A place to fall in love with (Barbados)

Member Name: jwallis55

Product:	Barbados
Date:	15/10/09 (32 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Everything!

Disadvantages: nothing!

I first went to Barbados at the grand old age of 3 months, and have been going back there ever since.

The airport is of course the first port of call for any visitor, and they've recently decked it out, so it's much nicer than it used to be! Still, expect the heat to hit you like a ton of bricks (tip: wear shorts/skirt on plane, even if it's freezing here!) and long queues for immigration...they don't rush in barbados!

The places to stay are varied and mostly lovely. Sandy Lane is the most upmarket...tricky to get in to even just for a drink, but absolutely beautiful. It's where all the stars go! I like to stay in a villa personally, as there are some lovely ones on the west coast, especially on Gibbs or Mullins beaches. I have also stayed at Settlers Beach, which is a collection of villas in a resort. They have cocktail parties so everyone can get together which was great when I was a kid! Good way to meet people...Other great places to stay include Cobblers Cove, which is a little outdated in a way, but very romantic and low key. The Royal Pavillion is another favourite of mine, being all pink! If you don't fancy a hotel, even though there are some great all inclusive deals to be had, then a villa could be right for you. Bajan Services is the main villa rental company and every time I've used them, they've been excellent. Most villas have a cook and a maid and the best ones are on the beach, so water sports are available readily! Trust me, you'll be accosted...

Things and do and see? There are plenty of options...

The capital is Bridgetown, which is the best for shopping, but don't expect too much! The Waterfront Cafe is nice for lunch and a browse in Harrisons Cave is nice. The harbour is where you pick up various boat trips: the Harbour Master is a good evening cruise with a dance show, a meal and a live band with a dancefloor. Many a good night spent on there! The best nightclubs are in Bridgetown, but again don't expect much! Harbour Lights is the best.

The other two major towns are Speightstown and Holetown. Speightstown is mainly a market town, but good for an afternoon visit, whilst Holetown is good for shopping with the little chattel houses selling souvenirs and clothes. Be sure to visit the Patisserie as well: GREAT cakes.

The Harrisons Caves are a good day out: you get on a little train and they take you underground to explore the caves: very good fun! There's also a flower garden that's a trail...they're beautiful. Another good trip out is a visit to Bathsheba, down the South of the island where the waves are massive!

In terms of restaurants, the best is The Cliff. The food there is incredible, the setting absolutely beautiful. Bit pricey though!
Other good restaurants are Daphnes, like the one in London, or Calabaza which is meditarranean food. If you want more local fare, head to the The Fish Pot...doesn't sound too appetizing, but trust me the food is amazing!

One incredible place to visit, you will fall in love...

Summary: 5/5