Archives for December 19, 2008

Not a week goes by when this resort does not appear in the British press. The host of celebrities that frequent this palatial beach front hotel, ensure that the paparazzi are primed on their boats just a few feet from the shore, ready to snap the ‘who’s who’ of the glitterati. Don’t let this put you off though, as what this property has to offer goes way beyond the facade of today’s ‘celebrity’.

Your luxury transportation will meet you from Grantley Adams International airport and whisk you along Barbados’s west coast. As you drive past some of the most exclusive homesteads in the Caribbean, you can’t help but feel that as you approach the gates of Sandy Lane, the rum punch and reggae atmosphere changes. Sweeping down the mahogany lined driveway, a Palladian style building of cream coral stone shimmering in the sunlight appears in front of the sapphire waters of the Caribbean Sea – you have ‘arrived’.

Sandy Lane is the perfect romantic retreat with the most luxurious rooms and amenities. Forget minimalistic and contemporary, Sandy Lane is traditional and plush in every respect. The finest linens and highest thread count sheets adorn the super king size bed, which you will want to laze in all day, but instead why not take the indoors, outdoors to your outside room. Not just any balcony, but with all the comforts of a private lounge. Order room service, share some quality time together and take a stroll along the beach at sunset – what could be more perfect?

For those travelling with children the Treehouse Kids Club has a variety of activities for children aged 3 to 12. Daily activities include arts and crafts sessions, sports of all kinds, tours of the local wildlife reserve and Harissons Caves and even swimming with the turtles. All activites are comlimentary and for children under 3 there is a ‘Toddler Corner’ which they can use when accompanied by an adult. Teenagers are also catered for in their own ‘Den’ with the latest computer technology and table top games.

Above and beyond the extensive amenities and facilities at Sandy Lane, one thing that guests always comment on and remember, is the exceptionally high standard of service. To the staff, every guest is a VIP and they will address you by name – now that’s the personal touch.

Oceania Cruises sail to more than 180 ports in Europe, China, the Far East, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

Featuring three intimate and elegant mid sized ships – Regatta, Insignia & Nautica, the line is looking to expand their fleet in 2010 and 2011 to include two more vessels.

The ships afford incomparable luxury, including cuisine that is simply the finest at sea. With only 684 guests to pamper, the 400 staff members cater to every whim, with highly personalized service. There’s a sense of warmth and intimacy throughout, so the ambiance resembles that of a private country club – casual, yet elegant.

Insignia, the ship that Maureen has now sailed on twice, is truly elegant and if you take a cabin on their concierge level the staterooms are of a very high standard and good size with lounge area plus your own teak veranda.

Insignia, the ship that Maureen has now sailed on twice, is truly elegant and if you take a cabin on their concierge level the staterooms are of a very high standard and good size with lounge area plus your own teak veranda.

On board there are four open seating restaurants, all offering gourmet food. The main dining room, The Grand, has tables of varying sizes and serves a variety of food with a French emphasis. The Polo Grill specialises in fish and steaks whilst the Toscana, as its name suggests, is Italian – tables at these two restaurants have to be pre-booked. The Tapas Bar and Terrace Café is self service and where breakfast is usually taken as well as lunch and even dinner: you can eat out on deck (weather permitting) or inside with its floor to ceiling windows so you don’t miss any of the passing scenery. The service at all the restaurants is excellent with courteous and helpful staff.

At each port of call a wide range of full and half day excursions are offered, but if you prefer to stay on board you can relax by the pool, enjoy a few hours in the spa or work out in the fitness centre or take part in the on board entertainment.

A really relaxing and luxurious way to visit a variety of islands and cities.

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