Emerald & Marble

Sitting on Barbados's Platinum Coast, this villa occupies an entire floor of a waterfront complex, with the white sands of Paynes Bay Beach directly on your doorstep. Two terraces give you a choice of how to spend the day – plunge pool and sun beds on one, a wet bar and a dining setup on the other, both with Caribbean views. A private stairway leads down to tropical communal gardens, a shared swimming pool with a waterfall, and straight onto the beach. Daily cooking and a full team of staff mean most of the work is done for you before you've even settled in.

Home truths:
* Bedrooms four can be set up as a twin room or a super king-size double – let your host know your preference before you arrive.
* You'll have access to the on-site swimming pool and gym here, which are shared with other guests.
* Communal water sports equipment is available, including two paddleboards, one double kayak and two single kayaks.
* Your stay includes a housekeeper and laundress six days a week. Winter stays include a private cook for two meals daily, six days a week. During summer, a cook is provided for stays booking all five bedrooms. Festive stays include a private chef for three meals daily, six days a week. An on-call concierge and property manager are also available year-round.
* For check-ins between 20th December and 10th January, please contact us. Cancellations made 60 or more days before check-in would be eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations made less than 60 days before check-in would not be eligible for a refund.