Antigua & Barbuda, Luxury Property and Lifestyle.

Antigua & Barbuda,Luxury Property and Lifestyle. December 2013–June 2014

Please take me home, I’m FREE!

LUXURY LOCATIONS.The Magazine

INSIDE THIS ISSUE...

Sugar Ridge – where barefoot living meets luxury and style

3 Tying the knot? Antigua’s the wedding destination of choice

3 Inside a Russian billionaire’s US$300 million yacht

ALSO INSIDE...

3 On the crest of a wave – why kitesurfing is sweeping the nation

3 The importance of being Tizzy – Antigua’s soca superstar talks music, memories and being a perfectionistLux

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The global professionalswith local presence.

Head Office, Luxury Locations, Portofino Offices, Jolly Harbour, St Mary’s, AntiguaTelephone: +1268 562 8174 | [email protected] | www.luxurylocations.com

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Front Cover:With special thanks to model Erin Fuller, Captain Abdul Abbott and his 40ft Sea Ray ‘Luna Sea’, make-up artist Natalie Fuchs, Christine Hughes at Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery in Heritage Quay, and Fashiondock in Heritage Quay

Carlisle Bay limited edition coverPhoto supplied by Carlisle Bay

Sugar Ridge limited edition coverPhoto supplied by Sugar Ridge

@LuxMagAntigua facebook.com/luxurylocations.themagazine

Contents


December 2013–June 2014

CreditsHead Office, Luxury Locations, Portofino Offices, Jolly Harbour, St Mary’s, AntiguaTelephone: +1268 562 8174info@luxurylocations.comwww.luxury-locations-magazine.comwww.luxurylocations.com

LUXURY LOCATIONS. The Magazine is published and printed on behalf of Luxury Locations by Eyekon Design and Wyndeham Group.www.eyekondesign.comwww.wyndeham.co.uk

LUXURY LOCATIONS. The Magazine is published bi-annually and is distributed to a readership of high net worth individuals throughout Antigua & Barbuda. The publication is also distributed to the UK and USA. The next issue will be out in June 2014. For all advertising and editorial enquires please contact: [email protected]; [email protected]

Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content. Neither Luxury Locations nor LUXURY LOCATIONS. The Magazine endorses any advertisements or opinions expressed. No part of LUXURY LOCATIONS. The Magazine, can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission of Luxury Locations Ltd and LL Mag Ltd.

All articles researched and written by editor Gemma Handy.Special thanks to photographer Alex Andre Rhodes.

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3 REGULARSLetter from the editor – 8Why Don’t You – 10Life’s Little Luxuries – 14Luxe List – 30Meet the Luxury Locations Team – 72Snapshot: Photographic highlights of the social calendar – 48My Antigua – 116

3 LIFESTYLE Tying the knot in paradise – why choose Antigua – 18Inside a Russian billionaire’s US$300 million yacht – 40Kitesurfing – on the crest of a wave – 63Ladies, lunch & laughter – living it up with Miramar Sailing – 68The kindness of strangers – 74

3 FEATURESA winter home for the autumn years at Sugar Ridge – 34From dishwasher to chef extraordinaire – 38Pearns Point – the pride, the passion and the vision – 58A peek inside the home of an Olympic champion – 76Panoramic perfection – 80From sparse to splendour – revamping Villa 411A – 84

3 PROPERTYProperty handbook – 70Properties for sale – 88Holiday lets – 108Long-term rentals – 114

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Let us take your propertyto new heights.

Contact us for aerial photography of your property.

Head Office, Luxury Locations, Portofino Offices, Jolly Harbour, St Mary’s, AntiguaTelephone: +1268 562 8174 | [email protected] | www.luxurylocations.com

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Letter from the EditorWho wants to read a real estate magazine? No, it’s a

serious question. And – short of an esoteric batch of industry bores plus anyone looking for a fail-safe cure

for insomnia – we’re willing to bet the answer is limited at best. Which is why you will be relieved to hear that Luxury Locations The Magazine is so much more than just a property publication. I am immensely proud to present our fifth biannual issue, and our largest to date. It’s bursting at the seams with a variety of interesting features, plus all the regulars you have come to expect and look forward to from us. Feedback to this magazine has been consistently positive. To that, I always refer to my predecessors who left some rather large shoes to fill. Over the last two and half years it has boomed in popularity, evolving into an informative and captivating lifestyle read. In addition to our presence at more than 150 businesses across island, today we have the prestigious honour of being in suites at two of Antigua’s most exclusive resorts – Carlisle Bay and Sugar Ridge – plus Gatwick Airport departure lounges. It’s now six months since I joined the Luxury Locations team, 18 since I made Antigua my home, and almost a decade since the first of many happy holidays spent on our glorious island. Filling these pages for the first time has not only been a labour

of love, it’s also enabled me to cross paths – in one way or another – with some of Antigua and Barbuda’s leading luminaries, artists, maestros and virtuosos who help make this country what it is. From kitesurfing to destination weddings, fashion to entertainment, dining out, dining in, shopping, superyachts and shindigs, we have it covered. Oh yes and there are a few scrupulously hand-picked property pages in there too. I mean, we do have to eat. So whether searching for a new home or a decent night out, interior decorating tips or the perfect pizza – or if only because your in-flight entertainment is as much of a turn-on as wasabi ice-cream – I invite you to read on. To those of us fortunate enough to live here, we already know how special our islands are. I just hope this magazine will aptly showcase the very best of what we have to offer to those who choose to visit, vacation and invest here too. So please enjoy, savour, absorb – and spread the word. Like what you see? Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and also to sign up to our online monthly mini-mag at the email address below. Until next time, Gemma


December 2013–June 2014

If you would like to advertise in Luxury Locations. The Magazine, or have any editorial content that you feel would benefit our audience, please contact either [email protected] or [email protected]

On the crest of a wave – why kitesurfing is sweeping the nation. PAGE 61

M/Y ‘A’ – loathed leviathan or marine masterpiece?PAGE 40

Through the keyhole – a peek inside the home of an Olympic champion. PAGE 76Lux

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Through the keyhole – a peek inside the home of an Olympic champion. PAGE 76

www.caribbeanalliance.com

WE’VE UPGRADED...HOW ABOUT YOU?

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Caribbean Alliance House, Cnr. Newgate & Cross Streets, P. O. Box 1609, St. John’s, Antigua

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Why Don’t You...

EVENTS GUIDE. December 2013–June 2014

Need inspiration on what to do over thecoming months? Take a peek at our suggestions…

…Grab a face-mask and fins and head for the Pillars of HerculesA ‘wonder of the world’ nominee, these striking pillar-type rocks have been formed naturally by the tide over thousands of years. The south coast site is also a prime location for divers and snorkellers of all abilities, with excellent visibility and an abundance of rare tropical fish.

All year round; www.nationalparksantigua.com

…Get out on the water with Miramar – it’s more than plain sailingDon’t miss the chance to sample Antigua’s world-renowned azure waters with the friendly and professional Miramar Sailing crew. How about sipping champagne and soaking up the sunset with an afternoon cruise? Or pretending to be Robinson Crusoe with a trip to Prickly Pear Island where you can lunch, sunbathe, swim and snorkel on one idyllic isle?

Various options available all year round; www.miramarsailing.com

…Step back in time and take a walk in Admiral Nelson’s shoesNothing short of a time machine could compete with the tangible sense of yesteryear at the Dockyard Museum. Housed in the original Naval Clerk’s House, displays galore feature everything from a restored 18th century bedroom to Nelson’s very own telescope and tea caddy. The museum documents the history of the only continuously working Georgian dockyard in the world – and the famous naval leader who lived there from 1784 to 1787.

Open daily 8am–6pm, all year round; www.nationalparksantigua.com

…Get up close and personal with some of the largest mammals on earthKnown for their aerial acrobatics, the humongous humpbacks are a favourite among whale watchers. From February to May these graceful mammals make their way past our islands on their annual migration. Sign up for a field trip with the knowledgeable Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) to learn more about their habits and watch them breach. But be prompt – there’s usually just one trip per season!Springtime; email [email protected]

...Don your hiking boots and master the highest peak in the countryOK so it’s not Everest but Mount Obama, which stands at 402 metres high, is a haven for local flora and fauna. Formerly known as Boggy Peak and nestled amid a bulge of volcanic hills smothered in lush vegetation, the brush with nature – and a palpable sense of achievement – is yours for the taking. Feeling lazy? The summit is also accessible by car.All year round; www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

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...Enjoy live music, local food and landmarks – all at Shirley Heights Lookout.Boasting panoramic views of national parks, marinas and Montserrat, Shirley Heights is an Antiguan institution. On Sunday nights, the historic former military site is party central. Crowds converge from 4pm to take in the stunning sunset vistas and the sound of a live steel band. Later the action is turned up a notch with soca, reggae and calypso and a barbecue. Don’t like crowds? Head there Thursday instead for a scaled down, more tranquil version with music and traditional fare. Sunday/Thursday nights; www.shirleyheightslookout.com

…Explore, escape, energise – afloat a kayakExplore Antigua’s nautical nooks and crannies the eco-friendly way. Kayaking is not only green, it’s an excellent way to observe sea turtles and other marinelife – and getfit too.

…Throw some shapes on the dancefloorFeeling nostalgic? Party like a rock star at the fourth annual Grown & Sexy invasion. DJs from the UK, US and Antigua will be taking to the decks at a variety of venues spinning 70s disco tunes, 80s and 90s house, old school soul, R&B, reggae and more. Aimed at the over 30s crowd, this is clubbing for the mature reveller.June 13–22; www.grownandsexy.co.uk

…Marvel at the vintage visiting vesselsNow in its 26th year, the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta is one of the world’s leading events of its kind. And each year, the collection of vessels which floods into English Harbour is even more spectacular. Ranging from traditional island sloops and schooners to J-Class yachts and tall ships, they comprise a wonderful amphibious spectacle for lay enthusiasts and experts alike.April 17–22; www.antiguaclassics.com

kevinjohnsonphotography.com

…Experience Carnival...Barbuda styleCarnival festivities aren’t exclusive to Antigua. June will see a five-day extravaganza of calypso contests, street parties and a queen show – all staged on our stunning sister isle. Dubbed ‘Caribana’, it also includes a horse race, a car and bike show, and mouth-watering local food.June 5–9; email [email protected],

call (+268) 562-7066

...Soak up the sun and atmosphere at Pepperz ‘n’ Lime’s Sunday beach partyWith a beachside DJ, swing barstools, Mexican/Caribbean cuisine and a laidback vibe, this Dickenson Bay hangout is the perfect spot to wind up the weekend. There’s even a floating trampoline to keep the kids entertained.

Sundays; www.facebook.com/Pepperznlime

All year round; www.antiguapaddles.com

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Delectable Desserts We all need to indulge once in a while. Our sweet-toothed team ventured far and wide to bring you this carefully chosen selection of the island’s best desserts. They may pack a caloric punch but their sheer scrumptiousness means they’re worth every last mouth-watering morsel.

2 Passionfruit and papaya cheesecake, Sheer RocksWith a layer of fresh papaya jam, topped with local passionfruit, this no bake cheesecake at Sheer Rocks is not only the perfect way to end a meal, it’s a champion for local Antiguan produce too.www.sheer-rocks.com, call (+268) 464-5283

2 Chocolate cheesecake, Russell’s Bar & Seafood Restaurant Creating tasty treats may be something of a hobby for local baker Trendt Simon, but there’s nothing nonchalant about this cornucopia of creamy chocolate heaven. It’s infused with a tangy hint of fresh lemon, a splash of coconut rum and organic honey – and served up with lashings of love.www.facebook.com/russellsfortjames, call (+268) 462-5479

2 Mousse al cioccolato, Al Porto Chocoholics beware. You may just think you’ve died and gone to heaven after tasting this seductive choc mousse peppered with choc chips and complemented by oh-so-rich texture and just general deliciousness.www.facebook.com/AlPortoItalianRestaurant, call (+268) 562-7848

2 S’mores, Jumby BayThese fun and inspired takes on the American campfire classic are the creation of Jumby’s acclaimed pastry chef Fhonthip Jones. A different s’mores will be featured each month, delighting kids and big kids alike. Varieties include hazelnut, dark or white chocolate, and our particular favourite - ‘pizza’ s’mores, a tantalising olio of pistachio, orange and raspberry fondants couched in marshmallow, milk chocolate and Graham crackers.www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/jumbybaycall (+268) 462-6000

LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES. December 2013–June 2014

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2 White chocolate lava cake, La Bussola As aspiring chefs will testify, perfecting a lava cake has a mammoth margin for error. Thankfully the La Bussola team are culinary virtuosos – just one reason why this fabulous molten-centred creation, infused with a hint of fresh vanilla, is a sugary sensation.www.labussolarestaurant.net, call (+268) 562-1545

2 Fried banana in filo pastry, The Admiral’s InnCrispy filo pastry cooked to perfection encasing devilishly smooth locally grown banana, this toothsome little treasure is a nod to traditional Asian cuisine. Caressed with delicate dashes of raspberry, vanilla and chocolate sauces, it’s topped with a mint garnish and a side slather of homemade cookies and cream ice-cream.www.admiralsantigua.com, call (+268) 460-1027

2 Banoffee pie, Le Bistro A whopping 15 bananas are used to whip up Le Bistro’s version of this wonderful traditional English sweet – a crowning glory on the acclaimed restaurant’s dessert trolley. Lose yourself in a provocative belt-busting blend of banana, cream and toffee.www.antigualebistro.com, call (+268) 462-3881

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2 Trio of fruit desserts, Carmichael’sIt’s not just Carmichael’s customers who are wooed by this novel fruity triad. It also proved a hit at the 2013 Mango Festival culinary competition. Chef Angenick Looby reigned supreme in the pastry category with her mango panacotta, pineapple mango cheesecake with mango crumb and a pineapple champagne shot.www.sugarridgeantigua.com, call (+268) 562-7700

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Le BistroFrench Restaurant

Le Bistro, Antigua’s �irst authentic French restaurant, was opened in 1981. Since then, their popularity, with both visitors and locals, has never waned. Today, Le Bistro is, and remains one of Antigua’s most frequented restaurants. Eating here is close to luxurious perfection.

You’ll experience a real sense of occasion and a heartfelt welcome with every visit. Upon entering the restaurant, be prepared to enjoy the elegant, tropical surroundings of the dining room and bar. They are both irresistibly alluring and beautifully romantic. Relax and enjoy a seamless dinner, complete with a supremely polished and personalized service from your host Philippa and the rest of the staff. It will be hard to choose from the medley of outstanding cuisine, but the Antiguan lobster dishes come highly recommended. The handcrafted desserts are always to die for and genuine wine lovers will be impressed with the superb range of French vintages and Champagne.

The Owner and Chef, Patrick Gauducheau, hails from Vendée, the heart of France’s �inest gastronomic regions. Chef Patrick has worked at many �ine restaurants before coming to Le Bistro, including The Restaurant Le Rive Bleu, Golf Hotel Montreux and Hotel Conte Vevey in Switzerland; the Cable Beach Wyndham Hotel in the Bahamas, The French Quarter Restaurant and the Hodges Club in Antigua, and The Reading Room in Saratoga, New York. He’ll intrigue and captivate your senses!

Your evening will be �illed with French chic and Caribbean zest, as Le Bistro always puts luxury on a plate.

Experience a real sense of occasion

Hodge’s Bay, St. John’s, AntiguaT: (268) 462 3881 F: (268) 461 5543 E: [email protected]

Open Tuesday - Sunday from 6:30pm with last orders at 10:30pm. Closed on Mondays.

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THE WAIT FOR QUALITY FOOTWEAR

IS OVER!Authorised retailer of:NINE WESTANNE KLEINANNE KLEIN SPORTSTEVE MADDENBANDOLINOJESSICA SIMPSONBCBGOPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY, 10AM–6PM

#1 VILLAGE WALK, FRIARS HILL ROAD. Tel: 560-2165We also carry a wide range of accessories, bags & clutches.

Visit us online @ www.mademoiselle268.com

MademoiselleMademoiselleTHE S T YLES YOU LOVE . THE BRANDS YOU CRAVE .THE S T YLES YOU LOVE . THE BRANDS YOU CRAVE .

Please call 484-0000 ext. 4126 to make an appointmentPlease ask our Receptionists about Blue Spa gift vouchers

All prices are in US dollars and are subject to 10% service charge and 15% government tax

BLUE VITALITYThe Honey Mango Scrub is one that leaves your skin glistening with vitality. Add a Carboxi-Express facial, which is an explosion of oxygen to revitalize your face. This 60 minute treatment

is both nourishing and relaxing.

Regular a la carte price is US$140

Your price is US$95

BLUE INDULGENCE This package incorporates a body scrub to rehydrate your body, giving you an instant pick-me-up together with a 30 minute massage. Also enjoy an eye treatment to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. 90 minutes of total bliss.


Your price is US$120

BLUE ULTIMATEEnjoy a Citrus Drench Wrap, a scrub, wrap and massage followed by an anti-oxidant Vitamin C Facial, which will place a boost of minerals and vitamins back into your skin. A West Indian Massage to complete is the ultimate of treatments. This 3 hour experience will leave you feeling on top of the world and ready for anything.



Treat yourself to a pampering spa treatment......with special local resident discounts from our menu

CARLISLE BAYANTIGUA

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Take me to the altar

Whether it’s the lure of adventure, radiant climes and a welcome vacation – or the chance to shunt

Aunt Madge and her odious other half from the guest list – more and more couples are opting to tie the knot abroad. And today’s destination weddings are kookier, crazier and more action-packed than ever before. These days, one in four lovebirds are upping the ante of a traditional ceremony by taking it to an exotic setting. Not only is it a wonderful way to incorporate the honeymoon into the budget, there’s the reduced risk of inauspicious rainfall on the big day plus a profusion of unusual activities at hand. Not to mention the ease of eliminating buddies-not-seen-since-high-school and relatives-distant-for-a-reason. Modern destination wedding couples tend to be a jet-setting bunch. Unlike hometown sweethearts arranging native nuptials, their escapades have often already taken them

across the globe. Many may even have met overseas. Little surprise then that their guests are likely to be equally as far-flung. With the world getting smaller, expectations are becoming higher – matched only by the desire to stage a wedding day that’s extraordinary. Trends in recent months encompass everything from wine and food tasting, to city walking tours where wedding parties meander through the streets together, taking in historical landmarks. Caribbean islands are frequently voted among the world’s prime locations for getting hitched. While many can offer desolate

beaches, idyllic scenery and first-rate resorts however, few possess Antigua’s authentic charm. Our twin island nation’s bounty of bewitching beaches is well documented. But our appeal extends well beyond what nature blessed us with. How many other countries can appease nature lovers, nightlife junkies, history buffs, spa worshippers, watersports enthusiasts and dedicated foodies – all within the confines of 108 square miles? Getting wed in a fantasy Shangri-La may guarantee a stunning backdrop to the photographs. It can also mean an almighty drain on the bank account of the happy couple beginning a new life together. Luxury Locations has an extensive portfolio of magnificent rental properties to accommodate a blushing bride and groom and their entourage. Beachside, hillside, or within the confines of a five-star resort, our homes are perfect for staging a unique wedding ceremony and reception - while reducing pressure on the purse strings. Brimming with local knowledge about off-the-beaten-track hangouts, interesting excursions and hidden gems, our friendly team can help organise a host of fun activities for you and your party, along with the transportation to get you safely there and back. We can also put you in touch with some of the finest on-island entities, from wedding planners to photographers, to ensure getting hitched goes without a hitch – and is as unforgettable for your guests as it is for you and your intended. Antigua and Barbuda is developing rapidly. Thankfully it’s lost none of its grassroots charisma, evident in every aspect of daily life along with its people’s genuine geniality.

WEDDING FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Hoping to get hitched in paradise? From recreation to relaxation, glamour to grassroots charm – Antigua’s got it all

“Caribbean islands are frequently voted among the world’s prime locations for getting married..”

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Say it with flowersFlowers are one of the most important elements of your big day. Not only do they add beauty, colour and scent, they symbolise life, growth and rebirth. After the food and dress, the flowers are one of the things guests will remember most. Exotic Floral, in Lower Newgates Street, St John’s, creates arrangements for any occasion, specialising in the exotic and the contemporary. Email [email protected] or call 562-4523 or 728-0792.

Time to cut the cake…No wedding day would be complete without a cake that makes a statement. Set your reception apart – and ensure every detail reflects your own distinctive style – with a delicious, customised creation from The Little Bean Company. Email [email protected] or call (+268) 464-0207 for details.

These are just some of the reasons why, when searching for the ideal wedding location, our little country cannot be surpassed. Whether your dream day means toes in the sand and shells in your hair - or renting out an entire five-star resort – Antigua has what it takes to make it a reality. Fancy a wedding breakfast of freshly caught seafood served beachside? Or how about a gastronomic feast whipped up in front of you at a Luxury Locations villa after saying your ‘I dos’ aboard a Hobie Cat? We can make it happen. From colour themes to cake pops, underwater photo shoots to statement desserts, wine pairings to group kitesurf lessons, there is nowhere quite like Antigua. Over the coming pages we present our hand-picked selection of some of our finest venues and industry experts, encompassing the very best of what our special island has to offer. Whatever your individual tastes or desires, whether richer or poorer, we promise you a lifetime of memories to love and to cherish.

Visit www.luxurylocations.com to browse our extensive portfolio of rental properties. See one you like? Email [email protected] or call us on (+268) 562-8174.

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WEDDING FEATURE.

Where laidback charm meets rich culture and romanceTake a walk in Admiral Nelson’s shoes at this lovingly preserved waterfront 18th century hotel and restaurant. Contact us for information about our wedding packages – because the most important day of your life deserves to be magical in every way.

Experience living history at the Copper & Lumber Store Hotel – in the heart of Nelson’s Dockyard

Visit www.copperandlumberhotel.com and www.nationalparksantigua.com or call (+268) 460-1159/60 for information

2 QUIET SOPHISTICATIONThese braided ball cuff links were created for John Hardy’s Bedeg collection. Beautiful black sapphires adorn sterling silver to create an uber-stylish, unique gift for the best man, ushers, or bride and groom’s fathers.

2 LUCKY CHARMThis beautiful ‘Naga’ dragon creation is sure to charm maids of honour, mothers or bridesmaids. The intricate dragon setting symbolises prosperity and good luck while doubling as a clever clasp for a hand-woven silver bracelet.

2 EXQUISITE ELEGANCESay thank you in style with this gorgeous piece crafted from sterling silver and diamonds. Hand-woven mesh chains braid a beautiful silver necklace closed by a diamond-covered box clasp.Gorgeous gifts

For those who make the big day extra specialA keepsake from your special day is a wonderful way to show your wedding party how much their presence means. From bridesmaids to best man, mothers to ushers, John Hardy has a meaningful memento perfect for the occasion. Since 1975, the Canadian designer has been creating his environmentally sustainable luxury pieces, inspired by traditional Balinese techniques. Here are some suggestions.

All items available from Diamonds International, Heritage Quay, St John’s. Tel: (+268) 481-1880.www.johnhardy.com

2 GIRL’S BEST FRIENDPay tribute to your bridesmaids with these show-stopping earrings – the epitome of understated elegance. Pavé diamonds create an exquisite centre, surrounded by a detailed woven chain design.

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Copper & Lumber Store - Colonial charm in the heart of the Caribbean

Amid a jamboree of multi-million dollar yachts, lustrous waters and rolling hills, lies one of Antigua’s most

prized assets. The lovingly preserved Nelson’s Dockyard – the world’s only continuously working Georgian marina – is a jewel in the country’s crown and a draw for thousands of tourists each year. Here, in this unique place that time forgot, history pulsates from every venerable crevice, each timeworn edifice. Eloise Francis sits surrounded by a cache of colonial charm, a splash of Old England in the heart of the Caribbean. The antique furniture and decor might be infectious as she imparts how she yearns to revisit the land of the rose. After 20 years staging weddings at the on-site Copper & Lumber Store Hotel, her passion for her work remains delightfully tangible. It’s just one of the reasons couples married under her amiable auspices return gleefully years later – often babe in arms – to pay a visit to ‘Aunty Eloise’. With its original 18th century buildings and cobbled courtyard - offset by a genial climate and bucolic backdrop - the former British Naval base offers a wedding venue of unsurpassed elegance. Up to 50 guests can stay in the hotel’s 14 suites and studios, all beautifully furnished with period pieces. Weathered brickwork, hand-hewn beams and mellow brass are complemented by four-poster beds, imitation gas lamps and paintings of haughty-looking aristocrats. The creaking floorboards and heavy mahogany accents are such that the television sets appear utterly incongruous. Each room is named after one of the famous Admiral’s ships – Royal Sovereign, Victory and Britannia to name a few – another winsome nod to days of old.

The enchanting property is best suited to nuptials of the mid to high-end range but Eloise and her multi-talented team can work with most budgets. “Every wedding is different and tailored to suit,” she says. “We do an interview with the bride and then carry out her dream. We can cater for small, intimate parties with an a la carte menu, to large weddings with a buffet for up to 200 guests. “Because we all have a genuine passion for what we do, we provide a wonderful personalised service. All of us get so into it and make sure everything is perfect – it captivates us all. “Our staff are so talented, every one of us can do something. One is a graphic artist so can design the hymn sheet, for example. We can arrange everything from the minister to the cake, the transportation to the music. And we have an excellent team of servers and bartenders, so the service is always superb.” Whether it’s traditional British fare in line with the surroundings, or contemporary Caribbean cuisine, menus too are customised according to individual desires. “We always make sure there’s a special cocktail,” Eloise continues with a smile. “And we are very good at rehearsal dinners too which are a great way of taking out some of the tension and pre-wedding nerves.” In addition to the hotel and restaurant, the sprawling complex also features a large event room, museum, and adjacent shopping area laid out under stone arches. Little wonder then that where there is a multitude of idyllic locations for the ceremony itself, photo opportunities are also in abundance. Some of the most popular include quintessential old-fashioned red telephone boxes, and ‘Juliet’ balconies from where blushing brides are free to fling their bouquet. “Some couples choose to get married on a boat in the harbour itself, before enjoying

a candlelit reception in our courtyard. The wooden beams help create a romantic, intimate feeling and the courtyard is perfect for dancing,” Eloise says. Because the area falls within the remit of the country’s national parks, any profit is ploughed back into the restoration and maintenance of the property and its grounds. “There’s nowhere else quite like Copper & Lumber. Whenever we have a wedding we close the place down to the public, so it’s as if you own a bit of colonial history just for a couple of days.” Eloise adds: “Even when the place isn’t decorated it’s so special. It’s a living history complex that just comes alive. Like an empty stage, all you need to do is bring on the act.” 3

Visit www.copperandlumberhotel.com andwww.nationalparksantigua.com for information.


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Antigua’s status as a sun-drenched haven offering glorious secluded beaches, pristine rainforest and an

authentic Caribbean experience is firmly cemented. Its clothes shopping capacity, on the other hand, has rarely been given more than a cursory nod, due in part to the dearth of big name foreign chain stores. However it is precisely this absence of generic emporiums which has given rise to charming one-off boutiques, tucked away in esoteric locations across the island. Happily, for its style-conscious inhabitants, Antigua is home to a number of these hidden couture gems where creativity thrives and fashion is reborn. From the outside, Deshaun in Redcliffe Quay is a modest blink-and-you’d-miss-it sort of a place. Inside it’s a veritable treasure trove of wardrobe wonders, thanks to the imagination and talent of its owner, Adalia Joseph.

Show-stopping couturefor tropical climesThink Antigua’s feeble when it comes to fashion? Think again. Our islands are home to a bevy of burgeoning designers determined to put the country on the sartorial world stage – and satisfy local couture cravings at the same time. Among those championing the cause is Adalia Joseph.

The first time we meet I am absorbed in the array of cool linens, long sinuous gowns and singular pieces of costume jewellery that comprise her store. Adalia breezes in, a vision in a fluttering cream dress and sky-high wedges propping up her tiny frame. She’s cute as a button, impossibly stylish and refreshingly down to earth. Her apologies for her “sleepiness” – on account of missing her morning coffee – are in stark contrast to her zesty, energetic demeanour. Deshaun, with its casual ready-to-wear apparel, is one of three shops she owns in the capital city. The second is her discount outlet in Upper Redcliff Street, while the third, a heady assortment of haute couture based in Heritage Quay, is an avenue for her “creative mind” to flourish. “Ziba is like my alter ego,” she laughs. “If I want to branch out into something a little more risky, I take my chances there.” Essentially her clothing is intended for an eclectic crowd of women of all shapes and sizes, “from the young to the young at heart”. “My designs are very free-spirited, very Caribbean, and really depend on my mood. I love flowing dresses and linens; I’m a girly girl.” The name Deshaun – her middle name – was chosen due to its gender neutrality, meaning she’s free to flirt with menswear further down her sartorial journey. So far that hasn’t happened, primarily because the ladies alone are keeping her busy enough. This week Adalia’s caught up in a whirlwind of prom mania.

“I am working on 15 dresses right now. But that’s nothing,” she continues, amused at the aghast look on my face, “one year I made 45.” An average week sees her making around 35 pieces – anything up to eight a day. And that’s from conception right through to sewing the final threads of a garment, encompassing all sizes from small to extra large. With that in mind, one would be forgiven for thinking she must have a large team of staff to lend a hand. In fact it’s just herself and one assistant. But with two decades’ experience under her belt - and an innate slight of hand - it’s a feat she rises to expertly and with characteristic cheer. It’s now more than 20 years since Adalia graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York. But her passion for her art dates back further still. “I love everything about my work; ever since I was 10 years old I knew this was what I wanted to do. “One day at school we had to make aprons. It was Home Economics so we were being taught to cook, clean and sew. Everyone else was having such a hard time but I found it really easy and so much fun. I remember I put little frills down the side,” she says with a laugh. “The teacher loved it. From there I started making skirts and other basic things. My mom is really the one who recognised my talent; she used to say an item that took her years to stitch would take me a day. I just love clothes; that’s really how it started. “I love it because I never feel like I’m working.” Juggling life as a fashion designer and mother to a nine-year-old boy has its fair share of hurdles. Her son is one of the reasons she’s scaled her work back some recently. There’s little denying that the sluggish economy has had an effect too. Luxuries like new clothes naturally take a backseat. “People need to eat. But at other times I’m so busy I am going crazy.” While Adalia may not have a muse

LEFT: Adalia Joseph wears a linen summer dress she designed

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as such – “I am my own muse; if I like something, I know my customers will” – she does have an idol. Italian designer Gianfranco Ferre, who died in 2007, made his name shunning fashion gimmicks in favour of his signature relaxed, pared-down apparel. “He was my idol in school, my dream. Everything he did was dramatic yet tasteful and elegant, aimed at the new age, confident woman. Just one piece was enough to make an outfit.” Far from being a slave to this season’s hemlines and hues, Adalia’s aim is to be fashion-conscious without sacrificing her individual point of view. Her priorities when shopping for materials in New York City and California are that her clothes remain affordable and crafted from fabrics suited to a tropical climate. “I have to be very on point with Antigua, with my customers. I know what’s in and magazines keep me up to date with trends, as does regular travel to Europe and New York. “I like knowing what’s in vogue and what will be on the market – I don’t want to veer too far away from that but I still do my own thing. If everyone is making the same thing it’s no fun.” Another way Adalia exercises her creative gene is designing bridal wear. She’s made a firm name for herself on island as a go-to girl for one-of-a-kind wedding dresses. “I don’t do traditional dresses. I love lace, and simple but elegant designs. But not the whole ‘poufy poufy’ thing – you can buy that anywhere, that’s not really my style. “I believe in reading a client’s vision and interpreting it in a beautiful way. “It’s fantastic to see my clients in their wedding dress for the first time, and watch their faces light up like a Christmas tree. It makes all the work worthwhile and satisfying; that’s the best part of my job.” Another is the relationships she’s built up with her solid band of regular customers over the years. “Some of them have been with me since I started in June 1993; we have grown together. It’s a small island so we have that privilege – a bit like having a favourite skirt but you don’t

always want it in the same colour,” she smiles.Adalia is one of several local designers – including a young protégé she’s been quick to take under her wing. Still, she admits it may be some time yet before we see an Antigua Fashion Week. “There are not quite enough of us for that. There are many up and coming designers but

they need a few years learning their trade first.“I’ve had fashion shows in the past but they were so expensive I paid for them for months,” she adds. “That was just to get my name out and show everyone what I was all about. These days I am riding the waves.” 3

ABOVE: Shonette Higgins models an Adalia Joseph wedding gown.

LEFT: Adalia Joseph wears a linen summer dress she designed

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Prenuptial nerves and organisational stress – not to mention the pressure to impress the guests – can

transform the most benign bride-to-be into a burgeoning bridezilla. And those who’ve never planned anything larger than a festive family shindig or a birthday knees-up before could well find themselves destined for the latter. Enter Monica Balli. For more than a decade, the Italian event planner has been injecting the pizzazz into parties and the wow into weddings. Specialising in high-end functions across the globe – under the motto ‘if you can dream it, I can produce it’ – she’s planned the nuptials of everyone from singer Brian McFadden to bigwigs of FIFA and Facebook. Now Monica is poised to bring her unique luxury brand to Antigua, working closely with some of the island’s esteemed experts, and helping bring destination wedding couple’s dreams to life. The multi-faceted nature of her work means she can arrange the entire event, from selecting the perfect location to arranging the logistics, entertainment and activities. Monica prides herself on adding an element of surprise to each of her endeavours. “I aim to give my clients a one-of-a-kind experience, opening those doors that are normally not open. My clients say I am fun to work with, easy to get along with, and I have a lot of imagination – I always like to do something a little different,” she laughs.

Known for her breath-taking designs, Monica is a long-standing member of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) and regularly attends industry seminars worldwide to ensure her conceptions are forever evolving. “Every couple is different so I create a theme based on their individual tastes. One I really had fun doing was a post-wedding toga party. We had five-star resort exclusivity and we made togas for all the men and women and dressed them up for a party by the pool.” Whether staged at a private home or boutique hotel, Monica can work with most budgets without compromising her signature je ne sais quoi. Her strong environmental ethos can be detected in numerous aspects, from the use of recycled paper for the stationery to the flowers grown without pesticides in the bouquets. Her commitment to working only with top professionals in their field eradicates the margin for mishaps on the big day. Monica’s assignments frequently take her throughout Europe and the US, and now the Caribbean too. She already has a local partner in Antigua busy forging links with corporate partners. Monica herself is due to pay a visit this winter to develop relationships further. “I am keen to work in Antigua as it’s such a beautiful island with white sand beaches – and with so many of them there really is one for every day of the year. The island is also really easy to access from Europe – just an eight-hour flight from Milan or London.”


Monica Balli – bringing dreams to life

No challenge is too great for Monica. In fact she thrives on them. “There’s really no request that has ever been too off the wall. It’s usually me coming up with the weird and wonderful concepts. The less ordinary the event, the more people love them. “I would never give any of my clients anything I would not buy myself,” she adds. “I have done this for 10 years and I raise the bar every time I work. Not everybody is able to work with people’s dreams, but that’s exactly what I do.” 3

Visit www.monicaballi.com for more information.

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Tying the knot? Romance doesn’t get much sweeter than at Carlisle Bay Imagine translucent turquoise waters gently teasing alabaster sands as soft as flour, against a backdrop of verdant emerald rainforest. It sounds like the stuff dreams are made of. And for a bride-to-be planning the biggest day of her life, it probably is.

Few places on earth are as conducive to romance as Carlisle Bay. But while the internationally-acclaimed

resort may have bragging rights to one of the only spots in the world where rainforest meets ocean, it’s just a fraction of what the five-star all-inclusive has to offer. From its prime position on Antigua’s south coast, the focus is firmly on luxury, style and sophistication, promising destination nuptials at their finest. The 82-suite complex embodies understated

elegance with genuine warmth and geniality in a way many resorts can only hope for. Happily for those who choose to tie the knot here, Carlisle Bay’s exquisitely crafted bespoke service couldn’t be further from the image of many of its competitors’ conjugal conveyor belt. The process – according to general manager Jonathan Reynolds – starts with an informal chat over a glass of good fizz. The bride is invited in for a series

of discussions with the resort’s wedding coordinator, before a written proposal is drafted outlining every last detail of the big day. That includes arranging the minister and menus, the licence, location and live music, right up to the cake, photos and flowers. “We involve our executive chef Daniel Echasseriau who will design a menu around what the couple want,” Mr Reynolds says. “One wedding we had recently included guests from all over the world. They were


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here for four days and requested a different theme every night. There was a private beach dinner, one gastronomic dinner, another with traditional comfort food, and one with authentic Caribbean cuisine. “We have a very good culinary team which allows us to be extremely flexible.” That pliancy extends to the size of the wedding party too. “We can cater to very intimate ceremonies with just two witnesses – which we can provide if need be. Sometimes, around once a year, someone will buy out the whole hotel. That’s great as we then have a blank canvas to work with which is a lot of fun for us. And the guests love the exclusivity. “We have a multitude of locations for the ceremony itself, and we can install marquees where preferred. The options are limitless.” With such idyllic surrounds, it’s not unheard of for an on-site marriage proposal instigating an impromptu ceremony. “We can cope with that too,” Mr Reynolds smiles. “We can even organise a dress!” Looking one’s best is paramount for any bride. Carlisle’s Bay’s award-winning spa can not only provide a customised massage to assuage pre-wedding jitters; it can also ensure perfectly manicured fingers and toes, along with hair that’s an expertly-coiffed vision of elegance. Throughout the resort, interior areas are characterised by calm, tranquil design.“We deliberately use very muted colours in the suites because in the Caribbean the colour happens outside,” Mr Reynolds continues. “We don’t want it to be an assault on the senses – we opt for ‘urban chic’ rather than ‘parrot prints’.” Accommodation options vary from two-bedroom family suites, to three-bedroom ‘Carlisle’ suites with living room, dressing room and wrap-around balcony, and ‘Ocean’ suites with a spacious open-plan interior designed so the shimmering azure waters are the first sight you see when waking. The latter also come with

WEDDING FEATURE.continued

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much typical unspoilt Caribbean scenery. Places like Barbados, for example, have a lot of infrastructure and lots of restaurants but don’t feel so much like the Caribbean. Antigua does. “We have so many beaches to choose from that you never have to feel crowded, even in peak season. Plus a multitude of places where you can go to feel a million miles away from anywhere. You can soak up the complete peace and tranquillity which you only normally get on some small atoll in the Maldives. “And with direct flights from Europe and North America, getting here is dead easy too.” With myriad resorts offering destination wedding packages today, competition in the market is tough. “Guests tell us they love our service levels,” Mr Reynolds says simply. “And our food really stands out. We are successful because we put a lot of effort and money into selecting our culinary team and we are very careful with the suppliers we work with. “Location is of course subjective – but when you look out at that bay and can see Montserrat it’s very, very special.” Monumental emphasis is placed on ensuring excellence in every aspect of the resort’s work. And never is that more important than when hosting nuptials. “You can’t get a wedding wrong; there’s absolutely no way you can say sorry to a bride if you do. If someone has a disastrous dinner you can always make amends generously, but if someone’s wedding breakfast is a catastrophe that’s it, end of story. “That has never happened at Carlisle Bay. We put a huge amount of effort into ensuring perfection, and we have a lot of great testimonials and positive press as a result.” Staging a wedding, Mr Reynolds adds, is “massively rewarding” for the entire resort team. “A wedding is such a special and unique time in someone’s life. We are always delighted to be a part of it.” 3

walk-in wetrooms where double tubs overlooking the mangroves and rainforest are a particular draw for wedding and honeymooning couples. One aspect all rooms have in common – the all-important 24-hour room service plus provision for private dining with a personal waiter. With three on-site restaurants to choose from – featuring Italian, Asian and Mediterranean fare – and a host of sports and spa facilities, there is little danger of guests getting bored. Adventurous types can test their skills paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkelling to name a few. There are also nine tennis courts, mountain bikes, sunset yoga classes on the jetty, garden and rainforest walks, even cookery mastery classes. Carlisle Bay’s wonderful library boasts one of the largest Caribbean literature sections in the region. Staff are more than happy to arrange day excursions too. Some of the most popular are helicopter trips over neighbouring Montserrat’s volcano. Or ‘Robinson Crusoe’ days spent on a deserted island with nothing but your loved one and a gourmet food hamper. These days, more and more couples are choosing Antigua as the wedding destination of choice. Mr Reynolds believes most are tempted by the authentic, grassroots experience the twin island nation offers without compromising modern comforts. “More than anything else, we have so

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Finding the perfect location for a wedding reception can feel a little over-whelming. Singularity must be

balanced with practicality, while achieving the wow factor may be hindered by the budget. Perhaps even more importantly, the backdrop for the all-important photographs needs to stand the test of time. Who wants to look back on their snaps in 30 years and marvel at their decision to stage the most important day of their life at a football stadium - forced to utter the immortal words to the grandchildren ‘it was fashionable at the time’? While those who choose Antigua for their nuptials may be wooed by the notion of tying the knot on the beach, remaining there for the after-bash may be placing too much reliance on our kindly climes. A little blustery weather and your carefully coiffed tresses could end up looking like a windswept wreck. For such a momentous occasion, a reception venue needs to be exceptional. Admiral’s Inn, within the exquisite surrounds of historic Nelson’s Dockyard, offers an exclusive refined setting, coupled with first-rate food and oodles of charm and ambience. US-based Astrid Deeth, one of its

A venue with a difference

directors, is well placed to comment having staged her own wedding on the island two decades earlier. “Admiral’s is ideal for people who want something a little different,” she says. “If you’re looking for a palm-fringed beach then that’s not us. We offer a totally unique site, with tons of atmosphere in a beautiful, peaceful, historic setting. “It really doesn’t get much more romantic. We have stunning gardens, privacy and seclusion, and 18th century buildings so it has the feel of Europe but we’re in the Caribbean.” The food served is as diverse as the clientele’s requests, whether it’s the inn’s acclaimed seafood dishes like fresh lobster and tuna tartare, inspired vegetarian creations, or traditional British roast beef. Dining is al fresco, either on the picturesque terrace, partially covered by awning, or on the lawn under the stars. “We have a large private outdoor area in a brick-walled enclave which feels secluded without compromising our wonderful waterfront views,” Astrid continues. Some couples are so struck by the inn’s natural beauty and old world allure, they

opt to have the ceremony there too. Grand stone pillars, dating back to 1797, provide an elegant water’s edge landscape. Admiral’s can cater for up to 150 sit-down guests, while 42 can be comfortably accommodated in the hotel and its adjacent luxurious 18th century villa, the Gunpowder House. A final element, which could prove the icing on the cake for a bride planning her dream day, is the use of the property’s 40ft Thai wooden longtail boat. Resembling a Viennese gondola, the vessel is a magnificent accompaniment to photo shoots, or even to transport the bride to the ceremony. In an industry facing increasing competition, positive testimonials from customers are paramount - something fellow Admiral’s director Paul Deeth knows only too well. “We always get excellent feedback from our guests,” he says. “Several have returned to renew their vows.” One reason for Antigua’s burgeoning status as a destination wedding hotspot is the wide range of activities it has to offer guests, Astrid adds. “People don’t just have to be content to sit on the beach here. We have everything from steel band shows to sailing races, a shooting range to catamaran trips. “In addition to the fact that it’s so easy to get married in Antigua, we have a beautiful setting, lots of charm and very friendly people. The whole experience extends far beyond the wedding day.” Visit www.admiralsantigua.com for more information. 3

Looking for a unique wedding reception? At Admiral’s Inn, timeless elegance meets first-class fare. Nelson may no longer be in attendance but the old world allure remains delightfully intact.


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Enjoy fresh, locally sourced food and drinks on our scenic al fresco terraceoverlooking the historic harbour

TheAdmiral’s Inn – Nelson’s Dockyard A charming, historic boutique hotel and restaurant

+1 [268] 460 1027 www.admiralsinnantigua.com

Lounge by the pool while sampling delectable tapas, sipping chilled rose and watching the Superyachts moored in historic Nelson’s Dockyard.

Rent individual suites or the entire villa with private chef and boat slip.

Gunpowder House & Suites – English HarbourA beautifully restored 18th century villa with infinity pool

+1 [268] 460 1027 www.gunpowderhouse.com

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THE LUXE LIST. December 2013–June 2014

The Luxe ListFrom must-haves to just-wants, we searched the island to find you the coolest, sexiest and most stylish items worthy of The Luxe List.

2 BOOTYLICIOUS BIKINIUS$124These cheeky Posh Pua bikinis are designed to be comfortable and ready for anything, just like the women who wear them. Posh Pua is known for its flattering, curve-hugging swimwear, perfect for all body types. With soft Italian Lycra and no extra hardware – whether kitesurfing, snorkelling or just relaxing on one of our 300-plus beaches – you can be dressed to kill.

Available now at Makai, Heritage Quay, St John’s.Tel: (+268) 562-8392.

2 TASTEFUL TIPPLEEC$600Looking for a unique gift? Individually numbered for authenticity and presented in its own display case, tipples don’t get much smoother than English Harbour’s award-winning 1981 vintage rum. Two and a half decades resting in whiskey and bourbon barrels have helped create its wonderfully smoky aroma, balanced with cinnamon and soft nutmeg tones. The flavours are warm and refined – reminiscent of caramelised dark fruit and roasted cashew – complemented by a deliciously voluptuous body. Just 600 bottles are released for sale each year.

Available now at Premier Beverages, Friars Hill Road, St John’s. Tel: (+268) 480-3200.www.antiguadistillery.com

2 EFFORTLESS TRAVELPrice on requestTake the trouble out of travel with these super stylish Wenger Neo Lite luggage pieces. Extremely lightweight and with four multi-directional wheels, you can amble effortlessly through airports and saunter smoothly into hotels. With self-mending nylon zippers, detachable wet packs and ergonomic carry handles, they’re a traveller’s best friend. Now, where is that passport?

Available now from Diamonds International, Heritage Quay, St John’s. Tel: (+268) 481-1880.www.wenger.ch

2 MEAN MACHINEPrice on requestBuckle up and prepare for the ride of your life with the all-new Yamaha Viking. Equipped with a powerful 686cc fuel-injected engine, this three-seater highway hero is ready to conquer whatever comes its way. From padded headrests to electric power steering, low emissions but strong acceleration, it’s a champion for off-road enthusiasts without offending eco-warriors. Still listening ladies? Its specially designed doors help keep the mud, water and dirt on the trail where they belong. Knocks the stuffing out of your average ATV.

Available now at Outdoor World in Old Parham Road, St John’s. Tel: (+268) 460-7211.www.outdoorworldantigua.com

2 PRETTY PREHISTORICUS$110 pendant, US$50 chain, US$85 earringsIt’s not often you can claim your jewellery pre-dates recorded history. These wonderfully unique pieces incorporate genuine nautilus – one of the only shells to survive the dinosaur era. Over time, the shells unfold and grow as its occupant outgrows each chamber. Set in 925 sterling silver, the designs symbolise inner beauty, nature, life and internal harmony. Thankfully, you don’t have to be an archaeologist to get your hands on them. They’re sold right here on island.Available at Silver Chelles in Redcliffe Quay, St John’s. Tel: (+268) 789-2662.www.facebook.com/silverchelles

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2 FLIRTY FASHIONISTAPrice on requestLadies, put the ‘F’ into fabulous with the fun and versatile handbags and heels from Mademoiselle’s Jessica Simpson collection. These ultra-chic shoes and tote in dusky pink hues are perfect for a dressy daytime look or some evening glamour. And the best news? They’re just a fraction of the all-American icon’s eponymously-named line of extra special pieces at everyday prices.

Jessica Simpson selected items available from Mademoiselle, Village Walk Plaza, Friars Hill Road.www.mademoiselle268.com

2 PERFECT PRECISIONPrice on requestFrom the resplendent pink gold and diamonds, to the sapphire nestling to one side, this ladies Ballon Bleu piece by watchmaking pioneers Cartier epitomises sheer elegance. Throw in some cutting-edge technology and you can see why this sexy little number is most definitely on our Christmas wish-list.

Available now from Diamonds International, Heritage Quay, St John’s.Tel: (+268) 481-1880.www.cartier.com

2 SUPREME SPARKLERPrice on requestFrom Marilyn Monroe to Rihanna, women’s love affair with diamonds transcends decades. One glance at these gorgeous Crown of Light earrings and necklace and it’s easy to see why. Sophisticated ladies demand superior gems, expertly mounted to create show-stopping pieces of timeless style. The Brilliant Collection was designed especially for them – and for you.

Available now from Diamonds International, Heritage Quay,St John’s. Tel: (+268) 481-1880.www.diamondsinternational.com

2 ROCKSTAR APPEALUS$66Quintessentially British brand Burberry pays homage to its homeland with this sensational new fragrance for men inspired by the UK’s dynamic music scene. Men can feel like a rock star with this aromatic nod to the exhilaration and adrenalin of live music. Blended with top notes of crisp green basil and a sexy, warm, woody dry down, we have it on good authority that Brit Rhythm smells just as good on the female of the species.

Available now at Lipstick, Heritage Quay, St John’s. Tel: (+268) 562-1133.

2 ESSENTIAL EYEWEARUS$180 his, US$198 hersOur islands are blessed with an abundance of sunshine. Without the right shades however, you may find yourself squinting in the bright light. The clever technology in these his and hers PolarizedPlus sunglasses from Maui Jim will eradicate the glare, protect your eyes from harmful UV and boost colour for a clearer, crisper view. Clumsy? They’re resistant to scratches and impact. Oh yes, and they look pretty cool too.

Available now at Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery in Heritage Quay, St John’s.Tel: (+268) 462-3107.

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Stingray City

Come and enjoy the unique experience of touching and feeding a southern stingray, together with snorkelling amongst magnificent coral reefs and colourful tropical fish. Our rays are without

doubt the brightest in the Caribbean – wild but very friendly and gentle.

Visit www.stingraycityantigua.com for more information

Enjoy a Unique Experience

Whether you choose to stand or swim you’ll have the unique opportunity to touch, feed and play with stingrays during your encounter, while learning all about these amazing and captivating creatures. Enjoy a snorkel afterwards, before finishing up your visit with a complimentary rum or fruit punch.

TESTIMONIALS: ‘ An amazing family experience!’... ‘Stingrays are wild but extremely gentle’.... ‘One for the bucket list – this was the highlight of our trip’

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Many dream of living out their golden years in a foreign land of warm climes, barefoot living

and insouciant ambience. Some even take the plunge and disembark the treadmill of daily urban life in favour of a tranquil Shangri-la in an exotic location. For Marc and Stacey Garvey, it was a sudden and auspicious change of holiday plans that would spawn a lifelong love affair with the Caribbean – and ultimately the purchase of a retirement home. The couple’s two daughters were aged six and three when the family decided to spend their first vacation together at Disney World in Orlando. “We were just about to book five very expensive days there when, at the last minute, we changed our minds and booked eight nights in Jamaica instead. The kids

loved it,” Marc recalls with a smile. That was 25 years ago. Since then there is barely a corner of the archipelago the Garveys, from Lake George, New York, have not traversed. “We have been all over the Caribbean on holiday, we have probably visited around 90 per cent of the islands.” The couple’s first serendipitous brush with Antigua was 15 years ago when they stayed at the beautiful St James’s Club resort on the south-east coast. It was love at first sight. “We decided we wanted to build a retirement home in Antigua. We didn’t want to be in the US in our later years – it’s far too crowded – and we loved the beaches and the island’s flavour. “We chose Antigua specifically because there are barely any high rises, the people are extremely friendly and there’s very little

A winter home for the autumn years

SUGAR RIDGE FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Why Sugar Ridge is a cut above the rest

crime. It’s also much cheaper than places like the Cayman Islands – it just seemed like a better buy and much more tourist-friendly,” Marc, 56, continues. Of course, it’s one thing to decide on a location and quite another to turn one’s dream into a reality. The couple spent three days visiting a plethora of potential sites around the island, assisted by the Luxury Locations team, but somehow none quite hit the mark.

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The cost of building a home was also beginning to look more costly than they had initially envisaged. The Garveys had almost given up and were in the throes of shelving their plans when they visited the Sugar Ridge Resort development. Seeing luxurious Villa Saccharum for the first time, they knew they had found their home. The newly built three-bedroom property – perched high on the hillside with its stunning ocean views – was a real estate bull’s eye. And as if the villa’s magnificent fully-furnished interior, private infinity pool and panoramic vistas were not reason enough to sign on the dotted line, the Garveys were thrilled by the idea of having uninhibited access to the resort’s first-rate facilities too. “Stacey and I like to work out so the gym is very important to us,” Marc says. “We also like the Jolly Harbour community, the fact we can play golf nearby, and we like the beaches in the area, especially Turner’s and Darkwood.” The couple’s new home – which they plan to rent out for the next few years and use as a winter residence – had the added bonus of feeling secluded but safe. “As visitors we know how important it is to feel safe. We feel very, very secure there – which is an obvious plus for rentals – but the walls behind it make it feel super-private too.” While Marc admits buying property as a foreigner can be an arduous process – island time is a little different to a New York minute – help from the Luxury Locations team has ensured it’s been largely headache-free. The fact that all Sugar Ridge properties come with a three-year warranty

“We chose Antigua specifically because there are barely any high rises, people are extremely friendly and there’s very little crime.”

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SUGAR RIDGEFEATURE. continued

on workmanship has also eased concerns that many have when plunging their life savings into a foreign country. Life flitting between Antigua and New York state, where the Garveys own a string of automobile dealerships, couldn’t be more diverse. “An average day in New York is spent visiting all my stores and travelling a couple of times a month for work,” Marc says. “In Antigua, we tend to get up really early, use the gym, and then decide how we’re going to spend our day. We might go for a dive, play golf, go sailing, hang out at the beach or just explore the island. I love the fact we can drive everywhere without any fuss.” When asked what the couple’s friends and family think about their new purchase, Marc laughs. “They think I’m nuts. A lot of people I know, when they go to retire they want somewhere in Florida or North Carolina but we are just not interested in that. “We can fly to Antigua easily from Newark, the flights are very cheap and the weather is superb. Our daughters are also very excited about the house and are looking forward to having somewhere to visit.” Any advice to other prospective buyers? “I would say, go and visit other islands and see what you get for your money. This seemed like a good investment at a good price. We felt, in the long-run, Antigua would be a much better buy. At dollar for dollar value, we are convinced Antigua is the best.” 3

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From dishwasher to chef extraordinaire –Why Delano’s cream of the crop

There’s not much Delano Thomas doesn’t know about the catering industry having successfully

worked his way up from a humble dishwasher to head chef of one of the island’s most successful eateries. These days the talented Antiguan-born cuisinier is a jewel in the crown of thriving Italian restaurant Al Porto which has fast made a name as the go-to place for top-notch fare in a fun, relaxed ambience.

The 39-year-old father-of-four can be found behind the scenes night after night, whipping up authentic Italian favourites such as beef lasagna, pollo parmigiana and fettucini carbonara, guaranteed to keep the Jolly Harbour hotspot bustling. Delano’s first foray with the restaurant business dates back almost three decades when he was employed to wash dishes at Big Banana in Heritage Quay. He quickly rose to the ranks of chef and spent several years preparing the establishment’s much-loved pizzas, sandwiches and salads. But after six years, the ambitious young man from Point had bigger dreams than those offered by a casual dining joint. His next move was to high-end restaurant Coconut Grove in Dickenson Bay where he spent a year creating sumptuous steak and seafood dishes. Delano has also enjoyed stints at a handful of other venues around the island, and even spent a couple of years running

his own agriculture business. “One day I got a call from my brother, then a pizza chef at Al Porto, telling me there was a job going,” he recalls. Unfortunately the position turned out to be a vacancy for a general helper. “I wasn’t sure about taking it but came along anyway to find out more. My very first job was to clean the bathroom. It felt like such a comedown after all those years cooking,” Delano admits. “It was rough to start with but I was strong enough to withstand it.” And thankfully he did because within just two weeks he had already been promoted from washing up and cleaning to preparing Al Porto’s acclaimed salads.It was no time before Delano’s expertise bowled over his new employers. “Because I had had so much training over the years, I kept seeing things in the kitchen that I wanted to correct, things that could be done better. “Within a month and a half I became a chef. I was made head chef within three months of starting.” For Delano, cooking is something which came naturally to him. Both his mother and older brother have made a career out of it and his eldest daughter, 19, is also set to follow in the family’s footsteps, currently undergoing her formal training. “As a child I used to watch my mom cooking. When the food was finished, everyone would be round the table. I think that’s the bit I enjoy most, the whole coming together; we never come together without food,” Delano laughs. “My favourite dish that she used to make was fungee (a thick paste of cornmeal and okra) with stewed beef liver cooked with onion, garlic and peppers in a light tomato sauce. “Antiguan food can take a little getting used to,” he continues. “Some people think there’s too much flour and dough

CHEF SPOTLIGHT. December 2013–June 2014

but there’s actually a really wide variety of food, all beautifully prepared with a lot of herbs and seasoning.” The twin-island nation’s rich soil and tropical climate spawns some of the finest fresh produce. “I use a lot of local basil in my cooking, we also grow some of the best sunripe tomatoes here, plus all the fish we use at Al Porto is fresh and caught right here on island.” When Delano’s not cooking Italian fare his favourite dish to make is rack of lamb in rosemary sauce with O’Brien potatoes, pan-fried with green and red bell peppers. While a head chef position in a busy establishment can be a demanding job, Delano says he wouldn’t be anywhere else.“You have to be disciplined to stay in this field; the hours are long and the schedules hectic. You have to know how to talk to customers - and never let your ego get the better of you,” he grins. “But for me it’s easy; it’s a passion, it’s something I love.”

Try this at home Al Porto’s tagliatelle alla marinara(Serves two. Preparation time 10 mins)

INGREDIENTS: 8 mussels, 8 clams, 1 ounce calamari, 2 ounces fresh fish, 1 tsp red onion, finely chopped half a garlic clove, finely chopped pinch of basil, quarter cup tomato juice, tagliatelle pasta, 3 tbsps olive oil, salt and pepper to taste

METHOD: Heat pan, add olive oil, onions, basil and garlic. Sauté for two mins. Add mussels, clams and calamari. Add fresh fish last. Simmer for five mins Add juice and pasta, combine and enjoy. 3

Photo: Constantin Nikolic

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SUPERYACHT FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

M/Y ‘A’ – loathed leviathan or marine masterpiece?

You know someone’s been the victim of dubious press when a request for information on their

US$300m superyacht comes back with a statement – tinged with a mild threat – that the details attached are, in fact, correct. As in, not doctored, sexed-up or fudged. The reason behind the emphasis is perhaps understandable. Few vessels have ever experienced quite the level of love and loathing in equal measure as Motor Yacht ‘A’. And for its unfortunate owners and

Inside a Russian billionaire’s US$300 million yacht

PR team, the ensuing publicity has been accompanied by a plethora of outlandish claims. (Just to be clear – while ‘A’ might be a stroke of engineering genius – she cannot travel underwater.) But for each one who views her hulking 5,500-ton frame as a work of art and her effortless glide through the open seas a magnum opus, there is another who regards her behemoth bulk as the height of vulgarity, the ostentatious epitome of the flashy lifestyle flaunted by the nouveau riche.

Needless to say, her ‘boat daddy’ is filthy rich. With a personal wealth of more than US$14 billion, Andrey Melnichenko makes the Queen of England’s coffers look rather trifling by comparison. A regular visitor to Antigua, ‘A’ can be seen at intermittent intervals languishing in the country’s harbours, dwarfing its amphibious neighbours. It even steals the thunder from fellow regular visitor the Maltese Falcon, once the largest yacht on the planet. At almost

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Photo by Guillaume Plisson

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120 metres long, the Bermuda-flag bearing leviathan has its own discotheque with a glass roof situated directly under one of three swimming pools. In addition to a generous 2,500 square foot owners’ suite, Melnichenko has thoughtfully provided a further six suites – purely for guests. In the event you are lucky enough to be one of them, you will find around 40 crew to pander to your every whim. And if you’d like to bring your helicopter with you, you can conveniently land it on the helipad on the front main deck.

Heavy luggage? Panic not, there is a total of three elevators aboard the ship – one for owners and guests, two for service and crew. At full pelt ‘A’ can traverse the waves at 23 knots (that’s around 27mph to non-yachties). In eight days she can cover 4,250 nautical miles (8,000 km). Just five years old, ‘A’ is relatively young in the marine world – in people years she’d

be somewhere around the ‘sulky teen’ stage. Hamburg’s Blohm & Voss Shipyard gave birth to the hulking specimen in 2008. She is the conception of acclaimed French architect Philippe Starck who was given what must surely be any architect’s dream commission – to design a large new motor yacht for the Melnichenko family, without any restrictions. Starck claims it took him just three and a half hours to sketch the concept. With scant regard for mainstream yacht design, which he views as repetitive and derivative, his aim was to create a dramatic monolithic shape that appears almost like a submarine

“At full pelt ‘A’ can tranverse the waves at23 knots.”

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with its reverse bow and streamline sculpture. Initial concerns that the shape of the hull would make the yacht behave like a submarine – as well as looking like one – did not materialise. The extended bulbous bow provides sufficient bouyancy right forward to eradicate any inclination to nosedive. Some also suggested that the reversed stem would throw the waves upward drenching the vessel. To test this, a model hull was built in the Isle of Wight and tried out at the ship tank there. The hull was revealed to in fact be remarkably efficient. The team was also astonished to see how

little wash was produced, even at high speeds, a feat which still draws breath among the industry today. The ambitious vessel took almost four years to construct. Russian oligarch Melnichenko named the vessel ‘A’, the first initial of both his Christian name and that of his Serbian model wife Aleksandra. If reports are to be believed, the stealth yacht’s virgin journey was to take delivery of three Claude Monet paintings from Norway. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the 24,000 square foot interior is opulent to say the least. Starck, known for his occasionally risqué designs, added a secret room hidden

behind mirrored panels. Allegedly dubbed the ‘nookie room’ by crew, it conceals a white circular bed with padded walls and a ceiling-mounted TV set. Mirrored surfaces are a pervasive theme throughout, along with Baccarat crystal which has been used not only for glassware and tableware but for furniture too. At the top of a spiral staircase lined with scalloped, silver-leaf walls, a door accessible by a fingerprint security system opens into the master suite. All-white and encased in bomb-proof, 44-mm glass, it has a king-sized bed atop a huge platter that rotates at the press of a button to allow infinite angles from which to watch the

Photo by Guillaume Plisson

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sun rise or set. Various pieces of furniture appear to be free-standing but are in fact fixed. These include a stainless steel bathtub with a marble floor. The guest suites have moving walls which means they can easily be converted into four larger staterooms. While generously-sized, they open into a long, dark corridor on the same deck as the galley which some have commented looks rather small to cater for dozens of guests. Far from being crammed into miniscule spaces while the A-listers upstairs live it up however, the crew enjoy a pretty big canteen restaurant and their own large lounge area to relax. Inside the boat’s main saloon is a humungous sofa, large enough for 10 people, and a long, narrow dining table. Huge angular pieces of furniture open up in innovative ways to reveal a bar or servery. As with many Russian-owned yachts, security is super-tight. The vessel’s rounded exterior and knife-like hull are enough to keep would-be intruders at bay. ‘A’ also has 44 security cameras and several

more exterior cameras fitted with motion-detection systems and a night-vision infrared system.

Starck’s vision was for ‘A’ to be in harmony with the sea and with nature. During its conception, he frequently tried to ‘clean’ the design by hiding details with the result that the yacht has numerous flush openings. Hidden items include the anchoring and mooring equipment, along with tenders, life rafts, cranes and stairways. The three pools include a splash pool on the top deck, or ‘smiley’ deck, a large curved one on the main deck aft, and a third big rectangular one. Happily the latter

has a built-in counter-current, perfect for keeping in shape while on board – if you’re going to strip down to your bathers you want to look the part, right? When ‘A’ will next make an appearance in Antiguan waters remains a tight-lipped secret. Indeed our attempts for a hint from the aforementioned PR team were rebuffed with impressive efficiency. Forty-one-year-old Melnichenko is a notoriously private individual, expectedly so given his penchant for top-notch security and the fact he regularly makes the Forbes World’s Billionaires List. Since the first photos of his extraordinary floating toy were released, they have sparked a wealth of copycat designs. Whatever one’s individual view on what has been dubbed everything from ‘stunning’ to ‘ghastly’, there’s no denying ‘A’ will continue to be a prime talking point among the yachting community for quite some years to come. 3

“The three pools include a splash pool on the top deck, or ‘smiley’ deck, a large curved one on the main deck aft, and a third big rectangular one.”

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Photos by Anja Wippich

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The name Grady-White to a boater is synonymous with three things: safety, exceptional quality and

unsurpassed engineering. Oh and if you walk into a boat shop and ask for one, it means you really, really know what you’re talking about. That’s according to Outdoor World manager Glynn Grummett whose job is to, well, among other things, sell them. Sadly, compared to Glynn and his utterly charming born-clutching-a-rudder colleagues, I am something of a maritime Philistine. So my first question when invited for a test-ride aboard this Bentley of the boating world was not about its hand-laid fibreglass structure, its proven stringer grid system or its super-strong transom, but will I need sunscreen? The vessels du jour, yes it actually turned out to be two, was a choice between a sleek 2010 Grady-White Canyon 306, and the latest 2014 Grady White Canyon 336, both with twin Yamaha F350 four stroke outboards. What a choice, which one shall I go in? I know, let’s try both. Put simply, they

were both visions to behold, glistening on the calm island waters, their classic Grady shape and colour – no it’s not white, it’s almond with chrome accents. Both boats are loved for their versatility, with the 306 making an ideal boat for offshore fishing but take the rods off and she’s family ready, full of creature comforts like her spacious console, comfortable seats and bow cushions. Her bigger sister, the Canyon 336, enjoys status as an ‘all-rounder’ too but she has the added bonus of additional space and a berth for sleeping. When I say bigger I don’t just mean longer; she is also wider, taller and bigger in every way possible, simply awesome. Of course these are just two examples of the dizzying array of Grady-Whites available, built by craftsmen using the finest materials, superbly designed and engineered by avid boaters to the highest specifications. They are aimed at a diverse range of consumers, purposes and bank balances. Grady Whites are built at lengths between 18ft and 37ft. You have centre

A perfect day on the water

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Grady-White: Built by craftsmen using the finest materials, superbly engineered for built-in value, security and safety. Grady-White is still an affordable ‘Bentley of the boating world’ five decades on...

By Kimberley Hall

consoles, dual consoles, walk-around cabins and express (these are the big cabin boats). Only Yamaha engines are used with choices to fit your needs and budget. Basically you can ‘build’ your Grady, any way you want. Brand new, the recommended retail price for the Canyon 306 as shown would set you back US$195,000, while the Canyon 336 is somewhere around the US$272,000 figure. However, as the Eastern Caribbean’s distributor of Grady-White boats, Outdoor World Ltd can offer some very exciting discounts to help put you in the seat of your own Grady-White. Also, as the authorised dealer for Yamaha engines and products, Outdoor World offers full servicing and parts for both boat and engine. They even offer ‘care packages’ so your boat stays tip-top.Experiencing a Grady full throttle, I am told, is about the quality of the ride. Indeed they’ve earned a reputation as being unsinkable and garnered more awards than you can shake a stick at. There is no ride like a Grady-White’s, often imitated but never equalled. The exclusive hull design offers the industry’s best combination of dryness, sea-keeping, performance and speed. Now while I may not be an expert, even I can see the 306 and 336 have some pretty snazzy electronics and standard features. Judging by the high-tech looking retractable electronics box it looks like she could probably drive herself and with the optional helm master by Yamaha then she almost can. Thankfully I don’t have to find out. Captain Jeffrey is on hand to take control and we’re off. On these two boats Grady offers the

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option of V8 engines. Whilst boating aficionados may laud the increased power and smooth run of a V8, to me it means not having to shout over the noise of the engine – particularly welcomed if your jaunt is purely social. Blessed with kindly climes, calm water, stunning scenery and a plethora of tiny uninhabited islets, Antigua & Barbuda has long been a draw for sailors, watersports enthusiasts and fishing fanatics alike. Somewhere around Bird Island – where a pod of brown pelicans thoughtfully provides us with an aerial acrobatics display – it’s easy to see why. You don’t have to leave the country to feel sublimely recharged and at renewed peace with the world. With speeds topping 50mph, riding in both the 306 and the 336 was exhilarating with scope to become positively white-knuckle, although, as we discover later, what’s even scarier is attempting to dock a vessel worth more than a modest two-bed home. A long-time boat enthusiast, Glynn’s passion for Grady-Whites is evident. “I love the way they’re built,” he says simply. “I have visited the factory, met the workers there and they are built by craftsmen who have a superb engineering background – all you need to do is watch them build the Grady and you can see that. “Grady-Whites have been around for over 50 years, they’re known for quality and performance, they only use the finest materials, and their employees take amazing pride in what they do.” He adds: “You always feel safe in a Grady-White. You know how they’re built and how they handle - you just feel at home.” Thank you Outdoor World for giving me this opportunity and thank you Grady-White for making such beautiful luxury boats. What more could anyone ask? A perfect day on the water. 3

Visit www.outdoorworldantigua.com or call the Old Parham Road store on (+268) 460-7211 for more information.

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LIFESTYLE. Snapshot

Celebrating the country’s mainstayWhere we went...Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association (AHTA) Annual Tourism Awards Gala, Admiral Lord Nelson’s Ballroom, Sandals Resort & Spa.

What we ate...Sandals’ sumptuous fare is world-renowned and they certainly didn’t disappoint with a feast fit for a king. If bellies were rumbling after one glance at the wall to wall spread of delectable comestibles, they certainly weren’t by the end of the night. From sushi to kebabs, fresh salads to table-carved meats, and individually tailored pasta dishes whipped up on the spot. Oh and did we mention an entire room given over to dessert? Imagine a cornucopia of sugary heaven with miniature profiteroles, pecan pies, cheesecake, handmade truffle chocolates, carrot cake and mousse as far as the eye can see – and then multiply by five.

What we drank...Stone Cellars by Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon and Luis Felipe Edwards Merlot were among the wines doing the rounds. A well-stocked bar of top shelf tipples also kept glasses brimming all night.

Who we saw...Tourism industry big hitters turned out to officially recognise the movers and shakers, the rising stars and the hidden gems of Antigua & Barbuda’s mainstay. They included Tourism Minister John Maginley, AHTA chairman and general manager Andrew Hedley and Neil Forrester, respectively, and Minister of Culture Eleston Namba Adams. Master of Ceremony Errol Fabian’s irreverent wit meant chortles were aplenty as a series of awards were handed out to the cream of the country’s hotel and tourism crop. 3

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And the winners were:

• Tourism Employee of the Year (non-hotels) – Sharon Horsford, Jeweler’s Warehouse• Tourism Personality of the Year – joint winners were Vorn Johnson of Sugar Ridge and Latoya Cabral, Sandals Grande Antigua• Hotel Employee of the Year – Julius Jarvis, Curtain Bluff• Hotel Supervisor of the Year – Stephen Georges, Sandals Grande Antigua• Young Chef of the Year – Junior Phillip Magloire, Jumby Bay • Chef of the Year – Mark Smith, Curtain Bluff • Young Hotelier of the Year – Andre Roberts, Jumby Bay• Excellence in Customer Service – Adventure Antigua• Partnership in Tourism – Dennis Thomas, Dennis’s Cocktail Bar & Restaurant• Sustainable Tourism – Sugar Ridge’s ‘green team’• Lifetime Achievement – Calvert Roberts, former general manager of Curtain Bluff

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Mango medleyWhere we went...The eighth annual Mango Festival, set against the verdant backdrop of magnificent Christian Valley. Each year, mango season transforms our island into a profusion of juicy finger-licking, chin-dribbling, jam-making mania. This wonderful grassroots event celebrates the myriad varieties of the sumptuous stuff and the countless delicious ways it can be enjoyed.

What we ate...Creative residents seized the chance to showcase their talents whipping up everything from jams and chutneys, to ice cream, fritters and cakes. Some culinary gems included ‘ital’-style mango in barbecue sauce, mango rock cakes and mango ducana (dumplings) served with local staples of saltfish, green papaya, okra and boiled plantain. Non-mango themed dishes included West Indian roti and curry, tofu burgers, fish fritters, and meat or cheese patties.

What we drank...The emphasis was firmly on the organic, the invigorating and the nutritious. Thick, creamy fruit smoothies infused with soy, almond or coconut milk went down a treat while ice-cold juices of local soursop, Antigua black pineapple and passionfruit were a welcome refreshment under the warm, sunny skies. Some inspired creations included Julie mango lassi and pallet-cleansing sorbets while anyone in need of a little extra kick got stuck into the scrumptiously sweet mango wines.

Who we saw...Chefs and bartenders from some of the country’s finest establishments vied for top nods for their comestible and cocktail creations. Chef Gregory Williams, of Sugar Ridge, emerged victorious in the culinary competition, while Angenick Looby, also of Sugar Ridge, took home the coveted pastry award. Hermitage Bay Resort’s Kason Tapper was declared the event’s winning bartender. Governor General Dame Louise Lake Tack and Agriculture Minister Hilson Baptiste were on hand to present the awards. In the crowd, we also spotted Antigua Labour Party stalwart and former ambassador to the US, Lionel ‘Max’ Hurst, prominent attorney Radford Hill, plus local film producer Bert Kirchner and wife Faye, owners of Papa Zouk restaurant. 3

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Are mosquitoes bugging you?

Scientific Mosquito Traps

Call Anthony Todd on (268) 764–7464 for a consultation

Don’t let them plunder your paradise

Mosquitoes have long been the bane of the tropics, and Antigua is far from immuneFrom the irritating itchy bites which can scar your skin, to the dangerous diseases they carry such as dengue fever, mosquitoes are enough to ruin social events, vacations, even the sanctuary within one’s own home. And with repellant sprays containing chemicals which are harmful to people and animals, the options for reducing mosquitoes have been limited and toxic... until now!

Scientific Mosquito Traps are the result of two decades of research by German scientists. By releasing a non-toxic scent which mimics human sweat signals, they lure the pesky bugs in, trapping them and preventing them from breeding. Completely safe for children and pets, they are environmentally-friendly, low wattage, quiet to run –

and proven to drastically reduce the number of mosquitoes in homes, restaurants, bars and hotels. Sold across the globe, Scientific Mosquito Traps is the only local distributor.

The Tower TrapIdeal for indoor and outdoor use, they can stand guard on your patio and near doorways.

The Pyramid TrapHung from a hook about 4 feet above the ground, these are perfect for terraces, gardens and restaurants.

The DealParts come with a year’s warranty. Price includes a two-month’s supply of attractant. Supplies stocked on island.

[email protected] Facebook.com/ScientificMosquitoTraps

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Bubbly at the BluffWhere we went...Piper Heidsieck champagne tasting evening, Curtain Bluff Resort & Spa

What we ate...A delicious assortment of handmade canapés included scrumptious mini quiches, dainty fish cakes and sushi.

What we drank...There’s nothing like a few bottles of the finest bubbly to start the evening off with a bang. And the award-winning ensemble from the Piper Heidsieck collection certainly hit the mark. Among the selection of classics was the wonderful Cuvée Brut, which is 55 per cent pinot noir, and the equally splendid Rosé Sauvage.Founded in 1785 in Reims, France, Piper Heidsieck is one of the oldest and most revered champagne brands in the world - not least by the legendary Marilyn Monroe who once said she went to bed wearing nothing but Chanel No.5, and awoke with a glass of Piper champagne.

Who we saw...Some of the most prestigious names in the country’s hospitality industry stopped by to welcome Ludovic Panciera, director of the Americas zone for Piper and Charles Heidsieck, on his inaugural visit to the island. We also enjoyed catching up with Curtain Bluff’s team, including its managing director Rob Sherman, along with Angelo Caputo, owner of Abracadabra, Pascale Sold Rangel, the Caribbean zone’s manager for Remy Cointreau, and Joely Anton-Hall, sales and portfolio manager for Best Cellars, Piper Heidsieck’s local distributor. 3

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CARLISLE BAYANTIGUA

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Please call 484-0000 ext. 4126 to make an appointmentPlease ask our Receptionists about Blue Spa gift vouchers

All prices are in US dollars and are subject to 10% service charge and 15% government tax

BLUE LUXEEnjoy our 50 minute West Indian Massage along with a pedicure.

Regular a la carte price is

US180


SIMPLY MASSAGE West Indian Massage 50 minutes.


US120

Your price is US$90

BLUE PARADISEA Honey Mango Scrub followed by a 30 min Back Massage will have you floating on air. In addition, have your hands and feet pampered with a manicure and pedicure. This 2 hour treatment is a wonderful tonic to refresh and rejuvenate.


US$215


BLUE FOR MENMen, we have not forgotten you! Our signature Men’s Nature Bisse Facial, with a pedicure is the ultimate treatment for you.


US$180



CARLISLE BAYANTIGUA

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A white hot affairWhere we went...White Fete – aka the Caribbean Snow Storm – at the Sandpiper Reef Resort, which had been transformed into a breathtaking scene of billowing backdrops with bars, bubbly and bonhomie in abundance.

What we ate...The hottest event in the country’s social calendar – now in its 12th year - featured endless smorgasbords of edible delights. From Trinidian-style roti to burgers, sushi and handmade desserts, there was little danger of leaving hungry.

What we drank...Vodka jellies were handed to guests upon arrival, followed by complimentary champagne and Red Bull cocktails. Once inside, there was a profusion of boozy beverages to suit an array of palates, including Prosecco, Remy Martin, Patron, Absolut Vodka, Cointreau, Malibu – and a humongous bar dedicated to quintessential Antiguan tipple, English Harbour rum.

Who we saw...In addition to having an eye for art, our skillful snapper Alex Andre Rhodes has an uncanny knack for spotting the celebs in a packed crowd. Among them were soca star Claudette Peters, Carnival Development Committee chairman Kayode O’Marde, ABS Television’s Tasheka Lavann, Tourism Minister John Maginley, former Prime Minister Lester Bird’s daughter and erstwhile Caribarena editor Donyelle Bird-Browne, and artist Stephen Murphy. Performers included Tanzania ‘Tizzy’ Sebastian and El-A-Kru, and the New Alpha dancers. 3

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Much ado about Carnival Where we went...Antigua Carnival 2013 – held under the aptly named theme Sweet Misbehavin’. This 10-day extravaganza of music and dance is held annually starting the last week in July. Our omnipresent photographer Alex Andre Rhodes was on hand to capture the crazy, the captivating and the colourful.

What it’s about...The decades-old event evolved from celebrations to mark emancipation in 1834. Today it comprises an intoxicating mix of live music, talent and cultural shows, food fairs, beauty pageants and parades with costumes to rival Rio. Much of the action takes place in the streets of St John’s with paid-for shows staged at the Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG). Carnival culminates in a vibrant street party called J’ouvert (meaning ‘day break’) on the first Monday in August. The annual celebrations offer the best insight into local culture and tourists are warmly welcomed to join in. Don’t forget your comfy shoes – dancing is a must!

Who we saw...The yearly highlight of the social calendar sees politicians partying alongside peanut sellers, mariners among musicians. It also attracts its fair share of celebs too who flock from far and wide to be a part of the festivities. Malcolm Jamal-Warner – of Cosby Show fame – was among them.

What we loved...The weeks leading up to Carnival are characterised by a string of themed fetes – and an unequivocal sense of excitement. Favourite shows included those to crown the Carnival Queen, the best soca (soul-calypso) performer and the liveliest and most dexterous steel band. On top of all that, there’s the spontaneous revelry, astonishing costumes and unforgettable bonhomie. 3

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PEARNS POINT FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Pearns Point – the pride, the passion and the visionAs aftershocks from the global

financial crisis ricocheted throughout the region, Antigua was

far from immune. So when news first broke of a more than US$250 million investment into a major real estate development, for some, it seemed too good to be true. Fast forward 12 months and the highly anticipated Pearns Point project is now rapidly gathering momentum – piquing the interest of some of the world’s most affluent buyers. Proof indeed that investor confidence here is well and truly on the up. In addition to boosting the tiny nation’s fiscal fortunes, the bevy of blue-chip developers are looking forward to creating several hundred jobs for its people too. Land-owners Albert Hartog, Ben de Jonge and Rene Boon are credited with constructing some of the most esteemed developments worldwide. Still, for principle investor Mr Hartog, the verdant west coast peninsula with its outstanding panoramic purviews was in a league all of its own.

“There’s nowhere else quite like it,” he says. “It has seven beautiful beaches and, because it’s a peninsula, it offers the opportunity for high security. “The housing we are creating is for the very, very high end of the market. And high end people expect a high end place.” The 141-acre site will be divided into supersize lots, offering the ultimate in peace and tranquillity, all blended into the natural environment. “The aim is for it to be a year-round community, rather than a holiday resort where people visit a couple of times a year,” Mr Hartog continues. “It will be good for families and people who want rest and relaxation without compromising accessibility. We will offer top quality living with all the amenities close by, such as the harbour, golf club, shops and restaurants. St John’s and the airport are easily reached too.” Originally from Holland, Mr Hartog has spent many years living in Cape Town, South Africa, also renowned for its comely coastline. “Antigua has more to offer than just

beaches – it’s very tranquil, cosmopolitan, it has an easy lifestyle, a great mix of people and huge potential. “I have always liked the ambience, the people are happy and the climate, of course, is fantastic.” In a country where people have seen numerous projects fail to come to fruition, some may be forgiven for wondering if a scheme of such stature should be taken with a pinch of salt.

ABOVE: The Prime Minister, Governor General and Tourism Minister were among those who turned out for the ground breaking ceremony.

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“There have been many tiny developments which needed a tiny amount of money and never happened. This is a big development and the money is in place already,” Mr Hartog says firmly. “All of the developers have proven track records.” Construction is estimated to take between five and 10 years – quality will take priority over rapidity – to create 60 luxury condos and a 60 to 80-unit five-star boutique hotel. There will also be 74 lots of land for sale. “A good developer will always make sure his surroundings are catered for and the people employed,” Mr Hartog adds. “We are putting a lot of money into the badly eroded beach, we’ve done all our environmental checks to make sure it’s a green place, and we are committed to using as much local labour and materials as possible.” For Mr de Jonge, one of the biggest challenges to date has been gaining the confidence of the naysayers. “Nothing of this size has been

developed in Antigua in the last five years,” he says. “So it hasn’t been easy trying to get people to understand where we are coming from, to support our belief that we can create something of this size and status, and that we have a vision and a philosophy behind it.” But that’s now changing with talks already underway with various five-star boutique hotel operators regarding a possible branding. Emphasis is on creating unparalleled luxury, style and modernity. Seasoned developer Mr de Jonge has undertaken abundant projects across the globe, the most comparable being a five star 140-unit golf resort in Spain. “But this is still, by far, the best location I have seen when it comes to development. We have a great affinity with the island and are dedicated to using native materials and 95 per cent local labour,” he adds. “If there’s one thing I would like people to know it’s that we have enormous pride in what we are doing.” 3

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Dutch DistinctionHow Piet became Pearns Point’s boon

If there’s one thing guaranteed to stimulate a designer’s creative spirit, it’s being given the rare treat of an entirely

blank canvas upon which to start. With arguably the finest location in the country, developers behind the eagerly-anticipated Pearns Point project knew they wanted their hillside hotel, condo and villa scheme to be as unique and utterly show-stopping as its organic surrounds. Enter Piet Boon. Today the 56-year-old Dutch designer is one of the biggest names in the industry, known for his incredible craftsmanship and minimalist contemporary elegance. Over the last 30 years he’s infused his multi-faceted flair - under the mantra ‘simple sophistication’ - into everything from Caribbean beach villas to a limited edition Land Rover Defender. And with a background in construction, there are few better placed than Mr Boon to create a total concept from the architectural blueprint, all the way through to the landscaping, fittings and furnishings. When he first saw photographs of the pristine Antiguan peninsula set for development, Mr Boon admits he was entranced. “I wanted to come to Antigua the very next day,” he laughs. In fact it was spring 2013 when he

made his inaugural visit to the island. “I loved it straight away. The vegetation was very nice and I have never seen such beautiful beaches in my life. “Pearns Point has an impressive waterside location and because there is nothing built there yet, it inspires me to do something really beautiful. It’s like creating a little town from scratch and fitting it into that landscape.” It’s now more than three decades since Mr Boon was first wooed by the laidback charms of the convivial Caribbean. His second home is in Bonaire where he created some of the Dutch island’s finest beach homes. In addition to Pearns Point’s magnificent scenery, there was something else which appealed to the designer on a more personal level. “The land owners [principle investor Albert Hartog, Ben de Jonge and Rene Boon] are special guys who really want to do something for the island. For them it’s not about making a lot of money, they just want to leave something wonderful there.” And that vision encompasses ploughing more than US$250 million into transforming the 141-acre site with the creation of 60 luxury condos, a 60 to 80-unit five-star boutique hotel and 74 lots of

land for sale. Gone are the days when luxury took priority over environmental sensitivities and sustainability was a sparsely-used six-syllable word. Modern, discerning buyers demand durability, longevity and low maintenance materials and designs, while keeping the ecological impact to a minimum too. “We will use all natural materials. I plan to use rocks from the island in the walls and I am looking at what kind of native wood we can use for the roofs too,” Mr Boon continues. “Whether the customer wants a Caribbean style home, colonial, classic or modern, the exterior will be a little bit the same. “There are regulations on the way the structures will look so it all blends together, but the customer will feel he’s building his own house. Whether he wants one

PEARNS POINT FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Piet Boon is today one of the biggest names in the design industry. Images show previous examples of his work, in his signature elegant, minimalist style.

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bedroom or 10, we can work with that.” Effective use of natural elements is paramount, such as making the most of the island’s pervasive trade winds to keep indoor temperatures cool. “I want to make it very sustainable. Most of the properties will be holiday houses so it’s very important to design them so they’re low maintenance. No one wants to have a lot of maintenance work to do every time they come back. “In this part of the world you always see handymen repainting and repairing. In Bonaire we learned what works in the sun and the salty air.” These days Netherlands-born Mr Boon, who also has his own furniture line, works closely alongside his talented team of architects, stylists and designers. But there’s one who occupies an extra special place in the company - his business partner and creative director, Karin Meyn. Since joining the organisation 27 years ago, she has been instrumental in defining its design philosophy and style. The 52-year-old will be responsible for creating alluring interiors for the Pearns Point properties, in the company’s signature neutral-coloured, understated mode. Since ground was first broken in April 2013, interest has flooded in from the international community. Project manager Ruud Reinen, who has overseen some of the largest developments in the region,

believes most people are attracted by the unique setting. “Waterfront properties are quite rare these days and becoming more valuable. These will be truly spectacular, very high end and all blended into the natural background with a fantastic beach in front. “It will be totally different to anything else in Antigua.” Meanwhile work is progressing steadily with the rough infrastructure now completed and the roadways cut. Construction on the condos and villas is due to start within weeks before work eventually begins on the hotel. With a host of enticing optional features such as private gyms, al fresco showers and outdoor wood fireplaces for the colder months - not to mention the jaw-droppingly beautiful vistas - it’s easy to see why Pearns Point is already promising to be one of the most sought-after spots in the Caribbean. And the twin island nation’s reputation as a peaceful getaway for the rich and famous shows little sign of abating either. “Antigua has a lot of high profile visitors but you rarely see them,” Mr Boon says. “It’s very important that we keep that. Pearns Point will offer them all the privacy they need. “We have had significant interest already,” he adds with a smile, “but I can’t tell you who!” 3

Visit www.pearns-point-antigua.com or call Luxury Locations on (+268) 562-8174 for more information.

PEARNS POINT FEATURE. continued

Land owners (from left), principle investor Albert Hartog, Ben de Jonge and Rene Boon at the ground-breaking ceremony in April 2013.

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It’s been called everything from exhilarating to exhausting, dangerous to death-defying. And, as most extreme

sports fans will testify, those are pretty much the essential ingredients needed to lure any self-respecting adrenaline junkie away from his wingsuit. Kitesurfing is currently the fastest-growing watersport on the planet. Little surprise then that it’s sweeping Antigua quicker than a category five hurricane. For anyone still unfamiliar with it, it combines windsurfing, paragliding and gymnastics into one heady phenomenon. Feeling dizzy yet? Throw in the fact that experts can reach speeds topping 50 mph and fly 50 feet above the water – while handling a whopping 1,000 pounds in windforce – and you can see the reason for the hyperbole. Superlatives aside however, kitesurfing is said to be surprisingly easy to learn. Most ‘virgin kiters’ are delighted to find

themselves standing up on a board and riding the waves within a couple of lessons. Kitesurfing was actually born in the late 1990s but has only garnered widespread momentum in the last few years. One thing it guarantees is the ‘grin factor’. An added advantage is that, unlike the cumbersome gear required by many watersports, kitesurfing is definitely on the ‘sexy’ list.

This year saw the launch of Antigua & Barbuda’s very first kitesurfing festival. ‘Ride Antigua’ is the happy result of a local love for the sport – and a push to lengthen the country’s tourist season.

On the crest of a wave

KITESURFING FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Why kitesurfing is sweeping the nation

Max Dimauro, co-owner of private firm 40 Knots, based at Nonsuch Bay Resort, has been kitesurfing for the last 12 years. For him, the attraction is purely organic. “It’s really just another way of sailing,” he says. “Anybody who loves sailing should try to kitesurf. It works on the same principle but with a lot less gear. You can jump up in the air, and the feeling of freedom and lightness in the water is unbeatable.” Originally from Lake Garda in Italy, Max mastered the sport in his homeland before running kitesurfing schools in Europe and then eventually moving the outfit to Antigua six years ago. “We started to realise that, for us, the tourist season was getting longer every year. May and June are beautiful months in Antigua so we thought, why not try to extend the season further and do something a bit special?”

“This year saw the launch of Antigua & Barbuda’s very first kitesurfing festival.”

Photos courtesy of 40 Knots

40 Knots was formed by a group of friends with a shared passion for two things: sea and wind.

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In conjunction with Nonsuch Bay Resort, the company created week-long discounted accommodation packages, incorporating five-day kitesurfing tuition programmes. The first was held towards the end of May, with two more in June.Instruction packages were aimed at all levels of aptitude, ranging from ‘Zero to Hero’ to ‘Get Gooood’ and ‘Wanna be like a Pro’. First-time participants included an eight-year-old and a septuagenarian - proof indeed that age is no barrier when it comes to strapping oneself to a kite and heading for the high seas. The success of the inaugural festival has prompted plans to make it an annual event. “It went very well and we got some good feedback. We had a nice Swiss couple who took part. They had tried it before but not very successfully. Here they realised how nice it is and were both riding by the end of the festival. They had a great time and will probably come back next year,” Max said. So, any advice for those still in two minds about trying it out? “We suggest you just give it a try. You don’t have to commit to a whole course; we have a very nice one-hour test lesson off Green Island. It’s a beautiful environment and super-easy because we fly a small test kite that allows people to experience the power of the kite but in a completely safe scenario.” The professional 40 Knots team enables newbies to learn the sport step by step, in calm waters, with the correct equipment. “It’s actually pretty easy to learn to kitesurf. You wear a harness so, compared to wind-surfing where you’re lifting heavy gear, the kite is doing it for you. As soon as you master controlling the kite you’re well on your way. And girls learn just as quick as boys,” Max says. “Ninety-nine per cent of people who try it quickly realise it’s not dangerous and go on and commit to the full course,” he adds. Of course, if you’re still not convinced kitesurfing is for you, there is a number of other extreme sports you might find more appealing. Antigua is home to several excellent entities which specialise in

KITESURFING FEATURE. continued

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parasailing, scuba diving, mountain biking and wakeboarding to name a few. Stand-up paddle boarding is also proving very popular; we are not entirely convinced this belongs in the extreme sports category – it’s characterised by a lackadaisical-looking directionless charm, rather than anything white-knuckle and competitive – although it does look rather fun. Finally, there is always ‘extreme ironing’. No it’s not a typo. Also known as EI, this fast-growing performance art involves taking ironing boards to remote locations (generally ones with the capacity to prompt an attack of severe vertigo) and, yes, you guessed it, ironing items of clothing. According to the official website, extreme ironing is “the latest danger sport that combines the thrills of an extreme outdoor activity with the satisfaction of a well-pressed shirt.” Try as we did, we were unable to find anywhere on island that actually provides this apparently burgeoning activity but we’re confident the principle equipment shouldn’t be hard to source. 3

Visit www.40knots.net for more information about kitesurfing in Antigua or to sign up for Ride Antigua 2014.

“Ninety-nine per cent of people who try it quickly realise it’s not dangerous and go on and commit to the full course.”

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KITESURFING FEATURE. continued

For Adam Anton – a long-time kitesurfing aficionado – it was the feeling of utter freedom combined

with the thrill of the ride that had him hooked almost immediately. The passion was such that it would lure the graphic designer into becoming a kiteboarding instructor, later running his own school and launching an online forum for fellow enthusiasts. Originally from Trinidad, Anton relocated to Antigua with his family in 1990 when he was 11 years old. Like many, he was introduced to the sport by a friend. “I first got into kitesurfing when my good friend Andre Phillip (who would later become Antigua’s national champion) kept insisting that I give it a try. He had just come back from Barbados where he was kiting a lot and getting really good at it, and he offered to teach me. “I’d show up at the beach every day after work and he basically threw me on his gear and sent me out in about 20-plus knots. Once I got the hang of it I was hooked and wanted to get into it full time.” It wasn’t long before Phillip’s burgeoning talent earned him recognition at the highest levels. His departure from the island to compete internationally left a vacancy running kite school Kite Antigua’s operations. Anton says: “The timing was perfect as the company I was working as a graphic designer for had just shut down so I took over the school and Dre went on tour. Since then kitesurfing has been involved in

‘A truly unique feeling’ – Adam Antonnearly every aspect of my life. “What I love is really the freedom to roam around on the ocean just by using the wind. I grew up wakeboarding and being pulled behind a boat on just about anything I could find through my teen years, so when I started kiting it was such a different feeling to be able to propel myself across the water without a motor. “It was the feeling of riding a board which I already loved, combined with the freedom of using the wind to pull me along instead of a boat, that really got me hooked. Being able to harness the power of wind to glide across the water is a truly unique feeling, and until you have experienced it first hand it’s hard to describe in words.” Anton continues: “I think people who love sailing are addicted to the same feeling. Once you get into a wind sport I believe it changes your life forever. I’ve seen so many people’s lives enriched by these sports so there is no denying it changes you for the better.” Antigua is an ideal destination for the sport for several reasons, Anton believes. “First we have the trade winds that blow pretty consistently for most of the year, and then we have all types of terrain for you to explore with a kite. Having so many little nooks and crannies along our windward coastline makes for some really beautiful and unique places to kite.” Jabberwock Beach on the north coast, where Kitesurf Antigua is based, is an ideal spot to access by car, he adds. “It’s one of

Andre Phillip – rise of a national champ

‘I love the freedom to roam the ocean just by using the wind’ – Adam Anton. Photo by Nick Fitt.

“Love at first sight” is how Andre Phillip describes setting eyes on the sport which would come to transform his life

and propel him to international stardom. Today the 33-year-old from Crosbies is one of kitesurfing’s most iconic personalities, having spent more than a decade representing his native Antigua on the world stage. Despite a fistful of awards and more accolades than you can shake a stick at, he has remained remarkably humble and true to his roots. Phillip’s great pal Eli Fuller, a local tour operator and environmentalist, was

Andre Phillip in action at Jabberwock Beach. Photo by Gareth Williams.

the only beaches that has the perfect wind direction and the conditions are great for any level of riding. If you have a boat you have even more places to explore - and chances are you’ll have it all to yourself.” 3

Learn more at online kitesurfing forum www.kitescoop.com

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instrumental in introducing the sport to the island in the late 1990s. “I grew up surfing, wind-surfing and wakeboarding,” Phillip says. “When I saw Eli kitesurfing for the first time, I fell in love with the sport at first sight. It was a mish-mash of all the sports I already did. I begged him to teach me and was pretty much hooked from the go. “It’s a very free feeling – it’s one of those things where it doesn’t matter what troubles you have in your life, you can be out on the ocean gliding and jumping and nothing else matters, it’s such a great thrill.” It wasn’t long before Phillip started working for kite school Kite Antigua as an instructor. “I got a lot of time out on the water and I just started to improve. The company’s owner Alex Portman kept telling me I should get out there and do some competitions. I thought it sounded like a great idea but didn’t have enough money. That’s when Alex said he’d sponsor me to go and compete and see how I did.” Phillip took part in his first regional contest in St Maarten in 2002. “I went really just to see how I would do and see how others in the Caribbean were doing. I ended up winning. It felt pretty amazing.” Next stop was the world kiteboarding tour in Austria. “Now I was exposed to an international level of competition,” Phillip recalls. “I didn’t do so well there,” he

laughs, “but I got a chance to see what the top guys in the world were doing which meant I could come back to Antigua, train and bring my standard up.” Phillip was in awe at his fellow competitors’ skills. “These guys had been doing it a lot longer than me; I saw a lot of things I had never seen or even thought of before.” These days Phillip has lost track of how many competitions he’s won. His 11-year career representing his country has taken him all over the world, as far afield as Australia, Europe, the South Pacific and the Americas. “My favourite places to kitesurf are Hawaii, Australia and Tahiti.” Despite reaching speeds of more than 40 knots, there is one thing that slows him down – the cold. “It’s definitely much harder for me in cold places being so used to the warm. When I compete in cold climates I have to wear a wetsuit which is quite restricting.” Phillip is the first to admit that the sport earned its initial dangerous reputation somewhat justifiably. “Kiteboarding used to be extremely dangerous when it first started. The equipment was quite primitive and it was much harder to de-power the kite. But throughout the years the equipment has got a lot better. It’s much safer and easier to learn.

“To anyone considering trying it, I would definitely say give it a go. Choose a school where you have people who really know what they’re doing because that’s safer. But it’s great exercise and tons of fun.” Phillip’s passion has spawned a wealth of entrepreneurial opportunities. They include his Heritage Quay-based bikini and beachwear store Makai, and his involvement with high-end kitesurfing equipment line Tona Boards. The latter was born two years ago from a joint venture between Phillip and fellow Antiguan-based kiters Adam Anton and Dereck Camacho. When he’s not competing or travelling to promote Tona, Phillip spends much of his time out on the water helping train his protégé and compatriot, 20-year-old Jake Kelsick, fast becoming another of the sport’s most recognisable names. Friends and family may have initially been a little sceptical about the longevity of Phillip’s career. “It’s hard in the beginning when you’re trying to make it in this industry. But everyone’s been really supportive. It’s one of those things – once you’ve made it everyone is really happy for you. A lot of people think you can’t make a living out of it. But I have been doing so since 2003 so I guess I’m living proof that you can.” 3

For information on Makai and Tona Boards visit www.facebook.com/makaiantigua and www.tonaboards.com

Andre Phillip offers instruction to protégé and burgeoning talent, Jake Kelsick. Photo by Adam Anton.

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Ladies, lunch and laughter –living it up with Miramar Sailing

Life doesn’t get much better than when it’s pondered from the deck of a classic sailing yacht against a

backdrop of resplendent Caribbean sea. Throw in a cluster of fun-loving females, some enthusiastically-poured rum punch and it’s the perfect recipe for a delightful day out with a difference. Those are just some of the reasons Miramar Sailing’s ‘Ladies That Lunch’ day charters are proving such a hit. Little wonder then that when invited to sample one of these marine-themed excursions I jumped at the chance. Beautiful ‘Hawnalea’ – designed by world renowned Ted Brewer – is a double-masted 47ft vessel, with space for up to 12 guests, and a paragon of elegance. For just US$99 each, lunching ladies can have her all to themselves for a six-hour private jaunt along Antigua’s stunning coastline. Hawnalea’s congenial crew – Captain Kevin and Chef Acare – help create a wonderfully insouciant on-board ambience. Before setting sail, we’re given a thorough demonstration of safety equipment followed by some navigational techniques. Personal ones that is. (‘One hand for yourself, one

for the boat’ turns out to be remarkably useful post-rum punch.) A font of local knowledge, Kevin points out the landmarks as we cruise up the north coast headed for Deep Bay. The intimacy of the shaded cockpit aids the flow of conversation, while sun goddesses are free to soak up the rays on deck. A few nautical miles later, we’re informed the boat will soon start ‘heeling’ and not to be alarmed. Thankfully I am not the only one woefully ignorant of sailing jargon. We find out seconds later this refers to the vessel leaning sharply to one side, like a daredevil biker. A quick recce of Kevin’s face for signs of impending disaster – in the same way you might check a flight attendant’s during a moment of unexpected turbulence – reveals none, his blithe expression happily still in tact. Hawnalea’s specifications make her ideal for gathering the requisite pace to appease on board thrill-seekers, without compromising the comfort of those who prefer something closer to an aquatic meander. The yacht’s shallow draft means she’s able to manoeuvre close to Antigua’s abundant coral reefs. At picturesque

Deep Bay, we drop anchor to while away a blissful couple of hours snorkelling, relaxing on the beach and enjoying a spot of lunch. Served buffet style, the latter is a sumptuous assortment of international and Caribbean fare – pigeon peas and rice, pasta and green salads, fresh garlic bread, steamed fish, chicken wings, and vegetable kebabs, topped off with mouth-watering homemade banana bread. For energetic types there’s enough time for a hike up to the nearby 18th century ruins of Fort Barrington which afford spectacular panoramic views of the open ocean and pristine environment beneath. Ranked one of the country’s most popular attractions, Miramar Sailing’s excellent team, service and fleet has just earned it a Trip Advisor certificate of excellence for the third consecutive year. And it’s easy to see why as we later roll back into Jolly Harbour, bellies full, new friendships forged, grins firmly on faces and wind in our hair. ‘Ladies That Lunch’ cruises include buffet lunch with wine (on or off the boat), rum punch and soft drinks. Minimum party number is six, maximum is 12. Charters leave 10.30am and return 4.30pm. 3

Visit www.miramarsailing.com or call 721-3456

SAILING FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

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If it’s Sailing, it’s Miramar!

Jolly Harbour Marina Village, Antigua | Tel: +1 268 721 3456 | [email protected] | www.miramarsailing.com

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The Property Handbook:

Every year hundreds of visitors return from Antigua’s famed beaches, crystal-blue waters and laidback

lifestyle with a single ambition – to buy a second home. For many, returning to the dreary European or North American weather is a major motivator, as travellers seek to spend more time in their favourite sun-drenched destination. For others, buying overseas is seen as a long-term investment – and an idyllic location to live out one’s golden years. Whatever your motivation, these tips can help ensure your experience is a positive one.

3 Use an estate agent Buying directly from an owner can sometimes make for a great deal. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the local market, buying through an estate agent or reputable property developer can provide useful guidance and help you avoid a number of pitfalls. Luxury Locations – a Savills associate – has a combined three decades’ experience in the Antiguan property market. Whether looking to purchase a beachfront villa with good rental capacity or a secluded hillside mansion, our friendly and efficient team can ensure finding, and acquiring, your ideal residence is a seamless and enjoyable process.

THE PROPERTY HANDBOOK. December 2013–June 2014

A Beginner’s Guide to Buying in Antigua.3 Exercise self-control These days there’s a lot of hullaballoo about multiple offers, above-asking sales prices and crazy amounts of cash being thrown at sellers. One thing we can all agree on is this: no one can make anyone spend more on a home than they can afford. As a home buyer, you must be the ultimate arbiter of what you spend and only you are responsible for avoiding overspending. You may find yourself having to rejig your house hunting price range, or compromising on the number of bedrooms or desired area.

3 Be discerning We live in a world of noise: The noise of TV commentators hollering about what we can and cannot afford, the noise of news about the economy, the noise of our friends’ and parents’ opinions, the noise of our own inner fantasies that life will finally be perfect if we can just live in that style of house, or with a house full of that furniture. Discernment is the skill of picking out what is useful, wise, right and important, and being able to discard or disregard the rest. You might need to exercise vigilance against allowing the noise to spark panic, fear, paralysis or even over-optimism, over-confidence and over-spending.

3 Check the legalities First and foremost, ensure the seller has the right to sell the property you desire by instructing your agent or lawyer to do a search so that your dream home can be sold free and clear of any leans or cautions. Deposits should only be held by reputable lawyers in escrow accounts under Antiguan law - otherwise your money is not protected. Make sure the property has insurance for the full sale value up to the completion date – and that there is a full inventory (with photos) of the house prior to contract. Finally, never choose the same lawyer as the seller. It may save you money, but in the long run you will want someone who is paid by you to protect your investment.

3 Extra costsOnce you’ve identified your desired home, you must apply for a non-citizen’s licence. For most properties, this costs 5% of the purchase price. However, if you choose to invest in a new development you will likely be offered a generously reduced rate. Getting official approval – which 99% of applicants do – takes anywhere from three to 12 weeks. Stamp duty is 2.5% while lawyers’ fees tend to be between 1–2%. 3

Start the search for your perfect property by logging ontowww.luxurylocations.com. Browse our extensive and diverse portfolio – and find out more about our acclaimed property management services and how we can help ensure you receive maximum return on your investment.

Scan me to viewour properties...

Contact us at [email protected] or call +1 268 562 8174. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Sam DysonCEOFrom working as a start-up business consultant to providing training in martial arts and hostile environment close protection, Sam’s professional background is as diverse as the countries he’s called home. He moved to Antigua from the UK four years ago and was a silent partner in Luxury Locations for some time – before becoming slightly more vocal a year and a half ago.

3 What did you want to be as a child?A kung fu master, which I actually succeeded in being! I am an ordained Shaolin Warrior Monk, trained in China. My monk name is Shi Miao Zun which means ‘Great Honourable Respect’.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Free-diving. I can dive to a depth of almost 150ft – and am aiming for 200ft by the end of the year. I like the simplicity of it, the introspection it allows – and the fact you can hear humpback whale song under the water.

3 What do you most like to cook?Rack of ribs.

3 What do you love most about Antigua?I like the turquoise sea, its clear visibility and the warm temperature.

3 When not at work, Sam is usually...Studying for my MBA. I am due to finish it next year.

Nadia DysonFounderNadia left her native Britain at the age of 18 and spent the next six years managing a restaurant in Majorca before moving to

the Caribbean. She has lived in Antigua, working in the local property market, since 2004. A former sales agent for JHR, she founded Luxury Locations in 2009. Today the company exclusively represents some of the twin island nation’s most exclusive properties and developments.

3 What did you want to be as a child?I wanted to be famous! I loved singing and dancing. I was always in our school plays – I once played Annie! – and attended drama school up to the age of 17.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Antigua looks even more beautiful from the water. I love to take out our boat for a relaxing few hours.

3 What do you most like to cook?I don’t cook. If it do, it’s usually three-minute ramen noodles! Unless I can make it in less than 10 minutes I’m not interested. Thankfully my husband Sam is a great cook.

3 What do you love most about Antigua?The sunshine – and the fact it’s never cold.

3 When not at work, Nadia is usually...Reading, relaxing or playing with my dogs – Annabelle the Chihuahua and Buddha, our Bullmastiff.

Gemma HandyEditorA professionally trained British journalist, Gemma worked for one of the UK’s largest daily newspapers before swapping the grey skies of England for the Caribbean in 2006. She spent six years in the Turks & Caicos Islands and moved to Antigua 18 months ago, where she’d been a happy visitor for almost a decade.

3 What did you want to be as a child?A best-selling author. As a child I either had my head stuck in a book or was busy trying to write one.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Getting back to nature. I love the relaxation of scuba diving and soaking up Antigua’s stunning marine life. Or just walking my dog on the beach.3 What do you most like to cook?Anything vegetarian. I like to cook up a big pot of veggie stew from scratch, using all local, natural ingredients.

3 What do you love most about Antigua?I love to travel and have been fortunate to visit some wonderful places. But I still find people in Antigua among the friendliest in the world.

3 When not at work, Gemma is usually...Catching up with friends, hitting the gym or writing – either freelance articles or short stories. I’m never idle for long!

Claudine LandfieldGeneral ManagerFrom the bright lights of Bloomingdales to the laidback lifestyle of the Caribbean, Claudine’s career, which started in retail, has traversed continents. She moved to Antigua from her native USA 13 years ago and spent over a decade working for online gaming company Bodog. When Bodog moved to Manila in October 2012, she joined the Villa Management arm of our business where she plays a vital role overseeing our vast and diverse collection of rental properties.

3 What did you want to be as a child?I wanted to be a vet. I love animals and always have.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Fishing - my husband has a small boat and we go out to Cades Reef and catch our dinner.

3 What do you most like to cook?I love fish and lobster, any cooking really; my mom is French and we cooked a lot as children.

MEET THE LUXURY LOCATIONS TEAM.

About Us

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3 What do you love most about Antigua?I have been in Antigua for almost 13 years and, honestly, every time I take the corner by Crabbe Hill, I melt at the turquoise water and say, yes, I live in paradise.

3 When not at work, Claudine is usually...Home - getting my second wind for the next work day!

Ita CrumpRental Manager & Guest ServicesThere’s not much about customer service and management that Ita doesn’t know. A warm ‘people person’, this former online gaming rep joined Luxury Locations two years ago and has become an invaluable member of our team managing the company’s extensive portfolio of rental properties.

3 What did you want to be as a child?A flight attendant. I always wished I was a bird as I love flying and the feeling of freedom it brings. As a bird you can escape any danger, you just spread your wings and fly away.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Sunday is my favourite day of the week. I go to church in the morning, come home to make lunch and have a nap, and then go back to church again. I love to do that.

3 What do you most like to cook?Beef lasagna is my absolute favourite. At weekends, I might make something simple like a nice soup.

3 What do you love most about Antigua?I love the laidback environment we have here, and the feeling of being close to nature. As a child growing up in Parham I used to love to swim in the big dock there.

3 When not at work, Ita is usually...At home chilling with my family – my husband and two daughters, aged 15 and 12. That’s when I’m most happy.

Terrence ‘Junior’ SamuelMaintenance managerAn electrician by trade, Junior joined Luxury Locations at the beginning of 2012. He has been living on the island for the last eight years after moving here from his native Guyana. Junior is an indispensable part of our team, responsible for all repairs and maintenance to ensure our properties are kept pristine and looking as good as new.

3 What did you want to be as a child?As a child I was always playing with wires, it was my dream to be an electrical engineer. It’s something I still plan to pursue.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Relaxing on the beach, chilling with my dog Jezebel. She’s an eight-month-old Rottweiler/Bullmastiff/Ridgeback cross.

3 What do you most like to cook?Cook-up rice – a traditional Guyanese dish.

3 What do you love most about Antigua?The beautiful beaches!

3 When not at work, Junior is usually...Playing basketball with friends.

Alex Andre RhodesPhotographerFor talented Antigua-born photographer Alex, capturing the island’s stunning scenery on camera has long been a passion and a mode of relaxation. Alex joined the Luxury Locations team in spring 2013 and is the man behind the lens in much of the magazine’s spectacular imagery. His professional life also includes his computer repairs and services business.

3 What did you want to be as a child?A pilot. I started the training but I get bored

easily, it was too many hours! That’s when I went to work with computers; I like the challenge of finding out the problem and fixing it.

3 What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?Taking photos. I collect a couple of models and go somewhere, anywhere that’s a little off the beaten track. One of my favourite places is Nelson’s Dockyard.

3 What do you most like to cook?I never cook! I eat out every day.

3 What do you love most about Antigua?The culture, the people and how they interact. The way the people think and do things is totally different from anywhere else I have been in the world. Antigua is truly unique, the people are much more relaxed. Also, it’s a Christian country and you feel that everywhere.

3 When not at work, Alex is usually...I’m always at work! When I’m not, I like hanging out with my eight-year-old daughter; she teaches me new things every day in the way only a child can.

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The kindness of strangers

If there’s one thing worse than finding oneself in a bit of a pickle, it’s perhaps when it occurs in a foreign land

thousands of miles from home. So when Amos Pradelli and Susanna Miglioli’s beach jaunt – by car – culminated with four wheels stuck firmly in the soft sand, they may have been forgiven for panicking. In fact, what happened next was one of many spontaneous acts of altruism at the hands of kindly locals which would ignite the couple’s enduring affinity for the island and cement their dream of making it their home. “I didn’t even have time to consider asking for help,” Amos recalls. “Within seconds a car pulled up and someone got out to help us push.” Another such occasion was during a seemingly elusive Christmas Eve search for an open pharmacy. St John’s was almost at a standstill with last minute shoppers when a Good Samaritan pulled up kerbside to ask

if they were lost before insisting on driving them to the nearest facility. The couple – from northern Italy – wouldn’t be the first to be bewitched by the dual islands’ tropical beauty or its big-hearted citizens. Those are just two of the reasons why, when planning to build a residential development, Antigua was the obvious choice.

They are currently ploughing millions into the first phase of their Passion Village scheme soon to start construction in the heart of breathtakingly beautiful Valley Church. Two decades have now passed since

PASSION VILLAGE FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Old-fashioned Antiguan hospitality proved pivotal when Italians Amos Pradelli and Susanna Miglioli were looking for a second home – and a prime spot for a multi-million dollar development. They have named the latter ‘Passion Village’ in tribute to their love for the island and its people.

developer Susanna’s first cherished trip to the country. She introduced Amos, a lawyer by profession, to the islands 13 years ago when they met. “I fell in love with it immediately,” he says. “It’s so wild, completely different from other Caribbean islands. The sea is wonderful; you have the Atlantic Ocean side with the rocks and the Caribbean Sea side with the white sands – they are both different and both beautiful. “We have a lot of friends here now, and because there’s little crime we always feel safe.” With an eight-year-old son the latter was vital. Located just 250 metres from the incandescent waters of the Caribbean Sea, Passion Village will fill something of a niche, being both high quality homes but at more affordable rates than many of their deluxe counterparts. Phase one will comprise 10 villas with a convenience delicatessen and communal pool, while the second phase will consist

“Located just 250 metres from the incandescent waters of the Caribbean Sea, Passion Village will fill something of a niche.”

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of a further 16 to 18 villas. Both will be low density, gated with 24-hour security, and have back-up electricity generators. For Susanna it’s the culmination of a 20-year dream to build her own on-island home. And, unlike many developers, the pair will be occupying one of the properties themselves. This means they will be on hand to supervise construction, ensuring the highest standards are adhered to, along with scrupulous maintenance of the area both now and in the future. Valley Church was chosen for the project as its renowned beach has long been a favourite haunt for the couple. “There are restaurants nearby, it’s one of the few beaches with trees for shade, and you have that very clear turquoise water,” Susanna says. Construction is due to start in November with completion expected in summer 2014. Intriguingly, buyers will be able to choose from two different interior layouts – Italian-style or American. The difference, Susanna explains, is due to a cultural difference.

“For Italians, the most important part of a house is the dining and kitchen area,” she smiles. “So that’s what they like to see first when they enter. For Americans they like the bedrooms to be at the front of the house and the main living space towards the back.” Sale prices for both are largely the same. The chic contemporary interiors will be fully kitted out with furniture, appliances and tiles imported especially from style-conscious Italy. Homes can be bought completed or off-plan. In the latter case, modifications can be made according to individual preference or to make the property disability-friendly. Optional extras include a plunge pool and sundeck. “A lot of people want a private pool; others such as Italians use the swimming pool area to socialise, especially if they have children,” Susanna says. The convenience delicatessen will be open to the wider community, with a daily changing menu featuring Italian and international fare. Passion Village offers another major

incentive to investors in that it falls within the government’s Citizenship by Investment programme. Buyers will have the option to apply for an Antiguan passport – without sacrificing their current citizenship – enabling them to spend as much time as they want each year in their new home. They will also be exempt from a number of local taxes, including personal income, net worth, gift tax and estate duty. The couple, who moved to the island full-time in June 2013, plan to personalise each property with an inspirational mantra inscribed on an interior wall. “It might say something like ‘carpe diem’ – ‘catch the moment’,” Amos says. It seems a suiting accolade for a pair whose drive, energy and enthusiasm to pursue their vision is on the cusp of becoming an auspicious reality. “We chose the name Passion Village because of our passion for the island and our passion for our work,” Susanna adds. “And that passion translates into our houses.” 3

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There’s a long-running British TV show which scrutinises the homes of the rich and famous – before

inviting celebrity panelists to guess who they belong to. Many people of a certain age will remember the catchphrase – characterised by host Loyd Grossman’s strangled Boston drawl – ‘who would live in a house like this?’. You’ll be relieved to discover we’re not going to make you guess the occupants of this fabulous villa occupying a prime spot on Antigua’s magnificent east coast. (The headline alone is a pretty big clue). What we can offer however is a ‘Through the Keyhole’-style virtual tour of the palatial pad – and the fascinating story behind its purchase and extensive renovation. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Danish sailor and Olympic gold medallist Poul Hoj-Jensen, and wife Sophia, first fell in love with

Through the keyhole –A peek inside the home of an Olympic champion

INTERIORS FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

Antigua on account of its spectacular sailing. Eight years ago, when the couple were looking for a Caribbean vacation accessible by direct flight from London, options were limited. Antigua was chosen largely because Barbados was deemed by their children to be ‘too bling’ for Poul.

The first week of their four-week trip was spent at the Blue Waters Resort. Sophia remembers with a laugh: “Poul wanted to take one of the Hobie Cats out for a sail and sent me along to the boatman to see if

this would be allowed. As it was blowing very hard, the man was reluctant to allow us to use one of the boats. I explained that my husband knew how to sail and his reply was, ‘All wives say that about their husbands’. “I then confided that Poul has two Olympic gold medals – which is when he relented and allowed us to go sailing.” That first experience of the country’s open seas was not exactly smooth. “It was much like being on a hot rinse in a washing machine. Never in our lives had we experienced such wet conditions!” Thankfully their suspicion that conditions across the island would be similar were soon dissipated. In fact, tranquil Nonsuch Bay, enhanced by an impromptu encounter with the island’s sea turtles, was soon declared “the perfect place in the world” for Poul’s prime passion.

“Its superb location – boasting 180-degree views over the bay to Bird and Green islands – was so idyllic the couple paid the deposit without even seeing it.”

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“It was hard not to fall in love with the area,” Sophia recalls. “The nature around us was simply stunning; we had never seen so many fish and plants when snorkelling.” Their enthusiasm was such that, despite not having given a single previous thought to buying an on-island home, Poul announced his desire to find just that in Nonsuch Bay. The couple’s requirements were simple. Their new property needed its own shoreline suitable for a dock, a private beach for the grandchildren and, most important of all, be east-facing to take advantage of the cooling trade winds. An internet search back in the UK revealed Compass Point ticked all the right boxes – and some. Its superb location – boasting 180-degree views over the bay to Bird and Green islands – was so idyllic the couple paid the deposit without even seeing it. Designed by acclaimed Antiguan-based architect Andrew Goodenough, Poul and Sophia were bowled over by the intriguing layout which comprises three six-sided shapes affording panoramic ocean vistas

from almost every room. Renovating the property to suit the family’s more specific needs was a feat all of its own. A whopping 22 people worked full-time for the next two years. Initial tasks included replacing all the electric and plumbing work, and installing new windows and doors with electric hurricane shutters. A hexagonal infinity swimming pool was built, along with additional pergolas and terracing. Extensions saw the creation of a new kitchen, and fifth bedroom with bathroom, along with a boathouse and dock with boatlift and slip. “We also created the beach our grandchildren wanted with its own little dock,” Sophia continues. When the house was finished, attention was turned to the garden, already home to an abundance of mature orange, mandarin, lime and cherry trees. Banana trees were added, plus a complete automatic watering system. “We soon realised that water is a precious commodity not to be wasted, so wherever there is a roof, a waterbutt was installed.”

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A reverse osmosis plant was developed too, as a back-up to the 6,000-gallon cistern situated under the terrace. “Last year, we invested in solar power; a completely integrated system. There are power cuts in Antigua from time to time but we no longer notice these. It is fair to say that we are now more or less self-sufficient in energy. Considering the utility costs in Antigua, this is important.” So, after six years transforming the property into the home of their dreams, one would be forgiven for wondering why the Hoj-Jensens now wish to sell up. Poul, 69, is in need of a “new project”, Sophia smiles. “We have our eye on a piece of land to build ourselves, more or less, a copy of what we have now.” Today, Compass Point is a haven for sailors and wildlife enthusiasts alike. “The wildlife never fails to amaze us; we have managed to attract many different bird species to our garden. The snorkelling right outside our docks is stunning. And it doesn’t matter how hard it blows, we can always go fishing, sailing or kayaking in the bay.” As many expatriates will testify, Poul and Sophia are among a plethora of people for whom fate dealt a hand in determining their retirement. “We came to Antigua quite by chance; what a lucky chance it was. During our first trip in 2006, we were standing on the pavement in St John’s with a map in our hands, trying to work out where to go. A car stopped in the middle of the road, and a gentleman got out and asked if we needed directions. “He told us where to go and even offered to take us there. While this was going on, we noticed several cars backed up, yet no one beeped their horn. Everyone waited patiently. “Where in the world would we find friendly people like this?” Sophia adds. “Coupled with finding a place which for us is paradise and made us move to Antigua, it has proved to be the best decision of our lives.” For more information about Compass Point, or to arrange a viewing, call Luxury Locations on (+268) 562-8174. 3

INTERIORS FEATURE. continued

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Transformative Conversations This is where you get to ‘re train’ your brain. Janis will engage you in her unique style, weaving stories of change and growth. You will learn how to deeply relax and shut off your ‘monkey mind’. Learn new ways of being and connect to your ‘inner wisdom’. Step away from the past and be aligned to your brilliant future. Raw Food Juicing and Healthy Eating to detox your mind and body. With options to suit you can choose from a full 7 day retreat or a 1 day breakthrough session.

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When developers talk of panoramic views, you can often take it with a pinch of

salt and confine it to the realms of sales pitch and hyperbole. Tamarind Hills, however, would be an exception. Winding one’s way along Valley Road – where sun meets scintillant sea and heavenly Darkwood Beach unfolds in front of you - must surely be one of the most impressive landscapes on earth. And on an adjacent cliff, couched among rocky hills overlooking that sublime scene, is the outstanding development threatening to become one of the most sought-after in the region. Offering the ultimate in tranquillity and privacy, Tamarind Hills takes luxury living

Panoramic perfection –Taking luxury living to new heights

TAMARIND HILLS FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

With jaw-dropping vistas and simple, elegant designs, Tamarind Hills’ five-star resort and first-rate residences offer unparalleled comfort and sophistication

to new heights – literally. Standing on the balcony of a four-bedroom ‘Stingray’ home, there’s the feeling you could almost see the earth’s curvature if you looked hard enough. What can be seen quite clearly is Montserrat, along with Nevis and Redonda – and, on a clear day, even St Kitts. Created by Island Heights Ltd – headed by developer Rufus Gobat behind St Lucia’s award-winning Cap Maison – the scheme comprises a five-star resort and a range of villas, townhouses and condos. Whether beachfront, oceanfront or ridge top, every home has a private pool, exquisitely finished European kitchens and bathrooms, and spacious outdoor living areas. The wealth of on-site facilities will

include a beach club with informal restaurant and bar, multi-tiered infinity pools with chic cabanas, tennis courts, jogging tracks, a dive shop, spa, state-of-the-art gym, children’s club and playground. An additional shopping galleria will offer a delicatessen, convenience store and coffee shop. For property manager Larry Miller, from Connecticut, the prime location was enough to convince him, his wife and their daughter to combine their cash and snap up one of the homes themselves. “You can walk to Darkwood, plus there are six or eight more of the island’s best beaches within a couple of miles,” he says. “That’s our weekends; we either walk or throw stuff in the car and head to the beach. There are a lot of nice restaurants

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close by too. And when you can wake up every morning and see Montserrat that’s pretty nice,” he adds with a grin. The properties have been built in a contemporary Caribbean style - simple but stylish. “It’s white and stark but toned down with the wood,” Larry says. “I love the style, a lot of people do, especially when you drive round the point and this opens up in front of you. You’d be surprised by how many boats come close to try and have a look,” he laughs. All built into solid rock, with more in front for extra stability, the homes’ names are wonderfully organic – Red Snapper, Barracuda, Searay – while transparent balconies have been used so as not to forfeit a single millimetre of the sweeping vistas. Owners can opt to furnish their homes themselves or choose from a wealth of attractive, urbane items available directly from the company. The latter includes tasteful, light-coloured pieces meticulously picked to hold up in the tropical climate and salty air. Throughout, not a single detail has been left to chance, whether it’s the sleek, basalt black tiles used in the infinity pools, the built-in chrome kitchen appliances, the concrete countertops finished in white, or

the fact that every bedroom has an en-suite. This particular Stingray property is a vision in stunning Turkish marble floors, light wood doors, and a wide wooden staircase leading to the top floor and its three bedrooms. The fourth bedroom has been transformed into a lower floor media room. The master bedroom is a work of art, the bed situated afore glass doors and a generous balcony, so each morning may begin with ocean views and the sound of gently lapping water. With a bath tub in the bedroom and oversize waterfall showers visible through open sides, there is clearly no element of prudishness about this particular owner.Wicker swing chairs, orb-shaped lamps suspended from the ceiling like miniature planets, walk-in closets and wooden floorboards combine to create an enviable ambience of simple sophistication and sumptuous splendour. From the cool, crisp lines to the organic artwork, the interior’s emphasis is on understated, neutral tones and impossibly chic adornments. With views like this however, here’s guessing it will see half the action of its al fresco counterparts. 3

Visit www.tamarind-hills.com for more information

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Comfort, Elegance & StylePatio SetsOffice FurnitureDining Room SetsOrthopaedic MattressesBedroom & Living Room Sets

Factory Rd, Paynters, St. John’s, Antigua. | Tel. 268.562.4444 | Fax. 268.462.1964 | www.gigifurniture.com

Comfort, Elegance & Style

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Our hardware departmentis open 7 days a week. Paint department open 6 days a week.

Hardware, Garden Goods, Home Goods, Luxury Goods – we source it all. Weekly deliveries from our suppliers. Quality products only.

For Paint 734-2222

We are the official agent for Berger Paints in Antigua & BarbudaDealer for Valspar, Penta & Leewind

If you need it, let us find it!

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Don’t be left in the dark, call us today+1 (268) 462-EXEL (3935)[email protected] Hill Road, St. John’s, Antigua, W.I.

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They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression. And - short of speed dating or a

dream job interview – rarely is the adage more apt than when selling a property. With its sparse decor and uninspiring colours, Villa 411A was in need of a little TLC. Jolly Harbour’s waterfront villas are eminently charming but their uniform design means they require a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to stand out from their neighbours. Happily, when asked to list this particular home for sale, the Luxury Locations team viewed it as a challenge. Rather than thrusting it straight onto the market and hoping for the best, we decided to inject the place with a new lease of life and a dollop of pizzazz – with a little help from our friends. The obliging souls at local home furnishings stores Lolita’s and Gigi’s, along with North Coast Hardware, agreed to supply us with the all-important adornments, accent pieces and paints needed to woo a potential buyer. The only person left to convince was our maintenance manager, Terrence ‘Junior’ Samuels, the man charged with carrying

From sparse to splendour – revamping Villa 411A

INTERIORS FEATURE. December 2013–June 2014

How the Luxury Locations team added value to a villa

out the revamp. Junior admits he was sceptical at first. “When I was first saw the villa, I could see it needed a lot of work. The place was in bad shape, the walls were shabby and dirty and the paint was peeling off.” The most laborious task was scraping the paint from the walls, and refilling the many tiny holes left behind by picture hooks. “That alone took a week to complete,” Junior continues. “And then I moved onto repainting the whole house.” The Berger and Valspar paints, provided at discount by North Coast Hardware, comprised an attractive array of mushroom, azure and pale green hues. A bold but innocuous blue, to mimic the shade of Antigua’s world-famous waters, was chosen for the master bedroom while a light refreshing green was applied to the second bedroom. The open-plan downstairs was decorated in stylish accent shades of oatmeal and cafe au lait. Next, the stairs received a much-needed polish before the entire villa was kitted out with contemporary light fittings. As every homeowner knows, having the appropriate lighting is key both for aesthetics and mood-setting.

However, it was when the swish new furniture and accessories began to arrive that the fun really started. “It was so pretty, I was astonished by how it all looked,” Junior says. “My favourite items were the pictures and the big rug in the living room area.” Among the large items deposited by the cheery staff from Gigi’s were uber-cool tables, chairs, outdoor patio furniture and sofas so comfy you could lose yourself in them. Gigi’s also supplied cushions, lamps, mirrors, artwork and chic bed sets and comforters from Hallmark. As any aspiring chef will testify, having good quality knives – and crockery to serve your creations on – is paramount. The cutlery, tableware, glasses, plates and placemats provided by Lolita’s were enough to make most homemakers flush with pride. Upstairs, Lolita’s soft fluffy bathmats, shower curtains and bins transformed the two bathrooms into enticing spaces oozing with artistry. The property’s water-edge verandah had previously been left bare. Cool white sunloungers, complemented by navy blue resort towels, lent a sophisticated, inviting edge while the large charbroil barbeque would be a joy for those tempted by the vision of al fresco Caribbean living. Art pieces were deliberately organic in theme, in keeping with Antigua’s status as a haven for nature-lovers. So – after two weeks’ toil and elbow grease – what was Junior’s final verdict? “The first thing people look at when

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viewing a property is the walls. The fact they are now in great shape and nice colours – plus the fabulous furnishings – I think will definitely help sell the place. “I complimented myself on a job well done,” he adds with a grin. “We brought the place back to life.” The North Finger end unit villa, located within walking distance of one of Antigua’s most spectacular beaches, local amenities and restaurants, is now on the market fully furnished for $245,000. 3 Call the Luxury Locations office on (+268) 562-8174 to arrange a viewing.

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Property Index

“List with thebest and forgetthe rest!”– David Vaughan, Savills International London

Head Office, Luxury Locations, Portofino Offices, Jolly Harbour,St Mary’s, AntiguaTelephone: +1268 562 8174info@luxurylocations.comwww.luxury-locations-magazine.comwww.luxurylocations.com

Sales NORTH COASTP.101 Villa W, Hodges Bay – Exclusive ListingP.104 Hodges Bay House, Hodges Bay – Exclusive ListingP.105 Bird Villa, Hodges BayP.107 The Cove Penthouse, Blue Waters – Exclusive ListingP.107 The Cove Suites, Blue Waters – Exclusive Listing

NORTH EAST COASTP.106 Cockle Bay 20-acre plot, North East – Exclusive Listing

EAST COASTP.90 Driftwood House, The Peninsula – Exclusive Listing P.91 Compass Point, Nonsuch Bay – Exclusive ListingP.94 Villa Susanna, Nonsuch Bay – Exclusive ListingP.95 Villa Azura, Long Bay – Exclusive Listing P.96 August Hill, Half Moon Bay – Exclusive ListingP.97 Kulala, Long Bay – Exclusive Listing P.99 Seaviews, Long Bay – Exclusive ListingP.104 Bay Villa, Nonsuch Bay – Exclusive ListingP. 104 Coconut House, Nonsuch Bay – Exclusive ListingP.104 Town House 24, Nonsuch Bay – Exclusive Listing

SOUTH EAST COASTP.98 Willoughby Bay 100-acre plot – Exclusive ListingP.106 Villa 470, St JamesP.107 Villa Liene, Willoughby Bay area

SOUTH COASTP.93 English Harbour nine-acre plot – Exclusive ListingP.105 Pelican House, Turtle BayP.106 St James one-acre plot, St James – Exclusive ListingP.107 Carib House, Turtle Bay

WEST COASTP.88 The Grey House, Valley ChurchP.89 Villa 244A, Jolly HarbourP.92 Villa 425F, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.100 Villa Nirvana, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.102 Hamilton No. 2, Hamilton EstateP.102 Villa 250E, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.102 Villa 410D, Jolly HarbourP.102 Villa 335B, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.102 Villa 332F, Jolly HarbourP.102 Villa 404A, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.103 Villa 218E, Jolly HarbourP.103 Villa 238A, Jolly Harbour P.103 Villa 419A, Jolly HarbourP.103 Villa 411A, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.103 Villa 224C, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive Listing P.103 Villa 403F, Jolly Harbour – Exclusive ListingP.104 Pimento Villa, Harbour View – Exclusive ListingP.104 Summer Breeze, Jolly Harbour areaP.105 Beach House Five, Tamarind HillsP.105 Seacrest, Tamarind Hills P.105 Searays, Tamarind HillsP.105 Sugar Ridge Villas, Jolly Harbour areaP.106 Harbour Lookout, Jolly Harbour areaP.106 Villa Kirby, Harbour View – Exclusive ListingP.106 Villa 414B, Jolly HarbourP.106 Palm Point, Jolly Harbour areaP.107 Passion Village, Valley Church – Exclusive Listing

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For further information visit www.luxurylocations.comTo arrange a viewing contact [email protected] +1 268 562 8174

PROPERTY FOR SALE.

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The Grey HouseFirst Class Design Price Guide: US$995,000

Built in 2005, this well presented four-bedroom, four-bathroom family home is situated in the lush hillside of Ffryes Estate, with magnificent views of Darkwood beach on Antigua’s west coast. The house offers an open concept layout with the design focused on the 270-degree view that can be seen from every room. High end appliances, fixtures and fittings are used throughout, ensuring this property is of first class design, in a much sought after location. The property further benefits from a private entrance, large driveway and self-contained apartment on the ground floor.

Design di prima classePrezzo indicativo: US$ 995.000Costruita nel 2005, questa piacevole casa familiare con 4 camere da letto e 4 bagni si trova nella lussureggiante collina di Fryes Estate, con magnifiche viste sulla spiaggia di Darkwood, nella costa occidentale di Antigua. La struttura vanta un layout a pianta aperta e un design incentrato su una vista a 270°, che può essere ammirata da tutte le camere. Impianti, arredi e apparecchiature all’avanguardia sono sparsi per tutta la proprietà, contribuendo a mettere in risalto il suo design di prima classe, in una posizione altamente ambita. La dimora beneficia inoltre di un ingresso privato, di un ampio vialetto d’accesso e di un appartamento indipendente al piano terra. Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.comPer organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.

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Villa 244A, Jolly HarbourModern Living Price Guide: US$495,000

A stunning newly renovated end unit Jolly Harbour Villa situated in a prime position along the South Finger. This two-bedroom, two ½- bath villa has been completely renovated and transformed into a sophisticated home with top end fixtures and fittings throughout. Perfectly positioned to enjoy Antigua’s sunsets from the large verandah, the property is a short walk to Jolly Harbour’s South Beach. Villa 244A is an excellent investment purchase, thanks to its popularity as a highly desirable long-term rental property.

Uno stile di vita modernoPrezzo indicativo: US$495.000Suggestiva ultima casa di un complesso a schiera di recente ristrutturazione, Jolly Harbour Villa gode di un’ottima posizione lungo South Finger. Questa villa di 2 camere da letto e 2 e ½ bagni è stata completamente rinnovata e trasformata in una dimora sofisticata con impianti e arredi d’alta qualità. Perfettamente posizionata per ammirare i tramonti di Antigua dall’ampia veranda, la struttura sorge a breve distanza a piedi da South Beach di Jolly Harbour. Villa 244A è un eccellente investimento, grazie alla sua popolarità di proprietà altamente desiderabile per affitti a lunga durata.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.comPer organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.Lux

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PROPERTY FOR SALE.

Driftwood HouseTranquil Estate Price on Request

Nestled in a quiet cove, close to the beautiful beaches of Long Bay and Half Moon Bay, Driftwood House is a unique estate positioned on 1.74 acres and spanning 11,000 sq. ft. of interior space. Designed by Antigua’s preeminent architect Andrew Goodenough, Driftwood House consists of the main house and two separate cottages, totalling 7 bedrooms, 6 full and 2 half bathrooms. The main house and cottages all provide living space across two storeys, ensuring great views from every room.

Situata in una posizione tranquilla Prezzo su richiestaImmersa in una pacifica baia e situata nei pressi delle splendide spiagge di Long Bay e Half Moon Bay, Driftwood House è una esclusiva proprietà immobiliare che comprende poco più di 1.000 metri quadri di spazio abitativo su 1,74 acri di terreno. Progettata dal prominente architetto di Antigua Goodenough, Driftwood House è costituita da un edificio principale e due cottage indipendenti, per un totale di 7 camere da letto e 6 grandi bagni dotati ogni comfort, oltre a 2 più piccoli. Sia l’edificio principale che i cottage forniscono spazio abitativo sviluppato su due livelli, assicurando così una splendida vista da ogni camera. Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.

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Compass PointStylish Simplicity Price on Request

Compass Point is a fabulous, contemporary and luxurious beach front home located on the water’s edge at Non Such Bay. This impressive property was designed by renowned architect Andrew Goodenough. A truly stunning five bedroom villa offering the ultimate in luxury living, situated on a plot of 1.76 acres with its own private beach area and swim platform. This exceptional property also has its own 70ft pontoon and 30ft boat lift.

Stile e semplicitàPrezzo indicativo: a richiestaVilla Compass è una casa favolosa, moderna e di lusso, situata davanti alla spiaggia, ad un passo dal mare, presso Non Such Bay. Questa splendida struttura fu progettata dal famoso architetto Andrew Goodenough. Una splendida villa di lusso con cinque camere da letto, situata su un terreno di 1.76 acri. Dispone di una spiaggia privata e di una piattaforma per nuotare. Questa eccezionale proprietà può anche vantare un ponte di barche privato di 21m ed un ascensore per imbarcazioni da 9m.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.comPer organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.


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Villa 425FUnique Features Price Guide: US$495,000, fully furnished

If gazing out over Antigua’s world-famous turquoise sea sipping a glass of wine with friends sounds like your idea of heaven, this fabulous two-bedroom Jolly Harbour property is for you. The purpose-built decking directly on the water – complete with furniture and gazebo – is the only one of its kind in this delightful gated community. The open-plan living and dining area gives way to a fully fitted kitchen with stylish glass-top cooker and overhead spotlights. The property has two and a half bathrooms, shaded verandahs and private mooring for a 20ft boat.

Una villa dalle caratteristiche unicheUS$495.000, totalmente arredataSe la tua idea di paradiso è guardare fuori e vedere il famoso mare di cristallo turchese di Antigua, mentre sorseggi un bicchiere di vino con gli amici, allora questa favolosa villa con due stanze da letto a Jolly Harbour è quel che fa per te. Il patio appositamente costruito direttamente sull’acqua, completo di mobili e gazebo, è unico nel suo genere in questo delizioso insediamento recintato. La zona giorno/pranzo open space si affaccia su una cucina completamente attrezzata, dotata di un elegante piano cottura in vetro ed illuminazione a faretti basculanti. La proprietà dispone anche di tre bagni (di cui uno di servizio), verande ombreggiate e attracco privato per una barca di 6 metri. Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.

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Nine-acre PlotInvestment Opportunity Price on Request

Whether it’s for the verdant vegetation, the stunning harbour vistas or the area’s intriguing history, this nine-acre site is a real estate coup.Set in the heart of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park with one small house already on site, it’s ideal either for subdivision or development. Overlooking English Harbour – one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country and the home of Antigua Sailing Week – it’s a stone’s throw away from first-rate amenities, historical sites, bustling seasonal nightlife, excellent restaurants and nature trails.

Ottima opportunità di investimentoPrezzo su richiestaChe sia per la vegetazione verdeggiante, per i panorami mozzafiato del porto o per l’intrigante passato dei luoghi che lo circondano, questo lotto di 9 acri (36.400 mq) è un vero affare nell’attuale panorama immobiliare. Infatti, questo terreno è ideale sia per l’eventuale frazionamento, sia per un’operazione di sviluppo immobiliare più complessa, dato che si trova nel cuore del parco nazionale di Nelson Dockyard e su di esso insiste solo una piccola casa già esistente. Infatti, questo lotto, affacciato su English Harbour, offre uno dei panorami più affascinanti del paese, proprio dove ogni anno si tiene l’Antigua Sailing Week, in più, si trova nei pressi di diverse attrazioni di prim’ordine, di vari siti storici, ma anche di luoghi dalla vivace vita notturna stagionale, eccellenti ristoranti e splendidi percorsi naturalistici. Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.Lux

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Villa Susanna, Nonsuch BayContemporary Style Price on Request

Crisp, cool lines characterise this uber-stylish four-bedroom home overlooking tranquil Nonsuch Bay. From the solid mahogany wood doors to the plethora of designer fittings and fixtures, not a detail has been left to chance on the property’s interior design. Light and airy, complemented by high vaulted ceilings, gentle trade winds keep the house cool and comfortable all year round. Large sliding glass doors open onto a glorious sundeck and swimming pool, affording magnificent ocean views. Villa Susanna is available fully-furnished and benefits further from a grass tennis court and stand-by electricity generator. Set on 12 acres of land, the area is ideal for development.

Lo stile contemporaneo Prezzo su richiestaQuesta villa iper-elegante con quattro camere da letto e vista sulla tranquillità di Nonsuch Bay spicca per le sue linee fresche e molto trendy. Dalle porte in mogano massello all’infinita quantità di decori e complementi d’arredamento di design, quando sono stati progettati gli interni di questa splendida proprietà nessun dettaglio è stato lasciato al caso. Questa villa, infatti, è luminosa e ariosa, completata da alti soffitti a volta e rinfrescata dalla gentile brezza degli alisei: è semplicemente un luogo confortevole in ogni stagione dell’anno. In più, grandi porte scorrevoli in vetro si aprono su un importante solarium con piscina che gode di una magnifica vista sull’oceano. Villa Lucrezia è completamente arredata e dispone persino di uno splendido campo da tennis in erba e di un generatore autonomo per la fornitura di energia elettrica. Il lotto è ideale per un eventuale sviluppo immobiliare, grazie alla sua estensione che spazia su ben 12 ettari di terreno (48.600 mq circa).Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.

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Villa AzuraEco-friendly Eden Price on Request

From the award-winning climate control beds to the environmentally-friendly wall plaster, Villa Azura allows you to reduce your carbon footprint – without compromising luxury. This fabulous three-bedroom home also boasts a stunning infinity pool, stylishly-designed spacious interior, tropical gardens and exceptional 360 degree ocean views from the roof terrace. A sunken den affords privacy for quiet work or relaxation, while each bedroom has its own pergola-covered patio overlooking the sea, an en-suite bathroom and outdoor walled rain shower.

Un paradiso totalmente ecologico Prezzo su richiestaDai letti con un premiato sistema di controllo climatico all’intonaco completamente ecologico, Villa Azura ti consentirà di ridurre le tue emissioni di anidride carbonica, senza dover rinunciare al lusso.In più, questa favolosa casa con tre camere da letto vanta una splendida piscina a sfioro, interni spaziosi progettati con estrema eleganza, giardini tropicali e una vista assolutamente mozzafiato. La casa dispone anche di una sala sotterranea che ti offrirà la più completa privacy per lavorare in tranquillità o per rilassarti come vuoi, in più, ogni camera ha il suo patio coperto da un meraviglioso pergolato che si affaccia sul mare, bagno privato e doccia a pioggia con pareti di protezione disposta all’esterno.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected] + 1 268 562 8174.Lux

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August HillCaribbean Charm Price on Request

August Hill is located on the southeast coast of Antigua. Its spectacular, prime location at the end of this very private residential area captures stunning panoramic views over Half Moon Bay. The entire property covers approximately 2 acres of elevated land with 240-degree views, as well as winding walkways, private dining and lounging areas. The property also boasts an infinity edged swimming pool and spacious sun terrace.

Caribbean Charm Trattative riservateAugust Hill è una proprietà situata sulla costa sud-orientale di Antigua. La sua spettacolare ed esclusiva posizione ai margini di questa vera e propria area residenziale consente di ammirare lo splendido panorama sulla Half Moon Bay. L’intera proprietà si estende su circa 2 acri di terreno collinare che offre viste a 240°, sentieri serpeggianti e zone private per mangiare o riposare. La proprietà è inoltre dotata di una piscina angolare e di un’ampia terrazza per prendere il sole.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.comPer organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174. Lux

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Villa KulalaSecluded Sanctuary Price on Request

Whether it’s due to the al fresco dining area with views over Devil’s Bridge, the proximity to one of Antigua’s finest beaches or the stunning Balinese timber work, this four-bedroom property is a secluded gem. A nature lover’s paradise with private access to Long Bay, the villa is set among verdant gardens with a charming courtyard, infinity pool and unobstructed Atlantic Ocean vistas. Balinese timber columns, furniture and artwork complement an elegant open-plan living area, which opens onto the courtyard and verandah.

Un santuario nascosto Prezzo su richiestaQuesta villa con quattro camere da letto è un vero e proprio gioiello nascosto, sia per la sua zona pranzo posta all’esterno con vista su Devil’s Bridge, sia per la possibilità di accedere comodamente ad una delle spiagge più belle di Antigua, che si trova nelle immediate vicinanze, sia per i suoi intarsi mozzafiato in legno balinese. In più, questo paradiso degli amanti della natura è immerso tra giardini verdeggianti, un incantevole cortile, una fantastica piscina a sfioro e panorami che spaziano liberamente sull’Oceano Atlantico. Inoltre, colonne, mobili e opere varie in legno balinese completano il suo elegante soggiorno open space, che si apre sul cortile e sulla veranda.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.

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Willoughby Bay LandInvest in Paradise Price on request

100 acres of prime waterfront land for sale overlooking the magnificent Willoughby Bay on Antigua’s South coast. This is the perfect opportunity for a development of residential properties or for a boutique hotel and marina. The location is in easy distance of historic Nelson’s Dockyard and the restaurants and bars of English Harbour. For those with vision to develop this prime location, this invest could prove to be an incredible prospect.

Un investimento in ParadisoPrezzo su richiesta100 acri di esclusivo terreno fronte mare in vendita; con vista sullamagnifica Willoughby Bay, lungo la costa meridionale di Antigua.È un’opportunità ideale per costruire proprietà residenziali o unhotel boutique con porticciolo turistico. Occupa una posizioneconveniente per raggiungere lo storico Nelson’s Dockyard e i ristorantie i bar dell’English Harbour. Per chi riconosce il potenziale di sviluppodi questa posizione eccezionale, questo investimento potrebberivelarsi un incredibile prospettiva.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.comPer organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.Lux

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SeaviewsCaribbean Retreat Price Guide: US$595,000

As the name suggests, this wonderful hillside two-cottage property boasts spectacular ocean views, taking in Bird Island and Long Bay’s acclaimed white sandy beach. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and within a gated community, both cottages have one bedroom and bathroom. There is a spacious deck and gazebo for alfresco dining and lounging in the sun. The cottages benefit from easterly trade winds and a natural stone-walled perimeter.

Il tuo buen retiro nei caraibi US$595.000Come suggerisce il nome, questa proprietà costituita da due meravigliosi cottage posti in cima alla collina vanta una vista sull’oceano semplicemente mozzafiato, che spazia da Bird Island alla famosissima spiaggia di sabbia bianca di Long Bay. Entrambi i cottage, che dispongono di una camera da letto e di un bagno, sono circondati da lussureggianti giardini tropicali che si trovano all’interno di un insediamento recintato. C’è un’ampia pedana con gazebo dove ti potrai godere uno splendido pranzo all’aperto o un po’ di relax al sole. Inoltre, i due cottage si proteggono dai venti alisei che spirano da est grazie alle loro pareti perimetrali in pietra naturale.. Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.

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Villa NirvanaSupreme Sanctuary Price Guide: US$2,900,000

Tucked away at the peaceful end of Jolly Harbour’s South Beach, Villa Nirvana is a beautiful beachfront estate that enjoys extraordinary water frontage and magnificent views. This outstanding home is filled with luxurious living areas, boasting four spacious bedrooms, all en-suite, as well as a stunning master suite. Other features include an exquisite kitchen with high-end fittings, a versatile family room, infinity pool and spacious private roof terrace.

Santuario supremoPrezzo base: US$2.900.000Nascosto ai margini della pacifica Jolly Harbour’s South Beach, Villa Nirvana è una splendida tenuta situata di fronte al mare, che gode di una straordinaria posizione sull’acqua e di una magnifica vista. Questa villa è composta da zone di soggiorno di lusso, quattro spaziose camere da letto spaziose (tutte con bagno privato) e da una master suite mozzafiato. Inoltre, la villa è dotata di una cucina squisitamente rifinita, una versatile stanza per tutta la famiglia, una piscina a sfioro e un’ampia terrazza privata.Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.comPer organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.Lux

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PROPERTY FOR SALE.

Villa WOceanfront Opulence Price Guide: US$1,500,000

With the ocean just steps away, affording glorious views to Prickly Pear Island, this tastefully-decorated, newly-built home in the heart of desirable Hodges Bay is a real estate gem. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom, detached property benefits further from a spacious interior, coupled with a bright, airy ambience, and large, attractive kitchen. Glass doors lead out to verdant, tropical gardens offering plenty of shade for relaxation and entertaining.

L’opulenza che si affaccia sull’oceano Prezzo base: US$1.500.000A solo pochi passi dall’oceano, che offre magnifici panorami che si affacciano su Prickly Pear Island, questa villa di recente costruzione è un gioiello del patrimonio edilizio locale, elegantemente rifinito e realizzato nel cuore di Hodges Bay, uno dei luoghi più ambiti dei caraibi. Questa proprietà appartata, infatti, dispone di tre camere da letto e due bagni, a cui si aggiunge uno spazio interno ampio, combinato ad un ambiente luminoso, arioso ed una grande e piacevole cucina. Delle porte in vetro conducono all’esterno, tra verdeggianti giardini tropicali che offrono tutta l’ombra che cerchi per rilassarti e divertirti come vuoi. Tutti i dettagli sono disponibili su www.luxurylocations.com. Per organizzare un incontro in loco, contattare [email protected]. Tel + 1 268 562 8174.Lux

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PROPERTY FOR SALE.

Hamilton No 2, St MarysPrice Guide: US$285.000• 2 bedrooms • Large communal pool • Gated community • Good rental returns

Prezzo base: US$285.000• 2 camere da letto • Ampia piscina condivisa • Situata su una proprietà recintata • Buoni profitti in caso di affitto

Villa 250E, South Finger, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$295.000• Large decking • 2 mins to Jolly Beach • Re-modeled kitchen • Boat docking facilities

Prezzo base: US$295.000• Spazioso terrazzo in legno • 2 minuti da Jolly Beach • Cucina riprogettata • Possibilità di ormeggio per barche

Villa 410D, North Finger, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$225,000• 2 bedrooms • 40ft Dock • Fully Furnished • Great rental property

Prezzo base: US$225.000• 2 camere da letto • Molo (40ft) • Completamente arredata • Grandioso potenziale di affitto

Villa 335B, North Finger Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$210,000Villa with great outdoor space• Two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms • Large balconies off both bedrooms • Large deck • Approx. 40ft finger boat dock

Prezzo indicativo: US$210.000Villa con eccezionale spazio all’aperto• Due camere da letto con bagno interno • Ampi balconi in entrambe le camere da letto • Spazioso patio • Molo per barche da circa 12m

Villa 404A, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$350,000End terrace two-bedroom unit with stylish interior• Quality furnishings and hurricane shutters • 40ft mooring • Spectacular waterfront views • Close to beach and amenities

Prezzo consigliato: US$ 350.000Unità di testa con terrazzo e due stanze da letto, dotata di interni dallo stile elegante• Arredi di qualità e persiane anti-uragano • Attracco per una barca da 12 metri • Vista mozzafiato sul lungomare • Nelle vicinanze della spiaggia e dei principali servizi

Villa 332F, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$200,000Beautiful two-bedroom villa overlooking the golf course• Private master suite balcony • Private plunge pool • Short walk to the beach • Secluded outdoor terrace with mountain views

Prezzo consigliato: US$ 200.000Bella villa con due camere e vista sul campo da golf• Balcone privato con accesso alla suite principale • Piscina privata • A breve distanza dalla spiaggia • Terrazza privata all’aperto, ben isolata e con vista sulle montagneLux

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Villa 419A, North Finger Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$228,000Beautiful villa located on the North Finger• Majestic waterfront view • Private master suite balcony • Light and spacious • Close to Jolly Harbour’s North Beach

Prezzo base: US$228.000Bellissima villa situata sul North Finger • Maestosa vista fronte acqua • Master suite con balcone privato • Vani luminosi e spaziosi • Vicina alla Jolly Harbour’s North Beach

Villa 238A, South Finger Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$350,000Expansive outdoor living• Wonderful marina views • Private finger pier • Fantastic waterside terrace and deck • Garage space

Prezzo base: US$350.000Ampia zona esterna abitabile• Magnifiche viste sulla marina • Piccolo pontile privato • Fantastico terrazzo in legno sull’acqua • Spazio garage

Villa 218E, South Finger Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$285,000East facing two-bedroom property• Two minutes walk to Jolly Beach • Two en-suite bathrooms • Patio with extension opportunity • Space for 30–40ft boat dock

Prezzo indicativo: US$285.000Proprietà con due camere da letto e vista a est• A due minuti a piedi da Jolly Beach • Due bagni interni • Patio con possibilità di ampliamento • Spazio per un pontile per barche da 9–12 m

Villa 411A, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$245,000Tastefully revamped two-bedroom waterfront villa• Beautifully maintained end unit • Excellent investment opportunity • 30ft boat dock • Two and a half bathrooms and two balconies

Prezzo consigliato: US$245.000Villa fronte mare con due camere da letto rinnovata con gran gusto• Unità di testa molto ben tenuta • Eccellente opportunità di investimento• Bacino che può ospitare una barca da 9 metri • Tre bagni (uno di servizio) e due balconi

Villa 224C, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$275,000Waterfront two-bedroom villa on Jolly Harbour’s South Finger• Retiled throughout, new bathrooms and kitchen • Above-water decking • Garage transformed into laundry room • Stylish fully-equipped kitchen

Prezzo consigliato: US$275.000Villa fronte mare con due camere da letto sulla punta sud di Jolly Harbour• Completamente ristrutturata a nuovo, con cucina e bagni rifatti • Pedana sospesa sull’acqua • Garage trasformato in lavanderia • Elegante cucina interamente attrezzata

Villa 403F, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$285,000Two-bedroom waterfront North Finger villa• Spectacular balcony views • Large shaded terrace • Close proximity to amenities • Private master suite balcony

Prezzo consigliato: US$285.000Villa fronte mare con due camere da letto sulla punta nord• Balcone con vista mozzafiato • Grande terrazza ombreggiata • Nelle immediate vicinanze di tutti i servizi • Balcone privato con accesso alla suite principaleLux

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PROPERTIES FOR SALE.

Pimento Villa, Harbour ViewPrice Guide: US$450,000Beautiful Caribbean style villa located close to Antigua’s most spectacular beaches• 2,000 sq. ft. of interior space • Four tastefully decorated bedrooms• Generous sun deck with swimming pool • Five minute walk to Jolly Harbour

Prezzo base: US$450.000Bellissima villa in stile caraibico situato vicino alle spiagge più spettacolari di Antigua• Spazio interno di 2.000 sq. ft. (circa 610 mq.) • 4 camere da letto decorate con gusto • Ampio solarium con piscina • A 5 minuti di cammino da Jolly Harbour

Bay Villa, Nonsuch BayPrice Guide: US$495,000Exceptional villa within Nonsuch Bay Resort• Large balcony overlooking the pool area • Access to four-star resort facilities • Two large bedrooms with en-suites • Beautiful ocean views

Prezzo consigliato: US$495.000Villa spettacolare all’interno del Nonsuch Bay Resort• Ampio balcone con vista sulla zona piscina • Accesso ai servizi di un resort a 4 stelle • Due grandi camere da letto con bagno privato • Vista mozzafiato sull’oceano

Town House 24, Nonsuch BayPrice Guide: US$700,000Waterfront property on Antigua’s East Coast• Three bedrooms • Garden courtyard • Private pool • Within the NonsuchBay gated resort

Prezzo base: US$700.000Proprietà fronte mare sulla costa orientale di Antigua• Tre camere da letto • Cortile con giardino • Piscina privata • All’interno delresort custodito e con canello di Nonsuch Bay

Summer Breeze, Jolly Harbour areaPrice Guide: US$695,000Spacious two-bedroom home on famous ‘Sleeping Indian’ hillside• Vast shaded balcony overlooking tropical vegetation • Half an acre of land• 12,000 gallon pool • Fully furnished; includes four-poster beds

Prezzo di Riferimento: US$695.000Spazioso bilocale sulla famosa collina ‘Sleeping Indian’• Grande balcone ombreggiato con vista su vegetazione tropicale • Mezzo acro di terra • Piscina da 45.400 litri • Interamente arredata; include 4 posti letto

Coconut House, Nonsuch Bay Price Guide: US$795,000Newly built three-bedroom home within Nonsuch Bay Resort• Beautifully finished to exceptional standards • Large private garden with pool • Planning permission to extend • Fully equipped with contemporary high-end appliances

Prezzo consigliato: US$795.000Proprietà di nuova costruzione con tre camere da letto nel Nonsuch Bay Resort• Finiture eccezionali con standard elevatissimi • Ampio giardino privato con piscina • Dispone di tutti i permessi per ampliare la proprietà • Completamente attrezzata con nuovissimi elettrodomestici di fascia alta

Hodges Bay House, Hodges BayPrice on RequestDesirably located four-bedroom home • Ideally situated for rentals • Large swimming pool • Quarter acre site • Close proximity to acclaimed restaurants

Prezzo su richiestaProprietà con quattro camere da letto in posizione eccezionale• Ideale da affittare • Grande piscina • Lotto di terreno da 4 acri (16.200 mq circa) • Nelle immediate vicinanze di famosissimi ristorantiLux

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Pelican House, Turtle BayPrice Guide: US$2,400,000Beachfront property over looking Falmouth Harbour• Three bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms • Panoramic views • Beach acesss • Opportunity to build extension or cottages

Prezzo base: US$2.400.000Proprietà fronte mare con vista su Falmouth Harbour • Tre camere da letto con doccia interna • Viste panoramiche • Accesso alla spiaggia • Possibilità di costruire ampliamenti o cottage

Bird Villa, Hodges BayPrice Guide: US$585,000Beautiful detached residence close to St. John’s• Four bedrooms • Large landscaped garden • Situated in the popular Hodges Bay area • Well built and maintained property

Prezzo indicativo: US$585.000Splendida residenza indipendente, vicino a St. John’s • Quattro camere da letto • Ampio giardino paesaggistico • Situata nella rinomata area di Hodges Bay• Proprietà ben costruita e mantenuta

Beach House Five, Tamarind HillsPrice Guide: US$1,100,000Beautifully presented fully-furnished townhouse• Finished to extremely high standard • Stunning ocean views from hillside location • Luxurious three-bedroom home • Property split into three levels

Prezzo consigliato: US$1,100.000Villa a schiera completamente arredata e perfettamente rifinita• Finiture di fattura estremamente pregevole • Vista mozzafiato che domina l’oceano dalla collina • Lussuosa unità con tre camere da letto • Proprietà suddivisa in tre livelli

Villa Seacrest, Tamarind HillsPrice Guide: US$495,000Beautifully designed one and two-bedroom hillside villas• Expansive views over Caribbean Sea • Private plunge pool and sundeck • High quality build and finish • Open-plan kitchen and living area

Prezzo consigliato: US$495.000Ville sulla collina con una o due camere da letto splendidamente realizzate• Ampi panorami sul Mar dei Caraibi • Terrazza con solarium e piscina privata • Struttura e finiture di altissima qualità • Cucina e zona giorno open space

Searays, Tamarind HillsPrice Guide: From US$900,000 (2-bed)Two-storey properties within five-star resort• Two-bedroom and four-bedroom homes available • Glass balconies and sliding doors affording spectacular ocean views • Black infinity edge pools • Magnificent sunset-facing hillside location

Prezzo consigliato: da US$900.000 (2 camere da letto)Proprietà su due piani all’interno di un resort a cinque stelle• Unità disponibili: con due o quattro camere da letto • Balconi e porte scorrevoli con vetrata con una vista spettacolare sull’oceano • Elegantissime piscine a sfioro di colore nero • Magnifica posizione, in cima alla collina e rivolta verso il tramonto

Sugar Ridge Villas, overlooking Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$1,265,000Unique development within exclusive Sugar Ridge Resort• Breathtaking panoramic views over Caribbean Sea • Stunning hillside location • Access to four-star resort facilities • Nearby nature trail

Prezzo consigliato: US$1.265.000Un intervento unico nell’esclusivo Sugar Ridge Resort• Vista panoramica mozzafiato sul Mar dei Caraibi • Splendida posizione in collina • Accesso ai servizi di un resort a 4 stelle • Nelle vicinanze di un percorso naturalistico

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470 St James, Mamora BayPrice Guide: US$695,000Beach side villa within the St James Club village• Three bedrooms • Up and down balconies • A stones throw away from the beach • Great rental potential

Prezzo indicativo: US$695.000Villa di fronte alla spiaggia all’interno del St James Club village • Tre camere da letto • Balconi su e giù • Ad un passo dalla spiaggia • Ottima per l’affitto

Villa 414B, North Finger Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$350.000Well presented south facing villa• 2 bedrooms • Extra large decking • 25ft finger pier • Extended masterbedroom

Prezzo base: US$350.000Bellissima villa con vista a sud• 2 camere da letto • Spaziosissimo terrazzo in legno • Molo in legno (25ft) • Ampia camera matrimoniale

Villa Kirby, Harbour ViewPrice Guide: US$595,000Spacious four-bedroom holiday home• Three bathrooms • Large decking with Gazebo • Private swimming pool • Fully furnished

Prezzo indicativo: US$595.000Spaziosa casa vacanze con 4 camere da letto• Tre bagni • Ampio patio con gazebo • Piscina privata • Completamente arredata

St James Plot, Mamora BayPrice Guide: US$895,000Spectacular residential plot within the St James Club• Approx. 1 Acre • Desirable corner plot • 240 degree views over St James Club • Great investment opportunity

Prezzo indicativo: US$895.000Spettacolare lotto residenziale all’interno del St James Club • Circa 1 acro • Lotto all’angolo desiderabile • Vista a 240 gradi sul St James Club • Opportunità di un grande investimento

Cockle Bay, North CoastPrice on RequestDevelopment investment • 20 Acres • Planning in principle • Located 5 minutes from Airport & St Johns • Excellent investment opportunity

Prezzo su richiesta• Gli investimenti per lo sviluppo • 20 ettari • Pianificazione in linea di principio - Situato a 5 minuti dall’aeroporto e St Johns • Ottima opportunità di investimento

Harbour Lookout, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$995,000Three-bedroom home with stunning harbour views• Well-presented gated community property • Private master suite verandah • With self-contained, separate entrance two-bedroom apartment • Open-plan living, dining and kitchen area

Prezzo consigliato: US$995.000Unità con 3 camere da letto e vista mozzafiato sulla baia • Proprietà ben tenuta all’interno di un insediamento recintato • Veranda privata con accesso alla suite principale • Appartamento separato (trilocale) con ingresso autonomo • Soggiorno, sala da pranzo e zona cucina open space

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Carib House, Turtle BayPrice on RequestQuintessential tropical hideaway offering serenity and seclusion• Two acres of beautifully landscaped gardens • Walking distance of the beach • Five beautifully finished bedrooms, four bathrooms • Highly successful rental history

Prezzo su richiestaLa quintessenza del buen retiro ai tropici che offre serenità e solitudine • Due acri (9.100 mq circa) di bellissimi giardini e paesaggi • A pochi passi dalla spiaggia • Cinque camere e quattro bagni splendidamente rifiniti • Precedenti molto promettenti in fatto di affitto • Balcone privato

The Cove Penthouse, Blue WatersPrice Guide: US$1,250,000An exclusive luxury suite located on a cliff top• Stunning views • 2,690 sq. ft. of luxury living space • Two master suites and third bedroom • Private balcony

Prezzo base: US$1.250.000Una esclusiva suite di lusso situata sulla cima di una scogliera• Con viste mozzafiato • Una superficie abitativa di lusso pari a 2.690 sq. ft. (ca. 820 mq.) • Due suite matrimoniali e da una terza camera da letto • Balcone privato

Palm Point, Jolly HarbourPrice Guide: US$8,000,000Exquisite deluxe six-bedroom beachfront home• Open-plan living area overlooking beach, private pool and Jacuzzi• Large mooring for yachts • Planning permission for additional staff quarters • Within gated community with 24-hour security

Prezzo consigliato: US$8.000.000Spettacolare unità deluxe fronte mare con sei camere da letto • Soggiorno open space affacciato sulla spiaggia, piscina privata e Jacuzzi • Ampio attracco per yacht • Dispone di tutti i permessi per costruire un’ala supplementare per il personale • All’interno di un insediamento recintato con servizio di sicurezza disponibile 24 ore su 24

Villa Liene, Willoughby BayPrice Guide: US$4,500,000Magnificent six-bedroom beachfront property• 8,500 sq ft stylish contemporary living space • Floor to ceiling custom-made hurricane-proof sliding glass panes • Close proximity to Nelson’s Dockyard • Private beach and custom-built infinity pool

Prezzo consigliato: US$4.500.000Straordinaria proprietà fronte mare con sei camere da letto • Unità elegante e spaziosa di 800 metri quadrati dallo stile contemporaneo • Pannelli in vetro scorrevole anti-uragano realizzati su misura che si estendono dal pavimento al soffitto • Nelle immediate vicinanze di Nelson’s Dockyard • Spiaggia privata e piscina a sfioro realizzata su misura

The Cove Suite, Blue WatersPrice Guide: US$425,000Stunning one-bedroom apartment within the luxury Blue Waters Resort• 700 sq. ft. of luxury accommodation • Magnificent sea views • Communal swimming pool • Full use of Blue Water Resort facilities

Prezzo base: US$425.000Meraviglioso appartamento con una camera da letto situato nel lussuoso Blue Waters Resort• Appartamento di lusso con superficie di 700 sq. ft. (ca. 213 mq.) • Magnifica vista sul mare • Piscina condivisa • Possibilità di usufruire di tutti i servizi del Blue Waters Resort

Passion Village, Valley ChurchPrice Guide: From US$400,000Dual development of 10 and 16 homes, pool and take-away restaurant• Tranquil setting less than a mile from the hub of Jolly Harbour • Short walk from one of Antigua’s finest beaches • Haven for local flora and fauna • Italian porcelain stoneware floors

Prezzo consigliato: da US$400.000 US$Doppio intervento di sviluppo con 10 e 16 unità, piscina e ristorante take-away• Posizione tranquilla a meno di 1,6 km dall’hub di Jolly Harbour • A breve distanza da una delle spiagge più belle di Antigua • Rifugio per la fauna e la flora locale • Pavimenti in gres porcellanato di fattura italiana

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www.villa-management-antigua.com

Letting your property can be a scary business. We want to make sure that you get exactly what you want, whether it’s a manager to maintain your property in your absence for peace of mind or full rental management to maximise your return on investment.

With you every step of the way

Call us today on +1 268 562 7814

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We realise that first impressions count and we want you to get the most out of your villa. It will always be presented in the way you would want it to be.

We insist on only using the best and most qualified maintenance staff for all our properties

1. YOUR WAYThere are a number of different ways we can manage your property. Choose from our many services to ensure your property is managed the way you want it.

2. MAXIMISING RENTAL INCOMEWe realise that the needs of each homeowner are different. We can tailor your management package to suit your needs, be it short term or long term rentals, or accommodating for your holiday.

3. KEEPING OUR PROMISEWe will always care for your property as if it were our own. No matter the issue we want you to feel you can let us take care of it to give you the peace of mind you want when leaving your property in our care.

www.villa-management-antigua.com

VILLA MANAGEMENT

Call us today on +1 268 562 7814

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HOLIDAY LETS.

Villa NirvanaPrice from US$7,525 per weekJust steps from pristine sandy shores this outstanding four-bedroom home is filled with natural light and luxurious living areas. All bedrooms are en-suite; the master suite has water views, a walk in closet and exquisite bathroom with a beautiful claw foot tub. There is a gorgeous kitchen fitted with state-of-the-art appliances and granite work-tops, a versatile family/media room, infinity pool and spacious private roof terrace.

Coral Beach HousePrice from US$6,500 per weekCoral Beach House is a newly built 4 bedroom, 5 bathroom villa situated on the breathtaking coral sands of Palm Beach, Jolly Harbour. Set in beautiful landscaped gardens with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. The island of Montserrat can clearly be seen with spectacular views of the volcano. There are four fully air conditioned double bedrooms two with king size beds and two with singles. All bedrooms have fully fitted wardrobes and full ensuite facilities The master bedroom has the added advantage of a large walk in shower and access through french windows onto the rear patio gardens and beach.

The Mill Price from US$5,000 per week The mill is a luxurious waterfront villa superbly positioned to guarantee maximum enjoyment from your Antiguan vacation. Situated within the highly desirable Jolly Harbour Resort, a gated community offering a wide range of amenities. The villa has three sumptuous double bedrooms and a fourth bedroom with 2 sets of bunk beds, one which is double and a single bed that can accommodate up to 6 children. All the bedrooms are complete with en-suite facilities.

The White House Price from US$2,000 per weekThe White House is a charming 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom detached villa with its own private swimming pool. Stylishly furnished – this villa is a perfect family retreat. It has a wonderful, spacious, living area with enough seating for up to eight people and a dining table for six. There is a fully equipped kitchen which includes a fridge, 4 ring stove, grill, microwave, freezer, oven and dishwasher. There is air conditioning throughout, a utility room with washer. Towels and linen are provided and there is a weekly maid service.

White SandsPrice from US$7,000 per weekThis elegant, beachfront home is located on the south beach of Jolly Harbour, offering spectacular waterfront views of the Caribbean Sea and Jolly Beach. Creating a modern, sophisticated feeling throughout, this stunning house has been built to the very highest of standards. The wonderfully impressive master suite has elegant french doors leading onto a private patio overlooking the beach, the en-suite bathroom leads out to a beautifully designed outdoor shower. The two detached guest suites offer large en-suite bedrooms and lounge areas.

Villa Sunset Price from US$4,000 per weekBella Vista is a newly built luxurious villa perched high on the hillside within the prestigious Sugar Ridge Resort. The villa is being offered fully furnished and has been finished to an extremely high standard with design and great attention to detail present throughout. The villa boasts three equally large double bedrooms that have been dressed beautifully with stunning views towards the ocean, and with luxurious bathrooms with full body showers. Lux

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Milk and HoneyPrice from US$2,000 per weekA luxurious four-bedroom detached villa near Jolly Harbour, the property has been stylishly decorated throughout with comfortable, quality furniture. There is a fully equipped kitchen with a large dining table. The house benefits further from central air conditioning and a generous decking area complete with outdoor furniture and a large swimming pool.

Villa 222C, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$900 per weekA wonderful waterfront two-bedroom villa with a large extended deck, offering stunning views across the harbour. Both bedrooms are en-suite with lovely outlooks.

Featherhead -

Beach House 4Price from US$3,000 per weekThis beautifully presented fully furnished 3 bedroom townhouse is set on the waters edge within the first class Tamarind Hills development on the southwest coast of Antigua. Split over 3 levels this home provides luxurious and functional living spaces all finished to an extremely high standard. The Ground floor is equipped with a fully fitted kitchen with modern appliances, which flows seamlessly through to the open plan living area.

Carib House, Falmouth Harbour

Price from US$8,120 per weekA spacious, colonial-style villa which can easily accommodate groups of up to 10 people, this is an ideal get-away for a holiday, honeymoon or intimate wedding reception. There are five generous double bedrooms, all screened and with ceiling fans, a spacious indoor living room with games area and an open-plan fully-fitted kitchen. There is also a large outdoor seating area with comfortable wicker furniture overlooking the pool.

Villa 221BPrice from $800 per week This superbly located villa near the end of a cul-de-sac on the South finger of Jolly Harbour, enjoys a wonderful outlook open to the cooling tradewind breeze, and combines easy access to the commercial facilities with less than a four minute walk to the glorious beach. The excellent accommodation, which is being constantly upgraded, comprises: large master bedroom with super king size bed and waterfront balcony; second bedroom overlooking gardens, with queen size double and single bed.

Featherhead, Harbour ViewPrice from US$1,750 per week Just seconds away from Jolly Harbour, this fabulous four-bedroom property with swimming pool is within easy access of several bars and restaurants, an-18 hole golf course, tennis and squash courts, a well-stocked supermarket – and one of the island’s finest beaches.

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Villa 224C, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$875 per weekA charming two-bedroom waterfront villa with two and a half bathrooms, and a balcony accessed from the master suite. The property has been revamped with new bathrooms and a new fully-fitted kitchen. The spacious, open-plan living and dining area has patio doors leading onto the outdoor terrace and decking. Set in a gated community, the home benefits from close proximity to numerous amenities.

Beach Sand, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$875 per weekSuperbly located a short walk from Jolly Beach, this two-bedroom villa is fully equipped with TV and DVD player, pots and pans, dining ware and cooking utensils, kettle, toaster, microwave, oven, fridge, freezer, washing machine and iron. The bungalow offers two double bedrooms, which share one main bathroom, and is suitable for up to four people.

Villa 235C, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$750 per weekA gentle stroll from one of the island’s finest beaches, this delightful villa has a newly refurbished kitchen with new appliances and breakfast bar. There is a spacious open-plan lounge and dining area, and two bedrooms, one with a balcony. Set within a gated community, there is an abundance of excellent local amenities, bars and restaurants.

Villa 238C, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$875 per weekSituated within a gated community with 24-hour security, this two-bedroom villa boasts wonderful views across the marina from its outdoor terrace and decking, perfect for alfresco dining and enjoying the wonderful Caribbean sunsets. Downstairs there is an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. The property is fully air-conditioned and has two and a half bathrooms and a balcony from the master suite. It’s close to amenities, bars and restaurants.

Land’s End House, Nonsuch BayPrice from US$4,500 per weekSet in the exclusive Nonsuch Bay Resort, this exceptional four-bedroom villa offers the ultimate in luxury living. The interior has been impressively designed down to the smallest detail, with floors and walls adorned in Italian marble. However, the focal point has to be its spectacular infinity edge swimming pool, with breathtaking views across the bay.

Powder Magazine, English HarbourPrice from US$14,000 per weekImagine waking every morning in the heart of an 18th century English colonial dockyard, just a stone’s throw away from the shimmering waters of the Caribbean Sea. The Powder Magazine is a beautifully unique property boasting a supersize swimming pool with bar service, sundeck and private dock. The fully equipped villa has four generous bedrooms with four-poster beds, en-suites, and private balconies with superb views. Lux

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Coconut House, Nonsuch BayPrice from US$3,000 per weekThis newly built well-appointed three-bedroom home, within the exclusive Nonsuch Bay Resort, has been completed to the highest of standards.The large open-plan living, dining and kitchen area provides an ideal space for entertaining and comes fully equipped with contemporary high-end appliances. The kitchen benefits from direct access onto a spacious shaded verandah and a perfectly sized pool in the private garden.

Villa 412D Price from US$600 per weekThis delightful, waterfront villa, situated on the North finger of Jolly Harbour is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy stunning views across the Marina. On entering the villa there is a full size kitchen complete with all appliances and utensils. The kitchen and living room are open plan. The lounge has seating for 6 people and has full cable TV. There is a dining table inside as well as outside, giving you the choice of where to enjoy your meals.

Sea Breeze, Nonsuch BayPrice from US$3,000 per weekSeduced by the idea of tropical living but have no desire to ditch modern amenities in the process? This newly built three-bedroom home with a pool, enveloped in lush vegetation, is in the heart of one of Antigua’s most exclusive resorts. The living, dining and kitchen areas have been thoughtfully placed upstairs, benefiting from the sweeping views and high ceilings. Also upstairs is a guest bedroom with shower. Downstairs, two more spacious bedrooms are complemented by deluxe supersize en-suite bathrooms.

Brown’s Bay Estate, Brown’s BayPrice from US$12,250 per weekThis bay front luxury villa comprises three living quarters, interconnected by natural stone-paved walkways, comfortably sleeping up to eight guests. There are four bedrooms and bathrooms, including a charming outdoor bathroom.The fully-fenced property is entered via electric gates and a private drive. It borders a tranquil bay with its own dock and private beach with sun-loungers and kayaks. There is regular maid service, Wifi, cable TV in all bedrooms, international phone line, printer, and gym equipment.

Kulala Villa, Long BayPrice from US$3,500 per weekWhether it’s due to the al fresco dining area with views over Devil’s Bridge, the proximity of one of Antigua’s finest beaches or the stunning Balinese timber work and furniture, this four-bedroom property is a secluded gem. The open-plan living area includes a fully fitted kitchen, a spacious inside dining area and a games room with pool table. The living area opens out onto the courtyard and verandah. Each of the four large bedrooms has an en-suite bathroom.

The Long House, WillikiesPrice from US$2,500 per weekBoasting superb Atlantic views, this newly constructed five-bedroom home has an immense tropical garden, five bathrooms and a courtyard-style garden and infinity pool. Tastefully decorated and designed to be in harmony with the environment, there is a large verandah that extends the length of the house connecting all rooms and offering the experience of indoor/outdoor living every step of the way.Lux

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Blue House Price: US$3,500 per monthLocated on the south finger of Jolly Harbour is this detached 3 bedroom property. It has a very large kitchen with a dinning room and lounge which both lead out to the patio. The property has a nice size garden, decking, mooring and a boat lift. All rooms have AC. The Blue house is a perfect family home and just 5 mins walk to the beach and communal swimming pool.

Palm VillaPrice reduced to US$2,500 per month,

Enjoying a wonderful gentle breeze every day, this two storey building is perfect for weddings & events. It has four 35ft long galleries, two upstairs and two downstairs, ensuring that every bedroom has access to a gallery, and stunning views. A 35ft x 18ft pool, surrounded by a huge greenheart deck, outdoor dining area, and sun loungers and chairs, makes this the perfect villa for large groups or families who want to enjoy all the comforts of home, with the benefits of tropical living. This property has 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms.

Villa 421FPrice from US$1,000 per monthA well finished and furnished end unit villa located on Jolly Harbour’s North Finger. The villa offers light and spacious accommodation throughout with the interior recently painted in neutral tones. The open plan kitchen flows through to the large and comfortable living area, which in turn leads on to the spacious outdoor patio. Overlooking the water, the patio has room for a large outdoor dining area and BBQ.

Villa 403H, Jolly HarbourPrice US$1,100 per monthWith fabulous views across the marina, this two-bedroom waterfront villa has a light, airy open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. Large glass doors lead out to a spacious covered terrace. Upstairs there are two good-sized bedrooms each with en-suite shower rooms. The master bedroom has a four-poster bed and large balcony. The villa has a washing machine, cable TV and internet.

Villa 238G, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$850 per monthThis delightful waterfront villa has full hurricane shutters, a lovely deck extension with fabulous views, outdoor dining and a 30ft mooring pier. The open-plan downstairs has a full size kitchen, with all appliances and utensils, and a living and dining area. The master bedroom has a queen size bed and large balcony while the second bedroom has two single beds. There are two en-suite bathrooms and a downstairs washroom.

Villa 407D, Jolly HarbourPrice US$800 per monthThis charming property has a spacious, open-plan living and dining area and fully equipped kitchen. Large patio doors lead out onto a fabulous, partially covered, waterfront terrace. There are two decent sized bedrooms each with en-suite bathroom. The master bedroom has a queen size double bed and doors leading onto the balcony. Each bedroom has built-in wardrobes and ample storage space.Lux

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LONG TERM RENTALS.

Villa 331C, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$900 per monthA beautiful two-storey waterfront home offering spectacular marina views. The ground floor has a fully equipped kitchen, and stylishly-furnished living and dining area. Outside there’s a deck area with awning, sun loungers, furniture, barbecue grill and boat mooring. The master bedroom has a queen size bed and private balcony while the second also has a queen bed. There are two and a half bathrooms.

Colibri Court, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$2,000 per monthSituated on the Golf Course of Jolly Harbour, is Colibri Court, a 4 star Apartment Complex. In all there are six, 3 bedroom, apartments each with spacious private terraces. The Apartments each cover just over 2000sqft of living space. As you enter the apartment you are in the dining area which has a six seater dining table and on the left is a modern kitchen kitted out with all the necessary appliances, including dish washer, fridge freeze, hob/oven, microwave , washing machine and dryer. The communal swimming pool is large and has enough space for over 25 sun beds. There are also communal toilets by the swimming pool. All Apartments have views of the golf course and the top floor also has views of the harbour.

Villa 237F, Jolly HarbourPrice from US$1,200 per monthSituated in close proximity to all of Jolly Harbour’s amenities, this tastefully decorated two-bedroom waterfront property benefits further from a 30ft mooring pier. The spacious open-plan living area opens onto a partially-shaded terrace with dining table and sunloungers overlooking the marina. The master bedroom has a large private balcony and both bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms and built-in wardrobes. The fully-fitted kitchen is complete with all appliances and utensils.

Villa 230B, Jolly HarbourPrice US$1,200 per monthThis well-maintained waterfront two-bedroom villa has a 40ft mooring pier, stylish fully equipped kitchen, and open-plan living area leading onto a partially covered patio and sundeck with outdoor furniture. Both bedrooms have an en-suite bathroom; the master also has its own balcony. Rent includes community charge, internet and TV. Utilities are tenant’s responsibility.

Villa Azure, Harbour ViewPrice from US$1,500 per monthThis charming three-bedroom, two-bathroom property is in close proximity to all of Jolly Harbour’s amenities, including a well-stocked supermarket, golf course, bars and restaurants. The stylish open-plan interior includes a fully-fitted kitchen. There is air-conditioning throughout, parking for one vehicle and a private swimming pool among lush, tropical gardens. The beach is a 10-minute walk away.

Villa Irene, Willoughby BayPrice US$2,800 per monthFrom the stylish, contemporary interior to the sweeping ocean vistas, this magnificent two-bedroom property comprises luxury living at its finest. High ceilings complement the bright, airy open-plan interior, tastefully decorated in neutral tones with high quality fittings and furnishings. French doors lead onto an expansive, partially-shaded sundeck with a swimming pool. Both bedrooms are extremely spacious, with four-poster beds and wooden blinds. They each have an en-suite bathroom with luxurious waterfall showers. There is an additional half-bathroom for guests.

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My Antigua ITizzy – a national treasure

2 What’s the best part of your work?Seeing the look on people’s faces when I’m on stage. You know, you put in all the hard work and the late nights, you look out at that crowd, you see the looks on people’s faces and that’s the greatest fulfillment there is. I am a perfectionist, so I have a lot of rehearsals to make sure everything is intact and in order beforehand. Once I get out on that stage it’s all about connecting with the audience and having a good time. I call them my ‘soca animal family’ because for that hour I am up there and everyone’s jumping and having a good time, they become my family.

2 The million-dollar question – where DO you get your energy from?(laughs) People kept asking me the same question when I performed in Belgium recently. They say ‘once you love what you do, you never work a day in your life’. And that’s what gives me the drive. I never really get tired; sometimes I am running on no sleep at all and I’m still going.

2 How was Carnival this year for you?Absolutely amazing. This year saw my re-entry into the Soca Monarch competition (after a six-year absence). The fans welcomed me back with open arms, it felt incredible. The only sad thing was my dad was not there, although I know he was watching over me. He passed away in February from lung cancer. We didn’t know what was wrong with him until it was too late. He was the breadwinner of the family, the one who was always encouraging us, so to see this big man go downhill and disappear so soon was really hard.

MY ANTIGUA. December 2013–June 2014

2 Your father (Charlesworth ‘Obediah’ Sebastian) was a music legend in his own right; how much did he inspire you growing up?Music is my earliest childhood memory. I remember always waking up at home around music. My father was a guitarist and vocalist so whether he was playing, singing or rehearsing, we were always surrounded by music. It’s been a part of my life forever.

2 What do you love most about Antigua?There’s a lot to love on our beautiful island. But I would have to say, our people. And the fact that whatever happens, and whatever is going on, we are always able to get together through music and enjoy ourselves.

2 Tell us some of your favourite places to hang out on islandPepperz and Lime in Dickenson Bay put on a great beach party on Sundays. And I love watching the steel band on Sundays at Shirley Heights too. I am always working so I don’t get to hang out that much. I’m not sure I have a favourite restaurant but I can tell you where the best pizza is! - Road Runners in Village Walk. With so many beaches to choose from it’s also hard to choose a preferred one, but I would have to say Pigeon Point. I am originally from English Harbour so I spent a lot of happy times there when I was a kid.

2 How has the island changed since you were a child?A lot – especially the infrastructure. West Bus Station and the market have seen a lot of improvements from back in the day. But

With her electrifying onstage presence, almighty vocal ability and ceaseless energy, homegrown soca singer Tanzania ‘Tizzy’ Sebastian is one of

Antigua’s most prized exports. As lead singer of El-A-Kru for the last 15 years, the award-winning star has helped bring Caribbean soca (soul-calypso) music to the masses. Here, Tizzy takes time out between gigs to talk performing, perfectionism, pizzas - and the heartache of losing her beloved father.

although they look different you stillalways see a warm, smiling face – that never changes. Did you know we were once voted the most friendly country in the world?!

2 Is there anything youwould change about Antigua?I would like to develop our music industry further. They say ‘the beach is just the beginning’; we know we have the sun, sea and sand and sometimes we forget the importance of entertainment. If I was Prime Minister for the day I would put some more energy into that.

2 How is soca being received in the rest of the world these days?It’s getting there! The tempo is quite similar to dance and techno; once you can dance to it it’s easy to get into the vibe. It’s definitely getting better known. People were jumping to our music in Belgium when we performed two nightsat this year’s Antillean Festival – we even got called back on after our set.

2 What’s next for you and the band?We set out to get our music known worldwide and we’ve now performed in Belgium, France and London. We plan to continue on that path to make sure the rest of the world hears us too – Africa, Australia, wherever will have us!

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Antigua & Barbuda, Luxury Property and Lifestyle.

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