Reviews For Castries Holiday villa - Property 1906

Holiday Rental Location: World, Caribbean, St Lucia, Castries
Villa Frangipani - A beautiful place to stay in St Lucia
Villa Frangipani - A beautiful place to stay in St Lucia
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom + 1 garden shower, sleeps a maximum of 6
A unique holiday home in a stunningly gorgeous ecological location overlooking the city. Big, beautiful, and set amongst flowering plants and tropical fruit trees in one acre of lush hillside, you’re...
 5/5

We had a wonderful time!!!
Amia and Danielle   Cheltenham Spa, Gloucestershire.
Date Submitted: September 09, 2009   Date of Stay: August 2009
Nearly a whole year went into planning and looking forward to this holiday with a difference, helped along by enthusiastic emails from the owner of the villa Frangipani. But arriving in St Lucia was by far the best thing to happen to me and my girl-friend in a long and difficult time. We treated ourselves to this holiday after working hard to secure our BA degrees, and we have just returned from a truly brilliant 2 weeks in St Lucia . When we first saw Dylyn’s Holiday Rental site, we liked both the villa and the reviews, and we emailed asking a couple of questions. Back came a quick reply, and for the next 12 months she whetted our appetites with entertaining responses to just about anything we asked. Dylyn described the beauty of her local beach on the Vigie peninsula along with reminiscences and humorous stories about some of the characters around. And when we got to her favourite beach we were not disappointed, and we feasted on Miss Pam’s yummy (and cheap!) dhal purees and ‘bakes’ at her rustic table under the spreading umbrella tree. We got nice stories of some of the hill residents near the villa (most of whom are related to Dylyn), and so by the time we got to our holiday home we not only knew names but felt we’d already met the neighbours! And what a fine bunch of people they are – kept bringing us a variety of luscious mangos which were in full season, and sugar-cane from their gardens. We spent lazy times chilling out on Frangipani’s veranda, and for a rented house we think that the spectacular view must rival any on the island. We occasionally got Ganza’s taxi (he’s within shouting distance of the villa), and for two days we hired a jeep to go round the island and were bowled over by the gorgeous lushness everywhere. But for short distances we travelled mostly on small buses where good-natured locals always had something jokey to say or to sing about! Dylyn got her friends to include us at a picnic party on beautiful Reduit beach in Rodney Bay and this was a very enjoyable day . A great holiday and the villa suited us (and our purses!) absolutely fine. We were sorry to leave - and we will miss those jolly emails on the lovely villa and the stunning island of St Lucia !

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, People with Disabilities, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Although this review made me happy, it also made me sad. A whole year has gone by since these lovely girls and I were to-ing and fro-ing with chatty e-mails, and now the holiday is over how I will miss their cheerful banter!
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 5/5

60th Birthday Celebrations
JosieM   Luton, Bedfordshire.
Date Submitted: August 16, 2009   Date of Stay: August 2008
Review Submitted: 16 August 2009 - Date of Stay: August 2008
Josie, Marilyn, Gwen and Viola.
My sisters and I stayed at Villa Frangipani for three weeks in August 2008.

The moment I saw those pictures of Villa Frangipani I knew that was the place I wanted to stay, and when my sisters and I arrived, we were not disappointed. I quickly nabbed the wonderful en-suite master bedroom, and soon felt I had come home.

Mornings were spent on the very wide balcony watching the sun come up and partaking of the many mangoes and other tropical fruits we either bought or were given to us by friendly neighbours. Evenings spent watching the sun going down and the lovely lights of Castries coming on were a delight.

We were there to celebrate my 60th birthday, and the surprised party attended by neighbours and Dylan’s friends (whom we had met at a wonderful beach party on Veggie Beach). It was certainly a memorable day for me. I could not think of a better way to spend a 60th birthday.

We came together from America, Canada and England, and this year when we met up in England we were still discussing the wonderful time we had at Villa Frangipani and the peaceful days on Veggie Beach. We all agreed that I made a wonderful choice when I selected our accommodation. We all agreed that we will definitely be making a trip back to Frangipani. It is the best holiday I have ever had and anyone who is looking for a holiday with a difference should stay at the Villa Frangipani.

Recommended for: Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway, Romantic Getaway

Owners Response: I had already been told by my jolly friends who live in Castries that they'd invited Josie and her sisters to one of their lovely eat-and-drink-as-much-as-you-like picnics on gorgeous Vigie beach. And when they heard that Josie had a birthday coming up, they surprised her with a bring-a-dish party on her Big Day, with her sisters supplying the booze - and inviting the neighbours too!

Oh yes, the villa Frangipani is simply designed for happy things happening for fun people creating great memories of a wonderful holiday in St Lucia!
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 5/5

The real caribbean
John & Christy   London UK.
Date Submitted: June 08, 2009   Date of Stay: March 2009
My wife, 2 year old son, and I stayed at Frangipani for 2 weeks in March 2009. The house, although relatively recently built, has all the style of traditional tropical architecture. Both the balcony and the view from it are every bit as good as they're cracked up to be, and the interior spaces are generous, attractive, and functional. The natural cross ventilation works well, so we didn't miss airconditioning, though it takes a bit of practice to get the louvres set right for a comfortable night's sleep. In this kind of building there is virtually no sound attenuation and quite a bit of light spillage in the morning, so we found ourselves waking early. Edward has got us used to that anyway, so no big problem.

Although the setting is said to be rural this is really the Caribbean version of suburbia - a bit wilder than North London where we live, but plenty of houses, and people, around. This was good for Edward - lots of children, plus their footballs and toys, and supervising parents. We felt comfortable letting him play across the street, which is a steep, unsurfaced cul de sac with just the occasional car passing slowly up or down.

The owners, Dylyn and Chris, have an apartment below the main house, and their presence was a boon - very helpful when we needed it, but respectful of our privacy when we didn't.

We rented a car, at enormous expense, but you need one if you are to get around easily. Although the house sits way above the town it is less than 5 minutes' drive to the streets of Castries below, or the highway north to Rodney Bay.

All in all, a good spot, in fact I can't think of a better one in all my years of holiday travel.

Recommended for: Age 55+, Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: As this reviewer is an architect with experience of working in the tropics, we feel especially flattered by his positive comments. His energetic 2 year old son Edward was a total hit, adored by the neighbourhood kids and greatly missed when the holiday ended.
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 5/5

Frangipani Villa
Ruth1955   Swansea, Wales, uk.
Date Submitted: June 07, 2009   Date of Stay: May 2009
We have recently returned from a wonderful week at the Villa Frangipani(May 2009) .The whole family had a fantastic time! The views from the verandah were breathtaking and you really felt at one with nature. We were made to feel very welcome by Paulie, Gabbo, Julie and Hidden and the meal Julie and Gabbo prepared for us was a true feast! Paulie was a great guide - full of information and always smiling! Nobody wanted to come home! Thank you very much - a very memorable holiday and we can''t wait to come back!!

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: My husband Chris and I spent six and a half months in St Lucia building a flat below the villa and returned home to London just before this family arrived there. Building was hard work - but such rumbustious fun that we did not want anything to end. Our stay was indeed lengthy, but sometimes we just couldn’t drag ourselves away from the view, muchless finally to yank ourselves away home!
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 5/5

Wonderful island hideaway
S&V   England.
Date Submitted: March 17, 2009   Date of Stay: March 2009
We stayed for a week in March and loved it. You'll get the best of both worlds here with a chance to experience local life (and those magnificent views) while still being close enough to most of the islands attractions. We found a car useful for a few days to get out and explore the island but by no means necessary if you're prepared to hop on one of the very efficient buses along with the locals!

Dylyn and Chris (The owners) were great to have on hand and went out of their way to offer advice and show us around when we asked.

Particular highlights included Marigot Bay, Pigeon Point, dinner at the Coal Pot (local) and of course the legendary Friday night jump up at Gros Islet.

Recommended for: Age 55+, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway

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 4/5

frangipani..the house with the view on the hill.
tresaregreen   farnborough.
Date Submitted: September 30, 2008   Date of Stay: May 2008
we stayed as a family of four at villa frangipani in may this year (08) to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary.
frangipani is the perfect place to explore st lucia. Not only is it a beautiful house but it has the most incredible view that i do not believe you could ever be tired of.
And the best way to enjoy it is....lying in the hammock with a malibu and pineapple....lazing on the steamer chair..just stand and admire...eating breakfast around the table on the deck.find your way..
to help you... turn to your neighbours. Mr j
the bus driver, or ganza the taxi driver, always there when you need them. totaly reliable. Ganza will always be early, is very friendly, and knowledgeable about the island. mr j and gabo happy to take you to far flung places.
both very reasonable prices.
the villa is very comfortable and attractive throughout.
info at the vila on places to go. we found the sunset cruise on the brig unicorn to be a fabulous trip, definatley worth the price.
although there is not a pool at the villa you can go for the day at most of the top hotels as all beaches are public. so long as you buy drinks. our favorite was windjammer landing especially on a sunday, a fab soul fusion band play live. simply divine.
Dylan the owner was truley helpful, from her resume' on the villa and info to actually getting one of her friends to take us to an annual beach barbecue, which was possibly the best day out we had.
frangipani is the perfect place to stay and you can pretend its yours for however long you stay. the birds sing to you in the turret of the house. It can be majical.
advice.... you must sleep inside the mosquito nets. try not to touch nets while sleeping. you will need insect repellant.
that being said ..... we loved staying among the friendly and kind people of st Lucia, so will you. The natural constant breezes will cool you down anytime of day at frangipani, you always look forward to returning to the villa.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Whenever my group of friends in Castries throw beach picnics, barbeques or parties they will invite guests who happen to be staying at our villa at the time. It's a lovely way of enjoying a drink or more, great local grub, lively music and the company of a jolly bunch of St Lucians, and our guests tell us that the event usually turns out to be the highlight of a very special holiday.
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 5/5

Wonderful Place
Wedding guests   Malaysia.
Date Submitted: September 30, 2008   Date of Stay: May 2008
I stayed at Villa Frangipani for a week in May/June 2008.
The accommodation was as depicted in the photos. The views were excellent and the surroundings peaceful. My friends and I really enjoyed staying there and all are willing to make a return visit. This is the place to stay in St.Lucia when you want to get away from the pressures of the modern world - surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Owners Response: Our grateful thanks to the wedding guests of Malaysia for their very kind words.
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 5/5

Frangipani rating
macusa   Hempstead,New York,USA.
Date Submitted: July 24, 2008   Date of Stay: January 2007
Beautiful place to stay.Fully furnished, clean and the scenic beauty is captivating. i would highly recommend this villa married couples. The mountains, beaches and other sights are fantastic.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Girls Getaway, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

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 5/5

Room with a view
Frangifan   London.
Date Submitted: May 30, 2008   Date of Stay: March 2007
I first visited St Lucia over thirty years ago and last year, with my children now adults, I could treat myself to a return trip. I was not disappointed with my choice of a place to stay on the island. The rural setting of Villa Frangipani and the fantastic views over Castries and the bay were well worth waiting all those years! One of the delights of my stay was the way the villa Frangipani had been constructed to blend in with the surroundings. I loved the open wooden vents in my windows letting in cool breezes on even the hottest nights - beating any air conditioning hands down. But perhaps the greatest joy was reclining on the balcony with the verdant tropical garden spread out below; relaxing with a book or simply day dreaming to the sounds of birdsong, the wind rustling the plants and children playing in across the valley.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: This guest has summed up one aspect of the villa - its location and design - which makes it so very special.
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 5/5

FRANGIPANI ... the place to stay in St. Lucia
Yo   Oakville, Ontario, Canada.
Date Submitted: May 29, 2008   Date of Stay: November 2007
My family and I were at the Villa Frangipani between November 3rd and 17th, 2007. One of the most rewarding things about this place is the breathtaking and ‘lively’ views from the veranda - the city of Castries with its busy natural harbour, the cruise ships arriving and leaving the City daily, the small planes landing and taking off from the local airport, the greeny-blueness of the ever changing and constantly moving Caribbean sea - what magic!!!. You can spend hours on the veranda and never get bored. The warbling of a variety of birds, some of which would sometimes fly through as though to say hello, struck us too as absolutely charming. The Villa is spacious and because of its location, is cooled by breezes with no need for air-conditioning. Everything we needed was available, and the place was kept clean and tidy by the caretakers. We found the neighbours friendly and helpful and it was a pleasure chatting with them. We sometimes cooked for ourselves or visited some great restaurants, but we specially looked forward to having the villa’s own Chef Gabbo prepare his tropical "feasts". There are lots of gorgeous beaches in St Lucia, but we particularly liked Vigie beach just 20 minutes’ walk down the hill, simply because it is truly beautiful and unspoilt, and away from all tourist bustle! My family and I have talked it over and we have decided that our next vacation will definitely be in St. Lucia at the Villa Frangipani.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Thank you Yo from Oakville, Ontario, for those kind words. It always makes our day to hear flattering things about our villa, because naturally, we think it's great!
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 5/5

The Villa Frangipani, Saint Lucia
RGA   Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Date Submitted: May 28, 2008   Date of Stay: March 2008
Earlier this year, during the first 2 weeks of March, I spend some scintillating days again on the island nation of Saint Lucia, in the Caribbean. To say that I had a memorable time would really be an understatement. The Saint Lucians were delightful in their attitudes, and treated me in kind and helpful ways. Their behaviour truly complimented the exotic beauty of their island.

When I return, I hope that I'll be lucky enough to stay at The Villa Frangipani again, for my days there were exceedingly pleasant, and my nights were wonderful.

I shall complement my review by including essential stanzas from my poem, The Villa Frangipani, Saint Lucia, which I composed after a similar joyful interlude in that beautiful haven on the hill, 2 years ago. That poem is dedicated to the owners of The Villa.

The Villa Frangipani, on a hill
In sweet Saint Lucia – under azure skies! –
Offers such pleasures, you might have your fill.
From its veranda, all that meet your eyes
Bring constant joy and peace … and sure surprise.

It seems so fine above the harbour where
The Caribbean Sea basks in the sun,
And birds and blooms in beauty, here and there,
Regale your senses till the good day’s done –
As brilliant stars proclaim more tropic fun.

Inviting on the hill in daytime, white,
That Villa can inform all those who roam
To sweet Saint Lucia: If you want delight –
And striking points of view – you'd make me home.
Grandly, I wait, mere miles beyond the foam!

So if you take a ship, or come by plane,
The Villa Frangipani’s there for you –
Both under sunny skies, and in the rain,
You'll feel contented with the things you do,
As bright stars fill your night till skies turn blue.

Those ethereal memories that you'll find,
In your sweet sojourn on this lovely isle,
Will be so etched in grandeur in your mind –
In scintillating rainbows! – You'll just smile,
And dream of Frangipani for a while….

The Villa Frangipani, through the year,
Is a delightful haven you can share.

******************

Sincerely, RGA

******************

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: My husband and I were completely bowled over on receiving this poem in 2006..... as we are now! Thanks and thanks again RGA.
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 5/5

Frangipani, Oi!
lilbiscuits   Vancouver, Canada.
Date Submitted: May 27, 2008   Date of Stay: June 2007
Because Oi! is exactly what you'll say when you step out of the transport vehicle and see the setting for the first time: I'm not a woman of many words, so I'll just say that the scenery leaves one in awe. Only a fifteen-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of mainstream business and yet the setting is as close to paradise as one can get. In all of this the true Caribbean culture is not lost because Frangipani somehow remains true to what Caribbean living really is--you'll see what I mean as you drive up and down the winding country-like roads to and from the "magic mountain". This is most certainly not your everyday "tourist trap". The description regarding the location, layout, and amenities is accurate: The property is clean as clean gets: Maid and Chef--and he is most certainly a Chef in the true sense of the word--services are excellent. And yes, the property is very well maintained. The owner is a very articulate woman--outgoing and with a sense of humour. And yes, I certainly recommend Frangipani to anyone seeking a true but exotic Caribbean getaway. My holiday was intended for rest and relaxation so I spent most of my time eating home-made foods--cooked by the property chef--Gabu, and swimming at Vigie beach. There are actully several beaches which one can drive to, or walk, depending on how adventurous and active one is. As for restaurants, there is no lack--and even Chinese cuisine is available a fifteen-minute drive away. It would take too long to list all of the attributes of Frangipani so I'll just say again, Frangipani, Oi!

Recommended for: Age 55+, Pet-friendly, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Frangipani Oi! to you too Lilbiscuits, or as we would say over here, Frangipani Wow!
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 5/5

Don't stop the carnival!
Rachael.T   London.
Date Submitted: May 27, 2008   Date of Stay: July 2007
When the owner of Villa Frangipani St Lucia asked me to write a review I was happy to do so. I read tributes from past guests and felt that there was more than enough good feeling towards the villa to positively make up a mind still considering staying there on holiday.
The reviews inform about the gorgeousness of the villa, the amazing views from the veranda, the friendliness of the neighbourhood - and I am in agreement with all these things. But as I’m trying here not to replicate or compete with any previous observations, I’ll simply tell you a bit about possibly the most exhilarating holiday I’ve had.
In July 2003 (how time flies!) my three college mates and I spent two weeks at the villa and loved it. Our most memorable experience was the week long carnival season which took place in the capital and accounted for half our holiday! The elaborate event had it all, starting from our very first day with the vibrant spectacle of the Carnival King and Queen contest, followed by a hugely popular Judging The Steel Bands competition the next evening. The extravaganza seemed to go on and on. But one of our most exciting times was a massively attended afternoon/evening party at the Mindoo Phillip park featuring top soca bands not only from St Lucia but from practically every island of the Eastern Caribbean. Then came ‘De Big Ting’ - a magnificent parade of the Carnival Pageant through the town - so many bands, such dazzling displays of fabulous costumes! On the final day the action exploded in a kaleidoscope of colour and rich calypso sounds on the streets of Castries with us dancing and having a hell of a good time in the centre of things. It was pure unadulterated fun for four (mostly staid) English girls. Saint Lucians really know how to party!
And for recuperation to recharge our batteries there was beautiful Frangipani’s cool veranda to flop onto, helped along by our excellent chef Gabo and the most heavenly rum punches imaginable! How can I ever forget this fabulous holiday?

11th July 2003 – 25th July 2003

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway

Owners Response: You've said it all Rachael. Yes, St Lucians do love to party and after Trinidad we have the hottest carnival in the Caribbean!
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 5/5

The prettiest island ever
Hellie   London, UK.
Date Submitted: May 27, 2008   Date of Stay: April 2008
A TRULY BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCE

My husband and I returned home last Monday after a fabulous two weeks in St Lucia. We stayed at the villa Frangipani, an exceptionally gorgeous place. We are in total agreement with one reviewer who said that she and her husband could have spent their entire holiday on Frangipani’s veranda. The views are spellbinding and it took some effort dragging ourselves away. It’s now a time of fruitfulness in St Lucia. The villa’s huge grounds were littered with mangoes and plums from laden trees; banana plants groaned under the weight of their ripening fruit, sometimes we could hear heavy stems squeaking against stalks as the wind blew. And still the neighbours kept offloading their own excess fruit onto us! What friendly people they are.

The weather was wonderful the whole time and the jazz festival was on. We took a picnic to the Pigeon Point National park and enjoyed a fantastic show featuring Anita Baker. Along with about a couple of thousand others we sat on blankets on rolling lawns round the stage, the calm Caribbean sea just a few yards away. Terrific atmosphere we won’t easily forget.

St Lucia is such a pretty island, so much to see. We hired a jeep for one week and got to enjoy many of its delights: the volcano where we stood very near the crater, the sulphur springs where we covered ourselves in glorious mud, we were awed by the twin peaks of the two Pitons, mountains seeming to jut straight out of the ocean, we went up hill and down dale getting lost and arriving at magical inlets and coves and loving every minute of our well earned holiday! We think the beaches must be amongst the world’s most beautiful: we stretched our legs on two occasions down to the local Vigie beach which was practically devoid of sight-seers, and we took a bus to Reduit beach in Rodney Bay, absolutely teaming with tourists mainly from the USA who had come for the jazz.



And whenever we got back to our villa Frangipani it was Welcome Home every time. Welcome from our myriad of small birds, ever changing views, unbelievable sunsets, starry night skies, the music of crickets and tiny frogs.....

We miss it all already.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, People with Disabilities, Pet-friendly, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: It seems unfair perhaps, but St Lucia is blessed with every kind of tropical fruit and vegetable and unfortunately a lot goes to waste, specially mangoes at this time. We are very glad that you and your husband enjoyed the fruits of our garden, and happy too that you had such a terrific time at the villa Frangipani and St Lucia!!
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 5/5

Birder's paradise
Leonel   NB, Canada.
Date Submitted: May 22, 2008   Date of Stay: April 2008
Being an avid birdwatcher I was eager to arrive at what was advertised as a birding hotspot. I was not disappointed. The enormous deck at the back provides a spectacular view of the town and harbour but also of the back garden which has a variety of fruit trees. Mangos, bananas and plums among others all relished by birds. The most common birds are the Lesser Antillean Bullfinches which are very fond of visiting the interior of the villa if one leaves the door open. Bananaquits are seen and heard all day as well as the Gray Kingbirds. Three species of hummingbirds, Mangrove cuckoos, two species of thrashers, Tropical Mockingbirds, Black-faced Grassquits, Caribbean Elenias, two species of doves, Carib Grackles, Shiny Cowbirds, Grey Tremblers, Saltators and one Bare-eyed Thrush were seen in the trees. Other birds flew overhead in the morning or evening such as Caribbean Martins, Lesser Antillean Swifts, Kestrels, Hawks and Cattle Egrets. As for the St Lucia Warbler, I found one along a footpath beginning at the end of the street. In all, I was able to identify 26 bird species in one week from Frangipani villa.



Villa Frangipani is not only and accommodation but also a destination. Bring a good book or pick one to read from the bookcase and just relax.

Recommended for: Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway

Owners Response: I telephoned as I usually do when the villa is occupied, to enquire whether my four guests were happy. They were - they'd gone on a day’s sailing trip to Martinique. All except Leonel who stayed home for the birds. What a keen and dedicated ‘twitcher’ you are I said, (he hadn’t heard of the term) to swop romantic French Caribbean Martinique for bird-watching at the villa Frangipani!
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 5/5

A place in Paradise
from Aruba   Aruba.
Date Submitted: May 21, 2008   Date of Stay: June 2007
The villa Frangipani in St. Lucia is simply a place in paradise. I rented the place in June of 2007, me and my family of 4, together with my friend with his family of 4. The only drawback we experienced was the trip to the villa: a 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. Once there, it was downhill. Greeted with a wicked rum punch by Gaby and Louisa, the caretakers who kept the place nice and tidy throughout the week, we were overwhelmed by the magnificent view from the very spacious balcony/deck, overlooking the capitol Castries and it's harbor and providing unforgettable sunsets. Immediately, the hang mock, easily giving room to 2 adults, was ransomed. The spacious and breezy rooms indeed needed no airconditioning. Every single day the caretakers cooked us healthy but above all amazingly delicious island food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ever had fried flying fish with breadfruit? Callaloo soup? We couldn't wait for food that surprised us every single time. From the villa, daily trips to scenic island locations were organized and every time it felt good to get back "home". Because that's what the villa breathes: Home. The spacious garden beneath the villa could fully be watched from the deck so letting the kids out was fun for them and for the adults: room to play without any hazards and easy babysitting.
My advice to parents with small children? Do the villa Frangipani in St. Lucia!

Recommended for: Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway

Owners Response: This guest may be pleased to know that since the time he, his family and friends holidayed at the villa Frangipani, the road has been solidly rebuilt. Residents now call their new road “The Concrete Gap” and even smart cars without 4x4 travel along with ease. We are grateful for the compliments, and very happy too that they all enjoyed Gabbo's creole home cooking!
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 5/5

Birds eye view!
Hally   Oranjestad, Aruba D.C..
Date Submitted: May 21, 2008   Date of Stay: March 2008
There is no place more adventurous and stunning to stay at when visiting St. Lucia. Experiencing awakening in the early morning and having breakfast in the veranda with a birds-eye-view of a large part of the south-eastern side of St. Lucia, ..... UNFORGETABLE.
"...... staying elsewhere, there is your CC, ..... experiencing Frangipani ...... PRICELESS.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car, Adventure Seekers

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 5/5

Lovely place!
124578   Switzerland.
Date Submitted: May 01, 2008   Date of Stay: February 2008
Very nice villa with a beautiful point of view!!! The villa is perfect to discover the island! Perfect for a family!
Superbe villa! On a passé un séjour magnifique grâce à cette somptueuse villa!

Recommended for: Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thank you for your kind message. Chris and I are very glad that you and your family appreciated our villa.
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 5/5

My stay at Frangipani!
Squibs   London.
Date Submitted: March 01, 2008   Date of Stay: October 2007
Frangipani villa was recommended to me by my mother, who had stayed at the villa previously. I have stayed in other villas on the island before, but none compare to the warm welcome I received from Gabbo - by way of the local and strong Caribbean rum punch - the good amenities within the house, and plus the beautiful views from the veranda made this a fantastic base for me to enjoy yet another beautiful holiday in St Lucia! The beach at Reduit is well known to me,and my frequent visits to the beach were more than well catered for by the lovely Ganza. the taxi driver, who is most reliable, has a good knowledge of the island it's historical sites, beaches and quaint villages.

I am more than happy to recommend Frangipani as a fantastic base from which to enjoy the island of St Lucia. Enjoy!!!

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Yes, another please! Gabbo's rum punch is wicked! No other word can describe it. Categorically, wickedly more-ish!
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 5/5

We love this place
Amarylisuk   Doncaster, Yorkshire, UK.
Date Submitted: February 28, 2008   Date of Stay: May 2007
We’ve stayed in hotels and villas around the world, and we think that the villa Frangipani is one of the most picturesque and best value-for-money holiday homes in the Caribbean. My mother and father-in-law were with us then. The villa is placed on a hilltop with the most stunning views. All round the island visitors have to get out of their hired vehicles to stand at ‘Viewing Points’ for the type of panorama you get for free from Frangipani’s veranda. We first visited St Lucia in May 1997 when the first Jazz festival had started. We promised ourselves a couple of shows but there was so much to see and so little time we never got round to it. Marigot Bay, the Pitons near the Sulphur Springs and the village of Soufriere are some of our favourite places. Taking pictures is our hobby and we took many of this beautiful island and its people, especially the charming children of the community.

Ten years later, in May last year my husband and I returned to St Lucia, again during the Jazz Festival (which has become famous we hear), and again we stayed at the villa. It was like coming home. We were joyful at rekindling old friendships, and showed our video to the children, most of whom had grown into delightful teenagers.

This time we missed the Jazz Festival, again! We particularly wanted to catch sight of Natalie Cole, one of our favourite artistes and the main attraction at an afternoon concert at Pigeon Point. But we had casually mentioned to three kids living opposite the villa that with their parents’ permission we’d take them to Vigie beach. And there they were, bright and early next morning all lined up outside their house waiting patiently and clutching towels and little picnic baskets. All thoughts of Natalie Cole vanished from our minds.

We love this place.

Annabel and Gavin

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, People with Disabilities, Pet-friendly, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: In our minds the St Lucia Jazz Festival and the Villa Frangipani are somewhat synonymous as they both came into being in 1997. (The villa also made its first appearance on the Holiday Rentals website that year.) The annual festival which takes place in the first week of May attracts Super Stars from the music industry, and Annabel and Gavin missed some really huge names both on their first, and second visits to St Lucia. But we think these two aren't really into jazz. Their hearts are in the right place though. How can you disappoint little children!
Dylyn & Chris
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 5/5

LOVE, ROMANCE…. AND A PERFECT VACATION
Kimo   Canada.
Date Submitted: February 27, 2008   Date of Stay: June 2007
I came back on to the website to review the availability for this year and saw all the reviews so I've decided to add my great experience as well! For 10 days my friend and I stayed at Frangipani villa the delightful vacation home placed within a small neighborhood on the edge of eastern Castries. The views are breathtaking and the sunsets unbelievable. We are both nature lovers and the villa set in a garden of flowers, banana and mango trees heavy with fruit and exotic birds flitting in and out - and always those incredible views - was what made our stay so very wonderful. We loved the high ceilings and quaint ‘copula’ in the living area which explained why there were no ceiling fans apparent. Even on the hottest days we found that the villa’s hilltop position really caught every cross-section of cooling breeze. The community was friendly and the food lovely, and having some of our meals prepared by the Superb Chef Gabbo was another terrific part of our vacation. There is such a lot to do in St Lucia and not enough time to do it all. We got ourselves a 4X4 and spent our days at the resort in Rodney Bay and the historic Pigeon Island in the north of the island - and the Sulphur Springs, the botanical gardens, the waterfalls, and the twin Piton mountain peaks down south. We spent an afternoon cruising on the brig Unicorn which gave a real sense of past imperial adventuring, we swam or just idly lay on at least four different, gorgeous beaches (swimming at the base of the smaller Piton was surreal!) But returning to Frangipani villa to catch up on our sleep had its own special reward. The sky studded with millions of bright stars and the views all around so beautiful in the dreamy night-light seemed to have been created as an exclusive indulgence just for young romantics like us!

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, People with Disabilities, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Of course we already know that guests love our villa Frangipani! But thank you Holiday Rentals for giving opportunity for poetic thoughts to something so dear to our hearts. I came over all soppy reading this review! Over the past 11 years several wedding ceremonies have taken place on the villa's veranda, and I have an idea that these young people are thinking of tying the knot there too. May there always be bird-song and bright stars throughout a long and loving union for this happy couple.
Dylyn
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 5/5

A Beautiful Hillside Retreat
Dennis & Lesley   Essex.
Date Submitted: February 25, 2008   Date of Stay: May 2007
Having previously stayed at Frangipani back in 1998 we couldn't wait for the plane to land, leave the tourists behind and be picked up by our dear friend Mr Johnson.

Frangipani is the ideal destination to chill out and unwind (or party if the mood takes you) and we knew just what was waiting for us at the top of the morn - a home from home!! Everything you could need is there, but what you don't have back home is that fantastic deck area with the awesome views of Castries. You can never tire of sitting out there (or lying in the hammock - I still haven't quite mastered the knack of getting in and out, I obviously need more practice!!!), from the moment you wake up til the time you roll into bed, you will always spot something that you haven't noticed before!!

The villa is lovely and airy with small birds as built-in pets, and if you leave your bananas uncovered they will definitely have a party!!

Make sure you head on down to Vigie, a beautiful stretch of beach which is relatively unspoilt and used by the locals. We made very special friends on this visit, a young lad called Imran, who was happy to chat with us and very soon returned to the beach with his brother and sister. We spent many an hour playing cricket, the kids supplied the tennis ball, and the bat and the stumps were made from whatever we could find on the beach that day - I don't think we've ever had such fun and the children were an absolute joy. The bonus for us was that by the end of our fortnight we had taught the sister (Ghia) how to swim!!!!

Visiting Frangipani is a taste of the real Caribbean; you interact with the local people who are without doubt the most friendly, helpful and fun people you could ever wish to meet. You will take away with you memories that will last you a lifetime.

Villa Frangipani is exactly what is says on the tin, we can't wait to visit again!!!

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Girls Getaway, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Frangipani overlooks a large sloping garden with luxuriant vegetation providing habitat for an enormous variety of butterflies and birds. A few years ago a bird-spotting family from Norfolk sent us a long list - from the very tiny "bee" hummingbird to the large cattle egret - they had seen in our grounds. One season we had a pair of courting Tremblers in the outside shower - it did amuse us seeing them engage in a feverous quiver as they smooched and built their nest together! My Chris is a bit of a 'twitcher' himself and we keep guide-books with illustrations and identification to the birds of the West Indies on our book-shelf at the villa.
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 5/5

VILLA AT FRANGIPANI A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER
GLED   London, UK.
Date Submitted: February 22, 2008   Date of Stay: June 2007
FAB VILLA! FAB NEIGHBOURHOOD!



If you are looking for a pool, or sea and sand on your doorstep, then this villa is not for you. But my two friends and I were glad we chose this large and good-looking holiday home situated in one of the most ecologically picturesque regions of the island. The villa Frangipani is part of a gracious and old fashioned neighbourhood, where small children happily play outdoors and roam about within the confines of their caring community. All the neighbours are naturally nice. We were amused but grateful to one in particular (a policeman serving with the Royal Saint Lucian Police Force) for keeping hens in his backyard and supplying us with a carton of newly laid eggs, all in varying sizes! The magnificient panoramic views from the villa are unsurpassed, and some of our most pleasant times were spent on the veranda at sundown with meals prepared by our most charming chef and his wonderful family. Those sunsets are awesome!

We were in St Lucia during the carnival season, the most theatrical, fun event of the year.

A friend of a very helpful neighbour who lived in town on the main route of the procession treated us to snacks and drinks and her best balcony seats on the big day!

St Lucia’s Caribbean coastline is second to none, and we picnicked practically every day on several beaches in glorious weather, but all too soon our enjoyable holiday came to an end.

We had a fabulous time and are looking forward to returning one day to the lovely Villa Frangipani and to the simply beautiful island of St Lucia.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: A couple of years ago there was an island shortage of eggs when my family stayed at the villa over Christmas and New Year. Not one could be found at any of the small shops or supermarkets. And we too were very much indebted to our kind policeman for supplying our pretty breakfast eggs of different colours and sizes - along with a few fluffy feathers - a positive sign of free range freshness!
Dylyn & Chris
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 5/5

More Hammocks for the Girls please!
Ena   Richmond.
Date Submitted: February 16, 2008   Date of Stay: August 2007
My three girlfriends and I spent two weeks at the villa Frangipani in August 2007. It was just brilliant. We were met at the airport by Mr Johnson in his public transport minibus and ‘Gabbo’ the villa’s caretaker and chef. The villa is lovely, masses of space, and the views are fantastic from every room. Wow! We’re all foodies, on a budget, so bought local stuff which we took turns cooking in our fully-equipped kitchen. On our last evening Gabbo treated us to a creole meal - fried flying-fish and avocado salad – total mouth-watering yum! Most mornings we walked to Vigie beach, about 20 minutes down the hill, and had freshly-made scrumptious dhal-puree and fruit juice at Miss Pam’s open-air ‘café’ – a large table and a couple of benches under a huge spreading tree. The beach is almost empty – and much more interesting than the resort area three miles up the coast at Rodney Bay which is heaving with tourists, but I have to admit that the night life at Rodney Bay is great! The villa is well placed to easily and quickly get to anywhere we wanted. We didn’t hire a jeep but traveled cheaply on little transport buses which you see darting about all day, but we did take the occasional taxi ride home after a late fun night. Sometimes we went to ‘Spinnakers’ beach bar at Rodney Bay for Happy Hour (two cocktails for the price of one), and we’d hang out around “The Lime” restaurant & Bar and dance to the calypso band playing outdoors which was really cool. The villa is in a nice and close-knit neighborhood and we appreciated the kindness and friendliness everyone showed – they were often bringing us fruit and vegetables from their gardens. But the downside to this holiday was that we needed more than just the one hammock on the veranda! I remember we were forever racing for it and fighting over the silly thing….and it still makes me smile. But beside this little ‘inconvenience’, we loved the villa so much that we’ve already booked for another two weeks this summer!

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Families with Young Children, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Vigie Beach is our favourite too, unspoilt, local, and few visitors about. With the small airport within sight just across from the beach, there’s such a lot going on and so much to see! For breakfast we often have Miss Pam's delicious, low-cost dhal puree with 'bakes' and fruit juice at her rustic open-air cafe too, then we’re set up for the day.
Ena's review really amused us. OK, she twisted our arms! We’ll have another hammock on Frangipani's veranda for the next visit of these Cheeky Girls!
Dylyn & Christopher
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 5/5

Villa Frangipani
Liz and John   London, UK.
Date Submitted: February 14, 2008   Date of Stay: March 2007
Villa Frangipani was an ideal holiday for my whole family, from elderly parents to teenage children. It is comfortable with plenty of space for everyone, surrounded by a garden with exotic tropical flowers and with spectacular views over the sea from the long verandah where we ate all our meals. The villa had everything we needed and housekeeping and driving is provided as required by friendly and reliable local people.

We enjoyed walking down the hill to the lovely unspoilt Vigie beach and found it easy and cheap to explore the island using the regular and reliable minibus service. We enjoyed buying food at the market in Castries and found it very good value to have lunch there as well.

The whole family enjoyed it there so much that we came back for a return visit, and look forward to going soon to revisit the friends we made there and enjoy the lovely sunshine and St. Lucian friendliness and hospitality.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, People with Disabilities, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Much thanks to Liz and John for their kind words regarding the villa Frangipani and our simply beautiful island. We're pleased that they're thinking of returning for a third visit, and we know that the friends they made there will be happy to see them again.
Dylyn & Christopher
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 5/5

Holiday In Paradise
M Cecilia   London, England.
Date Submitted: February 09, 2008   Date of Stay: December 2007
I stayed for just over 3 weeks at the villa Frangipani with my 10 year old daughter and three sons, 13, 15 and 16. The spacious hilltop villa is in a perfect spot for some stunning views over the city, and it was really amazing seeing the island of Martinique across the Caribbean sea whilst doing the washing up! There is so much to explore in St Lucia. I had no problem with letting my boys drift off by themselves to the nearest beach on the Vigie peninsula – all are good swimmers - and to the town which is only a mile away from the villa. My children also spent a lot of time with the local kids, playing cricket and catching exotic toads and lizards in what I found was a friendly and happy neighbourhood. I think this is what I loved most of all – a nice little bonus really - my children learning at first hand the customs of another way of life, even if only for a short while on holiday.

I would thoroughly recommend the villa Frangipani as the perfect holiday home for large families. It was a wonderful experience and I long to return.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Families with Young Children, People with Disabilities, Pet-friendly, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: I am grateful for M Cecelia's comments.
Many guests have told me that whilst relaxing at the villa they were more than happy to let their children interact with the local children of our safe neighbourhood. And that the wildlife (the birds are pretty glamorous too!) came as an unexpected extra to a delightful holiday spent at the villa Frangipani.
Owner
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 5/5

A spectacular place to stay!
Peter and Margaret   Bury St Edmunds, UK.
Date Submitted: February 07, 2008   Date of Stay: January 2008
The Villa Frangipani is simply breathtaking! It commands a unique postion on the hillside overlooking Castries and way beyond. It's architecture is stunning and the views from the veranda are fabulous. We often sat there eating a wonderful St Lucian meal cooked for us by Julie, the manager's wife, or drinking a glass of wine or just chilling out - and feeling so sorry for those on the grand liners we saw arriving early in the morning, being bundled into taxis to 'do the island' and sailing out again in the evening! The villa is very clean and well cared for and the people who live locally so friendly and welcoming - this place is wonderful. Peter and Margaret - Bury St Edmunds

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, People with Disabilities, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Thank you Peter and Margaret for those nice words regarding Frangipani's architecture, a very simple tropical structure designed and built by our Canadian architect friend. Sadly he's no longer with us, but what a beautiful legacy he has left behind. Of course one of the joys of the veranda is sight of those massive tourist liners gliding into the harbour ablaze with romantic lights in the early morning sunlight.
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 5/5

Thanks - had a great stay

Cogs   Salisbury, UK.
Date Submitted: February 06, 2008   Date of Stay: December 2007
We spent a couple of weeks at Frangipani with our young child (18 months) and two adult friends. There was more than enough room, and Gabbo with his family (neighbour housekeeper and sometimes cook) made us feel really welcome. We split our time between relaxing at the house (the veranda is fantastic) and touring the different beaches using a hire car.

The house is a delight, and whilst well equipped maintains a simple charm, and is sufficiently removed from the main tourist areas that you get a little of the real St Lucia.

Recommended for: Families with Teenagers, Age 55+, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway

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 5/5

Comments from Owner Guestbook
The location of beautiful Frangipani is quite exceptional. We could easily have spent the entire holiday sitting on the veranda enjoying the view and watching boats and little planes coming and going! St Lucia is a gorgeous island, and Frangipani a great place to see it from. ANDY & ROSIE PAGE, BRIGHTON.
If you want a true taste of St Lucia, rather than spend your holiday enclosed in an all-inclusive beach side hotel complex that could be Costa del Anywhere, then Frangipani Villa will provide the ideal base. The large covered veranda is a perfect setting for family meals, especially around sunset. With a pair of binoculars, three species of hummingbird can be seen flitting from flower to flower, with kingbirds, mockingbirds and grackles providing an impressive supporting cast. Thanks for a very wonderful experience Dylyn.
JOHN & VAL LAW & CHILDREN, NORFOLK
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 5/5

Fond Memories of St Lucia
johnnyb55   Sheffield, UK.
Date Submitted: April 25, 2007   Date of Stay: October 2006
Only our first time in St Lucia but we're already hooked and thinking of our return to this magical island. Everything worked for us - people, scenery, beaches, food. We like to mix relaxation with activity on vacation and this is easily achieved with so many great beaches and sights within easy reach.
Of course, when you're out there exploring and sampling the island delights it helps to have a good base to return to at night. Villa ' Frangipani ' fits this bill very nicely. It's spacious and comfortable and has the most wonderful position up on a hill overlooking Castries and its natural harbour. It has the usual features you'd expect from quality accommodation of this type but what makes truly memorable is its large living room leading to an outside, covered veranda from which you can see the whole panorama of the Castries port and coastline. An abiding memory of our stay here is sitting on the veranda with a cooling drink in hand watching those awesome sunsets.
What makes the island interesting is the sheer variety of landscapes and vegetation from jungle to plains to mountainous rainforests and, of course, so many fine and secluded beaches.
Blessed with an ideal climate for growing all manner of foods including delicious tropical fruits, we have to mention how well we ate during our time here - and drank too since all those typical Caribbean concoctions are produced locally. Good restaurants too with a strong recommendation for a visit to the Green Parrot - memorable eating and an equal memorable owner and chef.
We hired a Jeep and toured the island and were impressed by the dramatic views on all sides. We will not forget to Soufrieres, for example. A stop at Anse la Raye for a morning coffe - a tradtional fishing village - then for cocktails at the Ladera Resorts with ist stunning outlook to the twin Pitons followed by a visit to the nearby volcanic crater and its active hot springs where we literally took the plunge and had a mud bath. And then to conclude our visit a cooling swim from the beach set between the Pitons.
We must have covered most of the island during our time here and, along the way, we met most of the population or so it seemed and were impressed by their hospitality, friendliness and good humour. This is an educated and switched on people and ready to engage you on any topic under the sun. On reflection, this was perhaps the element which made our vacation so enjoyable.
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Reviews are the subjective opinions of Holiday-Rentals travellers and not of Holiday-Rentals Limited.