We, as do many PV guests, often say that all the villas are equally lovely. We have stayed at PV many times over many years, but this is the first time with the new kitchens and showers, a restaurant renovation, a much better beach, and a name change and major boat reno for the affiliated dive operation. And while we loved the same PV, it is better with these significant and meaningful improvements.
The kitchen area is perceptually and physically larger by making better use of the available space. This is achieved with: a large mirror mounted horizontally on the wall between the neighboring villas; new, attractive cabinets, one of which holds the trash can (hallelujah!); a significantly larger sink with a swiveling faucet; replacement of the old, too large and heavy, awkward round table with a perfectly sized rectangular one matching the cabinets. Placed against the kitchen window, it allows 2 people to view the sea while dining. Each villa also has: a 2-burner electric cooker which make meal prep faster and more efficient; microwave; under-counter fridge with freezer compartment; toaster and coffeemaker.
In the first half of a bathroom reno, hopefully to be completed next summer, the old tub/shower and aged fixtures have been replaced by: a very attractive, high-end, professionally installed light tan tile to the ceiling; a high quality glass panel, also very professionally installed; a rain shower head and a dismountable to hand-held shower with 3 settings; finally, the water gets hot with an easily controllable temperature. Really looking forward to similar improvements in the sink and toilet area, but a MUST is maintaining the door between those 2 areas so that there are effectively 2 bathrooms. This is essential when 2 people get up early and must quickly prep to go diving.
The Hungry Iguana has also been upgraded in several ways. The dark stained walls are now a light grey, using both a wash and attractive paneling, turning a dark cave into a much more pleasant seaside venue. The menu has been enhanced and there is a now an opening in the partition wall at the kitchen end creating direct access to the rest rooms from the bar, reducing traffic through the dining area. A long planter has been installed on the partition wall between the bar and the dining area further adding to the privacy. The booths have new, attractive tops and finally, unseen to guests, the kitchen has been upgraded.
Mother Nature gets part of the credit for the final improvement, but so does the PV rock removal program in front of the villas. This is resulting in expansion of sandy beach and decrease in eel grass. When combined with what may be a seasonal decline in sargassum, it is now possible to get out to at least shoulder height in front of #1-2 without getting tangled in in eel grass. Guests are actually swimming and snorkeling there – something we have not seen in all our years at PV. And the blue heron which used to appear occasionally is now present about 80% of the time when the sea is low to moderate. Watching him hunt and catch is mesmerizing.
For review of the PV affiliated dive operation see Little Cayman Divers, the new name for Conch Club divers.
A quick update on status of 2018/19 improvements- The 300 flowering plants installed in 2018 on the walk side and between villas have matured and many are now in bloom – lovely. In 2019, a dozen palm trees were planted in front of the restaurant, the pool and about halfway down the row of villas. They have done very well. The new pool, deck and hot tub from last year continue to be a strong attraction. The ever-growing beach and swimming area mentioned above make a nice bookend to the pool on the other end of the villas. PV looks marvelous.
Our funky, quiet little paradise on the beach with the mesmerizing view of the Caribbean (and heron, pelicans, boobies, frigates etc.) is still that – with nothing higher than a palm tree. As last year, kudos for excellent improvements – without changing the character unique to the island. As a fellow guest on his second visit to Little (his first visit being 40 years ago) said – “There aren’t many places like this left anymore.” Marc and Sabine continue to be the perfect blend of efficiency, organization, helpfulness and friendliness. Their outstanding care for their guests during the earthquake was fast, efficient, practical and creative.
