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Barbados Climate

The climate is tropical. In Jun-Nov heavy rainfall and high winds may occur. Hoteliers are generally well prepared for the occasional hurricanes that can develop. Please be aware that some facilities such as watersports may be affected, flooding may occur in low-lying areas (eg. Holetown) and alcoholic drinks are not served in these circumstances.

 

Barbados History & Culture

Barbados exudes a distinctly British feel, right down to portraits of the Queen, cricket on village greens and street signs pointing the way to Brighton and Dover . For over three centuries, Barbados was a British colony and is still affectionately called ‘Little England'. 16th-century Portuguese explorers christened the island ‘Os Barbados' - ‘The Bearded Ones' - presumably because of the profusion of fig trees whose long, hanging roots resembled beards. While both Portuguese and Spanish adventurers knew of Barbados ' existence, it was the British who colonised the island, back in 1625. Under the leadership of Captain John Powell, Barbados was claimed in the name of King James I and tobacco, cotton and sugar plantations were soon established. Interestingly, prior to European settlement, indigenous tribes used to inhabit Barbados , including a savage race of people who gave their name to the ‘Caribbean' - the Caribs. They were cannibals and are reported to have barbecued their captives - records state that in 1596, Caribs ate an entire crew of French sailors! Thankfully, tastes have changed and Barbados is now one of the Caribbean 's premier holiday destinations, famed for its relaxed way of life, palmed-fringed beaches and turquoise seas.

Barbados Shopping

Without doubt, Bridgetown is the place to head for a varied and colourful shopping experience. Whether you want boutiques or stalls, the capital's got it all. Broad Street is home to a range of sophisticated shops, large shopping malls and department stores while Baxter's Road, in contrast, brims with cheap and cheerful food stalls and rum shops. Its nick-name is the 'street that never sleeps' so don't worry about getting up early to experience its Caribbean charms. Most Barbadians do their shopping in Swan Street which often comes alive to the sound of street music.

Barbados Nightlife

Nightlife in the large towns and resorts throbs with Caribbean beats and uplifting music. The town of St Lawrence , down the coast from Bridgetown , has a lively scene once the moon comes up. It's not all boogie though, many people enjoy the simple pleasures of fine food and mellow evenings by the sea.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Barbados
All You Need To Know

"With its dreamy palm-fringed shores, gently lapping waves and laid-back pace of life, Barbados is the perfect holiday island. Hear the tinkle of steel drums as you leisurely sip one of Barbados ' legendary rum cocktails."

Barbados really is a place of discovery – where a maze of little roads chase across the island, over rolling hills of sugar cane down to luxuriant dales, surrounded by a coast of sandy beaches slotted into beautiful rocky bays. To gain an even more spectacular view of Barbados there are a number of ways to take in its splendour – helicopter rides, mini-submarine trips and a choice of boat excursions enable you to make the most of the island's many beauty spots. As well as providing a wonderful opportunity for you to spend leisurely hours exploring and sightseeing, Barbados hosts an array of exciting activities such as championship golf and watersports.

Caribbean cuisine is exciting and diverse and Barbados has some of the finest restaurants in the region. Local and international dishes are available in the hotels and restaurants, and you'll find a delicious selection of exotic fruits, chicken and fresh fish high on the list of any menu throughout Barbados .

Living up to its reputation for elegance, Barbados houses some of the most sophisticated shops in the Caribbean . You can purchase dutyfree goods in Bridgetown , or stroll around the stalls and shops selling a wide range of locally handcrafted souvenirs.

The island has had a long and varied history that's reflected in the architecture and culture. By far the greatest recent influence has been the British and many people call Barbados 'Little England'. Indeed in the capital the remnants of the British occupation can be seen in the Gothic-style parliament buildings and of course, the games of cricket you will see on the beach!

Barbados – the holiday island where paradise awaits your arrival.

Perhaps the quintessential Caribbean island, Barbados is home to beautifully clear seas and pristine white beaches which stretch for as far as the eye can see. The warm waters provide excellent snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities - the seas teem with colourful fish and vibrant coral reefs.

Sightseeing

There are a number of ways to take in the natural splendour of this paradise isle. Choose from a helicopter ride, submarine trip or a boat excursion in order to make the most of the island's many beauty spots.

Holiday Tips

Most hotels or apartments ask customers to vacate their rooms between 10am and 12 midday. For late afternoon or evening flights, late check out rooms may be available. Should a friend wish to visit you at your All Inclusive hotel for the day, a ‘day pass' is available at an additional charge. Most hotels require a credit card imprint or cash deposit to cover any additional costs for use of extra facilities at your accommodation.

Highlights

Highlights offer endless opportunities to discover, wonder, relax and enjoy - here is a selection... Atlantis SubmarineAn unforgettable insight into the deep, without even getting wet! View the underwater world from the comfort of an air-conditioned mini-submarine. This really is a great adventure and an unforgettable experience. (About £57)

Jeep SafariA Highlight Gold Award winner in 2004. A fantastic new enclosed jeep safari, 4 x 4 off-track terrain, seeing the parts of the island you couldn't reach in coaches or cars! A real ‘highlight' to experience. (About £43)

The Grenadines A short flight and you are there in the heart of the Grenadine islands. Cruise around this most picturesque part of the world onboard a luxury catamaran. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Bajan Roots & RhythmsA fabulous evening out for all ages. Enjoy a plentiful Bajan buffet followed by a show from the stunning Plantation Dancers, dressed in bright, colourful costume. There is a steel pan band, a fire-eater, flaming limbo dancing and a top live band. Unlimited local drinks included throughout the evening.

Helicopter ToursThe ultimate way to see Barbados . Get a bird's eyes view of the gullies, changing coastlines and palatial homes. A unique experience if you have not tried this before! (About £65 per person for a 20-minute flight; pre-bookable with a deposit of £25)

Catamaran CruiseYour holiday in Barbados would not be complete without enjoying a day cruising the coastline on a cat. Enjoy the fresh sea air, sunshine, delicious Bajan lunch and unlimited local drinks. Don't miss the chance to look for turtles and enjoy the underwater world as you snorkel in the crystal clear waters.

Exclusively St LuciaThe spectacular scenery of neighbouring St Lucia awaits you, from the impressive peaks of the Pitons to the lush rainforests and bubbling hot sulphur springs of the Soufriere Volcano, with the bustling capital, Castries , adding a contrast to the natural beauty of this Caribbean haven.

Please note that you are strongly advised to pre-book the excursions named. Limited spaces are available once in resort, so book early to avoid disappointment. A cash deposit is required to secure your booking and the balance is paid on the day of the trip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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