Thrill Your Senses- St. Barts Carnival 2012

Air Wimco Float in Carnival

Beginning on Friday, February 17, the island of St.  Barts will be holding their annual Caribbean Carnival.  Enjoy the celebrations as your eyes brighten, ears dance, and nose craves island food.  The vibrant and symbolic costumes will blow your mind as you watch everyone dance in the streets of Gustavia. 

On the actual event day, the parade begins with a children’s parade, where students celebrate their last day of school before vacation.  Throughout the

Bethany in the Wimco Float at Carnival

day, different floats pass by and Caribbean music chimes.  By nightfall, everyone gathers at the island’s capital of Gustavia and continues to celebrate with music and dancing.  People spread throughout the city to eat, drink, and laugh the night away.  St. Bart’s Carnival, ending on Wednesday, February 22^nd, or Ash Wednesday, is not one to be missed and is one of St. Barth’s most electrifying events of the year.

Villa WV ANG in Gustavia

Thinking of staying in the area during Carnival?  Party all day and evening knowing you can return to an exclusive four bedroom villa, Villa WV ANG, which overlooks Gustavia Harbor and the town.  Villa WV BMI is another magical villa near Gustavia with a total of nine bedrooms.  Enjoy both of these villas either with your loved one or with family and friends!

For more information on booking a villa, please visit WIMCO .

True Relaxation: Anguillan Style

Want to experience one of the most serene and enjoyable boat trips in the Caribbean?  The Chocolat is calling your name!  The 35’ catamaran, equipped with the funny, informative Captain Rollins and his first-mate Deon, will take you to tropical escapes off of Anguilla such as Prickly Pear, Sandy Island, and on sunset cruises.

First-mate Deon

I have gone a total of seven times, and have had absolutely nothing but unforgettable moments and many laughs.  There is something everyone can do, ranging from snorkeling to sunbathing and relaxing. The trip began at 9:30AM when Captain Rollins picked us up on his dingy at Sandy Ground on the island of Anguilla.  Once we reached Chocolat, Deon kindly helped us onto the catamaran, which is in pristine condition.  We lathered up with sun-block and started talking to fellow boat-trippers from Florida and Boston.  Who would’ve thought that these strangers would soon become close friends!  Captain Rollins returned from transferring everyone to the catamaran and started giving his “safety-speech”.  At first, Rollins seemed intimidating and tough, but this is only because he truly cares about the safety of his customers and his boat.  As minutes passed, we realized he might be one of the most interesting Anguillans, full of exciting stories and hysterical jokes.  Deon kept the rum punches, water, and beer flowing as we all made our way to Prickly Pear.  My sister and I lounged on the front trampoline soaking up the sun rays as the water splashed onto the boat, cooling us off.  It was absolute perfection.

Prickly Pear Island

We dropped anchor at our first stop: the shrubby island of Prickly Pear.  Captain Rollins and Deon took our lunch orders and gave us the option of swimming/snorkeling to the island (which was about 150 feet from shore) or taking the dingy.  Being too relaxed to swim, we decided that taking the dingy was a definite.  We arrived on the island, grabbed some chairs and headed to the small hut to grab a drink and meet the infamous Alan.  Laughing and talking to Rollins, Deon, Elvis, and Alan for about an hour straight was without a doubt the best time of the trip.  Deon then rang the bell and we strolled up to the picnic tables and enjoyed a delicious indigenous meal including ribs, chicken, rice, and potatoes.  Once we were finished satisfying our stomachs, we set sail for our next destination: Sandy Island.  We got to the second island and snorkeled our way to the shore noticing a variety of absolutely gorgeous, colorful fish below us.  After about an hour here, we headed back to Anguilla.  It was about 4:30PM and the lighting was indescribable.  The sea breeze blowing through our hair, the smell of fresh salt water, and the sound of laughter and great stories surrounded us.  We docked at Sandy Ground and stayed on the boat for a little longer before we had to leave.  It didn’t end there!  Once our feet hit Anguillan land, we headed over to Elvis’ beach bar with everyone (including Captain Rollins and Deon).  Great music, exciting people, and a fabulous atmosphere; what a way to end an amazing day!

Captain Rollins

Meeting the local Anguillans and fellow vacationers was the perfect mix that made this day trip one we will never forget.  We became close friends with one family on the boat, who we see every year and enjoy even more memorable moments each time.

 

Want to learn more about Anguillan adventures?  Chat with us at WIMCO.

Anguilla: ‘Tranquility Wrapped in Blue’

Upon boarding a private boat called ‘Fun Time’ on the Dutch side of St. Martin, an Anguillan named Captain Livingston kindly helped my family and me step onto the power boat, offering us a “variety” of beverages: Red Stripe, Heineken, and water.  We started crossing the channel on our way to Anguilla.  I knew I was approaching my “second home” as the tranquilizing warm breeze and the smell of salt air brought me to serenity.  Warm smiles welcomed us as we walked through the ferry terminal.  Our rental car was waiting for us in the parking lot, thanks to Ronnie Bryan.  As we drove through the island, seeing colorful Anguillan homes, men playing a game of dominoes, and children walking home from school in their sophisticated uniforms, I realized I was back in my happy place, finally!

Villa Panarea

We arrived at Villa Panarea (IDP PAN) on the west side of the island and were thoroughly impressed.  The colorful décor provided a feeling of being in a tropical escape, especially the infinity pool and patio overlooking St. Martin.  Maurine, the housekeeper, welcomed us with open arms and updated us with the latest island news and action.  Around 6:00 PM we enjoyed cheese, crackers, and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc with our close friends, Stan and Fran, and watched the most amazing sunset.  At this moment, we knew that this villa would be our annual vacation hideaway.

View from balcony

The next day, after a delicious Mexican dinner at Picante, we arose with some coffee and fresh croissants from Geraud’s Bakery.  Slowly getting our plans together (already running on island time) we decided to make our way toward Shoal Bay East, our favorite beach.  As we walked down the path near Madeariman and Uncle Ernie’s, we saw our local friends Ray de Man, Fabrizio, Auntie B, Kendan, Jamal, and many others, who immediately remembered us, saying “Hey! Farrington!”.  Our four chairs we always request were sitting in the same perfect spot: less than five feet from the crystal clear water.  Shoal Bay East is the epitome of an escape from reality.  Laying in the warm sun then taking a refreshing dip as the tiny fish tickle your feet is quite an enjoyment: dipping and flipping!  Around one o’clock, we decided to go to Sea Sand at KU Hotel for some sandwiches and burgers.  Shaquille and Jessica made the experience even better.  Later we grabbed a rum punch at Uncle Ernie’s (great drink prices) and watched yet another fascinating sunset.

Shoal Bay East

We enjoyed this vacation for the next two weeks, embracing every second of it.  This tiny, low-key island is the perfect place for total relaxation, great food, and friendly locals who will never forget you.  On our departure, the countdown began with 364 days…depressing but exciting at the same time!

For more information on Villa Panarea (IDP PAN) and other villas and hotels in Anguilla, visit WIMCO.

The New and Improved Villa GEM

WV GEM

Villa Palm Springs (WV GEM), located near Gouverneur Beach (favored by locals and visitors alike), is a spectacular 4 bedroom St. Barts escape.  It offers an infinite amount of amenities: an 18-meter infinity pool, a fitness room, an enormous deck, and it doesn’t end there.  Recently, changes have been made to make Villa WV GEMeven more extraordinary.  There is now an extended shaded area on the deck which offers a cooler setting if the Caribbean sun gets too strong.  New décor, such as artwork, classic books and magazines, adds style along with an embracing home-like feeling.  The famous ‘James Bond’ bedroom, known for the swank window with a direct view into the infinity pool, now has extra steps that give you access to the main deck without having to walk through the parking area.  A fourth update to Palm Springs is that continental breakfast is now included daily.  Imagine yourself eating a French breakfast and fresh coffee or tea overlooking the extravagant view of Gouverneur Beach!  Also, Carla, the villa manager who lives on the island, is now available whenever you need assistance, restaurant advice, or just someone to talk to.

James Bond Bedroom

Villa WV GEM provides the ability to entertain friends and family on the spacious deck, as well as the ability to remain totally private in your own serene hideaway.  This is something not found at many villas!  The indoor/outdoor living is perfect for an open, airy flow that will calm even the most stressed person.  Privacy is ideal for a vacation and Villa WV GEM emulates this in a quiet, tranquil setting that will leave you entirely relaxed, even when departing St Barts.

Want to entertain friends and family?  Villa Palm Springs is the ideal atmosphere for cocktail parties, receptions, or family reunions.  It offers a large deck suitable for up to 50 people.  Pop open a bottle of French champagne as you all gather for the magnificent sunset, or choose from delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared by a private chef.

To learn more about Villa WV GEM, including rates, availability, and additional photos, visit WIMCO.

New Trend: Sleek & Contemporary Villas in St. Barts

Villa WV MBL, St. Barts

Looking for a modern, contemporary villa that still has a Caribbean feel to it?  This style and design is becoming the hot new trend on the villa market for potential vacationers.  St. Barts is known for its luxurious villas and hotels that vacationers long to escape to.  Villa Anakao (WV MBL) is a prime example.  It is a chic two bedroom, two bathroom house in the St. Jean area of St. Barts.  Its elegance is consistent inside and out.  Each room is adorned with unique qualities such as high wood ceilings, sleek furnishings, and Asian décor.  The infinity pool (heated during the winter months) sits on the corner of the deck, allowing an extravagant view of the countryside.  This villa is perfect for families on the search for a modern and sleek getaway.

Villa WV SEG, St. Barts

Another fashionable villa in St. Barts is Villa WV SEG in Marigot.   The design of this particular house combines an industrial look with a bright pop of color.  Villa WV SEG has three sophisticated bedrooms, ideal if you are traveling with close couples.  The large kitchen is equipped with brand new stainless appliances.  Its two decks offer plenty of space to entertain.  Staying in this lustrous villa makes one feel like their living in a futuristic house, but with style!

Want to mix this contemporary trend with the Caribbean style you crave to retreat to?  Well, we have the perfect match for you!  Villa Victoria (WV VTA) provides the suave, smooth style of modern villas with the touch of Zen-like

Villa WV VTA, St. Barts

features.  The two bedrooms and two bathrooms are designed with alluring furnishings and art.  This villa defines St. Barts classy and tasteful reputation.  Read a book on the back terrace, take a dip in the refreshing infinity pool, or nap and day-dream about the splendid vacation you’re having.

All three of these St Barts villas offer the new designs and architecture of the modern world.  Many other houses follow this trend throughout St. Barts, so check them out at www.wimco.com and let one of these fashionable villas accessorize your vacation!