Barbados
The Caribbean's fashionable holiday paradise
Favourite haunt of some of the world's glitterati, Barbados' exclusive west coast is a sophisticated playground of palatial beachfront mansions and refined oceanfront restaurants. Also known as the Platinum Coast, this beautiful stretch of golden sands straddles the parishes of St James and St Peter and entices holidaymakers with its luxurious and sumptuous hotels and championship golf courses.
On the Platinum Coast, the historic town of Holetown marks the spot where the first British settlers touched land in 1627, laying the foundations for Barbados' modern day status as 'Little England'. Visitors to Barbados are still immediately made to feel at home with a friendly welcome from the hospitable Bajans and a very familiar feel in the capital of Bridgetown as Lord Nelson stands opposite the Houses of Parliament and the locals take every opportunity to engage you in talk on the topic of cricket, the national obsession.
But you can never forget you're in the tropics; fields of swaying sugar cane criss cross the island's stately plantations and blissfully warm evenings are perfect for relaxing round the barbecue to the sound of calypso, limbo dancing on the sands or romantic candlelit dinners under the stars. Bask in the sun as your catamaran sets sail for a tranquil beach for swimming and snorkelling with the turtles or enjoy a generous measure of Barbados' famous rum punch aboard a sunset party cruise.
Please note:
The local departure tax from Barbados is now no longer collected at the airport in Barbados. The tax is currently £16pp and this charge will be included in the price of your holiday.
