Cerulean Villa Anguilla Offers World-Class Private Retreat

Given the current world-wide economic situation, the luxury travel industry has had to adapt to the state of the global economy. Luxury hotelier Laurie Weltz, owner of Anguilla's Cerulean Villa, has found that many luxury travelers today are still seeking a five-star experience; however they are hoping to do it for less, booking a less expensive room at their favorite hotel instead of their usual site. In order to stay competitive and to ensure the Villa continues to offer the utmost in service and value, Ms. Weltz conducted a fact-finding trip to Cerulean to reduce the overall cost of a stay by nearly 20 percent, without compromising service. From complimentary night stays to cultural storytelling, Cerulean Villa continues to offer a first-class travel experience, but now with a taste of island culture and, most importantly, value.

The first step was to extend a special that offers one free night for every six booked. Cerulean Villa, which features seven bedrooms and a staff of 14, is available for rates starting at $30,000 per week for up to 14 guests ($2,143 per person, per week). In addition, Cerulean now offers complimentary long distance phone service to the U.S. and England as well as complimentary Wi-Fi, fax service and computer with Internet access.

In addition to discounted rates, Cerulean Villa has several new activities that provide an uncompromising cultural island experience at a great value. "In the past our guests were less concerned by the price of activities," says Ms. Weltz. "But this year everyone is looking for savings. One of the places we thought we could really lower costs were in the add-ons. In the past our Champagne Shipwreck Lunch on a deserted island was a very popular activity, but it is quite costly, so is the private band we used to hire to entertain our guests at our beach barbecue dinners.

This year, we have come up with some new activities that are about a fifth of the price and a lot of fun. I am really excited about them." For a magical evening along the ocean shore, Cerulean Villa offers a Beach BBQ with Bonfire and Storytelling, priced at approximately $400 for up to 14 guests (not including food). The evening starts with cocktails and a sumptuous feast on the beach as the sun is setting. As the stars come out, the guests are invited to sit around the bonfire, where they are entertained by a local storyteller, who recounts the history of Anguilla through dramatic storytelling, songs and African drumming. This is a hugely entertaining and informative evening that will delight both young and old.

In the past, guests used to enjoy Swimming with the Dolphins. For half the price guests can enjoy a thrilling Horseback Ride on the Beach at sunset for just $70 per person. For boat and nature lovers', Cerulean Villa suggests the relaxing Half-Day Snorkeling/Sightseeing Trip, as an alternative to the very costly Champagne Shipwreck Lunch. Starting at $500 per half day (depending on the length of trip and number of attendees), guest can see some of the most beautiful sights around Anguilla. Guests can enjoy snorkeling at the pristine Sandy Island, climb the cliffs at spectacular Little Bay and plunge into the sea below, and end their trip with a stop at Scilly Cay where adults can enjoy a Rum Punch, while the kids participate in crab races. For history buffs, join one of the island's most beloved residents, former Chief Minister, Sir Emile Gumbs, as he takes guests on a journey through the island's natural and historical attributes. Sir Gumb's, whose family has island roots dating back 200 years, Bird Walk/Historical Island Tour is an incredible bargain at just $20 per person. "Emile is an absolutely fascinating man, with a lot to teach about the island. He was chief minister for 13 years and involved in Anguilla's revolution in the 1960's to rejoin the British Commonwealth. Touring Anguilla with him is like being taken on a tour of Little Rock by Bill Clinton," says Ms. Weltz.

Guests also find that dining at Cerulean Villa is a first-class yet affordable experience. The daily food costs, including wine and top shelf liquor, average around $120 per person, per day, nearly 50 percent less than at nearby hotels and restaurants. And, with Cerulean Villa's Chef Athenia Walker-Fabien's superb talent and signature rum drinks, many guests forego the expensive island restaurants to savor her top notch gourmet cuisine.

"It is often said that it is much easier to trade up then down," said Cerulean Villa owner Laurie Weltz. "During the economic challenge that many are facing these days, trading down seems inevitable; however, we feel that a first-rate travel experience does not need to be compromised. At Cerulean Villa, we are consistently focused on providing not only luxury but value within that experience. We are confident that the Villa and the value-added activities that we provide can combine for a memorable and cost-effective vacation during these challenging times."

During their stay, guests of Cerulean Villa enjoy extensive complimentary amenities and activities including a private tennis court, freshwater oceanfront pool, Jacuzzi, tropical gardens, private gym, guest office, mountain bikes, kayaks, beach volleyball and snorkeling. Also available are in-house spa services, in-house kids club, water sports, boating fitness instruction and much more.

Situated on the spectacular white sand beach at Barnes Bay on the idyllic island of Anguilla, Cerulean is a 13,000 square-food villa designed by award-winning architect Deborah Berke. The lavish two-story Mediterranean-style structure features domed roofs, which dot the lush sun-drenched coast of Anguilla. Through the front doors lies a 3,000 square-foot stone pool terrace with a sleek 40 X 25 freshwater pool that reflects the rich blue hues of the sparkling sea. All the bedrooms are large (average 151 sq. ft.), have ocean views, air conditioning and en-suite marble baths.