This was our first visit to the Caribbean, and our first stay on Anguilla. After three days on St. Martin, which is beautiful but over-developed and Europeanized, we were enchanted by the cultural authentic, luxurious seclusion and unbelievable ocean views that the Black Pearl offers.

We were fortunate to have booked the Master Suite for a beach wedding that we attended last year. Three other couples, acquaintances of ours, had reserved the other parts of the villa, so I was a bit apprehensive about privacy. Not a problem! We had a wonderful time interacting with them in the kitchen, dining room, and covered terrace. We loved the welcoming common spaces, the pool, and the breakfast nooks, but whenever we wanted to get away, as residents of the Master Suite, we had our own terrace, our own huge bedroom, an indoor and outdoor shower, and a special tower sitting area with an unparalleled view of almost all of Shoal Beach, with its own private bar. I loved the proximity of the ocean. Thanks to an exquisite design, no matter where we were in our suite, it was like being on the beach, at the ocean, with the sound of surf, and shore birds, and the invigorating salt air.

Our concierge, Lisa, was there whenever we needed her. A word about our tastes: We hate tourist bubbles. We like getting out among the people, eating what they eat, and seeing the special places they enjoy. Lisa was a fount of useful information about local venues. Thanks to her, we found several small beaches and local restaurants that most tourists never hear about. And then there were the French pastries, delivered freshly baked every morning.

The other outstanding feature of The Black Pearl is the location. An easy drive from the ferry dock, the villa is located on a dead-end road and at the southern end of secluded Shoal Beach. We loved being just five minutes away from the beach, with our own private beach area and chaise lounges, but it was also fun to walk five minutes up the beach and find a whole series of restaurants serving locally sourced seafood and offering beach umbrellas and chairs for customers to enjoy.

We have vacationed in France, Italy, Greece, and Germany. We have snorkeled and sunned our way around Maui. But the Black Pearl will always have a special place in our hearts.