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Sunseeker: Anguilla

Will ten servants be sufficient, sir?

Ian McCurrach
Sunday 08 February 2004 01:00 GMT
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Why go now?

To enjoy beautiful blue skies, hot sunshine and warm seas. Anguilla is blessed with beautiful weather year-round, with average temperatures of 26C (79F) and a constant warm breeze provided by the Trade Winds. Rain, when it comes, arrives in short, sharp bursts and is at its lightest from February to April.

Any other reason?

To enjoy the relaxed pace of life that this small island of just 12,000 people offers. Think, no traffic jams, no pollution, no crime, no stress and you're half way there. Throughout the year, Anguilla has several festivals. Moon Splash music festival at the end of March is dedicated to reggae, revelry and relaxation. Tranquillity Jazz in November plays host to top international names. Sailing and boat building are big on Anguilla and there are many regattas showcasing its beautifully crafted vessels. The Anguilla International Regatta, held in May, attracts overseas competitors. Those who like to spot celebrities should have a field day because the likes of Naomi Campbell, J-Lo, and Richard Gere have all been seen hereabouts recently.

Where should I stay?

Altamer Resort (001 264 498 4010; www.altamer.com) offers luxury, exclusivity and privacy. Set on the white sands of Shoal Bay West, Altamer Resort includes two four-storey villas, with a third to open in November. Each property comes with a staff of 10 to cater to your every need. The villas are a showcase of treasures. Villa One features stunning antiques and artefacts from Russia and Turkey, while Villa Two is designed on a South American theme. Villas from £2,857 per night.

Cap Juluca (001 264 497 6666; www.capjuluca.com) is a beyond-five-star, jet-set resort. Set on Maundays Bay with great views across to St Marten, Cap Juluca's Moorish villas and suites have won many awards. You can be certain of finding first-class facilities, superb restaurants and, naturally, attentive staff. Rooms from £235 per night.

Anguilla Great House (001 264 497 6061; www.anguillagreathouse.com) consists of 27 traditional Caribbean cottages on the white sands of Rendezvous Bay. Each gingerbread-laced cottage is set back from the beach and surrounded by vegetation. Guests enjoy cooling breezes on their private verandas, which have great views over the gardens and out to sea. Anguilla Great House offers an array of West Indian and international cuisine at the Old Caribe restaurant. Rooms from £79 per night.

What shouldn't I miss?

Scilly Cay on a Sunday for crayfish, lobster and Happy Hits, one of Anguilla's top bands. Do a spot of deep-sea fishing on a half- or full-day trip. If you land a wahoo, dorado or marlin you can take it home and ask the chef to cook it for supper. Take a trip to the offshore islands, which are great for picnics and snorkelling. Get to grips with Anguilla's history at the Heritage Collection Museum next to the East End Pond Bird Sanctuary.

Who should I call?

ITC Villas (01244 355380; www.itcclassics.co.uk/villas) offers a seven-night, b&b package at Altamer Resort from £2,556 per person, based on 10 sharing, including flights.

What if I can't afford that?

CaribWorld (0870-076 6733; www.caribworld.co.uk) offers a seven-night, all-inclusive break at Anguilla Great House from £1,309 per person, based on two sharing, including return flights and transfers.

Where can I find out more?

Contact the Anguilla Tourist Office (020-7729 8003; www.anguillavacation.com).

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