VILLA BEING

Villa Being was named to reflect the soul, the spirit, the essence of being – and it lives up to its name. On the island, Tobago, at the southern end of the Caribbean, Villa Being is majestically perched on the side of a hill, four hundred feet above the sea, on a completely secluded five-acre organic fruit farm, with breathtaking views of the ocean.

The owner, Dr. Auliana Poon, and her husband, Christian, began work on Being in 1989. They hired architect Roger Turton who suggested that they build only a small structure on the property initially while they gave themselves time to become familiar with the environs and the people. So initially the couple built a small wooden house, started an organic garden and set about becoming part of the local community. Ten years later, Being finally came to realization.

Being is outfitted in a unique, individual style, infused with colonial comfort and ultra modern charm. The colours, in bold reds, blues and greens contrast sharply against stark white walls. In true Cabana style, the rooms – including three bedrooms with accompanying outdoor bathrooms, a kitchen, dining area and reading room – are linked by a series of stone walkways and terraces. You’d actually have to venture outside to saunter into another room.

You can relax in the sitting room on a chaise lounge or a William Morris chair, listening to Bach; opt for reading a Paulo Coelho classic from the bookcase; sip icy drinks on the breezy, sunny terrace; or practice yoga or feng shui at the Being “structure,”– a special blue-tiled square in the middle of the main terrace, surmounted by four tall white pillars.

The master bedroom, or the “Romantic Room” is built on two levels and has seven double doors, many of which open to the sea, with others leading onto the private patio, sun deck or garden. Simple, white curtains, cabana style, fluttering in the wind, and white netting draped across the ceiling above the huge bed adds a breezy and incredibly romantic feel.

Across the walkway, a modern restroom, with mosaic detail and carefully rolled sun yellow towels, features a shower stall which hangs outside the structure, open on three sides; so you can wash in the nude, under the blue sky, with a picture perfect view of the ocean, and only far-off boats and seagulls as your witness!

On the level beneath is a spectacular salt-water swimming pool, resting on forty-foot high stilts, overlooking the ocean – giving the pool the illusion of merging with the sea. The pool area also claims an uninterrupted 180 degree view of the waters below.

Albeit, Villa Being is ideal for honeymoons and romantic getaways, it’s also ideal for just getting away from everyday life for a few days, or bonding with friends. And, when you’re there, you’re the only guests!

This exclusivity comes at a price; but those who can afford it can create a lifetime of memories in one day. The rate varies according to season and includes a ten percent accommodation tax, airport tax and transfers, breakfast, staff wages, a start up larder, and a rental car or jeep. Visit www.being-tobago.com or call (868) 676 6165.

- Danielle Watson
- Photography by Calvin French