The Branding of Anguilla: The Three R’s
by Denise Mattia
When the young woman at the ferry terminal in St. Maarten sold me a ticket to Anguilla she remarked, “It’s a very quiet place.” Later, while disembarking from the ferry , I faced a panoramic view of a cloudless blue sky against an island of blazing white sand floating on an opalescent sea, I wondered, one man’s “quiet” could be another man’s boredom--was there anything to do here?
Branding the Three R’s
Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch, Director of Tourism at the Anguilla Tourist Board, has a formula to this query: “Replenish your body, relax your mind and rejuvenate your spirit,” she says, adding that Anguilla’s resorts offer exceptional spas in which to do this. “Take in a few art galleries, make a fascinating excursion to our undersea world, then dance to world or island beats under the stars,” she says. I learned that Anguilla is, in fact, full of possibilities and big on song and soul.
Starting from no more than 33 gorgeous beaches and congenial surroundings in the 1980s, Anguilla rose to become one of the world’s premiere low-volume, high-value luxury destinations for celebrities and the affluent. Over the last 25 years, government administrations have encouraged investors to develop the island.
Plans happened slowly at first and The Malliouhana Hotel and Spa at Meads Bay, with 55 rooms and suites (www.malliouhana.com), and Cap Juluca at Maunday’s Bay (recently refurbished under new ownership), with 72 rooms and suites and six pool villas (www.capjuluca.com), are two resorts that led the way. One new high-end tourism resort came on the scene during the 1990s. CuisinArt Resort & Spa at Rendezvous Bay opened its doors in 1999, with 93 rooms (www.CuisinArtResort.com).
The “Anguilla brand,” as it became known, was hailed for what it has (remember those beaches) as opposed to what it doesn’t have – cruise ships, casinos, all-inclusives and shopping malls.
In 2002, the government instituted a fiscal stabilization plan to stimulate economic activity. Agreements were finalized with private developers for multimillion-dollar investments in tourism projects. Resorts like the intimate, impeccably landscaped, home-away-from-home Paradise Cove, located near Cove Bay Beach, opened with 29 suites (www.paradise.ai).
Other openings included the “affordably chic” Ku (formerly the Shoal Bay Beach Hotel), with 27 suites (www.KuAnguilla.com), the Cove Castles Resort at Shoal Bay West (www.covecastles.com), the Frangipani Beach Resort (now with a new owner, Steve Kircher from California) at Meads Bay, with 18 rooms and suites (visit www.frangipaniresort.com), the Carimar Beach Club, a condo hotel also at Meads Bay, with 24 apartments for people who want to maintain a “feel” for the island (www.carimar.com) and the Arawak Beach Inn beside Island Harbor, with 17 guestrooms at a reasonable price (www.arawakbeach.com).
Accommodating More than Luxe
In January 2008, New York-based developer Flag Luxury Properties announced that it had engaged Baccarat Hotels and Residences, a subsidiary of Starwood Capital Group, to operate its exclusive ultra-luxury hotel and residences on Anguilla.
Named the Baccarat Hotel and Residences at Temenos, the property will include a 114-room hotel, a spa and fitness center and 50 oceanfront residences. Construction began in 2004 on the 286-acre resort, which is being built to Florida-grade hurricane standards. In addition to the hotel, which will house a David Boulee and a Serafina Restaurant, plans include 18 estate homes, 10 villas and 38 spa villas, along with the Temenos Golf Club (a Greg Norman Signature Golf Course) that opened in 2006.
In an interview, Vanterpool-Kubisch noted that “While Anguilla remains and is positioned as a luxury destination, we have expanded our product offering over the last few years, and there is an increase in affordable properties marketed under the umbrella of the Charming Escapes Collection.” To date, there are approximately 15 properties offering a range of services in this category.
Winter Specials Worth Noting
The Allamanda Beach Club is offering a 25% discount on its rate for two guests staying five nights. Included are a continental breakfast, a one-day car rental and a one-hour massage for two. The rate applies through December 14, 2008 (www.allamanda.ai). The escape package at the stunning Ku includes four nights’ accommodation for two, continental breakfast daily, two dinners, a massage for two, a bottle of wine upon arrival, taxi transfers and use of the Petit Spa and Gym. Rates begin at $1,392 per night based on double occupancy (www.KuAnguilla.com).
Through November, a four-night special for two at the gracious Paradise Cove Resort is being offered at a gracious price – $720 and a one-day car rental plus wine and a picnic basket are part of the bargain (www.paradise.ai). In addition to the “Suite Escape 2008,” CuisinArt Resort & Spa is also offering a “Friends and Family” special, valid through Nov. 16th (www.CuisinArtResort.com)
Intimate and private are keywords for Anguilla’s villas, and the Bayberry Villa & Chinaberry Villa (www.beachbum.ai), the Desert Rose Estate (www.desertroseestate.com), The Sandcastle at Limestone Bay (www.sandcastlevilla.com) and Villa Paradise (www.villaparadise.com) are offering specials through mid-December.
High Dining Standards from Roadside to Chic
Anguilla’s reputation for fine cuisine is renowned and well-deserved, and there are dozens of restaurants from which to choose. The island is safe, and your clients can roam about without concern, talk to the nicest people they’ve ever met and sample great fare from beach shacks and roadside and inland stands.
At Ken’s Barbeque stand, next to Brooks & Sons Complex, I sampled excellent barbequed chicken and spare ribs. Prices ranged from $2.75 to $6 (Friday and Saturday only). Nearby, every Sunday, Laurel Richardson serves local dishes from her White Van for about $15. Next to Albert’s Market Place on Stoney Ground Road, the Fat Cat offers take-away meals. Lunch at Smokeys (near Paradise Cove) costs about $35. From Thursday to Saturday B&D’s BBQ serves local dishes for about $18. Mango’s Seaside Grill serves soup and a salad ($12), snapper ($33) and jerk chicken ($15). There’s always live music at the Pumphouse on Road Bay, where entrees range from $11 to $35.
The view of the Temenos Golf Course is spectacular from Zurra’s on the club’s rooftop, while at the Straw Hat on the waterfront the cuisine and the ambience are well worth the steep price. During the site inspection of the CuisinArt Resort & Spa, I met Executive Chef Denise Carr while she prepared her “Chef’s Table,” a six-course dining experience, using ingredients from the resort’s hydroponic farm and organic garden.
Every second week in July, Leon Roydon, sole owner of Malliouhana Hotel and Spa, hosts Epicurean Week, an extravaganza of wining and dining, with guest chefs from the UK, France and the U.S. creating their favorite dishes. JAXFAX visited the spectacular Malliouhana property as Albert Lake, Jr., sommelier at the resort since 1984 conducted a private tour of the wine cellar. With 24,000 bottles of the grape at his disposal (the largest collection in the Caribbean), Lake said, “Wine is like music: there’s no end to it.” Nine wines were being served that evening. Prices during Epicurean Week are $6,300 per couple and include accommodations, breakfast and dinner.
Gentle Island Rhythms
There’s no end to the music-makers in Anguilla either. Locals and ex-pats hang out at beach bars like Elodias and Johnno’s (right) and listen to reggae or jazz. Festival Del Mar is a community-based festival scheduled during Easter Weekend, and Caribbean reggae is enjoyed under the full moon every March during the Moonsplash Festival. The Tranquility Jazz Festival is held annually in November with “straight no chaser.” Tickets are $50 per person. (www.anguillajazz.org)
Among local groups, this year’s festival features performers Patti Austin, Michael Camilo, Dean Fraser and Dee Dee Bridgewater, to name a few.
The AMPP (Anguilla Music Production and Publishing Company) is a new music venture formed by a group of Anguillans and music industry professionals whose focus is on intellectual property, music creation and artist development. Additionally, their aim is to educate local children musically by implementing training internships, mentoring and introducing special events, classes and workshops.
Wildlife Encounters on Gentle Watersports
Because there are few if any strong currents, water sports are popular with tourists and locals alike. The island’s seaward edge or fore reef is a natural buttress for the surf, making the fringing reef – corals that have grown on the rocky surfaces of coves – ideal for snorkeling and diving. Cuts in the barrier allow divers to experience the wall beyond. JAXFAX sampled a few of the 40 sites that are minutes from shore by boat, and during one dive was shown an old anchor embedded in coral.
Nurse sharks and turtles are often seen resting beneath overhangs in the reef. Deeper, JAXFAX came across a school of jacks swimming against backdrops of soft and hard corals and sea fans, and discovered a host of lobsters that had claimed a niche in the shipwreck The Commerce for their shelter.
Matthew Billington of Shoal Bay Scuba (Karma Charters) Ltd. (www.shoalbayscuba.com) takes divers to the reef twice daily, at 9 and 11 a.m. Snorkeling trips with lunch ($55 per person) at Prickly Pear Island, a nature preserve, leave at 1 p.m.
Matthew offers package rates, and will give a 20% commission to travel agents booking snorkeling excursions, sunset cruises and private charters for dive groups. The commission applies only to funds wired to the company’s bank. The commission is 15% for credit card payments.
Sue Ricketts, owner of ZaZAA’s, the new chic boutique at Ku, offers a 10 percent commission on purchases to agents, or clients who present their agent’s signed business card, through Christmas (www.anguillaluxurycollection.com).
If your clients are looking for local items, suggest a visit to Sylvia Hodge at the Local Arts & Crafts Center, located at Brooks & Sons Complex #7, where artists’ works (pottery, handcrafts, dolls, paintings and sculptures) show a proficiency and sophistication unrivalled throughout many Caribbean islands. Prices range from $20 for a little knitted rainbow handbag to $1,500 for an original painting.
Getting There
Jet Blue flies to St.Maarten and American flies to San Juan. The main ferry connection to Blowing Point Ferry Terminal in Anguilla is from the Marigot Port on the French side of St. Maarten. The fare is $20, as is the exit fee.
An alternate, less frequented route that leaves from the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is a charter boat, which docks close to the airport at Philipsburg in St. Maarten. For more information on airservice, visit www.anguillaairservices.com
For more information, contact the Anguilla Tourist Board, at 877-4-ANGUILLA; www.anguilla-vacation.com
Exclusive Interview with Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch, Director, Anguilla TB
By Denise Mattia
Jax Fax met up with Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch, Director of Tourism at the Anguilla Tourist Board as she had recently arrived from a trade show of marketing and public relations representatives from Germany, Italy, France, the UK, Puerto Rico and the U.S., all of whom reviewed their performance in 2008, and to develop plans for 2009. Part of their mission was to examine the Anguilla brand and address what measures to take to remain a top competitor among the premiere low-volume, high-value luxury destinations of the world.
JF: Can you share with our readers the decisions that came out of this show?
AV-K: I think we all agreed that the efforts behind the push for the incentive market should begin immediately. We have created an incentive brochure and touched up the website. Incentive planners can now conduct business with a real response time for them and us.
Anguilla has launched a “refresher on her branding.” She has adjusted her creatives and backdrops to reflect the uniqueness of the destination, such as her Moorish architecture, and emphasized the astounding cuisine options. We are going more aggressively after the incentive market as well this year with new brochures and a specifically designed DVD. Our positioning on the villa market is being reviewed as well. We have also targeted a limited number of select consumer publications for our ads this year.
JF: How is the tourism infrastructure transforming in Anguilla?
AV-K: The hotel plant is changing. The number of rooms now is 1,200 and we anticipate that that figure will increase to 4,000 by 2020 to 2025. Anguilla is small, with only 12,000 inhabitants, and real estate developers of villas, vacation homes and resorts have to import labor. Operational procedures will have to be addressed.
JF: I’ve seen a SUBWAY in Anguilla. Do you expect more fast-food chains to spring up?
AV-K: The SUBWAY is a small facility, not very visible, and is operated by a local person. We are definitely not encouraging fast-food chains, but there is room for variety.
JF: How will this affect Anguilla’s economy overall?
AV-K: The economic future of Anguilla is challenging, as 65% of the tourists are from the U.S.
The high-end level may not be impacted, but Anguilla can’t ignore the housing market problem. Additionally, Anguilla is not a one-stop destination.
American Eagle reduced the flights from Puerto Rico to one per day in September and October; however, Jet Blue continues to fly into St. Maarten and, starting December 18th, American Airlines will add two new direct flights out of New York and Miami to St. Maarten.
JF: The Anguilla Connoisseur Training Program was started to market the island better by providing top agents with training resources. How is the program progressing? How many agents are participating in it, where are they from and how many have completed it?
AV-K: It is our intent to unfold the program to a total of 75 agents for participation this fall. In the first go-round we are focusing on the U.S., and as the plans unfold we will expand into Canada and the rest of the markets such as the UK, Italy, France, Germany, etc.
JF: During our discussion about this program, you mentioned a “highly unique reward/offering.” What does this entail?
AV-K: The offering, unlike other programs, will be extended to both the agents and their clients. We will partner with a strong retailer to present a unique reward or offer to each person.
JF: Can you give me an example of what the retailer would do?
AV-K: The retailer would become a partner with us to provide the rewards, such as spa treatments, special travel amenities, etc.
For more information, contact the Anguilla Tourist Board,
877-4-ANGUILLA; www.anguilla-vacation.com
April 2008 Feature
Anguilla’s New Celebrity Status
Little Anguilla, just 13 miles long and three miles wide, has reached celebrity status. "Hot destination," "Swanky," and even "South Beach meets St. Barths" have replaced the understated "casually elegant" descriptions of the past. With celebrity comes progress, both planned and unplanned – and with progress there are changes. With all that in mind and in blueprints, the Anguilla Tourist Board has also gathered a number of affordable package deals that could make sense for the entire family to walk the brilliant white sands of Shoal Bay (recognized by Travel & Leisure magazine as the best beach in the Caribbean).
Located on talcum powder white Shoal Bay East is the 27-suite property called Kú Hotel, which opened in 2005. Kú, which means ‘sacred place’ in the Arawak Indian language, is close to Fountain Cave, one of the most important Indian ceremonial grounds in the Eastern Caribbean. This summer, the hotel is offering two major packages this summer. Escape to Kú is a four-night deal that includes breakfast daily, two dinners, two one-hour massages, bottle of wine and roundtrip transfers at a cost of $1,392 to $1,545 per person double.
Alternatively for the lovelorn or the lovesick, is the seven-night package called Love at Ku, which includes breakfast daily, four dinners, two one-hour massages, a bottle of Champagne, Prickly Pear excursion, and a one-day car rental for some exploring on your own. Transfers are also part of the scheme with prices ranging from $2,520 to $2,785 per person double. Kú is 20 minutes by taxi from Anguilla’s Wallblake Airport; 25 minutes from Blowing Point ferry terminal. Call 800-869-5827; fax: 264-497-3355; E-mail ku@anguillanet.com
At Bird of Paradise Villa, Melody Brooks Dill has spent the last 20 years perfecting her idea of the “ideal” Girlfriend Getaway. “Have you ever been on vacation where you got the room facing the garden and your friends had a beautiful view of the ocean (grrrr)? Or…have you been starving and wanted to have breakfast NOW, but your friend was still putting on her makeup? Well, welcome to the Bird of Paradise where each suite has its own private view of the Caribbean and there are no “garden views.”
The property’s four-suite villas solve all those natty conflicts with girlfriends, mom and/or sisters and daughters. Guests can go to breakfast or swim whenever they like because each villa has its own kitchen, there are three swimming areas, four living and dining areas, not to mention each guest dons a Frette robe and slippers, uses Bulgari toiletries, each guest is entitled to a psa treatment, a boat charter with lunch, a gift package of food items, and has access to a rental car. A six-night stay costs $4,400 eachfor four; $3,200 for six; or $2,500 for six.
Call 414-791-9461; E-mail anguillabird@yahoo.com; www.anguillabird.com
Paradise Cove Resort, one of the affordable properties of the Charming Escapes Collection in Anguilla is offering a special four-night package for $720 in a studio suite for two, based on double occupancy, taxes and gratuities not included. The package includes a one-day car rental plus a picnic basket and bottle of wine to explore one of the many extraordinary and secluded beaches of Anguilla. Offer remains valid from April through November 2008. Call 264-497-6603; www.paradise.ai
The Arawak Beach Inn invites travelers to relive the days of the so-called “Dark Ages” with its Isolation Vacation. Without Internet access, TV or phones, guests will be forced to enjoy all the island, and this rejuvenating escape, have to offer. The seven-night getaway, created to help overworked guests unplug and recharge, is available year-round and priced seasonally starting at $999 per person double for less than $143 per night, remains valid from June 1 through October 31, 2008.
The seven-night Isolation Vacation includes: oceanfront accommodations, daily breakfast, four dinners at the Inn’s Arawak Café, three-day car rental, a private day-trip to an uninhabited island complete with a gourmet picnic lunch, deep sea fishing excursion, three days of snorkel equipment, round-trip airport or ferry transfers. Call 877-4-ARAWAK; E-mail relax@arawakbeach.com; www.arawakbeach.com
The CuisinArt Resort & Spa is among Anguilla’s most luxurious beachfront accommodations, its superlative service, award-winning Venus Spa, and world renowned cuisine live up to the accolades this property has received. Its design is Mediterranean inspired with whitewashed villas surrounded by lush plantings and a dazzling infinity pool stretching from the main building to the beach bar at Rendezvous Bay.
The Family & Friends package, valid June 1 through Nov. 16, will cost clients $495 per night to stay in a Junior suite and $247.50 for the second night, representing a savings of 50%. There will be an additional charge of $80 per night for a third person, 12 years old and older, in the same room. No additional charge for children under 12 in the same room with parents; however, a maximum of two children under 12 per room is allowed. Rates include airport greeting, breakfast daily, free use of Health Club facilities, fitness classes, use of three night-lit tennis courts and non-motorized water sports equipment. Clients extending their stay qualify for the Suite Escapes package based on a five-night or more stay for $395 per night with the same inclusions. Call 800-943-3210; www.cuisinartresort.com
Sheriva Villa Hotel has been awarded the AAA Four Diamond rating for the year 2008. SHERIVA joins a select group of AAA Four Diamond Award winners. Just 3.6 percent of the more than 32,000 AAA Rated lodgings were awarded the prestigious AAA Four Diamond designation for 2008.
SHERIVA, the brainchild of Anguillian developer, Sheridan Smith, is a waterfront boutique villa-hotel with 20 rooms and suites. Launched in December 2006, the property’s stellar accommodations -spread across three villas- range from oversized one-bedroom private pool suites to lavish, 14,000 square-foot, seven-bedroom villas. The 10-acre enclave offers privileged services such as personal chef, butler services, 24-hour concierge privé, in-villa spa treatments, private 8-seat golf cart with villa rentals, a complimentary beach shuttle to Maundays Bay and signing privileges at adjacent world-famous Cap Juluca Hotel. Call 264-498-9898 or E-mail info@sheriva.com; www.sheriva.com
Anguilla is accessible with scheduled air service from San Juan (50 minutes) or St. Maarten (five minutes), or by ferry from Marigot in French St. Martin (20 minutes) and from Juliana airport, St. Maarten (25 minutes).
For information, call the Anguilla Tourist Board 877-4 ANGUILLA or visit www.anguilla-vacation.com
Anguilla feature published in JAXFAX January 2008 issue
Anguilla’s Winter Curtain Call
Whether seeking the exclusivity of the stars or an affordable retreat, Anguilla’s stunning beaches, scrumptious food and laidback luxury provide the perfect getaway for winter travelers. Save the Date for the 18th annual Moonsplash Reggae Festival set for March 27-30, 2008, hosted by Anguilla’s own musical ambassador Bankie Banx at his ultra-funky Dune Preserve beach club and concert venue on the shores of Rendezvous Bay. Reggae fans would be hard pressed to find a better combination of talented artists and unforgettable setting than this annual extravaganza, all under the glorious light of an Anguillan full moon. The extraordinary lineup will soon be announced.
Special Packages
“Sherotica” Package at the new Luxury Boutique Villa Hotel, Sheriva at Sheriton Estates. Special week for lovers includes: seven nights in a Grand Villa Pool Suite; Sensual Sherotica welcome basket, daily continental breakfast, afternoon cocktails and canapés; two champagne dinners for two; private picnic on a deserted beach; one-day car rental; a sunrise couples yoga or aquaerobics session; two sunset couples massages; Sheriva Lovers Collection CD; photo memento; government tax and service charge. Priced at $7,200 per couple for the entire week. Call 011-264 498 9898; info@sheriva.com; www.sheriva.com
CuisinArt Resort & Spa’s AAA Four Diamond Award Winning Santorini Restaurant launches a special “Chefs Table” for the winter season. Executive Chef Denise Carr will host a Chefs Table in their restaurant’s Private Dining Room. The exclusive experience will feature a six course menu that incorporates the freshest of ingredients from the resort’s own Hydroponic Farm and Organic gardens. All courses are paired with specially selected wines from the resort’s cellar. $145 p.p. every Monday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
Last Spring, Venus Spa was expanded at a cost of $7 million with a 19,000 square-foot addition which tripled the facility. The new space includes an exclusively designed Thalasso Pool for hydrotherapy, sixteen peaceful treatment rooms, yoga and Pilates studios and state-of-the-art TechnoGym equipment. Call 800-943-3210; reservations@cuisinart.ai; www.cuisinartresort.com
Kamique Little Harbour is offering introductory rates at its three villas where a personal concierge is on call to arrange for your clients’ every need -- catered dining on the beach; spa treatments on your private garden terrace; and activities. Introductory rates are being offered for the four and six-bedroom villas starting at under $12,000 per week.
Call 264-497-8888; E-mail, info@kamique.com; www.kokoonvillas.com
New Luxury Accommodations
Topaz Villa overlooking Road Bay is now open for short and long-term guests. Inspired by the luxurious spa villas of Thailand, this 3 bedroom 3.5-bath property features an exclusive 3rd level spa/sun deck, spacious entertainment lounge that opens to deck and infinity edge pool with panoramic views. MBR suite includes whirlpool tub and outdoor shower. Tastefully appointed with authentic Thai furniture and decorations throughout, Topaz Villa is perfect for holidays, corporate retreats, or long-term stays. Visit www.topazvilla.com.
Sand Castle at Limestone Bay --- A beachside 10,000 sq. ft. 4 bedroom villa on the north shore with magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Grand Master bedroom with ensuite bathroom with a bathtub and private outdoor shower and a large balcony overlooking the beach, and an ensuite fitness centre. Master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and a large balcony overlooking the sea. There are large areas for outdoor entertaining around the infinity pool or the Gazebo with its BBQ and beach views, and a television room with computer area just off the Great Room. Nightly winter rates are $1,900 - $2,750. www.sandcastleanguilla.com.
Tequila Sunrise Villa at Dropsey Bay is a three-bedroom villa on a secluded bay on the southern shore of Anguilla, overlooking the Caribbean and the mountains of St. Martin. Each master bedroom suite has an over-sized full bathroom ensuite, king size bed, large HD TV, air conditioning, private patio, and many spectacular amenities. The ultra-modern kitchen, dining room, and 22' ceiling Great Room with 45" HD Plasma TV, are designed with luxury and entertainment in mind. The large infinity swimming pool is surrounded on three sides with lounging and relaxation areas, and on the fourth side by the beach and ocean with breathtaking views of St. Martin, St, Barths. Winter rates: $1,450 - $2,000. Visit www.tequilasunrisevilla.com.
Villa Astoria, a new 3500 sq. ft. immaculately appointed three-bedroom villa in the Little Harbour area with magnificent views of the Caribbean and St. Martin. Five minute walk to a secluded beach. A master suite with bathroom overlooking the beautifully landscaped pool area, and two bedrooms with kitchen. Rates range from $700-$1,500. Call 264-497-6049; villas@rickettsluxury.com; www.astoriavilla.com
Call the Anguilla Tourist Board, 877-4 ANGUILLA; www.anguilla-vacation.com
May 2007 Cover Feature
Anguilla the secret is out
By Molly Tichy
Walking along the brilliant white sands of Shoal Bay I once overheard a woman whisper to her friend, "I don't tell anyone about Anguilla; not even my closest friends. It is just too special." But, as everyone knows, secrets are hard to keep.
Little Anguilla, just 13 miles long and three miles wide, has reached celebrity status. "Hot destination," "swanky," and even "South Beach meets St. Barths" have replaced "casually elegant," descriptions of the past. With celebrity comes progress -- planned and unplanned – and with progress, there are changes.
Hotel Developments
On-line this year is the long- awaited Temenos Golf Club located on Merrywing Bay just west of Rendezvous Bay Hotel. This 18-hole luxury golf course, planned by Greg Norman and his leading design company, is part of the St. Regis Resort of the same name. When completed, Temenos Anguilla will be a 286-acre property with 20 private estate homes and 16 ocean villas, all serviced by a 97-room ultra luxurious hotel and spa. Currently three villas are open and in full operation, the hotel and spa opening is scheduled for winter 2008; the restaurant, Zurra is now open and receiving rave reviews. Call 800-567-1845; or visit: www.stregisresidences.com
Just across the island, the Meads Bay Villa Resort opened five months ago. An intimately-sized property, this villa resort consists of four two-bedroom villas, each beachside with a vanishing edge pool. The on-site host offers concierge services and a variety of activities including private chef services, sunset cruises, Yoga and art lessons. Meads Bay is among the growing trend in resort residences on Anguilla. Resort rates begin at $595 per night in summer. Call 264-497-0271; E-mail reservations @meadsbay villaresort.com; www.meadsbayvillaresort.com,
Viceroy Anguilla, a KOR group property, is in Phase I of developing its five-star upscale residential resort along the bluffs of Meads and Barnes Bay where the former Valtur Cocoloba once stood. Phase I is slated to be completed in Spring of 2008 and will be a collection of bluff top villas and some resort condominiums. The KOR group is rumored to have other, as of yet undisclosed, tourism developments on the island. Call 800-357 1930; www.viceroyanguilla.com
In 2005, the Spanish Mediterranean-styled Frangipani Beach Club changed hands. The resort rooms' interiors received soft refurbishments but still remain true to the intimate boutique size and the hotel is just as pretty as ever with rates as low as $250 a night during the summer season. The sale of Frangipani Beach Club allowed former owner Valentin Davis to concentrate on creating his new vision, Hotel Seychelles Beach Estate, also on Meads Bay. Seychelles plans to be a boutique hotel with six units; two four-bedroom villa units and one four story building with two and three-bedroom suites on each floor. The resort will be similar in architecture to Frangipani but with a different color palette.
Davis has a "six-star" vision in terms of design for Seychelles. “It will have rich materials, huge bathrooms with overflow tubs, outdoor showers and all of the accoutrements that this level of standard is accustomed with.” Seychelles is expected to open in 2009. Call 264-498-6021; www.hotelseychelles.org
Along Shoal Bay West, the über-luxe Altamer with three villa houses, may expand along its cove. Its restaurant of the same name is thriving under executive chef, Maurice LeDuc's design. Call 264-498-04000; www.altamer.com
On August 14th, Anguilla’s first hotel, Rendezvous Bay Hotel will close its doors for a complete rebuild with plans to reopen in 2009 with148 luxury units; Oceanview Suites, 2, 3, 4-bedroom units and twenty-five super luxurious 5-bedroom villas that will be for sale.
Rendezvous Bay Hotel has been hosting repeat visitors since the 1970’s, therefore, much thought, with respect to their repeat guests, has gone into the new design. The Gumbs family will still reside on property, short stay rentals will be available, as well as ownership options. www.rendezvousbay .com
A More Casual Price Tag
Anguilla's headlining properties have always been the posh hotels and villas that continue to crop up all over the island. However, a good portion of Anguilla's repeat clientele enjoy this island's brand of "laid back" elegance and the more casual price tag that comes with these properties
The long-standing Anguilla Great House situated right in the middle of Rendezvous Bay, is remaining true to its origin. This traditionally West Indian-styled hotel offers terrific deals (particularly its all inclusive option), low-key atmosphere and Caribbean personality. The Great House will remain opened during its soft refurbishments this summer.
Call 264-497-6061; www.anguilla greathouse.com
Hands down, Paradise Cove continues to be one of the very best deals in the Caribbean. This beautiful, immaculately kept, designed, and landscaped gem cuts its rates maybe too generously for the fact that it is 500-yards from the beach rather than directly on it. Spacious apartment-like suites have every at-home amenity one might need and the packages offered are a steal – for example, seven-nights accommodation in a poolside studio suite including a seven-day rental car and starter breakfast basket begins at $1,800 during the summer season. Paradise Cove continues to ensure its property is in tip-top shape, just recently replacing its poolside pavers. Call 264-497-6603; or visit: www.paradise.ai
Covecastles is keeping its tradition of being one of Anguilla's original luxury giants. The property is once again being managed by Sylvenne Petty and is running its popular Dream Package for two, which includes a seven-night stay, dinner for two in a one-bedroom beach house, three dinners at Covecastles acclaimed restaurant, a two-day car rental for rates starting at $4,500 summer season. Call 800-223-1108; www.covecastles.com
On the Eastern End of the island, Kú is Cap Juluca's answer to the family market. The former Shoal Bay Beach Hotel has been remodeled with a mellowed down hint of Cap Juluca style. Rooms are available from $160 a night. Call 800-869-5627; www.ku-anguilla.com
Shoal Bay Villas has recently been refurbished. The homey atmosphere of the Shoal Bay Villa suites, complete with kitchens, living rooms and porches, makes this property still one of the most relaxing and casual stays on the island – perfect for families with children. Rates begin at $185 double occupancy summer. Call 264-497-205; www. sbvillas.ai
Finally, in Island Harbour, the Arawak Beach Inn, a hotel that historically has had trouble getting up on our travel agent radar screens, has finally made it there with its low-key and fun atmosphere coupled with value-added promotional packages. Rates here begin at $125 per night double occupancy. Call 264-497-4888; www.arawakbeach.com
Island Harbour, once the sleepy village of Anguilla, is waking up with a few new options available to the vacationer. Scilly Cay, smack in the middle of the harbor, is still a "must do" day on Anguilla. Hours are more limited than in the past, as owners Eudoxie and Sandra Wallace are busy with their new luxury villa Desert Rose, however, lunch is still served from Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. with live music by local artists and a soirée under the sun atmosphere. www.desertrose estate.com
Bright Nightspots
Sandy Ground is the closest Anguilla has to a "strip." Casual, energetic and easy – the atmosphere is barefoot and off the beach. Ripples is a personal favorite for its whimsical atmosphere, good food, company and good time. Johnno's, the landmark sand mashing (dancing) place still the reigning Friday night dance party when the Musington Brothers play, and Laurie and Gaby Gumb's Pumphouse is a great hang in an historic landmark, which now boasts a pretty good menu along with live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Roy's Bayside Grill is the Roy's of Crocus Bay, now relocated to Sandy Ground. And Elvis, island bartender and personality extraordinaire, recently opened his own hang out on the far side of village appropriately named Elvis.
Best Bets for Dining
Great restaurant bets on the western end include both new and familiar options. Zurra and Blanchard's are on this year's hot list. Zurra is the second venture of acclaimed restaurateurs Melinda and Bob Blanchard (264-222-8300; www.zurrarestaurant.com). Serving Mediterranean influenced cuisine, the new restaurant follows Blanchard’s tradition in dining excellence.
While this is the couple's proud new enterprise, their first restaurant, Blanchard's is still is a favorite among vacationers and locals alike. Call 264-497-6100; www.blanchardsrestaurant.com
Newly opened Bananas is making some waves, its colorful open- aired atmosphere serves a tropically eclectic, slightly fancy menu at a fair price. Call 264-497-1208.
Caprise, also new, is on the entrance road to Cap Juluca, replaced Sapphire and offers Northern Italian cuisine and favorable reviews. Call 264-498-8000.
Côté Mer is Island Harbour's newest restaurant, located adjacent to Smitty's, Côté Mer offers dining under the stars with an elegant French flair. Call 264-498-COTE; www.cotemer-anguilla.com
However, the off-the-beaten-path Hibernia is still an absolute favorite among epicurean palettes, serving an artistic blend of French and Asian at its very best. Call 264-497-4290.
Among the tried and true top dining options on Anguilla are Mangos, Olivers, Pimms, Georges, Kemia and Santorini.
Along Backstreet, Deon's Overlook is often, and unfortunately, just that. This gem of a restaurant hangs over the cliffs of Sandy Ground and highlights some of Anguilla's best cooking at a price that won't knock you out!
On the entrance road to Sandy Ground is VEYA at the old Verandah. VEYA is owned by newly immigrated Carrie and Jerrie Bogar, former restaurateurs from Pennsylvania. VEYA, serving "cuisine under the sun," is rapidly becoming a must-dine-at venue -- cocktails begin at 5 pm and dinner at 6. Call 264-498-8392.
Straw Hat celebrates its tenth anniversary this year; a new chef and a traditional vision of casual elegance keep this secluded over-the-water restaurant on the top spot list.
For a complete list of Anguilla's restaurants with phone numbers is available at www.anguilla-vacation.com/ dining_guide.htm
The draw of Anguilla has always been in her beaches, dining and newly familiar atmosphere. There are celebrity spottings but an island wide casual attitude allows these stars to relax and vacation. Fans are more apt to say "I dined in the same restaurant as" than "I got her autograph." So while Anguilla is a favorite among many jet setters, Hollywood-on-parade is not the draw – the attraction is more the self satisfaction of knowing one chose an escape that starlets have just discovered
Getting There
Anguilla is still only accessible through San Juan aboard American Eagle and regional carriers; or via St. Maarten aboard the Marigot Bay ferry. This past December American Eagle increased its flights to the island to three times per day, information is available at www.aa.com.
For more information including events contact the Anguilla Tourist Board,call 800-553-4939 or 264-497-2759; www.anguilla-vacation.com or the Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association www.ahta.ai