Babados
The weather was amazing for the duration of the trip, just a few spots of rain now and again. Our journey from the airport to the new Sandals Barbados took about 20 minutes, which is great when you have been flying for almost nine hours.
The hotel was lovely, set in about eleven acres of landscaped gardens. They have full time gardeners, that keep the grounds in pristine condition. We stayed in an Ocean View Suite, very spacious, good sized bathroom and balcony with views of the pool and ocean. There are eleven restaurants to choose from. They have introduced the first Indian restaurant in their Caribbean portfolio. The food is delicious. Our other favourite places to eat were, Butch's Chophouse, where I tasted the most amazing Filet Mignon and Lobster. Kimonos for a great fun night, with your chef cooking oriental food right in front of you. If you fancy a morning coffee and cake, head over to the Café De Paris, mouth watering cakes, pastries, ice cream, crepes and speciality coffees. There is nightly entertainment, which is very varied. Once a week they hold a "White Night" and chocolate buffet.
We decided to explore a little during the trip, one day we caught the local bus into Bridgetown, the cost is only one US$ for a trip each way. We wandered around the port and then walked to the famous Kensington Oval cricket ground and managed to watch a match between Barbados and Trinidad. It worked out less than £2 to get in!
On another day we negotiated with a local taxi driver, known as "Big Apple" he took six of us around the island, we drove across the island, through the countryside to Bathsheba on the rugged Atlantic coastline, which is great for anyone that loves surfing. We headed to the north of the island and then down the west coast. The driver took us to for a fish lunch at a local restaurant in the port area of Bridgetown. We then completed our day with a visit to the Mount Gay Rum distillery, where some of our group did some rum tasting, all came away with big smiles on their faces!
A couple of days before we were due to fly home, we took a sunset cruise, first of all we stopped off in Carlisle Bay and did some snorkelling, we got to see and swim with turtles, fantastic experience!! There are also five ship wrecks in the bay, a haven for divers. We then proceeded to head up the west coast, moored up by the famous Sandy Lane hotel. Our hosts served us with fresh fish and other delights, topped off with rum punch. We watched the sunset and then sailed back to Bridgetown with lots music and dancing on deck taking place. A lovely excursion, highly recommended.
Another must if you are visiting Barbados, although we did not get the chance on this trip, is to visit Oistins Fish Fry, the famous fish market. Friday night is party night!! Fresh fish is cooked for you and there is lots of entertainment going on.
We did go to Barbados some years ago, but it was lovely to revisit and see how things have changed over the years. Lots of fabulous houses owned by international celebrities.
Overall a great holiday.
