Holidays in Barbados serve up the Caribbean with a twist. Expect sweet-but-spicy cuisine, free-flowing rum, and a British-style love for cricket

The Platinum Coast

At first glance, Barbados appears to play by all the tropical island laws, following the book to the letter when it comes to its coastline. The island is home to more than 92 kilometres of long, blonde beaches, which are backed by palm trees and lapped by luminous blue waters. The western coast is especially popular. It’s where you’ll find the resorts of St James and St Peter, and it’s even earned itself the nickname of the Platinum Coast, thanks to the purity of its sand.

Rum Punch

Beyond the sand, Barbados doesn’t always tow the Robinson Crusoe line. The island does have a few quieter resorts, like Maxwell Beach, which is pin-drop peaceful, but on the whole it can be a bit of a firecracker. Bajan food blurs the line between sweet and savoury, and the rum shops make it easier to order punch than coffee. St Lawrence Gap leads the nightlife pack. This resort is a hub for reggae bars, calypso clubs and, some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean.

Bridgetown

The capital city, Bridgetown, shows off the quirkier side to holidays in Barbados. It’s here the Caribbean influence collides head on with the heritage left over from British rule. You can watch a game of cricket on the green and stand in the shadow of the admiral Nelson statue, before heading to the harbour to watch live reggae or dance to calypso.

Departure tax included

You no longer need to set aside any spending money for departure tax, as we include it within the cost of your holiday.