What is the best way to choose the right villa for me?
When selecting the right villa, there are several factors to consider. Determine the size of your group, your proximity preferences (beachside, hilltop), and any specific needs, such as accommodations for special requirements or young children. To find your ideal villa, provide our villa specialist with comprehensive details about your group and vacation plans. Armed with this information, we’ll assist in locating the perfect villa tailored precisely to your preferences and requirements, “Island life, your style.”

What happens if the property becomes unavailable after I reserve?
If the rented property becomes unavailable due to a major issue or change in ownership, Coombes and Co. will offer an alternative property of equal or superior standard, pending the guest’s approval. If the alternative property isn’t suitable, guests will receive a full refund. 

Do we share the villa?
No. The villa is exclusively yours without sharing it with another party. In cases where larger villas offer a lower bedroom rate, the unrented bedrooms will be secured while the villa remains solely for your use. For instance, in a 5-bedroom villa booked at a 3-bedroom rate, two bedrooms and their en-suite bathrooms will be locked off, ensuring exclusive use while capping the capacity at 2 guests per bedroom.

Can we arrange an early check in?
Check in time is 3pm.  Early check in’s are possible and can be booked and paid for in advance.  If you do not pay for this privilege, the property manager must authorise this. Early check in permission may not be granted until 24 hours prior to arrival.

Can we arrange a late check out?
Check-out time is 11am. Late Check out’s and can be booked and paid for in advance.  If you do not pay for this privilege, the property manager must authorise this and late check out permission may not be granted until 24 hours prior to departure.

Are transfers to the property included?
A few villas offer one-way or roundtrip airport transfers as part of the rate. Your dedicated concierge will manage arrival logistics and attend to any other concierge needs you may have during your stay at an additional charge.

What to expect upon arrival?
In general, you will receive directions to the property along with Lock Box instructions and passcode, 2 days prior to arrival.  With larger villas 4 plus bedrooms, you will be met at the property and receive a villa orientation, where information and instructions for the property will be provided. Emergency contact information will be provided. We are available 7 days a week to assist with any urgent needs.

Is housekeeping included?
Housekeeping tends to be a standard among vacation homes but the frequency may vary greatly depending on the property. Most 1-3 bedroom properties will offer once a week housekeeping (except Sunday and holidays) while larger villas may provide more frequent cleaning. Additional staffing can be arranged at an additional cost. 

Are towels and linens provided?
Yes. The property will provide bath and pool / beach towels along with linens. You are asked NOT to use self-tanners or Aloe as these will stain the towels and linen.

Are toiletries and tissues provided?

Some properties may provide an initial supply of soap, shampoo, toilet paper and paper towels but replenishment of supplies once exhausted is the responsibility of the guest.

Is food and beverage included in the rental?
Food and beverages are not covered in the villa rental cost. Guests can opt to handle their shopping or request concierge to assist, with an additional delivery charge and administration per order.  It should be noted that groceries do not stay open late and may be closed on public holidays.

Is a hair dryer available?
Most properties will provide at least ONE hairdryer.  Please ask your agent for details.

Is laundry equipment provided?
Most properties offer the use of a washer, dryer, iron and ironing board.  Check the amenity list for your holiday home.

Is there internet access?
All of the villas that we feature have internet access, however the connection speed and equipment available varies from property to property. Please visit the appropriate villa page for information or speak to your Travel Specialist.

Is there cable or satellite television?
Television connections and channels vary depending on the property. If the information is not available on the appropriate villa page on our website, please ask our Travel Specialists to enquire on your behalf.

Are the villas equipped with air-conditioning?
Most villas have air-conditioning in the bedrooms. This information is available on the appropriate villa page on our website. Please note that

What is a villa manager?
This individual oversees villa maintenance, staffing, and accounts administration. Typically, the Property Manager will not visit the property during guest stays, unless there are issues. They’re available to address any villa-related concerns and provide assistance, leaving contact details for your convenience.

Who cleans the villa?
The majority, if not all, of our villas offer housekeeping services included in the rental price, with schedules varying per property. Basic duties cover kitchen, bathroom, and common area cleaning; bed-making might not always be included. Additional housekeeping hours and laundry services can usually be arranged for an extra fee paid directly at the property. Housekeepers typically do not work on public holidays.

Am I able to arrange for additional staff to come in while I am staying at a property that only has a maid service?
We’re pleased to assist in organizing any extra staff services for you. Just let us know your needs during the booking process, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements.

What is the difference between a chef and a cook?
A chef typically has professional training and specializes in preparing exquisite meals for guests. Cooks usually lack formal training but can prepare simple meals and local specialties.

What is the electrical supply in Barbados?
Barbados operates on a 115-volt electrical supply, using the standard Type A for 110 v and Type B for 220 v sockets/outlets. The majority of sockets will be Type A outlets that are two-pronged or three prongs (one being the ground). It’s advisable to carry adapters if your devices require a different socket type.

Is water from the tap, safe to drink in Barbados?
Yes, tap water in Barbados is generally safe to drink. The island has a well-maintained water infrastructure, and the water quality meets international standards. However, some visitors prefer bottled water for drinking, mainly due to personal preferences or if they have sensitive stomachs. 

What currency is used in Barbados?
The currency used in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar, commonly abbreviated as either “BBD” or “Bds$”. It is tied to the US Dollar at $2.00 BDS to $1.00 USD.

What credit cards are accepted in Barbados?
In Barbados, major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and larger businesses. Some places might also accept American Express, but it’s always good to check beforehand, especially in smaller or more remote locations. Some locations will ask for picture ID, when paying by credit card.

Are there any Taxes charged in Barbados?
Yes, in Barbados, there is a Value Added Tax (VAT) which is currently set at 17.5%. Additionally, guests are required to pay a 10% Shared Economy Levy (SEL) on their accommodations during the booking process, which is then remitted to the Government.

Is it customary to tip staff in Barbados?
Tipping practices in Barbados are similar to most other countries. While it’s not mandatory, tipping for good service is appreciated. In restaurants, a service charge might already be included in the bill. If not, a 10-15% tip is generally appropriate. For other services, such taxi drivers, or tour guides, a small tip as a token of appreciation is common if the service was satisfactory or exemplary. Tipping the villa staff is always welcome, although not mandatory.  However, as is customary in the travel industry, recognition for a job well done is very much appreciated. Gratuities are normally calculated as a percentage of staff salary. Further details and guidelines on tipping can be provided to you at time of booking. 

Is Duty Free shopping available in Barbados?
Yes, Barbados offers duty-free shopping at designated areas, such as the airport and certain shops within the island. Visitors can purchase various items like some electronics, jewellery, make-up and perfumes, along with some local crafts without paying import duties or taxes. Alcohol and Cigarettes can also be purchased duty-free, however these items will be sent to the airport for your collection.  A copy of your travel document and passport is required to purchase duty-free items. 

Are there any unusual laws in Barbados?
There are a few unique regulations include restrictions on camouflage clothing for civilians and a prohibition on wearing or importing army or camouflage-style clothing. Additionally, it’s illegal to wear any form of army, police, or marine-type clothing unless you are a member of the respective forces.
Another interesting law is the ban on wearing swimsuits, including bathing suits and beach attire, off the beach or poolside in public areas without a cover-up.  Public nudity, including topless sunbathing, is illegal in Barbados. The country has conservative laws regarding public behaviour and attire, so it’s important to respect local customs and regulations while visiting.

Are there any poisonous plants or creatures in Barbados?
Barbados doesn’t have many poisonous creatures, but there are a few plants and animals to be cautious of. Some plants, like the Manchineel tree, the leaves and fruit have toxic sap that can cause skin irritation or worse if touched or ingested.

In terms of creatures, there are some venomous spiders and scorpions, but they are not common and usually avoid contact with humans. In Barbados waters, there are a few sea creatures that can pose a threat due to their venom or stings. These include some types of jellyfish and the Portuguese Man o’ War, which have tentacles that deliver a painful sting. Additionally, the lionfish, can also deliver a venomous sting.

Sea urchins and Black Cobblers are present in the waters around Barbados. Sea urchins can have spines that are painful if stepped on, causing puncture wounds. They are often found in shallow areas or on rocks, so wearing protective footwear when wading or snorkelling is advisable. Black Cobblers, a type of sea creature related to the scorpionfish, are venomous and have sharp spines. These can also cause injury if stepped on or touched. It’s essential to be cautious and watchful when navigating coastal areas to avoid any potential encounters with these creatures. However, encounters with these creatures are relatively rare, and being cautious and aware of your surroundings while swimming or snorkelling is always advisable. 

Are there any laws about smoking in Barbados?
In Barbados, smoking is regulated in public spaces, including indoor areas of government owned properties, restaurants, bars, taxis and public transportation. Designated smoking areas are available in some places, but generally, smoking is not permitted in enclosed public spaces or areas where it may affect non-smokers. It’s best to adhere to local signage and regulations regarding smoking to ensure compliance with the law.  Most villas do NOT allow smoking inside the property.