Mangobird Villa - Review Page 3
Pool & Exterior
Mangobird's driveway provides off-road parking for two vehicles. The front garden is small but attractive and dominated by a 7.5 x 4.5m tiled swimming pool set in a wide and genuinely non-slip surround. The pool also features an inset 2m-diameter Jacuzzi. Wide steps with a solid metal handrail lead down into the shallow end of the pool, which has a depth of just three feet (0.95m), leading to 4ft 3in (1.3 m) at the deepest end – a feature that one again confirms that this villa is particularly suited to families with young children.
A number of all-weather plastic sun beds with comfortable cushions are provided. The wall of the adjacent pool house is fitted with two cold-water showers, allowing guests to rinse off before and after swimming. A young lady pool contractor visited twice during our three-day stay. She was polite and friendly and her short visits totally unobtrusive.
Running along the front of the villa and shaded by the upper-floor balcony is a lovely 2.8m terrace. One half of the terrace is furnished with a table and six chairs. This is sure to prove the al fresco dining spot of choice for many guests, particularly as a gas-barbeque is available just a few feet away. The other half of the terrace is furnished with a cushioned wickerwork two-seater settee, two armchairs and table. In shade most of the day, this area is bound to be a popular spot to sit and watch the children at play. Two large ceiling fans help to keep the terrace cool.
The rear garden features a small gazebo with yet another table and chairs. No matter how large the party, you should be able to find a quiet spot to take in the lazy vibe of Tobago and ‘chill out’. The gazebo also – if somewhat unusually – features a large sink and cold water tap and washing line and would be an ideal place to wash and hang swimwear after returning from the beach.
Also to the rear of the property is the washroom. This is fitted out with a large washing machine and tumble drier.
Housekeeping
The villa is fully serviced. The local manageress, Rain, visited on our first full day and welcomed us to the villa and checked that everything was satisfactory. The housekeeper, Althea, met us on 
arrival with a rum punch and a cheery smile.She proved a helpful soul. The level of servicing depends upon the size and nature of the party in residence and guest requirements. Althea explained that she would attend daily in the case of families with young children. As there was just two of us, we arranged for her to visit just once during our five day stay, for a quick sweep-out and change of sheets and towels. Guests can make private arrangements with Althea for additional services, such as laundry and cooking. The Visitors’ Book indicate that she is a good cook and popular with guests.
Conclusion
Mangobird may not have the dramatic views or location of some coastal or hill-top properties, but neither will the cost make such a dent in your pocket. It may not be the largest villa we have stayed in on Tobago, but I cannot think of one that is more comprehensively furnished or equipped.
Choosing a holiday rental villa is like buying a house. Personal taste and preference clearly varies hugely – not to mention budget. Without question a modern home on a new development is likely to provide the best combination of comfort, efficiency, running costs and convenience.
Mangobird may not be a pretty thatched country cottage, or an impressive converted Georgian townhouse. However, it provides highly comfortable and adequately spacious living accommodation of the highest standards. Despite being surrounded by other villas it has proven to be one of the quietest locations we have stayed in – even though the adjacent villas have been occupied throughout our stay. It has been immensely convenient, being within a few minutes drive of so many supermarkets, restaurants and other local features.
The owners of Mangobird Villa, Dereck, Vickie, Stephen and Catherine are obviously aware that we are hard task masters who have stayed at every significant hotel on Tobago, not to mention more than 30 apartments, cottages, houses and villas – including some of the very most luxurious on the island. So, if a certain lack of excitement comes across, then I apologise. Jill and I have discussed this conclusion at very great length. I can summarise our feelings by saying that if we had to only recommend one single villa that would suit the highest percentage of visitors, regardless of their budget or personal preferences, then Mangobird Villa would undoubtedly be a great choice. What higher compliment can one pay this lovely property?
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