The Trip That Almost Didn’t Happen

Okay, real talk: You guys know I’m obsessed with planning our group trips. But this time? I handed the reins to AwayBNB and said, ‘Surprise me.’ And oh. My. Gosh. They booked us a villa in St. Barths a place I’d always skipped for ‘been there, done that’ spots. Turns out, I knew nothing. Let me spill all the details about Villa Wings, the Caribbean gem that’s now my forever happy place.

1. First Impressions: “Wait, This Is OUR Villa?!”

The ‘AwayBNB Nailed It’ Moment

Picture this: We rolled up to Villa Wings after a breezy 4-minute drive from the airport (yes, 4 minutes!). The gate opened, and there it was this sleek, winged masterpiece perched like a hawk over the bluest water I’ve ever seen. My friend Jess literally yelled, “AwayBNB better get a raise!” because how did they score this for us at their VIP rate?

The View That Broke Our Group Chat

You know that infinity pool you’ve seen a million times on Instagram? Multiply that by 10. The pool here melts into the Baie de St. Jean like it’s trying to hug the ocean. We spent our first hour just… staring. No lie, we forgot to unpack. Pro tip: Order a sunset champagne delivery (AwayBNB set it up!) and claim the poolside daybed early. Trust me.

2. Why We Never Left the Villa (Oops)

The Kitchen of Dreams

So, we planned to hit all of St. Jean’s restaurants. But the kitchen? Chef’s kiss. That black marble island became our HQ for late-night wine and charcuterie (shoutout to AwayBNB’s grocery pre-stock service). And get this the island transforms into an outdoor dining table! We felt like Bond villains hosting dinner parties… but with way more sunscreen.

Room Wars: The Battle for the Best Bed

All 4 bedrooms are stunners, but the upper-level suites with king beds? Next-level. I called dibs on the one with the shower that faces the ocean (yes, really). But the downstairs twin room saved us turns out, Sarah and Mark’s kids loved having their own terrace. (P.S. Aircon + blackout curtains = nap heaven after too much beach time.)

The Gym That Shamed My Peloton

I’m not a gym person, but working out with a floor-to-ceiling view of Pelican Beach? Suddenly, burpees felt… optional. We mostly used it for sunrise yoga (AwayBNB booked a local instructor!) and pretending to lift weights while gossiping.

3. When We Finally Explored (Thanks, AwayBNB!)

Beaches Made for ‘Doing Nothing’ Right

Nikki Beach is an 8-minute walk fancy, yes, but grab a €20 Aperol Spritz and lean into the people-watching. Our fave? Secret Saline Beach (7 mins by car). It’s all wild dunes and zero crowds. Pro tip: AwayBNB pre-rented our umbrellas and coolers. Lifesaver.

Gustavia: Like Paris, But with Flip-Flops

This town is everything. We ate croissants that made our Brooklyn spots cry, then bought overpriced straw hats (no regrets). AwayBNB even booked us a private shopping guide—RIP my wallet, but my new linen dress is art.

The Chef Who Stole Our Hearts

AwayBNB arranged a private chef for our last night. Cue grilled lobster, plantain fritters, and a chocolate fondue that turned us into actual children. Best part? He did the dishes. Worth every penny.

4. Honest Takeaways (For My Ride-or-Die Crew)

Why Villa Wings - Any Hotel

Space for Chaos: 8 people, zero fights over bathrooms. Miracle.

You Control the Vibe: Fancy dinners or pajama pancake mornings? Done.

AwayBNB’s Little Extras: They pre-booked our airport transfers, had beach towels ready, and even threw in a discount code for next time (ask them!).

What I’d Do Differently

Stay Longer: 3 nights felt like a tease.

Book the Massage Earlier: The villa’s terrace massage slots fill fast!

Bring Extra Sunscreen: That St. Barths sun doesn’t play.

Closing: Just Go. (And Thank Me Later)

Look, I know you’re thinking, ‘St. Barths sounds bougie.’ But Villa Wings? It’s pure joy. AwayBNB hooked us up with their best deal yet, and honestly? I’m already plotting our return. If you want a trip where every day feels like a Pinterest board (but with way more laughter and questionable dance moves), this is it. Text me for their contact they’ll sort your dates, activities, and sneak in a freebie or two. Just promise me one thing: Save me a lounge chair by the pool?