New Year 2024 | 19 The Villa Redefining Luxury in Hospitality Sandy Lane Estates stands out as a beacon of luxury on the West Coast of Barbados, renowned for its luxury villas and stunning surroundings. Offering a tranquil beachfront experience with white coral sand beaches and turquoise waters, the estate has quickly become one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world. We speak with Evlyn Mondo below Director of Villa Casablanca at Sandy Lane, the luxury villa redefining the luxury hospitality sector. Situated on the prestigious Sandy Lane Estates, Villa Casablanca is making waves amongst the luxury hospitality sector by creating immersive, sustainable, and culturally enriching experiences designed to celebrate Barbados’s natural beauty and local heritage. Unlike many luxury villas in the market, Villa Casablanca is committed to promoting tourism that supports the local economy, preserves the environment, and empowers the community, taking pride in curating bespoke guest experiences whilst fostering a deep connection with the island’s vibrant culture. At Villa Casablanca, luxury is more than a service; it’s a philosophy deeply rooted in Evlyn Mondo’s vision of merging indulgence with authenticity. A seasoned traveller and expert in hospitality, she has spent decades deftly navigating the intricacies of the global luxury market, from data-driven logistics to designing transformative guest experiences. Ultimately, Evlyn established Villa Casablanca with the dream of creating a sanctuary that embodies the spirit of Barbados, whilst setting a new benchmark for sustainable luxury. From its solar-powered energy solutions to its curated cultural events featuring local talent, Villa Casablanca offers its guests an immersive experience that is as indulgent as it is impactful. The villa is committed to promoting responsible tourism and celebrating the local culture, working hand-in-hand with local municipalities to reflect this, whilst never once compromising its promise of luxury. “Luxury to me,” Evlyn reflects, “Is about connection. It’s about crafting spaces and experiences where guests feel seen, valued, and inspired. It’s not just about the opulence of the setting – it’s about the stories woven into every detail, the thoughtfulness behind every gesture, and the impact that lingers long after a guest has left. Luxury is our chance to redefine impact. It is about elevating every moment – not with excess, but with intention. It is about designing stays that honour the environment, celebrate the culture, and most importantly, leave our guests transformed.” Evlyn goes on to explain that luxury is a brand that feels intimate yet expensive, offering exclusivity without losing sight of the broader community. At Villa Casablanca, this exclusivity means waking up to handpicked artisan-made décor that tells a story of the local craftsmanship, or the personal touch of a private dinner on the terrace in which each dish has been thoughtfully sourced from local options and community support. From its décor to its services, every element of Villa Casablanca has been meticulously selected to uphold its commitment to creating an environment for its guests that is steeped in splendour, earning the villa the title of Best Luxury Villa Retreat 2025 - Barbados. This commitment to the guest experience is further evident in the villa’s pricing model, designed to reflect the level of prestige and exclusivity that has become congruent with a stay at Villa Casablanca. “We don’t follow the typical model of holiday deals or promotional pricing because true luxury isn’t about discounts; it’s about value,” Evlyn explains. “At Villa Casablanca, we curate bespoke experiences that transcend price tags, focusing on quality, exclusivity, and the kind of indulgence that speaks for itself. For our guests, it’s not about finding a deal; it’s about discovering an unforgettable journey.” Moving forward, Evlyn tells us that she plans to continue on her mission of creating a luxury destination deeply rooted in the heartbeat of Barbados. Barbados is an island of rich culture and natural beauty and, this mission is very near and dear to Evlyn’s heart. As we enter 2025, the team at Villa Casablanca will allow its core values of authenticity, responsibility, and innovation to guide them as they successfully weave together bespoke stays with a genuine commitment to supporting the local community and preserving the environment. The future of the luxury hospitality industry is one characterised by authenticity and a true commitment to enhancing the guest experience. For those looking to break into this prestigious sector, Evlyn shares some sage parting advice. “Be genuine in what you offer and stay connected to the story you’re telling,” she says. “Luxury isn’t about excess, it’s about intention. If you can craft meaningful experiences, you will stand out.” Contact: Evlyn Mondo Company: Villa Casablanca at Sandy Lane Web Address: https://casablancabarbados.com/
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