Travel: Barbados
The Caribbean holds a very special place in the heart of TV favourite Lizzie Cundy, especially Barbados. And, though most wouldn’t put Caribbean and Christmas in the same sentence, Lizzie says it’s the perfect destination for the most magical time of year… TRAVEL SNAPSHOT
Dreamy, laid-back Barbados, with its white sandy beaches, lively nightlife and to-die-for shopping scene, is like my second home – it’s just so special to me, and anyone that’s been there usually says similar. As soon as you set foot on Caribbean soil, everyone greets you with such warm smiles that you immediately feel settled in. I’ve got friends that live there, too, and Simon Cowell often holidays out there – which helps! But you can’t go far wrong with the stunning views and sunshine, either. It’s just such a beautiful, friendly place. I wouldn’t change a single thing about it.
INSIDER’S GUIDE
One of the best-known restaurants on this Eastern Caribbean island is The Cliff (thecliffbarbados.com). Celebs love this place – I’ve seen Cliff Richard and Elaine Paige dining here before. It’s a gorgeous setting, looking out to sea, especially all lit up at night. The food is incredible, too. It’s another level of glam! For a more low-key night, my favourite restaurant is The Lonestar (thelonestar.com) – it’s beautiful, has the most extravagant staircase, with a great bar and is surrounded by lush vegetation. On the beach, it is open-plan, so even if you’re just wanting to stop off for a drink, it’s perfect.
FOOD AND DRINK
The Caribbean does food right! They’ve got a wonderful jerk chicken dish and fantastic curries with different flavours – very tropical – they really do know how to mix fabulous ingredients together. The seafood is just incredible, it’s caught on the day you order it, and every fish you could think of is on offer. I’m not even a fish lover, but it’s delicious and, because it’s fresh and healthy, you don’t feel bad about eating mountains of it! Barbados is one of the only places I go on holiday where I don’t immediately have to put myself on a diet when I get home – you just eat so well out there.
DON’T MISS
Sample somewhere with that party vibe – even if it’s simply the local bar with a band playing, because here they really know how to let their hair down! I went to a party that Take That were playing at (as you do!), but it was more the magical holiday atmosphere that made it one of the most memorable nights I’ve ever had. My two boys, who were with me, say the same.
GETTING THERE:
I’d recommend flying to Barbados for a sunny Christmas and New Year, it’s just spectacular and such a special time to go – especially with family and friends. On New Year’s Eve, the fireworks go off all around the bay and there are live bands, too, which is sensational. I just don’t think you can get a better time of year. In December, it’s quite dry and temperatures are around 30oC. Flights and booking conditions may vary due to Covid-19, so check before travelling, but British Airways (britishairways.com) runs flights from Gatwick to Bridgetown from £378 return – getting you there in under nine hours.
All the hotels here are fantastic, but if you can afford a touch of luxury, opt for the convenience of Mangobay (mangobaybarbados.com), because it’s all-inclusive – cocktails around the clock! The food is great and you’re right on the best bit of St James’ beach, part of what’s known as the ‘platinum coast’. Prices start from £325 per night. It’s a really fun, friendly, family-run hotel, everyone is kind and smiley – I can’t recommend it highly enough. Drinks in the sun all day – what more could you want?! If you want a taste of five-star hotel luxury at Sandy Lane (sandylane.com), you can check it out over dinner one night.