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Paradise at my Doorstep – A Beach Holiday in Barbados

There is nothing like viewing the world from a kayak – famous last words! Having heard only great things about this popular watersport and being tempted by the turquoise water right outside my doorstep (I am the luckiest girl in the world!), I finally decided to just go for it. After all, what was I waiting for? Well, I am pleased to report that my decision that day has been one of my best (if I do say so myself). After an impressive first attempt, excluding my lack of coordination and several spills in the water – I like to say that I was getting my feet wet (no pun…

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Living in the Lap of Luxury

These days, everyone seems to be talking about the state of the global economy. While it is true that the recession has had an adverse effect on almost every industry, there has been encouraging news in the area of real estate, specifically the luxury property market. In fact, some experts are reporting that the high-end property market is booming in certain areas – promising news for islands like Barbados, premium beach destinations traditionally favoured by the rich and famous. Research suggests that as Europe continues to experience significant upheaval, investors are shifting their focus to North America and the Caribbean.  Property in Barbados; such as luxury villas, holiday homes and…

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Budget Boost for Real Estate Industry in Barbados

With the continued global economic situation, anticipation was high leading up to the annual presentation of Barbados’ budget. For the real estate industry in particular, it was interesting to hear what plans the government proposes to ensure the continuity of one of the island’s most profitable sectors. The outcome was quite encouraging as the Government threw support behind the International Business and Financial Services sector. Already, this sector contributes a significant amount of foreign exchange to the island’s economy. Much of this is via indirect spending, namely in the area of real estate. Traditionally, it has been the Canadian market that has comprised the majority of the offshore businesses in…

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Barbados plays Massive Role in Global Green Effort

To commemorate World Environment Day and their nomination for the prestigious BHTA ‘Green Initiative’ award, Island Villas is accelerating its efforts to attain Green Globe Certification. The company is examining all of its operations, from property management to reservations, and even which suppliers the company uses; to ensure that the company’s environmental policy is being put into effect. Over the last few years the team at IV has embarked on numerous environmental initiatives. “The results have been fantastic,” says Richard Eames, Managing Director, “we have not only seen significant cost savings but more importantly we have raised awareness amongst our staff, clients, suppliers and the wider community. As we work…

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The Importance of Clean Sheets – Who Knew?

Do clean sheets translate to repeat visitors?? How can you be clean and green? How many of you have ever considered booking a hotel/villa/room and then been turned off after reading a review or hearing from someone else that the sheets were dirty? According to this article by Glenn Robins, “room hygiene is a hot topic among travellers.” Is it ever ok to not change the sheets after a guest? What about if the person only stayed for one night?? Does your answer change then? Those questions are just a bit of fun to get you thinking but there is no doubt that in general, visitor accommodation generates an obscene…

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History & Heritage

The entire IV team wishes to CONGRATULATE Barbados on its incredible achievement – having the area of Bridgetown and its Historic Garrison listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prestigious designation is only received after a rigorous screening process and once the proposed site is considered to have outstanding universal value. So, what does this really mean? Are there really benefits to heritage tourism? Research has shown that countries that receive a UNESCO World Heritage designation record a 30% increase in visitors over a period of time. This means that people want to know about the culture and the history of a place when they visit so why not…

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Return of the Green Machine

And who said Green Business couldn’t work? As more eco-friendly products hit the market and environmental consciousness continues to rise, business is waking up to a new reality. Green business is the way of the future – BUT it has to be done the right way in order to reap the benefits. That means – No Cheating! Why do we care? Well, several reasons: 1) Barbados is paradise 2) Sun, sea, sand (need I say more?) 3) As a local real estate business, Island Villas is committed to striking a balance between welcoming visitors and finding their ideal holiday home AND preserving our natural environment. Moving forward in 2012, we…

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Island Villas Pinterest Contest

“Island Villas is a friendly, people-oriented organization with a global reach, dedicated to providing exceptional customer service while maintaining an unwavering commitment to our community and the environment.” Are you looking for that perfect vacation? Do you have a Pinterest account? Well, Island Villas has just the thing for you! Island Villas would like to give you the chance to take that special vacation that you have always wanted. No purchasing, no gimmicks! This is a once in a lifetime Barbados vacation contest that is sure to please! All it takes is 6 Pins to Win! Barbados Island Villas Pinterest contest gives you not 1 but 6 opportunities to win…

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Official Rules for ‘6 Pins to Win’ Contest

6 Pins to Win SWEEPSTAKES OFFICIAL RULES NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW OR REGULATION. PARTICIPANTS MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AT THE TIME OF ENTRY. This Contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Pinterest Inc. You understand that you are providing your information to the Island Villas Limited and not to Pinterest. 1. CONTEST DESCRIPTION: The 6 Pins to Win Contest begins on Monday, May 14, 2012 at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (“EST”) and ends on Friday, June 22, 2012 at 11:59:59 p.m. EST (the “Contest Period”).  Winner will be announced Monday, June 25, 2012. The Pinterest database clock will be the timekeeper for the Sweepstakes.  Each week, there will be 5 clues as…

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Supply and Demand: Understanding the Economics of the Barbados Real Estate Market

Anyone who meets Richard Eames, Managing Director of Island Villas Ltd, is immediately struck by his passion for the real estate industry in Barbados. “On the global market, Barbados represents a unique investment opportunity that appeals to a diverse group,” says Eames, “this is the selling point that keeps the island in high demand, and will prove crucial for surviving the economic recession.” In the real estate business for nearly two decades, Eames recalls how the industry landscape has changed and the influence that Barbados’ primary tourist market, the United Kingdom, has had on property development. “Traditionally, the UK market prefers single, beachfront dwellings.  This has led to the success…

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Bernmar Centre
Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Crest, St. James, BB24016
Barbados
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