BARBADOS

Sea U!, Bathsheba

Owner Uschi Wetzels has all the right qualifications for running Sea U!, a cute guesthouse on the less-visited, wilder (but quickly being discovered) east coast of Barbados. First, she was a travel writer for years; second, she's German—OK, that's a stereotype, but Teutonic travelers do always seem to discover the great out-of-the-way spots first. The white, pickled-wood main building is new but built in traditional Bajan style with louvered doors and verandas. The four rooms here and the three in an adjoining cottage are all simply outfitted with mahogany furniture, white bedcovers, and wicker chairs. All have full kitchens or kitchenettes, patios, and AC, though only one unit has a bathtub. Sea U! is right by Soup Bowl, the island's top surfing spot; you can also go swimming in tidal pools, hike the shoreline, or visit the nearby Andromeda Botanic Gardens. Breakfast, which is not included, is served with homemade coconut bread, and a local chef makes good casual dinners.

Studio in the main house, $149 (plus 7.5% taxes and service charge)

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