Jo and Mark have just returned from a fantastic couple of weeks in Barbados. They found the island to be as warm and welcoming as ever and spent their time exploring the island, trying out new restaurants (as well as re-visiting some old favourites!) and visiting some of the hotels we work closely with.
Travel protocols are of course changing every so often, but at present Barbados simply requires vaccinated travellers to take a PCR test within 3 days of travel and show proof of vaccination upon arrival. To help ensure a smooth arrival, Jo and Mark booked VIP Fast Track. With this service, there is someone there to meet you almost as soon as you come off the plane and they assist you with the whole arrival process so that you can get through the airport as quickly as possible and start your holiday!
Jo and Mark stayed near Speightstown – the original capital of Barbados and an up-and-coming area which is becoming increasingly popular with visitors. Barbados is well known for its’ great restaurant scene and Jo and Mark particularly enjoyed dining at a new restaurant in Speightstown called Local & Co, where the focus is on fresh and sustainable local produce. They also enjoyed several evenings listening to live music at Little Bristol Beach Bar – arguably one of the best spots on the island for watching the sunset.
It is straightforward to hire a car in Barbados which allows you to easily explore the island at your own pace. There as so many fascinating places to visit, but on of the highlights for Jo and Mark was a trip to the atmospheric Codrington College. This theological college is steeped in history and continues to play an important role in higher education in the West Indies. With buildings reminiscent of an Oxford quadrangle, beautiful grounds and stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean this is a great spot to visit and perhaps enjoy a picnic whilst touring the island.
Jo and Mark also paid a visit to Brighton Farmers Market, an open-air market around 15 minutes’ drive from Bridgetown. The market is held every Saturday from 6am to 10am and showcases an amazing array of local products, from arts and crafts such as handmade pottery and jewellery to fresh produce. There are also stalls offering a delicious selection of pastries and quiches, as well as freshly brewed coffee.
Jo celebrated her birthday in Barbados and spent the day visiting one of her favourite spots on the island – Earthworks Pottery. Set in the centre of the island overlooking both the south and south-west coast, this small art studio produces stunning handmade and hand decorated pottery and is certainly worth a visit if only to purchase a unique Bajan souvenir.
Whilst on island, Jo and Mark were also visiting hotels, such as the newly re-opened O2 Beach Club & Spa, and were very impressed by how attentive and engaging the staff were. They also went to The House for afternoon tea (served with rum punch!) and to try their new restaurant, Positano. Heading a little further up the west coast, they dropped in at Cobblers Cove, where they were warmly greeted with a Cobblers’ Cooler, their delicious signature cocktail, before having a wander around the hotel’s beautiful grounds.
If you are considering a holiday to Barbados in 2022, please do give us a call. Personal knowledge of a destination can make such a difference when planning your dream holiday, and Jo would be delighted to share her recommendations and experience of the island with you!
Tropic Breeze specialises in creating holidays to resorts we know and love. We maintain a close relationship with each hotel, allowing us to offer you flexibility and the very best details. If you would like further information or a quote, please call us on 01752 880880 or email [email protected].
Tropic Breeze offer fully bonded and protected holidays, whether booked with flights via our ATOL 5615 or for accommodation only holidays with our ABTA Y5401. This means you can rest assured that your Tropic Breeze holiday is safe and secure.
Author KatieCategories Caribbean, News, Reviews