The Barmy Army is back in Barbados!
As cricket fans descend on the island this March for a classic test match showdown between the West Indies and England, Barbados is gearing up for another round of celebrations.
The last few months have been a whirlwind of non-stop activity and buzz. In November 2021, global headlines declared the news of the island’s transition to a Republic, the first country to take this step since Mauritius in 1992. This “momentous” day was marked by a glittering midnight ceremony attended by Prince Charles and Bajan superstar, Rihanna.
Barbados makes headlines and becomes a Republic
Although not in attendance, the Queen herself paid tribute to the bold step taken by Barbados, stating,
“…the people of Barbados have held a special place in my heart; it is a country rightly proud of its vibrant culture, its sporting prowess, and its natural beauty, that attracts visitors from all over the world, including many people from the United Kingdom.”
This buzz has been accompanied by a boost in the Barbados luxury real estate market. According to the 2021 Capgemini World Wealth Report, the number of high-net-worth-individuals (HNWIs) globally increased by over 1 million in the last year, corresponding with younger buyers,
“commanding a larger share of the luxury home buying market than ever before,” often with financial assistance from family.
With families purchasing homes together and taking sporting vacations, like the recent T20 cricket series, Barbados real estate and property developments like Porters Place have become extremely attractive – and represent an excellent investment opportunity.
Eco-friendly, sustainable living at Porters Place
Comprised of 21 freestanding 3 or 4 bedroom villas, Porters Place is an eco-friendly residential community surrounded by lush vegetation and mature trees. Architecturally designed to facilitate seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, the Porters Place community embodies serenity and sustainability.
The 3 bedroom villas are arranged over 1,800 square feet of covered area while the 4 bedroom option extends to 2,195 square feet of covered space with dedicated exterior patio space of approximately 1,000 square feet for either configuration. Residents can have dinner on the covered patio or lounge poolside on the deck.
Poolside at Porters Place
Of course life in Barbados is not complete until you find your nearest beach. Steps away from Porters Place is the pristine shoreline of the island’s famous West Coast. A dedicated extension for Porters Place residents means that you have your own spot on the beach providing the ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming with family and friends.
Blending the outdoors with the interior at Porters Place
“The focus is on providing a luxury product whilst promoting, enabling and maintaining a sustainable living environment.”
Each villa will have its own solar water heater, photovoltaic system and rainwater collection tank. A unique feature of the community is the organic community garden, providing residents with the opportunity to grow their own fruits and vegetables – it’s ‘garden to table’ with produce indigenous to Barbados!
From your Garden to your Table – The Organic Community Garden at Porters Place
The benefits of purchasing Barbados real estate in 2022 extend beyond being a sound financial investment. Living on island gives you year round access to a dynamic restaurant scene and newcomers like QP Bistro have reinforced Barbados’ reputation as a foodies’ dream!
Dine in Barbados at the new QP Bistro
Opened in November 2021, QP Bistro brings an authentic taste of Italy to the island. Located at the stunning location of the former Cliff Restaurant, QP Bistro boasts ocean views and chic decor. Enjoy a delectable menu and mouthwatering desserts from celebrity acclaimed dessert chef, Chef Fabrizzio – the special pasta ‘dish of the day’ is always a treat!
Luxe decor at QP Bistro
With regular live entertainment and consistently great reviews, QP Bistro is one of Barbados’ newest hotspots and makes the list of ‘top places to visit’ while you’re here. Looking for great food and a great time? Book a table now with the Island Villas Concierge.
Added to great food, Barbados is also known for sports and other events. As highlighted by the Queen, Barbados is a country rightly proud of its sporting prowess and this was evident when England arrived for the first-ever five-match T20I series between them and the West Indies in January. All 5 matches were played in Barbados over a nine day period and the atmosphere was nothing short of electric!
Cricket Holiday getaway at Wild Cane Ridge, Royal Westmoreland
Kensington Oval became the scene of an epic showdown with the West Indies emerging victorious. Hometown hero, Jason Holder, took four successive wickets during a dramatic last over as the West Indies beat England in the fifth and deciding match for a 3-2 series win. Unfortunately this was quickly followed by a 3-0 series sweep by India when they visited in February – many locals will say that this is par for the course as a West Indies cricket fan!
The countdown is now on for the three match test series between England and the West Indies in March. The party atmosphere will be in full swing and if you haven’t yet booked tickets, the time is NOW! Rental properties like the 6 bedroom Wild Cane Ridge #2 are the perfect cricket holiday getaway and you can take a virtual tour here.
Relax poolside between matches
With all of this activity, we can understand why the Queen says Barbados holds a special place in her heart. We love it too and we can’t wait to continue the celebrations throughout 2022 – see you soon!
