Beautiful Barbados.

Barbados is full of vibrancy and culture. This was my second visit to Barbados, I visited here back in 1999 and it hasn't changed much. We stayed in Hastings, on the South Coast for ten nights. The only coral island in the region with all white sandy beaches. You see the locals fishing from the rocks and it's such a laid back atmosphere with Bob Marley in the background and Reggae wherever you venture. In addition to its lush tropical scenery, Barbados is known for its delicious and eclectic culinary scene, you can experience authentic culture and island flavour through the food of Barbados, influenced by Creole, Portuguese and British cuisine. We enjoyed the local beaches lined with palm trees, a feel of total calm and relaxation. We also rented a car for a few days to explore the island, we went east and headed through Saint Lawrence Gap and made our way to Crane Beach- a truly outstanding beach that has been voted one of the top beaches in the world.... This place has dramatic cliffs and the softest white sand with a hint of pink.... The Crane Resort is perched on the cliffs, overlooking the stunning beach and sea.. driving out of Crane beach towards Bathsheba, we noticed wild monkeys on the wall of a house, we stopped to take a few pictures.

Bathsheba, my favourite part of the island with its untouched beauty and a photographer's paradise which is on the Atlantic coastline. You can stop and have a drink in the local bars which overlook the crashing waves and ragged rocks, whilst watching the brave locals surf!!! This place is not a typical tourist town, but home to the local fishing community.

We headed across the island to Holetown, a completely different resort to Bathsheba, where there are boutique designer shops and good restaurants, a very tasteful resort with still ocean and sandy beaches. The drive is beautiful along the coastal road towards Bridgetown. If you want to purchase gold jewellery, Bridgetown is the place to go. A walk around the place is also recommended.

We also went on a boat trip in Holetown, which was a great experience. We were able to swim in the sea quite far out and that was fantastic. You can also go on an excursion where you can swim with the turtles and snorkel, you also get the chance to see the shipwreck ‘The Neptune Goddess’ sunk off Accra Beach on the South coast. Lots to do, or you can just chill out on the beach with a cocktail.

You may also see the race horses late at night bathing in the sea, that is a wonderful sight. I loved Barbados, the local people are so friendly and if you care to take a bus ride, it's a free for all and you may see people sat on other's knees... with the sound of Reggae playing on the stereo. A great place that everyone must experience in their lifetime.