This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
12 Aug 2013
Highly recommended
We had a week planned in Antigua and spent many nights researching resort and accommodation options. We chose Jolly Harbour because it is an exclusive gated community with the dual attraction of harbour and picturesque 2 mile white sandy beach. Jolly Lodge stood out for us with its central location between the beach, supermarket, bars and restaurants. There are not many 3 double bedroom properties with a private pool in the area and this, together with Barbara's warm and personal communications made us realise this was a treasured and cared for home-from-home rather than basic rental house. It's never easy travelling with young teenagers but the location afforded them the freedom to stay up late, mix with friends at the local bars and safely wander home. We hired a golf buggy one day because everyone else seemed to have one but didn't really need it. We enjoyed lounging on the spacious balconies watching the boats and birds, and relaxing in the secluded side garden with its new pool, bar and tropical plants. Inside, the house was spacious, well decorated, furnished and equipped with Mosquito blinds provided on all doors and windows and fans and A/C in the main rooms. Building, maintenance and utility services are never to the same standard oversees as in the UK and Barbara is very open, providing detailed notes and instructions in advance on what to expect, need-to-know's and how to operate everything. Neighbours Nick and Kaye welcomed us and were very helpful through the week. They own the beautiful 50ft Beneteau yacht 'Jabberwocky' which is available for private charter. We were pleasantly surprised at the bus (minibus) service and never waited more than 3 minutes for a bus which took us to lovely beaches and restaurants further afield. It was nice to travel this way as the locals are so friendly, jovial and engaging. Sunday night at Shirley Heights is a must if you want to soak up the Caribbean atmosphere. We had several other day trips and restaurants planned but didn't take them as we were so happy to relax and enjoy the villa. A lovely holiday and highly recommended.