Barbados Trip
I stayed at two of their all-inclusive properties, first being Turtle Beach situated in the South on a 1,500 foot stretch of white sand where sea turtles return to lay their eggs every year. Water sports are complimentary and staff smiles are aplenty. Turtle Beach also features three restaurants and bars, two tennis courts, gym, spa and flying fish kids club for 3-12 year olds. I also stayed at Waves Hotel & Spa which has a boutique feel about it, recently re-opened after refurbishment and situated on the platinum west coast. Waves’ main focus is wellbeing and spa treatments are currently included in your stay along with free rounds of golf.
There are two sides to this hotel, one being the adults only spa side the other being ocean side, suitable for families. The ocean facing deck area offers a great view, almost feels like you are on a ship. Seascape serves Mediterranean inspired dishes buffet style for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Shiso offers Asian fusion (try the Thai chicken and coconut soup!) Kyma coffee and deli bar are another option with a fabulous ice-cream bar! Lovely added touches include the beach and pool ambassadors surprising you with cold towels, ice-cream and other little treats throughout the day. Water sports, gym, yoga and Pilates are also offered.
I had a tour of Crystal Cove, another all-inclusive hotel, where I had a lovely lunch. I really loved the feel of this property, great for families too. I especially liked the cave swim up bar! I also visited Colony Club which has its own herb and vegetable garden and great swim up rooms. I dined at Tamarind which was lively with poolside singers entertaining everyone, and just next door to The House, an adult’s only boutique hotel offering a complimentary jet lag revival massage to each guest. Daphne's restaurant (sister to Daphne's in London) is situated between Tamarind and The House, perfect for dinner in a romantic setting.
A water taxi operates between the Elegant Hotel properties so you can visit them, except The House, although you can stay there and visit the others. There is also a dine-around programme on offer. Weddings are also very popular.
In addition to Elegant Hotels, I also went to visit Sandy Lane which is amazing, a golfer’s paradise and great for children. A big deal is made on special occasions, like Santa arriving on jet skis, wow! I also had a tour of Fairmont Royal Pavilion which again was fab, in a great setting right on the beach.
What is there to do in Barbados apart from relaxing on a lounger soaking up the sun? I had time to find this out too with a tour of Mount Gay Rum distillery, lots of history and a great rum shop! Harrison's Cave is spectacular, a tram transports you through the cave with a guide sharing their knowledge. St Nicholas Abbey steeped in history, a private home dating back 350 years, also featuring a rum distillery and rum tasting. A sunset catamaran cruise was a highlight, the staff on board were superb, assisting those less confident in the water, there was the option of swimming with turtles, snorkelling was amazing with so many varieties of fish. A submarine tour is also recommended, especially if you're not keen on snorkelling, again amazing sea life and more turtles!
No matter where you go, the people and service play a big part in your experience, my experience was amazing! If you would like to know more about any of the above hotels, tours or Barbados in general feel free to get in touch for a chat!