Daily Pampering: Relax Like a Dignitary at Arundel Villa


Arundel Villa was once the vacation home of political advisor and international lawyer Lester S. Hyman. Now, this fabulous Tortola retreat, which has hosted celebrities and dignitaries alike, is available for rental to the rabble — provided that they have the cash.

This 5-star rated property in the British Virgin Islands is highly secluded on the tricky-to-reach isle of Tortola (only American Eagle, Cape Air, LIAT, Air Sunshine and Caribbean Star fly there), and offers the very best in elegant leisure and service.

To start with, the villa itself is a beautiful three bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom estate divided into three pavilions and set in lush, tropical hillside gardens a short drive from Tortola’s pristine shores. When you arrive, a house representative will pick you and your party of up to six up in a luxury car and bring you to the estate above Cane Garden Bay. The house features modern technological comforts from computer workspace and wireless internet to iPod docking stations, with the exception of a mercifully unplugged tatami room for meditation, set off the master bedroom (so host your friends, but get away from them there). As well as the tatami room, the marble master bath is equipped with an indoor-outdoor shower, for the ultimate island rush.

The main pavilion has a gourmet kitchen — but you don’t have to cook there. Catering is easily available, as well as a personal chef and/or in-house spa services, ensuring you are able to completely relax. To add to your enjoyment, the villa features a swimming pool and hot tub with space for large soirees, a wet bar and even a baby grand piano. For art lovers, Hyman’s personal collection of pieces from around the globe, including a ceramic vase gifted to him by former South Korean president Kim Young Sam and a painting from former Haitian president Prosper Avril, are tastefully displayed throughout the estate.

Villa staff is available to help you arrange shopping as well as dinner in charming local shops and restaurants, as well as excursions including snorkeling and windsurfing. Rates for the high season, January 1 through April 18, 2010 are $7,100 per week, or higher per-night for shorter stays. For more information visit www.arundelvilla.com.

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