Barbados

Introduction

The coral sands, swaying palms and tempting waters are only part of the appeal of Barbados. A unique collection of superstar luxury hotels ranging from the traditional to the glamorous, lines the aptly-named Platinum coast and superior residences are tucked away amid tropical foliage.

A host of internationally acclaimed restaurants promise unique epicurean experiences in wonderfully intimate, beachfront settings – advance reservations are recommended especially during the lively winter months. Barbados is famed, too, for its fabulous villas and stylish apartments – ideal for groups of friends and families – set in idyllic golf or beach locations. The island boasts several fine championship golf courses, those at Sandy Lane, Royal Westmoreland and the Barbados Golf Club being perhaps the best known, whilst the aquamarine waters and sandy beaches are the perfect playground for a range of first class watersports.

Barbados | Personal View

Claire Dixon - Barbados

I have visited Barbados on many occasions both for work and pleasure, and each time I come away with new experiences. With so much to do on and around the island and with a collection of world-class hotels, ranging from the traditional to the glamorous, you always leave Barbados wanting more!

All of the hotels I have stayed at along the aptly named Platinum Coast are fabulous, yet each offer something very different. Seafood lovers looking for the ultimate dining experience should visit Cobblers Cove, where the hotel’s own fisherman brings a delicious fresh catch daily. For celebrity followers and those who like to be seen, the glamorous cocktail parties at stylish Sandy Lane are a must!

For the adventurous and those seeking a little fun, the island safari is a perfect way to experience Barbados. Alternatively, why not try an underwater adventure with The Atlantis submarine - an amazing excursion to see the incredible shipwreck and the charming fish turtles gliding around the vessel. Descend into the depths of Harrison’s Cave, with its cascading waterfall or remain above ground and perhaps catch a glimpse of the green monkeys at the Wildlife Reserve.

A catamaran cruise is the ultimate way to relax. I enjoyed an idyllic day swimming in the clear aquamarine waters, taking in the beautiful views, enjoying delicious food and of course perfecting my suntan!

Regional Info

Highlights

Just twenty one miles by fourteen, Barbados has plenty to offer her visitors, from the dramatic rock formations on the rugged east coast to the colourful floral displays at the Andromeda Gardens above Bathsheba. Descend into the depths of Harrison's Cave, with its cascading waterfall or remain above ground and perhaps catch a glimpse of the green monkeys at the Wildlife Reserve

Harbour Lights
Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises, Christ Church
Tiami Catamaran Sailing Cruises, Bridgetown
Harrison's Cave
St. Nicholas Abbey
Andromeda Botanic Gardens, Bathsheba
Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Sunbury Plantation House, Saint Philip
Island Safari Barbados
Green Monkey Golf Course at Sandy Lane, St. James

Events

Barbados Sports Camp 05 - 29 August 2008

Legends from the world of football, cricket and netball are again offering their coaching services to children participating in the Barbados Sports Camp this summer. Children aged between 9 and 17 years can enrol in advance and enjoy complimentary coaching from international stars. This year's line up includes Sir Geoff Hurst, Alan Hansen, Mark Bright, Peter Shilton, Gladstone Small, Mike Gatting, Olivia Murphy and Alex Astle.

For more information or to sign up for this year please visit www.visitbarbados.org/sportscamp

^{Other Events}

May - Celtic Festival - Visiting dancers and musicians plus rugby, golf and a humorous Caribbean take on the Highland Games.
May - Gospelfest - The only festival of its kind in the Caribbean - featuring top international gospel singers and choirs from the USA, Canada, UK and the Caribbean.
July & August - Crop Over - The biggest festival in Barbados, lasting for three weeks.Historically the time for celebrating the sugar cane harvest, the festival culminates in a grand finale with a parade of costumed bands. Other major elements include a calypso competition, a large street fair and a blend of the island's best entertainment.
Every Friday - Oistins Village, Fish Fry A flavour of the real Barbados - Sample the freshest fish, served from brightly decorated stalls and dance the night away at the lively street party.

Sporting Events

May/June - Motor Rally Carnival
June - International Masters Football Festival
June - The Mount Gay Rum/Boatyard Regatta
June - Golf Barbados Open
July - Sir Garfield Sobers Schools Cricket Tournament
July - Banks International Sailing Regatta
Aug - Banks Hockey Festival
Sept - International Laser Sailing

Local specialities

Chattel house style Rum Shops for cold banks beer or Ju.c soft drink and a home made sandwich called a - cutter filled with ham or cheese or corn beef or fish cakes with dash of local mustard based Pepper Sauce
Excellent seafood - lobster, prawns, oysters and king fish
Fish Frys with the day's fresh seafood cooked in heavy coal pots and selections of chicken, pork, salads, rice, peas, etc...a must to meet islanders have a cold banks and "fire a rum."

Travel Tips

CLIMATE
Barbados is a year round destination with temperatures averaging 75°F-85°F, usually tempered by the cooling trade winds. Expect the summer months between June to October to be hotter and more humid with regular tropical showers

CAPITAL
Bridgetown

TIME DIFFERENCE
GMT - 4 hours

CURRENCY
Barbados Dollar

FLIGHTS
Daily direct flights from London and regular services from Manchester lend themselves to flexible holiday options - take some time to unwind and settle into island life on the west coast before perhaps flying on to the Grenadines, Grenada or St Lucia. The flight time from the UK is 9 hours

Honeymoons & Weddings

Spa