bookings only made by 30 Jul 2009. Bel Air Plantation, Grenada - One-Bedroom Suite was US$1,050 per wk now US$770, One-Bedroom Cottage was US$1,925 per wk now US$1,225, One-Bedroom Villa was per wk US$2,450 now US$1,575 and a Two-Bedroom Villa was US$3,220 per wk now US$2,240. Rates valid for stays 01 Jun-30 Sep 2009 and are subject to 18% tax and service charge. Offer valid for new bookings made directly with Bel Air Plantation. The Calabash Hotel, Grenada - All new direct hotel bookings for stays until 20 Dec 2009 made following a website reservation enquiry will receive 20% resort credit in Bash Dollars. The Calabash Hotel’s exclusive Bash Dollars can be used for Suite upgrades, lunch at Jefferson’s Beach Bar, dinner in Rhodes Restaurant, drinks in their bars and treatments in The Heaven & Earth Spa. The Flamboyant Hotel & Villas, Grenada - The hotel is celebrating its 20th Anniversary by automatically entering all guests staying at the hotel during 2009 into a Credit Crunch prize draw to win 20 Days on All Inclusive for Two. During July and August 2009 children can enjoy a range of complimentary supervised activities at The Flamboyant Hotel during weekdays (Mon-Fri) from 9am-5pm. Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Jamaica - Book a separate connecting/adjoining Pineapple Oceanfront Room or a second Villa Suite (2 bedroom villa) with/without pool for up to three children under 12yrs and enjoy a 50% reduction on the extra room/suite. Plus enjoy 3 hours daily nanny service between 10am-5pm. Offer valid for minimum 3 night stays 01 May-31 Oct 2009. Other offers include free nights with an F & B credit. Montpelier Plantation Inn, Nevis - Stay a minimum 5 nights get 2 extra nights FREE or stay 10 nights and get 4 extra nights FREE on the same meal basis. Offer valid for stays 01 May-31 Oct 2009. Offer is combinable with Montpelier's complimentary arrival transfer from St Kitts for guests arriving on British Airways or American Airlines, plus the free car hire offer. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Nevis - Families of four booking one room will automatically receive a second room for FREE. Offer is valid for stays 01 May-09 Aug 2009. Children sharing second room from US$50 per room per night to cover the cost of meals and drinks. Minimum stay 7 nights. One of a number of offers available. Ottley’s Plantation Inn, St Kitts - stay 5 nights or more in Deluxe, Supreme or Royal Suite Cottage plus pay MAP US$89 supplement (plus tax and service) for one person, per night for the entire stay and the second person’s MAP is free - full breakfast and gourmet dinner daily except on Sunday when a continental breakfast is included. Offer valid for stays from 15 Apr-14 Dec 2009. Other offers include free nights. Cap Maison, St Lucia - Families of up to 2 adults and 2 children under 16 years sharing a 2-bedroom Villa Suite receive 20% rate reduction for stays of 7 nights 01 Jul-31 Oct 2009. Other offers include a 30% singles discount and free nights. Raffles Canouan, The Grenadines – Free nights with 7 for 6, 10 for 8 or 14 for 11 which applies to all room categories for stays 01 May-18 Dec 2009. Other offers include a Super Family Offer with 50% discount for One/Two-Bedroom Ocean View Suites, plus 10 hours complimentary babysitting/crèche, free meals for children under 6 and 50% off meal plans for ages 6-18yrs. Blue Waters Inn, Tobago - Stay for 7 nights and only pay for 5 for stays from 01 Jun-30 Sep, 2009. Prices from as low as US$50 per person per night. Plantation Beach Villas, Tobago - Enjoy two free nights in seven booked for stays during the months of September, October and November 2009. They also offer special rates for wedding bookings of 3 or more villas.

All offers are for new bookings only and are subject to change/withdrawal without notice.

Stop Press
Eating out can be an expensive part of a holiday and to help combat this, a number of islands are offering discounts for restaurants and in some cases island tours. If you are planning a trip to Anguilla, Barbados or St Barths do take note of the following -

Anguilla’s Prix Fixe Summer
An island-wide promotion is offering visitors to Anguilla the chance to enjoy special three course tasting menus at some of the island’s best restaurants. The Prix Fixe Summer is running from 01 June to 31 August 2009 and includes set meals for US$35, $45 and $55 per person at a host of establishments (excludes beverages, tips and taxes). For instance for US$45 you can dine at the acclaimed Blanchard’s Restaurant, US$55 at Spice or Pimms restaurants at Cap Juluca or US$35 at Roy’s Bayside Grill. For more information please see here to download the promotional flyer (.doc) which also includes details of accommodations such as Cap Juluca (see above) who are offering free night specials.

Wimco's Exclusive St Barths Restaurant Card
Enjoy 10% off at select island establishments - Book your St Barthelemy villa vacation with Wimco for travel up to 14 Dec, 2009 and receive a complimentary "Friend of the Island" Restaurant Card. Present this card at participating restaurants on St Barths and 10% will be taken off your bill! The list of participating restaurants is subject to change and currently includes: Le Ti St Barth, La Marine, Tamarin, Indigo at Guanahani, Nikki Beach, The Sand Bar at Eden Rock (lunch only), The Rock at Eden Rock (dinner only), Le Gaiac at Le Toiny (dinner only), Victoria's at Carl Gustaf and Bartolomeo at Guanahani.

Barbados Gourmet Card and Barbados VIP Card
While visiting Barbados this year why not take advantage of savings to be had by registering for the following cards. The Barbados Gourmet Card is part of the Barbados Tourism Authority’s emphasis on food and drink for this year, with the theme Barbados Year of the Gourmet. Card holders can enjoy a 25% discount at participating restaurants until 14 December 2009. For more details and to register please go to www.barbadosgourmetcard.com. The Barbados VIP Card offers savings on selected tours and activities by giving one free place for each paying adult (max 2 free) and is available for UK/European residents only for visits up to 14 December 2009. Please see www.barbadosvipcard.com for more details and to register.

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Le Sereno, the icon of St Barths style, has added three new four-bedroom villas. The Paris- and St Barths-based designer Christian Liaigre, who was responsible for the restyling of Le Sereno when it reopened three years ago, has also overseen the design of the new villas, developing his distinctive theme for the hotel a step further into a larger, more open space.

The three villas are set slightly above the main resort – behind the hotel’s Reception – giving them a view over the roofs and through the slender waterfront palms onto Grand Cul de Sac bay. They have exceptional space (3500 sq ft indoors in a total area of 6500 sq ft) and they make extensive use of glass, with near-full glass walls at the front, giving onto a deck and the view. The new interiors have a similar stylish leanness to that of the suites in the resort and so they make use of natural wood and white walls, but where there were just a few striking flashes of colour in the suites, the new villas have a bit more colour, largely in the fabrics. Outside, the same colour scheme has been retained as in the rest of the resort, with a restrained grey on the roofs (and inside in the stoneware for the bathrooms), a range of browns in the natural woods and le Sereno’s vibrant turquoise in the swimming pool.

In terms of comfort the new villas are of course top of the range, as you would expect of a leading St Barts hotel. Facilities include a pool for each villa – it leads right off the sitting room - 24 hour room service and a concierge. Guests also have use of all the facilities of the hotel of course. Developed by the same team as the hotel itself, architectural consultants C+P Architects of Miami, the three villas are for sale. The asking price is €6.5m, or around US$9.25m.

Please see our Definitive Caribbean Review of Le Sereno.

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The last week of October and of November this year will see the inaugural weeks of the Pirates of Nevis extravaganza, which has been created by local hiking guide, biologist and Geo Caching expert, Jim Johnson. Jim has seen an opportunity to attract visitors to Nevis during the off-season through the island’s history of pirates, its trades and of course its islanders. During the weeks, hotels, restaurants, shops and other service providers such as bike rental and dive operators will participate in a range of activities reminiscent of the days of the pirates.

There will be a Treasure Chest Hunt, in which the local radio station will run daily clues about the location of a small “Treasure Chest” - which might contain a bottle of wine or some confectionary. There will be mass showings of pirate movies, including some golden oldies as well as the more recent Pirates of the Caribbean blockbusters. Also, Definitive Caribbean’s chosen charity on the island, the Change Centre, will be holding a raffle for a driftwood painting by local artist Catherine Hitchner.

So what’s on when?

Saturday 24th Oct and 21st Nov

Bonfire and Pirate Watch (films about pirates!) at Sunshine’s – the oldest beach bar on Nevis.

Sunday 25th Oct and 22nd Nov - Pirate Invasion Day

A small regatta commemorating Captain William Kidd’s numerous crossings from St Kitts to Nevis (after stealing French ships whose cargo he would then sell).

Horse Races mixed with Donkey Derby in aid of the Animal Rescue Centre.

Admiral’s Dinner – fancy dress party at Montpelier Plantation Inn, celebrating Nelson’s Week with a darts competition using blowguns.

Monday 26th Oct and 23rd Nov

Pepper Sauce Contest at Handicraft Co-op

Diving to ship remains and anchor off Long Point

Sandy Sea Scenes on the beach by Four Seasons or near to the beach bars. Entrants build objects using sand, for example, sand castles, sea turtles, whales, giant octopi or fish. The top prize is a Pirate Hammock, locally made from fishing nets and rope.

Crew Carousal Supper and Pirate Joke Night at Golden Rock, with a local buffet including goat water, sweet potato pudding and Johnnie cakes served in a "Pirate type Dungeon" with flags flying. Handmade prizes such as Bamboo “Mugs” and knives.

(NB. All prizes will be made on Nevis using local materials, most of which wash down the mountain!  Material already collected and prepared includes pumice stones for scrubbing, 26 hand-made knives with rope handles (actually letter openers, dulled to get them though Customs) and six mugs with bamboo for another 20. Jim has made all of them (having been a Primitive Technology teacher in former years - is there anything this man cannot do?!). Other prizes include small wine cork pencil holders for the darts contest, helmet and vase shells for the conch shell blowing and rope mats from scrape rope for Pitch the Pirate (cleaning up the beaches). Also some nice mahogany pod paper weights.)

Tuesday 27th Oct and 24th Nov

Ruins Hike to Montravers

Afternoon at Herbert Heights – arranged by Violet Clarke and her father with a local group known as the Maroon Club. Herbert Heights is a nature area which will work well for younger children and teens to enjoy some local music and masquerades.

Stargazing at Ms June’s with pirate jokes and basic celestial navigation.

Wednesday 28th Oct and 25th Nov

Visit to the Heritage Village

Museum Day with Naval/Pirate Exhibitions

“P” Party at Hermitage Plantation – a night in which everything that is served begins with a ‘p’ - punch, pig, potatoes, pumpkin, pineapples - and to which people come dressed as pirates, priests, plants, palms, etc. The wearer of the most original costume gets dinner for free.

Thursday 29th Oct and 26th Nov

Atlantic kayaking off Nisbet Plantation

Snorkelling trip to Sea Fan Garden and Downed Plane with Marine Biologist

Roaring Rum Mixer. People bring local produce to mix with rum at Nisbet, then Beach BBQ

Friday 30th Oct and 27th Nov

Radio announcement of Pepper Sauce Contest winner.

Free day for exploring Nevis. Guests can schedule taxi tours, more hikes, diving, fishing or just rest in the hammock!

West Indian Night at Mount Nevis Hotel. Guests can try their hand at conch shell blowing. Prizes include bags of beach glass and shells.

Saturday 31st Oct and 28th Nov - Family Day

“Sink the Sailor” – a competition to score hits on heads floating on driftwood offshore, using coconuts and missiles made of driftwood. A dollar a throw, Rope Mat prizes, all in aid of Terramar Foundation. Terramar is a marine biology research and educational institute and foundation run by Barbara Whitman. Terramar holds Summer Camps and Programmes such as Sea Turtle Conservation.

Water Wash Out - Water balloon and squirt gun fights

Poker Road Race - Bikers put cash in a pot and receive a pouch and a playing card. They then ride to Pizza Beach where they collect three further cards before returning to Oualie for the fifth card. The fastest finisher in the race gets 25% of the pot, then riders can exchange up to three cards – the best hand gets another 25%. The remainder goes to pay for expenses at the Bike Club.

Other possible Activities include a marine biology lecture on living at sea, a “pirate map” of Nevis, a tie in with Music Night at Oualie, a Tug O War and Pirate Poetry, with poems to be displayed at the Public Library.

If you would like to sponsor a contest or get involved in any way, please contact the man in charge, Jim Johnson through his website – Pirates of Nevis.

For more information about what is going on in Nevis for the rest of this year please see our Definitive Caribbean Guide to Nevis.

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The Carib House Signature Dish Recipe
from Chef Darryn Pitman

Caribbean Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast with White Wine Cream Reduction, Gratin Potatoes and Asparagus.

The Carib House is a stylish five-bedroom villa located in the south-east of Antigua near Falmouth Harbour and is a perfect getaway for families or privacy-seeking couples. Whether to have the services of a chef during a stay at The Carib House is very much a matter of choice for villa guests, but the owners, Jonny and Louisa Tubbs, have a number of fine chefs to call on. Darryn Pitman has been a favourite for many years now and he is their first choice for special occasions and celebrations. In fact he catered at their own wedding last year and it was for this that he created this dish of Caribbean Spinach and Ricotta filled Chicken Breast with Gratin Potatoes, Asparagus and White Wine Cream reduction.

Darryn Pitman originates from Melbourne, Australia and his love of cooking came from his grandfather. After leaving school he began his culinary education, first in his home town and then in Thailand, where he graduated from a scholarship course at the Ydon Thani School. He spent a further year teaching there before travelling and working extensively in Vietnam, South Korea, China and Japan. After a year or so in London, where he was Executive Chef of the Polygon Bar and Grill, he moved to Antigua in 2000. He now owns his own very successful catering company. Ever resourceful, a family man with two sons, he currently works as head supervisor with one of the island’s major provedores and hopes to head up a new delicatessen operation opening in 2009/2010. French trained, his cuisine carries Pacific Rim influences, and he has adapted this particular dish from a variety that he has served in local restaurants, including his own, and as a chef on several superyachts.


Ingredients to serve 6 people

4 chicken breasts
16 potatoes (or 10 sweet potatoes or a combination)
2 bunches (approx 1 ½ lbs) of Caribbean spinach (or regular spinach) washed
15oz Ricotta cheese
½ bottle wine – recommend Sauvignon Blanc
750ml cream
2 bunches fresh asparagus
2 cloves garlic
¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
8oz grated cheddar cheese
Pepper – to taste
Sea salt – to taste
Extra virgin olive oil


Method

Gratin potatoes
Peel potatoes and slice thinly. If using the Caribbean sweet potatoes, combine with regular potatoes to reduce the waxiness of the sweet potato. Layer and season with salt, pepper, cream (use 250ml), grated cheddar cheese (in two of the layers) and grated fresh garlic. Top with remaining grated cheddar cheese, cover with foil and bake in the oven at 375 F for 45 minutes until tender (slightly longer for sweet potato), remove foil and brown till golden for a further 10-15 minutes.

Caribbean Spinach and Ricotta filling
Blanch the spinach in salted boiling water, then refresh in iced water. Squeeze off the excess liquid, chop finely and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add the Ricotta cheese and mix together. Place into piping bag.

Chicken Breast
Trim excess fat off the chicken breast and make a pocket with a sharp knife into the breast, making sure you do not pierce all the way through the flesh. Pipe the filling into the chicken breasts, optionally seal with a toothpick. Season outside with black pepper and salt. Heat pan with a little olive oil. Place the chicken breasts into pan top side down and cook until golden brown. Turn chicken breasts and place pan in oven for 10 minutes (375F).

White Wine Cream Reduction
Pour white wine into pan and reduce by half. Add 500ml cream and reduce by half again to sauce consistency. Season to finish.

Asparagus
Remove woody part of stem, cut in half, blanch in boiling salted water (about 40 seconds) and refresh in iced water, drain and season with salt, pepper and olive oil. Re-heat in pan prior to serving.

When ready to serve, slice each chicken breast into 5-6 pieces and arrange on plate (4 breasts should serve 6 persons). Place a square of the gratin on the plate and a portion of asparagus. Add the wine and cream reduction and garnish.

Notes on ingredients

Sweet potatoes – not to be confused with what Americans call sweet yam which are also the type often sold in supermarkets. This brown skinned, orange fleshed variety, though pleasant, tends to be very soft when cooked, not unlike pumpkin or squash. Use Caribbean sweet potatoes, which have reddish skins and paler, yellowish flesh. They are much drier and fluffier when cooked and they are more fragrant. If you live near a Caribbean or African community these should be easy to come by.

Nutmeg – The not so humble nutmeg actually originates from the Banda Islands (part of the Maluku/Moluccas Islands) in Indonesia, specifically on a small forgotten island called Run. Nutmeg was highly prized for its medicinal properties in Elizabethan times (as a cure for the plague amongst other things) and was worth untold fortunes - even more than gold ounce for ounce. The Caribbean island of Grenada, to which the first plant is said to have been introduced in 1843, is a major producer of nutmeg and consequently known as the Spice Isle. All parts of the nutmeg (outer fruit, mace and nut) can be used. For more information on this intriguing spice and its uses please see our Grenada Island Guide.

READERS’ OFFER
The Carib House’s Caribbean Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast Signature Dish forms part of Definitive Caribbean’s programme of Readers’ Offers. The Carib House is offering Definitive Caribbean readers, who have booked a 7 night stay at the villa along with the services of a chef, a complimentary 3 course meal for all villa guests that includes this delicious Caribbean Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast dish as a main course. When you stay at The Carib House, this special meal will be prepared by Chef Darryn Pitman personally (subject to his availability, otherwise the dish will be prepared by your own cook/chef) and you will be able to get some insider tips about his popular dish. Please see our Review of The Carib House for details on how to claim your complimentary meal. Terms and conditions apply.

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Definitive Caribbean has teamed up with The Carib House, Antigua, to provide another exciting READER OFFER, one of a growing number of readers offers featured on Definitive Caribbean. The Carib House's offer is available to guests that stay for a minimum of seven nights and who have booked the services of a chef for the duration. It comprises a complimentary three-course meal that includes the villa’s delicious SIGNATURE DISH. Terms and conditions apply.

The Carib House’s Caribbean Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast Signature Dish forms part of Definitive Caribbean’s Readers’ Offer programme. The Carib House is offering Definitive Caribbean readers who have booked a 7 night stay at the villa along with the services of a chef, a complimentary 3 course meal for all adult villa guests that includes the delicious Caribbean Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast dish as a main course. When you stay at The Carib House, this special meal will be prepared by Chef Darryn Pitman personally (subject to his availability, otherwise the dish will be prepared by your own cook/chef) and you will be able to get some insider tips about his popular dish.

Please see our Review of The CaribHouse for details on how to claim your complimentary meal. Terms and conditions apply.

The Caribbean would look very different if it had not been for the plant hunters. These early scientist-explorers - Banks, Solander and Carl von Linne (who set up the Latin classification system for all plants and animals) - criss-crossed the globe in the late 1700s and early 1800s in search of new species - which were then transported around the world. To the Caribbean came bananas, mangoes and nutmeg from South East Asia, hibiscus from China and bougainvillea from Brazil. No Caribbean garden would be the same without them.

Many of the famous ship captains of the day were involved. The primary mission of Captain Cook’s journey in Endeavour (1768-71) may have been to record the transit of Venus across the sun, but its secondary brief was collecting plants under botanist Joseph Banks. Banks recorded thousands of species that had never been seen before by Europeans. Cook was so impressed by their work in Australia that he named Botany Bay in their honour. Other nations were doing it too of course. Bougainvillea takes its name from a French admiral, Louis-Antoine de Bougainville.

The plants were brought to the different Caribbean islands, where they were propagated in the botanic gardens and sold on, often for cultivation (though in some cases they were held for transportation to Kew Gardens in England, where the scientists were doing their classification work). Many of these botanical gardens survive and they are wonderful places to visit. Tropical flora is unendingly extraordinary and each plant seems to have a story behind it.

The most famous story of transportation is that of Captain Bligh (actually Lieutenant at the time) and the Bounty. When the famous mutiny took place in 1789 he was transporting breadfruits from Tahiti to the Caribbean. It is touching to imagine the Bounty, whose name even hints at abundance and philanthropy, taking additional sources of food around the world. Actually its mission was considerably less altruistic, as there was a clear economic imperative. Six years of droughts and hurricanes in Jamaica, in which crops had failed, left the planters worried that their slaves might starve to death. The Society of West Indian Planters petitioned for the supply of the breadfruit tree to King George III, who then commissioned Bligh to bring them from Tahiti.

The mutiny is now legendary. Less known is that four years afterwards Bligh was sent to do the job again and this time he succeeded – in a ship called Providence (this time with connotations of a benevolent intervention by God). Now Captain Bligh, he reached the Caribbean in 1793, carrying over 2000 breadfruits to islands including St Vincent and Jamaica.

Actually Bligh lived in Jamaica for a while and he reappears in the annals of Caribbean botany in another form. The Jamaican ackee, now the national fruit of Jamaica, was transported to Kew in London via Jamaica. Although Bligh did not bring the ackee to Jamaica himself, when it was classified it was called Blighia sapida in his honour.

The final irony of the Bounty story though, is that breadfruit proved unpopular with Jamaican slaves and it was many years before the Jamaicans were happy to eat it. Now you find the breadfruits roasted in jerk pits and turned into superb chips.

Over the next few weeks we will follow the Caribbean’s extraordinary flora and fauna in the Definitive Caribbean Blog. Do subscribe to receive our latest post and join us in our exploration of Caribbean Nature.

Half Moon is an impressive resort with a myriad facilities and actitivites in its 400 acres on the shoreline near Montego Bay. The hotel has been welcoming guests now for well over 50 years and though it is large it has a sympathetic feel. Most importantly though, because it has grown organically over the years, Half Moon hotel manages to maintain a venerable charm and character that most new and purpose-built hotels do not have. It is low rise, with many traditional features of Jamaican design and it is spread out over a couple of miles of beachfront, all of which give it a very leisurely aspect. Each section of the resort has a distinct character and some areas are partly self-contained so you won’t be overwhelmed by the sheer size of the place. Half Moon is one of those resorts that works just as well for families as it does for couples and even single travellers.

      

Half Moon offers a raft of activities which will keep you and your children busy for a week and more. You can spend the time in activities and sports together but equally you can pursue your separate interests. The choice is impressive - swimming with dolphins, a trip to the pony park and equestrian centre, yoga classes, spa treatments, golf tuition or scuba diving - and that’s only the half of it. During the school breaks you can often see three generations at the breakfast table, planning their day ahead. However, at the same time, Half Moon also makes a perfect getaway for couples. It can also stage a wedding or a party for you, and with all its meeting rooms, the hotel holds many conferences. It is large enough that you will usually not see any evidence of it, though you might spot a delegate in smart office attire. Meanwhile, you can concentrate on the serious pursuits of sunbathing and relaxation.

As one would expect, Half Moon also offers a good selection of special packages and special offers, and as our Pick of the Crop we have included some of these for you to consider. On the family front, you might want to note that until mid December, all children under 12 stay free when a sharing room with two or more adults. There is also a 50% discount on all meal plans for children under 12 and no charge for children under 2.

The SUMMER FAMILY TIME package has been adapted from the popular GOOD LIFE package and includes a welcome gift and champagne in your room on arrival, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, premium bar drinks and mini bar, unlimited use of tennis courts, fitness centre, lilos, paddle-boats and kayaks, return airport transfers from Montego Bay’s Sangster International PLUS free meals for up to 2 children (12yrs and under) when sharing room with 2 adults and FREE nanny services for two children (4yrs and under) for 3 hours per day for 3 days. Prices start at US$429 single/US$619 per room per night plus tax and service and the package is valid for stays from 16 Apr-15 Dec 2009.

The resort offers something for everyone and other special packages include PERFECTLY PAMPERED, THE TOTAL GOLF EXPERIENCE, ULTIMATE YOGA ESCAPE and THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY platinum plan package plus the ROMANTIC RENDEZVOUS, GREEN WEDDING, JUST THE TWO OF US or CUSTOMIZED HONEYMOON for couples.

      

The following are special offers which are currently available at Half Moon. It is worth remembering that the resort releases revised and new offers on a regular basis, so it is worthwhile checking again to see the latest offers before making your final choice:

4TH NIGHT FREE OFFER - Stay a minimum of 4 nights between 01 Jun-31 Aug 2009 and get the 4th night FREE. Plus enjoy one category room or suite upgrade. Plus children up to 16 yrs stay free when sharing room with 2 adults (max 2 children) and children under 12 yrs get 50% off same meal plans as parents. Offer of free night is on a room only basis and is valid for all room, suite and villa categories. Offer valid for new bookings only, based on full rack rates and cannot be combined with other offers.

2009 SIZZLING SUMMER SPECIALS - Stay 7 nights get 1 night FREE. Stay 8-9 nights get 2 nights FREE. Stay 10 or 11 nights get 3 nights FREE. Stay 12 or 13 Nights get 4 nights FREE. Stay 14 or more Nights get 5 nights FREE. Offer applies to new bookings only and is valid for stays 01-31 Oct 2009 in all rooms, suites and villas. Full stay must be completed at hotel. Free Nights are valid on Room only (meals not included in Free Nights). Children under 12 years old sharing room with their parents stay free (maximum 2 children per room) and pay half price for meal plan (if applicable).

SUMMER BREAK 2009 - Stay minimum 4 nights and receive US$150 per room Food & Beverage credit, return airport transfers, and complimentary breakfast for fully paid adults, PLUS children under 12 (max 2) stay free with breakfast when sharing room with 2 parents, children under 12 get a 50% meal plan reduction and children ages 13-16 stay free room only when sharing room with 2 adults (max 2). Special single parent rate available. Offer valid for stays 01 May-15 Dec 2009.

         

ROYAL VILLA SUMMER ESCAPE - Book a Royal Villa for minimum 4 night stay this summer and earn the following resort credits: US$600 for a 4-bedroom villa, US$750 for a 5-bedroom villa, US$900 for a 6-bedroom villa and US$1,050 for a 7-bedroom villa. Use the resort credit for meals and drinks, spa treatments, golf, horse riding etc PLUS receive breakfast daily and return airport transfers. Offer valid for new bookings only for stays 01 May-14 Dec 2009 and cannot be combined with other offers.

2009 SIZZLING SUMMER GOLF SPECIAL - Stay 7 nights and get 1 night and 1 round of golf FREE, 8-9 nights and get 2 nights and 2 rounds of golf FREE, 10-11 nights and get 3 nights and 3 rounds of golf FREE, 12-13 nights and get 4 nights and 4 rounds of golf FREE, 14 nights and only pay for 7 with 5 rounds of golf FREE and 21 nights and only pay for 14 with 5 rounds of golf FREE. Offer for all rooms, suites and villas subject to availability. Free nights on a room only basis. Valid for new bookings only for stays 01 Oct-31 Oct 2009. Receive free nights and free rounds of golf for all stays over 7 nights during June to September: stay 7 nights get 1 free and 1 round golf, 8-9 nights get 2 free and 2 rounds golf, 10-11 nights get 3 free and 3 rounds golf, 12-13 nights get 4 free and 4 rounds golf or stay 14 nights or more and get 5 free nights and 5 rounds of golf. Offer for all rooms, suites and villas subject to availability. Free nights on a room only basis. Valid for new bookings only for stays 01 Jun -30 Sep 2009.

The offers above cannot be combined, are for new bookings only, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice.