DISCOVER BARBADOS
For couples seeking romance, Barbados offers the ULTIMATE destination...
BARBADOS was originally settled by the British back in 1627 and, though it won independence just over half a century ago, we have never fully let go of this beautiful Caribbean island, holding, as it does, a place in many Britons’ affections.
It’s not hard to see why so many have enjoyed a long love affair with this palm-fringed haven, with its ribbons of white-sand beaches, rich culture and year-round sunshine. Romance comes as part of the package when you holiday in the embrace of the Bajans, but with the opening of Sandals Royal Barbados later this year, this becomes the ultimate destination for couples to indulge in their own love affair in one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.
WHEN TO GO
A FAVOURITE for winter sun, with a high season between December and April, Barbados is an attractive destination all year round, though higher humidity levels in May, June and July mean regular rainshowers, while, later in the summer, tropical storms are common.
Barbados stands apart – physically and metaphorically – from the rest of the Caribbean. Just 21 miles by 14, and 100 or so miles further out in the Atlantic than its sister islands, it enjoys a somewhat balmier climate, with cooling sea breezes wafting in over the mahogany groves and cane fields.
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both operate a number of direct flights from the UK to Barbados – and back – each week, with more frequent departures during the winter months.
WHAT TO DO
THE calibre of hotels on Barbados is high, with many offering the kind of cosseting comfort and impressive amenities that make you reluctant to leave their embrace. But it is worth venturing beyond the restorative luxury of your swim-up-suite at Sandals Royal Barbados to discover the colourful character and fascinating history of your temporary home.
Of course, the beaches are a major attraction for visitors, with many offering watersports options, including kayaking, water-skiing, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), kite-surfing, surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, zip-lining
and fishing charters. The character of beaches around the island changes dramatically, with some known for calm, safe waters, others enjoying more surf and some being unsuitable for swimming, so check before setting out.
The island features numerous historic plantation houses to explore, but St Nicholas Abbey is perhaps most worth visiting, with its working cane-grinding steam mill and rum distillery. The Andromeda Botanic Gardens offer an idyllic environment for a romantic stroll among tropical blooms, exotic trees and the occasional green monkey.
When George Washington made his only foreign trip in 1751, it was to Barbados with his half-brother. Visit the house where they stayed, in the historic Garrison area, which is now a museum detailing much of Washington’s life and political career, and in winter, book Dinner with George, travelling back in time and dining and socialising in the style of 18th-century Barbados.
Bajans love a celebration and the chance to let their hair down, so whether that’s a weekly Friday night Fish Fry or the annual Crop Over festival, do join the calypso vibe and party with the locals.
Barbados is one of the safest Caribbean
Barbados is the ultimate destination for couples
islands, and exploring independently is generally fine. On the south of the island, there is an excellent local bus service if you’re keen to stay in the area, or why not hire a car for more flexibility? As in the UK, most cars are right-hand drive, and Bajans drive on the left.
While there is a discernible laid-back island vibe, do keep beachwear for the beach or poolside and slip something over your swimwear if you’re heading to the shops or the bank, for example. They may be trendy at home, but avoid camouflage prints, which are strictly reserved for military personnel on the island. Wearers may be fined and items of clothing or accessories may be confiscated.