Caribbean
Barbados
When you visit Barbados… it might just change you.
With its warm winter sun, crystal waters and white sands, you’ll become completely immersed in the rich culture and spirit.
Every single day promises new experiences, endless discovery and lasting memories.
It’s the once in a lifetime holiday you’ll take again and again, and you can get there with non-stop Aer Lingus flights from Manchester.
Click here to find a Travel Counsellor who will be able to arrange your trip, taking care of every detail to leave you free to relax and soak up the island spirit.
Average Temperature (°C)
Summer
27.0
Autumn
26.7
Winter
26.0
My two kids say our family holiday to Barbados was the best ever! It truly is a great destination for families. The highlight was our catamaran trip out to swim with the turtles.
Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean', Barbados is a deservedly world-famous destination. A gorgeous tropical paradise containing the popular cruise port of Bridgetown, the island itself is actually an enormous coral reef that was formed over a million years ago. This unique geography results in a breathtaking coastline, and some of the best snorkelling, surfing and diving action in the world!
The western half of the pear-shaped island, often referred to as the Platinum Coast, is dominated by deluxe beach resorts with great facilities. The central highlands area of the island is home to some interesting cultural sights (including distilleries and plantations), picturesque villages and some amazing walking and hiking trails. The eastern half of the island, which gives way to the Atlantic Ocean, is commonly referred to as the 'Soup Bowl' because of its big waves and foaming surf; this is the place to be for surfers and backpackers, home to an assortment of low-cost accommodation and lively beach-side bars.
Called 'Little England' by some, Barbados' strong ties with English culture over the years have bequeathed it a genial atmosphere and good infrastructure. The sun shines 340 days of the year in Barbados, and the famously friendly locals only serve to increase the island's glorious ambiance. Barbados is one of the most popular winter sun vacation destinations in the world for northern hemisphere tourists, and is an obligatory stop on any Caribbean cruise adventure.
Try a Taste
Cou cou & flying fish
Flying fish served with cou cou is the national dish of Barbados. It’s similar to polenta or grits and is made with corn flour and okra. On its own, cou cou is a staple dish that can be added to virtually any meal with meat and fish to give it a bit more heft.
Macaroni Pie
Often considered to be the island’s unofficial national dish, macaroni pie is essentially a baked and very rich take on mac and cheese. It’s incredibly versatile, with some vendors adding spices such as black pepper, curry pepper and various hot sauces.
Mount Gay Rum
The world’s oldest rum distillery, established in 1703 – learn all about how rum is made, from sugar cane to the coral-filtered water that’s native to Barbados. Enjoy a traditional Bajan lunch or try a cocktail mixing session
What I had not realised before visiting Barbados was the great food I would get to sample. There are some absolutely fabulous restaurants to try, our favourites being Champers, The Fish Pot and Lone Star, which is right next to Ju Ju’s – a great beach café. People are so friendly wherever you go – locals and tourists mix together in bars and restaurants and on beaches.
