Many people I’ve met at social events have asked me a simple question: “What’s your favourite country?” I don’t have an answer for that. I’ve been fortunate to travel to many countries for many reasons, whether wild adventures or humanitarian work or to write travel reviews of regions and resorts. I always answer the same way. It’s not places that interest me, it’s people. At The Crane, it’s the people that fascinate me. General manager Michael Phillips exemplifies the sense of courtesy, intelligence and professional behaviour that makes The Crane (and Bajans) so very different from other countries around the world. Michael also explained why buying at The Crane makes good financial sense.
Granted, I have written extensively about a “sense of place,” the feeling you get when you arrive somewhere and immediately recognize that it’s somehow different. Barbados is just such a place. The moment you step off the plane, you sense a difference. Not only are the people relaxed, they are friendly. Not only are they friendly, they seem self-assured. This self-assurance comes from somewhere, which I assume to be confidence. The knowledge that their job, family, and lifestyle are secure and won’t be blown away by the next hurricane. (Note: There are few hurricanes on Barbados, situated 100 miles to the east of most Caribbean Islands and away from storms.)
Why buy, and not rent, at The Crane? I met Director of Sales Kim Goddard over breakfast at L’Azure and she explained why. If you love Barbados, maybe you want to come back again and again. If so, why rent? Why not buy and get your money returned, with interest, when you (sadly) finally sell?
Wandering around the property, I met housekeeper Serena Miller, who was happy to chat. At the village café I met April, who makes a wicked latte. At D’Onofrios restaurant I chatted with Commis Chef Anthony Johnson. Down on the beach, I met the staff that will set you up with beach chairs.
I also met Consulting Chef Jean Jacques at L’Azure.
