Ah, Barbados, the gem of the Caribbean Sea and home to numerous treasures for one to experience for any holiday purpose. If you are planning a trip to this island paradise, here are five things you must do to make it memorable.

Visit the Beaches

Barbados is known for its beautiful beaches, so make sure you spend some time exploring them. Some popular beaches include Crane Beach, Bottom Bay, and Accra Beach. Each beach has its unique charm, so be sure to visit a few to get the full experience.

Try the Local Cuisine

Barbadian cuisine is a fusion of African, Indian, and European flavours, making it a melting pot of taste and culture. Some popular dishes include flying fish and cou-cou, macaroni pie, and rice and peas. You’ll find these dishes and more at local restaurants, food trucks, and street vendors.

Experience the Nightlife

Barbados is known for its vibrant nightlife, so be sure to check out some of the local bars and clubs. Some popular spots include Harbour Lights, The Boatyard, and Oistins Fish Fry. You’ll find everything from live music to karaoke to dancing, so there’s something for everyone.

Learn About the History and Culture

Barbados has a rich history and culture that’s worth exploring. You can learn about the island’s past at museums like the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, or by visiting historic sites like St. Nicholas Abbey and George Washington House. You can also experience local culture by attending events like the Crop Over Festival, a celebration of Barbadian music, dance, and food.

Take a Day Trip

While Barbados has plenty to offer, there are also some great day trip opportunities. You can take a catamaran cruise to swim with turtles and explore nearby islands like Bequia and Mustique. Or, you can visit the Animal Flower Cave, a stunning sea cave on the island’s north coast.

But do not worry, you are sure to have a memorable trip to Barbados once you visit. Whether you’re a foodie, a beach bum, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful Caribbean island.

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Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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You have just purchased your new holiday home and want to decorate and set it up for rental.  

Our Property Management team at Blue Sky Luxury Barbados has lots of experience helping new owners set up and manage their new holiday homes. Here are some tips on how to set up your property as a Short Term holiday rental.

• Stick to a neutral color palette. Most guests prefer soothing tones. A color palette of white, tan, or grey,  is also timeless, so it saves you time and money as it relates to updating your decor. If you love color, then add a pop of color to your neutral palette. This way, you inject a bit of personality and your style while making your guests feel comfortable. 

 

• When choosing furnishings – select durable materials that will withstand multiple uses. Some suntan lotions may ruin materials such as suede or velvet so ensure that you understand the quality of the furnishings you are purchasing.

 

• Most of us love ‘knick-knacks’ but we recommend that you keep your decor welcoming and reduce the number of  ‘knick-knacks.  For the period that guests are renting, they want to feel that it is their home.  Reduce or eliminate personal items, especially personal photos, and breakable valuables.

 

• We highly recommend white linens – at least 3 sets.  White linens are easy to wash, they help create a feeling of calm and provide the perfect backdrop for a pop of colour!  Have one set in use, one set in the cupboard, and one in the wash.

 

• Cutlery, crockery, and glassware – Our rule here is: your property can hold 10 guests maximum so have at least maximum capacity of the property plus 50% more. I.e 15 glasses

 

• Ensure that usable items such as electronics are in good working order.  Don’t keep an old radio ‘just because’.  If it’s there, make sure it is in good working order, if not remove it.

 

• The team at Blue Sky Luxury always recommends best practices as it relates to protecting the environment. To economise on electricity – use LED or energy-saving bulbs.  We also recommend that you purchase Inverter type AC units. This helps to reduce your electricity bill and your environmental footprint.

 

• Ensure that your Internet package is reliable and has adequate coverage – especially if your property is a large one Make sure it is the fastest speed available. 

 

• Install a water tank.  When water outages occur, you want to ensure that your guests have access to potable running water. If there are also adverse weather conditions, you want to ensure that you can assure guests that they will always have access to the necessities.  

 

• Choose a good Property Management company that will treat your property as their own. We cannot reiterate this enough. Most owners are not on the island and you want to know that you have a trusted partner to protect your assets. A full-service company is ideal. This way, you get better rates and better service for your property all in one place. A full-service company with great Reservations, Concierge and Guest Services, and Human Resources departments, can assist you in hiring the right staff for your property.

 

Written By: Pamela D’Andrade, Blue Sky Luxury Property Manager

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Congratulations on taking the leap and investing in a property! Rental homes are a long-term investment. If well-maintained, a home will continue producing income for decades. Your new purchase offers passive income and limited maintenance and repairs responsibility. Of course, you also have the freedom of an amazing business opportunity, which over time increases in price.

The First Steps

Now that you are ready to enter the rental market, let us look at how to get you there, stress-free, with competent guidance from our property management team. Having Blue Sky Luxury as your Property Managers brings tangible and intangible benefits. We do more than oversee the running of your property. 

Our Property Management team provides responsible management:

•  Property cash flow 
• Oversight of your budget, with the goal of reducing your running costs
• Preventative maintenance
• Utility monitoring
• Inventory management
• Building audits
• Fire and safety checks

We will also provide a monthly expense statement and quarterly manager’s reports. Once you have determined whether you will be renting furnished or unfurnished, we can enroll you to our Blue Sky Luxury group plan that offers the best rates for building and contents insurance. We will complete a Property Manual with a list of certified technicians. Regular scheduled servicing and preventative maintenance visits guarantee that your equipment operates at optimum proficiency. Benefits include extending the lifespan of your home inventory and keeping your home in pristine condition. Once you have secured a rental, we will carefully read the lease to ensure tenants uphold their contractual obligations.

At handover, the water and electricity metres are read, and an inspection is completed with the tenant. Service and maintenance checks are performed. These checks include steam-cleaning furnishings, Air Conditioning maintenance, and servicing fire safety equipment. We document any concerns and provide a copy of the inventory, keys, gate fobs, and equipment operating instructions. This makes it hassle-free for the tenants’ departure.

During a tenancy, we will promptly coordinate and fix any landlord-related tenant issues, inspect the external areas, and coordinate onsite work at the property. We will also schedule an interior inspection to ensure tenants maintain the property as agreed. We will continue monthly monitoring to ensure that rents are collected and utility payments remain up-to-date.

So, what are you waiting for? If you are reading along and are excited about the prospect of being a landlord and this sounds like a suitable long-term investment for you, then take the next step with us, the property management experts.

Written By: Diana Tasker, Blue Sky Luxury Property Manager

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Take your significant other on a romantic getaway to Barbados, one of the most beautiful vacation spots in the world. You will be impressed with the islands’ world-renowned beaches, delightful cuisine and exquisite rum punches. Where should you stay? Oh, we thought you would never ask. We have one or maybe two hundred villas for you to choose from. It is as easy as swiping right! Tinder, Bumble and Dating.com have nothing on us! We are expert matchmakers. Our team has been matching families, couples and singles to vacation homes for aeons. Ok, maybe 40+ years. Let’s start here, “When should you visit Barbados?“

The best time to visit Barbados

Barbados offers a range of sunshine and holiday options, whatever your tastes and budget. The best time to visit Barbados is between December and April- the weather is at its warmest and driest. At this time, you are likely to enjoy long sunny days and warm nights. When visiting Barbados, you will never run out of things to do as there are so many excursions on offer during your stay here. As we approach the month of love (stand-up Aquarians,) February is a favourite time for many to visit. Weddings, winter escapes and romance just seem to go hand in hand.

Romantic things to do in Barbados

From small romantic gestures to unique ways to express your love – we have the perfect list. It will be impossible not to fall in love again on this beautiful island. This is our wheelhouse. Here is your insightful guide to where to stay and what to do on your romantic Caribbean getaway.

The Elite Collection 

Five-star celebrity-style villas in breathtaking locations with a discreet complement of expert staff.

As exotic as the name sounds, this villa rental portfolio comprises the most exclusive ultra-luxury villas in Barbados. Our palatial estates have expert staff, from laundresses and housekeepers to butlers and chefs. Our concierge team can arrange specialists such as hairdressers, massage therapists, and personal trainers. If you have a taste for the finest accommodations for your love, let’s explore some of our featured properties from The Elite Collection. 

Have a large family that won’t let you steal away without them? Bring them all to Crystal Springs. There is plenty of room to get lost in privacy and the sheer magnificence of this luxury villa. 

This fabulous estate has incredible service from a dedicated staff of 14. Enjoy gourmet dining, five-star concierge planning and personalised, yet unobtrusive pampering. Beach strolls, private picnics and romantic boat rides at sunset are the perfect way to reconnect with your love. Make each moment memorable with help from our Concierge department.

KEY FEATURES:

• 10 BEDROOMS
• SPEED BOAT
• CINEMA
• GYM

Additional Flagship Villa Suggestions from The Elite Collection: Greensleeves, Laughing Waters, Sandy Lane and Sanzaru, Sandy Lane

LUXURY

The finest collection of luxury villas with fabulous reviews, stunning locations and premier staffing options

Onyx is a tier under our flagship villas. This beachfront villa is spacious and set over two contemporary levels. A couplecation for at least 2-3 couples – more if you prefer could be fun and relaxing for all. There is enough room to be apart while staying together. Book a catamaran, or beachfront picnic or set up a romantic couples massage at the seaside entertainment pavilion.

KEY FEATURES

• 5 BEDROOMS
• ENTERTAINMENT PAVILION
• BEACHFRONT
• CHEF, HOUSEKEEPING, LAUNDRESS

Additional Luxury Villa Suggestions from The Elite Collection: High Breeze, Lime Tree Villa, Footprints, Eden, Sugar Hill 

CLASSIC

Enjoy luxury your way from a selection of villas and apartments ranging from barefoot beachfront villas to gorgeous island views.

Just the two of you? Our classic segment of vacation rentals is perfect for the savvy traveller who loves comfort and authentic local experiences. Stay on the casual south with a range of romantic restaurants and secluded beach spots. Steal away to the West and stay at Waterside 402. Book a romantic train ride from St. Nicholas Abbey, then picnic at Cherry Tree Hill. This location boasts the best views in Barbados!

KEY FEATURES

• 1 BEDROOM
• RESORT POOL
• BEACHFRONT
• HOUSEKEEPING

Additional Luxury Villa Suggestions from Classic Collection:  Schooner Bay 112, Sapphire Beach 102

THE AGENT’S PICKS

As a bonus (because we love you) We conclude our where to stay list with two of our most romantic villas from our agents  – Leamington Cottage and Footprints. Leamington Cottage is an upscale tucked mini villa with its own pool. Honestly, we wouldn’t even call this lovely escape a cottage. For a romantic stay, the “cottage” is complete with your own personal cook who is a wonderful host.

Footprints is divine! It’s a large beachfront villa with a romantic and luxury feature – an outdoor bathtub. Located just off the main bedroom, the tub has fantastic views to the ocean and pools. Yes, pools. Breathtaking is an understatement of the views from the roof deck. Here, you can easily accommodate a romantic night under the stars. 

We hope our ideas for the perfect romantic getaway in Barbados spark your interest. Enjoy luxury your way and celebrate love – we are here for it!

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Barbados is home to some of the most luxurious villas with stunning private pools, that will take your vacation experience to the next level. Blue Sky Luxury offers a range of villas with exceptional pool designs that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Here are some of the best luxury villa pools by Blue Sky Luxury in Barbados:

Emily House

This stunning oceanfront villa overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and features a breezy open plan design, retro beachy vibe, and views. The open plan deck serves as the perfect place for al fresco meals with an 8-seater dining table and oversized sun loungers.   for enjoying the sunrise with your morning coffee. 

Martello House

This stunning modern luxury villa sits high on a ridge and overlooks the rolling fairways of Barbados’ Royal Westmoreland Golf Course all the way out to the turquoise Caribbean Sea. With seven spacious bedrooms, a separate guest cottage, and ten bathrooms this property is ideal for larger groups and families looking for the ultimate getaway in paradise.

Bonavista

Bonavista sits on a quiet stretch of white, sand beach on the stunning West Coast of Barbados. An inviting swimming pool and deck compliment this villa and provide guests with the perfect spot to enjoy the dazzling sea views and the tropical trade winds.

The Great House

The Great House is a luxurious yet warm and welcoming island home spanning two and a half acres of manicured tropical gardens with 100 meters of prime Caribbean beachfront and a full complement of staff to cater to every need.

Crystal Springs

Created by legendary designer Oliver Messel in the 1960s and completely restored in 2014, Crystal Springs’ elegant façade, stylish décor and breathtaking views provide a magical, theatrical ambiance, yet the impressive villa innately feels like a welcoming home where ultimate relaxation awaits.

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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As a homeowner you can rely on our experienced property management team to look after your investment. We will provide guidance on some of the things that you don’t think about until they become an issue.

You Need to Tidy Up Before a Storm

Our team of experienced Property Managers will take the appropriate preventative steps where possible, to reduce or even prevent property owners from being saddled with thousands of dollars in damages should we be affected by weather systems.

Our advice is don’t wait until the hurricane season is upon us, being prepared will alleviate several problems throughout the season.

The team will follow these emergency preparedness steps:

1. Prepare emergency kits for their homes and the properties they manage.
2. Make preparations for power outages.
3. Ensure their gas tanks are kept full.
4. Become familiar with more than one route to the properties they manage.
5. Provide emergency contact details. This way guests will have direct contact if there are any issues during the storm or hurricane.
6. Identify the nearest hurricane shelter and ensure that guests know how to get there in case they need to evacuate.
7. Advise in-house guests to have a travel bag with essentials prepared in case they need to evacuate. It should be light and easy to carry.
8. If there are pets, at any property the PM will include them in the hurricane preparedness plans.

You Need to Check Your Air Filters

Some things may require technical support, but your property manager will start with the basics to ensure that you and your guests are breathing clean air.

They will remove the filters and inspect them for any evidence of dust buildup or damage. If the air filters are dirty or damaged, these will need to be washed and sanitized, or replaced if necessary. Your property manager will contact one of our designated air-conditioning technicians to follow up and schedule the appropriate maintenance.

You Need to Clean Your Gutters

• When last were your gutters cleaned? We actually keep track! Cleaning gutters and removing any debris that can accumulate is an important part of preventative maintenance.
• A build-up of debris may cause rusting and corrosion and in some instances the debris may cause the gutters to detach from fascia boards making them look unsightly. Therefore, if you want your gutters to last long you need to clean them regularly.
• Regularly scheduled gutter cleaning will also protect your roof from leaks.
• The main purpose of gutters is to facilitate water flowing from the roof to a drain. However, if your gutters are clogged, they will not drain all water from your roof which may result in the excess water finding a way into your home through the roof, and likely causing damage to ceilings.

Think About Landscaping Maintenance

Keep your lawns, hedges, and trees cut and well-manicured. Some homeowners will schedule regular landscape maintenance for beautification, but this is also crucial for maintaining the upkeep of your property and improving its value.

As a homeowner, there are some things you won’t think about until it becomes an issue. Don’t wait. Let our Blue Sky Luxury Property Management team take care of it for you.

 

Written by: Peter Layne, Team Manager of Residential Property Management

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Travel is not just about the destination, it is about the journey and pre-planning is a must! One thing you can plan for is your arrival into Barbados. Let us expedite your process through Immigration and Customs and into your awaiting Driver Service.

Fast Track

What is Fast Track?

Fast Track is a personalized meet-and-greet service that saves you time and hassle as you navigate through the Grantley Adams International Airport. This top-class service allows you to bypass the long lines in customs and port health and is serviced on a priority basis.

What happens if my flight is delayed or arrives early?

The assigned agent will monitor your arrival flight time and make all necessary changes to ensure that you are met on arrival.

What is the cost of the service?

Fast Track cost is variable and depends on the time of arrival and the number of passengers.

Are there any discounts for children?

Absolutely! Please contact your Concierge directly with the child’s age and we will advise of the applicable discount as rules and regulations vary across our suppliers.

Is Luggage Claim a part of the Fast Track Service?

The Fast Track agent will wait with you while you collect your luggage but cannot expedite the process of collection.

What is the cancellation policy? Are there any fees to cancel?

We understand that plans change and so cancellations are likely. If you wish to cancel or modify your booking, 24 hours notice is required prior to service. Otherwise, the applicable cancellation or no-show fee will apply.

How do you book?

Contact your Concierge with the name of the lead guest, the number of persons in the party, the service date and the flight number. Find out more about our concierge services by clicking right here.

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Ready to go for a SWIM? Does the water look clear, or does it look cloudy?

Don’t try to take the maintenance of your pool into your own hands to save money! When you hire a dedicated Blue Sky Luxury property manager to look after your investment, we will liaise with the pool maintenance professionals on your behalf!

 Your Pool MUST be Cleaned Regularly:

• SKIM off leaves, or any larger debris, insects, and anything else that landed in the water!
• CHECK the FILTER weekly to remove any debris. …
• CLEAN the SKIMMERS …
• BRUSH/Scrub the SIDES and FLOOR of the pool once per week, then vacuum . . .. This is not a job for your housekeeper! 😊
• The final step is to TEST the chemistry of the pool water and make sure that it is balanced – here is where the chlorine and pH levels are tested.

It is important to test the chlorine and pH levels frequently especially during the busy winter season, as they can change based on the level of usage. The chlorine in your pool also gets used up if an excess amount of nitrogen from leaves and other debris, sweat, sunscreen, or if any other organic matter gets into the pool.

To avoid people from getting ear and skin infections, the appropriate Chlorine and pH levels must be maintained. A good chlorine level is between 1.0 and 4.0 parts per million (ppm), while the pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. The correct combination will keep the bad bacteria under control, and if the pH level goes up too high, the germ-killing power of the chlorine will reduce it.

Choose a Blue Sky Luxury Property Management Team to look after your investment!

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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> Explore Crystal Springs Villa

The sun is out, the sea is beckoning…it’s time for a vacation! You’re ready to head off to paradise, Barbados. Your Blue Sky Luxury reservations experts suggested the enchanting beachfront villa Crystal Springs.

Designed by Oliver Messel, Crystal Springs villa is one of the most exquisite on the island of Barbados. The villa, situated on the west coast, sits directly on the water and showcases some of the most spectacular sunsets on the island. The residence, with a dedicated staff of 14, comprises six beautiful buildings. There are several living spaces, three al fresco dining areas, and ten guest rooms, each featuring an en-suite bathroom, luxurious amenities, and accommodating layouts, making Crystal Springs an ideal villa for large groups or families looking for an intimate holiday retreat.

This private estate on a 1.7-acre plot of land has access to a secluded sandy cove, an 18-ft speedboat, a Sunfish sailboat, and a couple of stand-up paddle boards. You also can access nearby activities, including tennis, golf, and polo. There is plenty to keep you and your loved ones occupied during your stay.

Here are some more of the finer details of the property:

• 10 bedrooms with air-conditioning
• State-of-the-art Cinema
• Speed Boat
• 50x20ft Heated Infinity Pool
• Gym

With the help of our experts at Blue Sky Luxury, this villa can house an unforgettable holiday for you and your guests. See more of the villa here: Take me to see Crystal Springs!

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Find a villa here

Barbados is home to the world-famous Sandy Lane Estate, quintessentially luxurious in all ways! Local playground for many celebs and regularly welcomes royalty. You never know who you may bump into! Sandy Lane is also known for its world-class championship golf course and exclusive vacation homes. Blue Sky Luxury introduces the newest uber-luxury vacation home.

You will be spoilt for choice with the various five-star amenities at the villa. Including a luxury vehicle, cinema, a cozy Art-Deco bar, and a fully equipped gym. The expertly trained staff at Laughing Waters is on hand to cater to you and ensure your needs are met! It’s the perfect escape for large groups of friends or families. The villa sits on 4 acres beautiful landscaped acres of Asian-inspired gardens and koi ponds. With 8 fully ensuite bedrooms in the main house and a 4-bedroom cottage.

 

Guests’ check-in experience

Receive VIP treatment from the moment you arrive. Enjoy a cool towel and a refreshing cocktail created by your personal butler.

What’s nearby

We recommend visiting the local restaurants, exclusive shopping, and luxury bars.

QP Bistro – 1.6 km

La Cabane – 4.3 km

Cala Roca – 3.6 km

Sunset Crest Mall – 1.1 km

Drift Ocean Terrace Lounge – 1.4 km

Limegrove Lifestyle Centre – 19. km

Life on the water at Sandy Lane Beach

Stroll over to the Beach Club Bar for a refreshing drink or call on your butlers and enjoy the owner’s privileges at the nearby five-diamond resort.

We guarantee you will enjoy everything this fully outfitted villa has to offer! Book your stay with one of our expert Reservation agents at experts@blueskyluxury.com.

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

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Find a villa here