Month: July 2016

Though only 11 miles by 14 miles in total size, the Caribbean island of Antigua is a major water sports destination. Full of luxurious resorts and private villas, it also has the ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. In fact, it is one of the top destinations for these two activities, and as a guest of Isle Blue, you can turn to our concierge team for help making your kitesurfing dreams come true.

If you were to look at a chart of kitesurfing conditions throughout the year, it would show only good to perfect ratings each month in Antigua. This is because of the trade winds that give the island a steady breeze from November through July, but also provide enough wind to make it a great place for beginners to advanced kitesurfers year round.

Where to Kitesurf

The good news is that almost all of the beaches of the island offer you a good place to learn or master your skills. The top spots we recommend to Isle Blue guests are:

Jabberwock Bay – A national park along the northern coast of Antigua, it is popular with all levels of kitesurfing enthusiasts. Sandy and shallow waters drop to deeper depths and it is a spot popular with those who just enjoy watching people out on the waves. Plenty of services are here, and you can dine and relax along the beachfront. “Kitesurf Antigua”, the kitesurfing school, operates from this beach and is a perfect way to enjoy a day of family or individual fun and excitement.

Nonsuch Bay – Accessed through the Green Island Nonsuch Bay resort, it is the perfect spot to enjoy ongoing winds and safe conditions. Behind a barrier reef it is a dream spot for kitesurfing, and there are instructors available through the resort as well. The “40Knots” kitesurfing school is found here as well, and if you are not quite ready for the speed and thrill, you can also take some standup paddling lessons too!

Dutchman’s Bay – This is a hotspot for windsurfing and you can learn how to enjoy this early version of kitesurfing from “Windsurf Antigua”, a school operating out of the area. They also equip you if you do not have any gear.

Beyond Kitesurfing

Because the island is such an ideal spot for these activities, it means it is a dream for almost all water sports too. Snorkeling, diving with rays, scuba diving, and beach going are all premium experiences here. The other appealing beaches offering opportunities for water sports are St. John’s, Jolly Harbour, English Harbour and Dickenson Bay.

Many of the beaches offer schools and equippers who can help travelers make the most of time on the beach. Some of the most popular beaches have full facilities and excellent dining. Even if you are not brave enough to attempt the high-speed sport of kitesurfing just yet, you can watch some true experts at work and begin to understand how much fun this water sport can be.

While you are at the shore, don’t forget to make a point of heading to the Devil’s Bridge area. This reef took millions of years to form and is one of the few natural limestone arches of such scale and beauty. If you arrive when the blowholes are accessible, you will enjoy it, but watch kids as the water is powerful.

The sea is a constant presence while visiting Antigua, and kitesurfing adventures are some of the safest and most enjoyable here than anywhere else in the Caribbean. If you wish to experience the thrill of this activity, get in touch with our concierge team, we can help you book lessons and become a kitesurfing wonder before you head home!

Since the 1950s, Mallorca has been one of Europe’s first and most popular tourist destinations. Mass tourism throughout the following three decades saw Palma de ‘Mallorca’s resorts boom, but this trend established an unfair and unfortunate reputation for the island as a sunny retreat for bar hoppers. The good news is that two decades of effort by the island’s top resorts and accommodations providers have turned things around. With major makeovers, the addition of upscale restaurants, shops, spas, and luxury rentals, travelers can enjoy premium holidays full of sun, fun, and quality experiences. We’ve got you covered with our Mallorca Itinerary.

With beautiful resorts, golf courses and stunning villas, every taste and expectation can be satisfied in Palma de Mallorca. Naturally, there are many different facets to this Mediterranean gem, and it would be impossible to see and do all that Mallorca offers in seven days.

With adventure and water sports, cultural destinations and historic monuments in the old town, as well as the many beaches, nightspots and culinary wonders, it is a place rich with activity and leisure. Depending on where you are staying in Mallorca, the island with its good road and travel system gives you the opportunity to discover charms from nearly every corner. Here is a simple, satisfying and easily accomplished, seven-day itinerary and travel tips for Isle Blue guests eager to enjoy the best of “must-see” Mallorca:

Day One:  Welcome to Mallorca

Upon arrival at your villa in Mallorca, plan for a bit of relaxation for day 1. Arrange a welcome dinner with a professional chef service to prepare a traditional Spanish meal. Take a dip in the pool and take your time unpacking. Make sure to have the villa provisioned prior to arrival to remove the immediate need to find the local grocery store. Enjoy your afternoon and evening as you unwind at the villa while dining at your magnificent villa. Sip your chilled sangria.

Day Two:  Mallorca Beach Bars

Introduce yourself to the splendors of Palma Mallorca from one of the island’s famous beach clubs on Day.2 Isle Blue suggests:

Day Three:  Explore Palma de Mallorca

On Day 3, we recommend you explore the charming Palma Old City and Port de Soller area. Step back in history with a walk through the old city area. Here, travelers discover classic cobbled streets, stout city walls, grand courtyards, and gothic buildings begging to be explored. Busier shopping streets, grand squares, sidewalk cafés, trendy restaurants, chic bars, and a flourishing art scene attract locals and tourists alike.

Some of the attractions to add to the list today are Cathedral de Mallorca, a Gothic beauty from the twelfth century. Remodeled by Gaudi in the early 1900s, it is stunning at both day and nighttime hours.

Also be sure to explore the neighborhood around the cathedral, taking in at least one “tapas” spot. If you are unfamiliar with tapas, it is a meal the uses small “tastes” of classic dishes. You will enjoy everything from fresh shrimp to Iberico ham, “Tortilla” a Spanish omelet and fresh grilled vegetables.

Finish up your day from Plaza Espanya, where you board the famous Palma Sóller Railway to enjoy a scenic tour of the area. A ride on the train is the best way to get to the charming, traditional town of Sóller, nestled into the Tramuntana Mountains. The vintage wooden 1912 locomotive makes a scenic 27km (16.7 miles) trip through mountains, forests and olive and orange groves offering spectacular scenic views of rural Mallorca.

Day 4:  Beach day in Mallorca

Today you may want to get back to the natural beauty of the island after a day spent in town. No matter where you are on Mallorca, a beautiful Mallorcan beach is only 20 minutes away, and though your villa may have a pool, there is little to compare with the sea.

Day 5:  Visit the Market in Sinau

Head back into town today with a visit to one of Europe’s oldest markets. The town of Sinau is in the heart of Mallorca, and its market dates to the earliest years of the twelfth century. Buy local produce, along with artisan goods and products.

Day 6:  Fun Day in Mallorca

Have you visited one of the island’s water parks or aquariums yet? If not, this may be the perfect day for it. There are several, and whether you want a bit of education along with your fun in the sun, or just a few hours of fun in the water, these are the best sites:

Day 7: Catch a show in Mallorca

As you are enjoying your last full day in Mallorca, Spain, consider if you have missed out on any of the activities above. If not, this could be the perfect time to take in one of the unique shows of Mallorca. There is a “Pirates” acrobatic show in Magauluf resort. You may also appreciate the longer performance at Son Amar with its magicians, acrobats, and three-course dinner!

Perhaps you’d prefer to stay outdoors on your final day? The beaches still beckon but don’t miss a chance at one of the 20 golf courses on the island either. There are pleasure boats still waiting for you, and of course, a day just exploring the nearest town or events may provide an unforgettable experience. Sa Calobra is a beautiful village not too far if you’d like to spend more time exploring the many beauties Spain has to offer.

It’s highly recommended to check the local events calendar for Mallorca before arriving to make sure you don’t miss any of its hundreds of traditional fiestas and events.

Day 8: Leaving Mallorca

We hope you have enjoyed your days in Mallorca with our itinerary. Bid adieu to the sensation island of Mallorca. Until next year!

Quality control is a very important part of the Isle Blue experience. We never go on anyone’s word, and instead do our own in-depth field research to be sure that each villa lives up to its description, that each area is as luxurious, enjoyable and appealing as expected, and to determine how or where we can help to improve upon your experiences.

We also develop solid relationships with local vendors and service providers, all to ensure that our clients get the very best and most attentive treatment. To do this takes ongoing work, and we put our teams on the ground in each destination in order to build the connections needed to guarantee our client’s happiest holidays.

Recently, our concierge field team did a three-day research visit to St. Barts, riding the high speed ferry, conducting lengthy walking and driving tours, learning the quality of local providers and shops, and discovering any fascinating insider’s tips to share with our clients. Inspiring holidays that refresh, rejuvenate and re-energize travelers is our goal, and we hope this description of our recent field research provides an understanding of our competitive advantage and emphasis on unparalleled expertise.

Arrival and Day One of Our St Barts Inspection

We booked passage aboard the Voyager high-speed ferry from St Martin to St Barts. Arriving in the utterly charming harbor town of Gustavia, we eagerly stepped ashore and into the busy heart of town. Full of locals and visitors, it is the ideal point of arrival. Our team had a rental car, and we easily walked to the pickup point and headed into the hills towards the villa.

Driving in St. Barts is unique, and some say it requires a lot of confidence. Narrow, windy roads and some steeper inclines can demand your attention, but for those who enjoy scenic drives, it can be a delight whether you hire a car and driver or handle the driving yourself.

Our villa was a delight, tidy and with great views, it was the perfect base for our research trip. We were fortunate to stay at villa Blue Rock, in Vitet, whose owner was a gracious and warm host that took us in as family.

Energized by our journey, we decided to head to popular Nikki Beach to take in some scenery and grab lunch. Since a member of the team had already visited, the hostess in the restaurant greeted us like old friends and led us to the beachfront dining area. A popular locale, it is busy at almost all times, and yet we were delighted by the attentive and professional service.

As this visit was for research, we had several pre-arranged meetings with vendor partners in Gustavia, as well as an opportunity to head to Le Guanahani, in order to meet with our concierge team. We toured this luxury property, visited the spa, saw the villas, and wondered at the beauty and magnificence of the setting.

Dinner that evening was at the famous Bonito. There we met with the manager, who also works with our team to provide client reservations in the restaurant too. Sitting along the terrace, gazing out at the harbor, it was little wonder just why so many visitors rave about this spot. However, the signature drinks and the amazing food, ceviche was on the menu that evening, only enhanced our sense of satisfaction.

Day Two on St Barts

Today, we were to enjoy a guided tour of the island provided by our villa’s owner. Having lived for three decades on St. Barts, he is the ideal host and tour guide, and was even a founder of the original Isle de France Hotel on the opulent Flamands beachfront.

We learned a great deal about St. Barts and the many changes it has experienced in such a short time. From shifts in tourism to the rapid development of unique villas and resort properties, he helped us recognize some of the finest spots and sites. We visited our airport team, EASYWAY, who enable us to provide VIP services and streamlined flights into the island for our clients. Their dedication made it easy to see why they receive compliments from our travelers.

Back on the road, we headed to Flamands Bay in order to visit the prestigious Cheval Blanc property. We enjoyed a remarkable luncheon at their restaurant, La Case de L’Isle. Overlooking the pool, we savored our delicious meal as we enjoyed a fashion show highlighting some of the current looks available in the hotel’s exclusive boutique.

A private tour of the grounds completed our visit, and we finished up with an in-depth experience of the specialty spa. Featuring the prestigious Guerlain line of products, it is but another of the wonderful features of this property. This visit served to reconfirm precisely why Isle Blue and St. Barts Blue have partnered with Cheval Blanc and Le Guanahani to extend access to these spa services during their holiday.

So, after a day of dining and exploring the finest amenities, it was time to hit the water. Aboard the Intrepid 37, we were booked for a sunset coastal cruise as guests of Jicky Marine. Our tour took us past the village of Corossal, where we saw a few of the fisherman bringing in their daily catch from shore. We passed gorgeous Columbier Bay, Flamands, and St. Jean Bay. Tom’s Beach in La Plage and Eden Rock’s Sand Bar were busy with early evening patrons as we passed by, and we were soon in site of Gustavia, enjoying the beauty of sunset on the water as we glided back into the harbor.

Our pace picked back up when we arrived in town, and we made the quick trip to Eden Rock in order to sample the offerings at On the Rocks. We were fortunate to enjoy the newest menu items at one of the finest tables; overlooking the sands and waters of St. Jean Bay.

A beautifully paired menu featured excellent vintages and deliciously prepared foods, and the service was (as usual) flawless.

Day Three- Leaving St Barts

It was a sunny Saturday morning as we set on our journey to St Martin for another few days of inspections.  We bid Marigot a fond farewell until our next trip, knowing that we could report that the destination was still impressive and full of luxurious experiences for our guests to easily enjoy.

Beaches…that’s what you are supposed to do during a visit in Jamaica … head to the beaches. However, there is so much more to see and experience on a visit to this iconic island getaway. Though clients of Isle Blue will find a huge array of amenities right at their villas, with private pools, beachfront access, and entertainment centers, we hope you take our suggestions for daily adventures too. Our concierge team is here to support your needs, and if you require suggestions or help with bookings, we are glad to hear from you.

Consider these wonderful excursions during your stay:

Day One

Most travelers arrive in Montego Bay and even if your villa is one or two hours from the city, you may want to spend a bit of time here. It offers some great beaches and restaurants, such as Walter Fletcher Beach with its excellent snorkeling and calm waters. Great River is here too. Of course, some people love Montego Bay for its historic homes, and a tour of Rose Hall and Greenwood could be a great way to ease into the holiday – especially if you finish your time in the city with an unforgettable meal at Pork Pit, where you can introduce your palette to authentic jerk pork or chicken.

Day Two

Negril’s Seven Mile Beach is a great day trip whether you are nearby or a bit of a distance. Head to the beach and just relax. Everyone comes to you here, and whether you want ice cream, some hot food, a frozen banana, and just about anything else, the vendors will approach you and bring you fantastic treats. A day here is a must.

Day Three

Ocho Rios is another hot spot for visitors to Jamaica, and you will want to see the beautiful Mallards Beach during your time there. Literature and history fans can book a tour of Firefly, the historic home of Noel Coward less than an hour away, and on your way to or from this spot, be sure you visit Harmony Hall to purchase some native goods. If you prefer to spend your time in the water, the beach is ideal, but so too is Dunn’s River Falls.

Day Four

Head to St. Elizabeth Parish for the day and experience the beauty of YS Falls, the Black River and the Appleton Estate. Plan an entire day for this trip and book some time on a pontoon boat in the river (where you may see local crocodiles). Visit the rum-production facilities of Appleton, booking a lunch during your tour. Swim at YS falls and then choose from one of the excellent hotels of Negril for a gourmet dinner.

Day Five

Head to Dunn’s River Falls, one of the most popular sights in the island. Here you can climb a majestic waterfall, swim in pure water and then do some of the best shopping nearby. Dunn’s River Falls is the only waterfall in the world to empty directly into the sea, and it is a true natural wonder. Go in the morning to avoid crowds and then head into Ocho Rios to do some of the best, authentic souvenir shopping (local coffee, rum, carvings and artwork) and choose one of the cafes to experience excellent Jamaican cuisine.

Day Six

As it is your last full day, spend time at your favorite beach, but consider booking a day in Negril if you have not visited this area. The seven-mile, white sand beach is unforgettable, and the charming fishing village is a nice way to round out a visit. You can choose from many beachside jerk restaurants and then as sunset begins, head to Ricks Café in Negril to take in the view over the cliffs and enjoy one of its legendary cocktails.

Day Seven – Depart

If you have time for morning coffee in Montego Bay, be sure to hit the Wexford Grill, famous for its early breakfasts that include fried plantain, Johnny Cakes and locally grown ingredients. Then it is time to depart!

If you would like help with booking any of the activities you discovered here, get in touch with our concierge team to make your plan.

Tuscany…the sunlight, the scenery, the food and wine, the culture…the kids? Actually, more and more adult travelers are discovering that traveling to Tuscany with kids can be a wonderful and fun experience for the whole family. All clients of Isle Blue have a range of private villas from which to choose, and a large number of them have private pools, gardens and even get outdoor grounds. Most also offer WiFi or Internet access in addition to entertainment systems. While this alone could satisfy most modern children and teens, we want all of our guests to really experience Tuscany too.

This is why we offer a few fail-proof activities, fun things to do and destinations – such as Tuscany, Italy that is well-suited to kids and teens, as well as adults.

Florence

Full of museums, the city is also home to some of the finest gelaterie (ice cream shops), walks along the river, and gorgeous Tucan gardens. However, the Tuscan museums are an ideal choice, especially the Museo Stibbert. Here, visitors can enjoy a truly unique collection, which was the private property of Frederick Stibbert until the time of his death in the late 1900s. Packed with fun costumes and armor from all around the globe, it is a hands-on destination where children can put on many of the pieces. Naturally, Palazzo Vecchio, Museo Novecento, Palazzo Strozzi, and the Museo di Storia della Scienza will satisfy children too. If you have a budding astronomer, the Museo Galileo is a must-see.

Southern Tuscany

From the beaches and the Marammese cowboys to the archeology and the mountains, this is a fantastic location for your next family holiday Tuscany for kids with plenty of the top things to do and see. The heart of agritourism in the Tuscany region, it is the perfect part of Tuscany to choose a villa close to one of the many open farms. This is also where Vie Cave is found, and where kids (and parents) can walk along authentic Etruscan roads. The Riserva Naturale Provincale Diaccia Botrona and the Parco Regionale dell Maremma are also the best places to enjoy boat tours and take in the rare beauty that is Tuscany. The south is also where the UNESCO site of Val d’Orcia is found, and if a hot thermal spring sounds fun, you can bathe with the kids here, or in those in Terme di Saturnia.

Central Tuscany – Florence & Siena

With the best beaches in Italy and the island of Elba, if you are staying in a Florence or Siena villa in the central and coastal area of Tuscany, there is an overabundance of outdoor adventures awaiting. Both Florence and Siena are considered “central”, and entire days can be spent exploring them, but if you want a truly kid-friendly guarantee, the Pistoia Zoo just outside of Florence has long been a preferred destination for local and traveling families. The inland city of Arezzo is a charming medieval town that also has a popular zoo, and the surrounding towns are full of castles and towers. Find some of the best things to do in Lucignano, Chiusi (with underground tours), San Gimignano (a popular destination for Italian school children), and Pienza. Highly recommended to check out the top Tuscan destinations when planning Tuscany holidays for families.

Northern Tuscany

This is the perfect area for traveling to Tuscany with kids. In this area, kids can visit the famous Leaning Tower at Pisa, but also visit the more children-friendly destination that is Lucca. In fact, this is a must simply because families are welcome to rent bicycles and like to ride them around the fairy-tale-like city walls! If it towers they want, Lucca has two, including one that has a resident ghost! The Torrer Civica delle Ore is a 13th-century clock tower, and the Torre Guinigi has 230 steps for the kids to count before reaching the Tuscan seven oak trees at the top!

Though you may want to think of your villa as your Tuscany holidays for family destinations all on its own, there is much that families can do to experience this world-class destination. The gelato, pizza, and endless stalls, water park Tuscany and shops selling Pinocchio toys are a but a few of the top ways you can entice kids to spend time in Tuscany!

Not everyone thinks of the Caribbean as “the” place to go surfing, and yet there are a few parts of the region that offer some unprecedented conditions for excellent surfing experiences. Many islands have coastal areas facing both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean, and for some, this allows them to offer a wealth of water sports, including prime surfing.

The Dominican Republic is one such location. Though it shares the larger island of Hispanola with the country of Haiti, the Dominican Republic is positioned at the end of the Bahaman chain and in the first spot along the northeastern Caribbean chain. This means that it alone gets the unimpeded force of the northern Atlantic swells that head to shore without anything blocking or breaking them. Even more exciting is that this part of the island features more than 800 miles of coastline – ensuring you get an empty wave or two as well!

Both summer and winter are good seasons for surfing in the Dominican Republic, but springtime is actually when the island’s south coast has some nice action, meaning that almost any time of year is a good one for heading to this island for your holiday.

Clients of Isle Blue will be able to choose from a curated collection of luxury villas that range from waterfront properties to hillside hideaways. While the bohemian atmosphere of the island has been a long-time draw for many, there is also a lively surfing scene too. If you have booked a stay in a luxury villa in the Dominican Republic, you can contact our representatives to help you arrange a day or two of surfing in one of the top spots.

We can help you with gear, direct you towards the best shacks and lessons, and help you arrange for a driver. After all, driving in the Dominican Republic can be a bit surprising to a traveler, and it may be best to just let someone else tackle it while you enjoy the amazing views.

There are excellent spots for surfing all over the island, and below are some of the most frequently recommended:

Cabarete

This town in the Puerto Plata is famous for beaches and nightlife, but is also a hotspot and home to some of the best windsurfing, kitesurfing and regular flat board surfing. The top beaches are found along the eastern edge of town and include Playa Encuentro and the Camino del Sol.

Las Terrenas

Another north coast town, along the eastern end of the island, it is famous for its gorgeous white sand beaches, pristine waters, and beautiful landscapes. However, it is also home to top kitesurfing and surfing conditions. With flat water near shore and a breaker at the bay, it is a good spot for all surfers.

Los Patos

A river and a village alike, it is a region close to the town of Paraiso. It is known for its surfing, especially because it offers a long, left wave. The beach must be accessed on foot, but is an easy walk along a rugged sand road/path.

With its amazing scenery, atmosphere, beaches, shops, sightseeing and restaurants, it may feel as if you don’t need to explore much of the Dominican Republic to enjoy a visit. However, you must try some of the beaches, and discover for yourself why it is a windsurfing, surfing and kitesurfing hotspot. Our team can help you locate the nearest beach or help you find an instructor. If you have questions about surfing in the Dominican Republic during your holiday, give your concierge a call to discuss your options.

The rich and famous of the world will travel to specific definitions in higher numbers because those sites offer something special. Sometimes it is their remote locations or their impressive privacy. In the case of Los Cabos, it is the beauty and the amazing amenities that this lovely area has available. It is why Luxury Travel Magazine spotlighted it as an “A-List Getaway” and why they described Los Cabos as a luxurious destination.

It is an iconic resort town on the Baja Peninsula, meaning it is close to the heart of the entertainment industry in Southern California, but it is not the convenience of a short plane ride that brings the likes of Lea Michele, Jennifer Aniston, and the Kardashians here. It is the ideal climate that is sunny year round as well as being a comfortable temperature. It is the amazing scenery that includes the natural rock formations, long stretches of white sand beaches, and flawless blue seas. It is also the spas, golf courses, marinas, and restaurants of the famous “Corridor” area between the older and charming San Jose del Cabo and the newer and more lively Cabo San Lucas.

Though it has several upscale resorts, villa guests of Isle Blue can enjoy all of the finest aspects of Los Some of the most exclusive restaurants include Cocine del Mar at Esperanza, Don Manuel’s and El Farallon at Capella Pedregal, and La Roca at Grand Somar.

Cabos, but in the privacy of their own luxurious villa. Living just like the celebrities who so often travel here, you can work with your representative to find the perfect spot for your Los Cabos escape.

After all, as one article said, the “secret of luxury hotels is impeccable service and attention to detail …[to] see to it that even guests’ smallest needs are met, privacy is respected, and the concierge can make just about anything happen.” Guests of Isle Blue get that same attention to detail and support in meeting their needs, but all in the privacy of your own villa!

Los Cabos and You

Whether you want to be located close to the charming and laid-back town of San Jose del Cabo with its historic mission and charming artisan shops and excellent restaurants, or you want to sit closer to the shore and close to iconic landmarks or beaches, you can find the villa that meets your needs.

If you wish to really live like the celebrities that make their way to this area, be sure that you book at least one meal in one of the high end resorts. Dinner parties hosted by celebrities are quite common, so why not sample the cuisine of these world-class restaurants too. Your concierge can help you make a booking, or you can opt to have one of our chefs come to your villa and prepare a meal for you instead.

You will also want to consider the spa treatments that the resorts make available, and even arrange for a day in one of these unforgettable spots. Some of the top options include the Auriga Spa, One & Only Palmilla’s spa, and the Spa at Las Ventanas.

You will also want to spend time on the water, and one of the most wonderful experience to have while in the region is to charter a private boat to take you past El Arco as well as the coastal area that stretches from the Pacific to the Sea of Cortes. During the months of December through March, you can even spot the real stars of the area – the migrating humpback whales!

You can see the stars or just live like one. Start living the dream and book your holiday for Cabo San Lucas and  Los Cabos.

The island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is a well-kept secret of the Caribbean. Once a British colony, it is today an independent nation made of two small islands, with Nevis the smaller of the two. Picturesque, peaceful and idyllic, it is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday. As someone who has booked a stay at an Isle Blue villa on Nevis, you have made a wise choice. Natural beauty is all around, and there is actually much more to see and do than many realize.

Getting to Nevis

Most visitors arrive by air, though a private charter boat can also take you from Saint Kitts to Nevis. Your flight is likely to depart from a larger and more distant island than Saint Kitts, however, with the most common flights arriving from Puerto Rico. Once on the island, you can arrange for an Isle Blue driver to pick you up at the airport, or you can ask us to help you make a car rental arrangement. Keep in mind that driving is “British” style, on the left, and you will have to get used to this if you are used to “American” styled driving on the right.

Small and easy to negotiate, you will find it effortless to make your way to the different areas of Nevis. There are five parishes, and the capital is Charlestown. It is a small and charming city that features classic Georgian stone buildings that instantly alert you to the fact that this was once part of the British empire. Appealing in their architectural design, they are very different from the rest of the homes and buildings you will discover as you tour the island.

What to Do in Nevis

While many people will want to head to the beaches or begin exploring the island proper, it is a good idea to make solid plans for your dining experiences in Nevis. It is a place of diverse cultures and this has created many unusual culinary traditions. Additionally, many of the local establishments are less than savory in their appearance, but are actually quite respectable, clean, safe and offer delicious foods. If in doubt, ask someone! The people on the island are extremely friendly and happy to offer advice or recommendations for their personal favorites.

Freshness is the order of the day where food is concerned, and though you’ll experience everything from American and European dishes, most have heavy Caribbean influences too. “Nevisian” food is a huge part of the culture, and so too is the service. At hotels, you can expect typically quick and efficient service, but in the local establishments, a slower pace is part of the culture and experience.

Be sure to sample dishes and foods like “roti” (a special pancake dish), coconut jelly, goat water, tamarind and breadfruit. Seafood is also wonderful, and as many will tell you, it is nearly impossible to eat badly in Nevis.

Beyond the Amazing Food

In addition to dining, you will want to experience some of the remaining sites from previous centuries. Most date, surprisingly, from the 1600s to the 1700s, and include the Bath Hotel, where hot springs are still available; and the Hermitage Plantation, which was built in 1640 and is still standing. In fact, it is the oldest wooden structure still in use in the entire Caribbean region! There are some ruined properties worth visiting as well, including the sugar mills of Hamilton Estate, Coconut Walk, Lime Kiln, and New River.

While out, you will want to pay a visit to the Eva Wilkin Gallery, which is housed in the windmill that served as the artist’s home, and which is packed with lovely paintings and sketches that capture her lifetime on the island. Just south of the city of Charleston is a seven-acre garden open to the public and brimming with tropical specimens.

As you can see, though small, Nevis has huge character and many great offerings. If you wish to have some help booking a tour or making plans, don’t hesitate to contact your Isle Blue concierge, who is always glad to help.

Choosing to visit Cancun means you are interested in days of sunshine, blue skies, sea breezes and the joys of staying outdoors from sunrise until sunset, or later. As a guest of Isle Blue, your villa can offer you an amazing number of spots from which to take in the scenery and experience outdoor living at its most comfortable and opulent.

However, a rainy day can spoil even your well-laid plans. Though your villa is likely to have entertainment options and many things to keep you busy and relaxed, Cancun itself has a few wonderful things to do on a rainy day. Rain can occur at any time, even in the months of December through April. This may leave you with hours to pass, but not at the beach, yet the following options are easily arranged and enjoyed:

Cenotes

You are in the Yucatan Peninsula when you are in Cancun, and that means that you are surrounded by the natural beauty and wonders of cenotes, or hidden caverns. These are often home to stalactites and stalagmites. The popular cenotes can offer full-service areas with towels and stairs.  While the secret spots only a special guide will know require you to bring you own towel and sense of adventure.

Dining in Cancun

Cancun has hundreds of restaurants, and a rainy day may be the perfect time to gain access to those that are often busy. The smaller, local establishments near the beaches are often also the places receiving the most “thumbs up”, yet when it is raining, they may have very little business. Places like El Fish Fritanga, El Galeon del Caribe, Fred’s House, and Mocambo may be great options.

Shopping in Cancun

You may believe that the shopping is going to be limited to the usual tourism brands or spots, but there is a huge array of high-end firms that range from Burberry and Vuitton to Coach and Fendi in the city. You can also find excellent souvenirs from authentic artisans in many of the shopping areas, such as Kukulkan, Plaza Caracol, and Luxury Avenue.

Spa

Whether you are in a villa with access to private spa services or not, Cancun is famous for its luxurious spa options that include massage and facials as well as more advanced treatments. A rainy day is never spent in a better way than in total relaxation and rejuvenation at one of the spas of Cancun.
Submarines – Did you know that there are actually underwater explorations available to those staying in Cancun? Ask your concierge to tell you which of the tours are operating, and they may even be able to help you make a booking to explore the stunning marine life that is just beneath the surface of those turquoise waters.

Mayan Museum

The Mayan Museum is in the hotel area of the downtown district and is a fantastic experience for all. Learn about the intriguing peoples who once lived in the peninsula and see precious artifacts that are from hundreds to thousands of years old.
Naturally, if you don’t feel like venturing out on a rainy day, your Isle Blue villa is going to provide you with such fine amenities as WiFi and entertainment systems, and you could create an impromptu film festival or epic game competition in your private premises. Don’t forget that rainy or heavily overcast days can be great days for photography, and you may want to brave the raindrops to visit any gardens or beaches to capture colors and hues like never before.

There is so much to see and do in Cancun, even if it is pouring with rain, and these are just a few of the best ideas. Don’t forget to get in touch with your Isle Blue concierge if you want some recommendations about the best rainy day activities or you need to arrange for a car or transportation if you do decide to explore the area.

If you know about the geography of the Greek Islands, you already understand that they are not all, exactly alike. Some are close to Turkey and have the distinctive climates and architecture of that region, some are on the far western side of mainland Greece and to the north. Because of the great cultural and geographic diversity of the Greek Islands, Isle Blue would like to recommend the very finest of them to their clients. Offering luxury accommodations and amenities, and in jewel-like settings will provide our guests with the very best experiences of Greece imaginable.

Corfu

Described as the “it girl” of the Ionian Sea, this island is an amazing blend of French, British and even Venetian influences. The landscape is one dominated by rolling hills over which sprawling olive groves, charming manors and pastel-hued villages appear. The coastal areas are just as appealing, with charming fishing villages attracting some of the world’s most famous boating enthusiasts. The writer Lawrence Durrell was enamored with the island and let the world know about its amazingly beautiful beach – Myrtiotissa along the northern coast.

Mykonos

Long known as a luxurious destination, it has been a popular island with the rich and famous since the 1960s.Because of that, travelers can enjoy some of the finest restaurants, spas, and beachfront clubs and bars in the entire region. This does not mean it is a place of buzzing and humming activity, however, and there are many gorgeous and peaceful spots to enjoy the endless sun. Agios Sostis Bay is a wonderful secret that is also home to the famous Kiki’s “shack”. This fantastic waterfront restaurant offers non-stop scenery, amazing grilled dishes, and lovely scenery. Just off shore is Delos, a historic site where a temple to Apollo can still be seen.

Kefalonia

This somewhat “under the radar” island deserves full attention. It is utterly charming and appealing with its stunning mountain – Mount Ainos, and its amazing beaches (Myrtos and Horgota), its national park and its irresistable seaside villages. Assos, Fiskardo, Dafnoudi and Emblissi are all destinations for some of the world’s richest and most famous, who visit specifically for the amazing food, pristine snorkelling and ridiculously beautiful scenery.

Santorini

This is that postcard Greek Island that is such a draw to millions of visitors each year. The stunning blue of the sea, the white and blue of the island’s homes, and the black sand beaches add up to a must see locale. The cliffs and history of the island are appealing too, and yet you can also visit a volcanic crater, active hot springs, and fantastic little towns like Oia and Pyrgos.

Crete

The largest of the islands, it is the right choice for those who want to see the history, enjoy the outdoor adventures, and take advantage of the year round, glorious, weather. You can see Knossos, tour Samaria Gorge, enjoy time in smaller villages like Elounda or Milia, and also spend plenty of time dining, shopping, and enjoying the sun.

Other Greek Islands are worthy of attention, including Symi, Naxos, Paros, Antiparos, Tinos, Hydra, Andros and more. You will find that many offer you access to an Isle Blue villa, which is the perfect way to take in all that the islands have to offer. From your luxurious property, you can enjoy the views, the weather, and the local foods and culture. If you would like to book a car and driver, a private chef, or activities, our concierges can give all of the help possible. The Greek Islands have, historically, been a popular traveler’s destination, and for good reason. Why not discover the best they have to offer?