Overview

Barbados was first settled by the British in 1627 and many British traditions are now an intrinsic part of the Bajan culture. It is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands and the ideal introduction to the West Indies.

Barbados has something for everyone but has not compromised its idyllic charm by becoming too developed. You won't find high rise hotels, arcades or hamburger chains; you will find beautiful white sand beaches, swaying palms beside warm blue seas and some of the friendliest people in the world, a perfect location for luxury holidays.

The “platinum” west coast is renowned for its luxury hotels, discreetly peppered along soft, white sands and calm Caribbean waters. Stylish waterfront restaurants, ornately landscaped gardens interlaced with swimming pools, palms and splashes of colour evoke an exclusive country club feel.

The lively South Coast also has some fabulous hotels, as well as great restaurants and bars, the island's interior has a fascinating abundance of flora and fauna and the eastern Atlantic side is ruggedly beautiful.

For the sports enthusiast there is everything from golf to horse racing with some of the best watersports in the world, and for cultural interest, there is the island's varied history and a host of stately homes and elegant plantation houses to visit.

Food and drink

Some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean are in Barbados, with the majority on the island's west coast - the Platinum Coast - and a scattering in the south. Be sure to try the island's national dish, flying fish, along with the wide variety of possibly unfamiliar fresh fish caught daily off the island's shores. A delicious choice is Mahi Mahi or Dorado referred to locally as Dolphin, Barracuda, Red Snapper, Tuna and King Fish.

Pudding n Souse - a speciality dish commonly eaten on a Saturday or bank holidays.

Saltfish - once a slave staple, this is now a firm favourite in Barbados, sold at all local festivities.

Rum punch - the famous rum cocktail with a wild kick!

Local food is equally applauded, best enjoyed at street festivals and local rum shops and washed down with rum! The Fish Fry at Oistins is deservedly popular, frequented by a mix of locals and visitors, or head north to Six Men's Bay where you can go to the Friday night fish fry with a bottle of wine and cutlery provided by the Fish Pot restaurant.

A word of warning - although most restaurants welcome walk-in diners there are many that are fully booked in advance, especially from December to May so reservations are recommended.

Aqua Restaurant & Lounge

Hastings Main Road, Christ Church

Open lunch and dinner 7 days a week.

Tel: 246-420-2995

A stylish venue on the south coast. Downstairs there's an ambient and stylish lounge and bar with intimate tables for two on the newly built boardwalk and a few bar dining tables on the water's edge. Upstairs the atmosphere is much livelier and popular with groups as well as couples. Nightly tasting menus include modern Bajan and Japanese and there's a carefully selected wine list with an emphasis on the New World.

Calabaza

Prospect Bay, St James

Open for dinner 7 days a week

Tel: 246-424-4557

One of the few west coast waterside restaurants run by the likeable Peter 'Huggie' Harris, Calabaza sits right on the cliff above Prospect Beach. The Moroccan style décor is vibrant and refreshing, and clever use of lighting to the sea attracts the fish too, so if you have a waterside table you may be lucky enough to see a sting ray glide past. The menu is eclectic with an emphasis on seafood and the warm and friendly staff combine, to make for a memorable experience. They also hold yoga classes on the terrace every Saturday morning.

Chefette (Fast Food)

The most popular fast food chain on the island and healthy...ish. Drive through or sit in; the chicken and beef rotis are delicious - curried tortillas stuffed with potato - and the roasted chicken in a bun is a sure bet. Most branches also have ice cream parlours.

Daphne's

Tel: 246-432-2731

Sister restaurant to the eponymous Daphne's in Chelsea, Daphne's Barbados combines modern Italian dishes with a relaxed beachside setting. Since opening in December 2001, Daphne's Barbados has built up a reputable name and has a strong celebrity following. The wine list deserves a special mention, with an excellent cellar carefully selected from all the top regions of the world. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Josef's

Waverly House, St. Lawrence Gap

Open for dinner 7 days a week.

Tel: 246-435-8245

A beautifully restored Bajan house set on a cliff edge, Josef's is a romantic sanctuary in the midst of St. Lawrence Gap, an area famed for its party atmosphere. Set in beautiful gardens with gazebos it is among Barbados' crème de la crème of fine dining, serving sophisticated, contemporary cuisine that blends Caribbean and Asian flavours. Upstairs, the exclusive Kampai adds another dimension, serving contemporary Japanese cuisine.

The Fish Fry at Oistins

Oistins, South Coast

This outdoor party hosted by the south-coast fishing village of Oistins sees local vendors serving fresh seafood from outdoor shacks lining the waterfront. A street food feast with dancing to live calypso and reggae. Nightly, although the best and biggest are on Fridays and Saturdays.

Olives Bar and Bistro

Holetown, St James

Tel: 246-432-2112

An elegant yet casual restaurant, specialising in upscale Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisine as well as seafood. Dine outdoors in the pretty garden setting or upstairs in an air-conditioned area. Olives is a long-standing west coast favourite.

Scarlet

Paynes Bay, St James

Open Tuesday - Sunday from 5pm.

Tel: 246-432-3663

“Low key lounging and high heels haute couture.” That is the vibe at this new Barbados hot spot - an intimate and stylish venue befitting of a London or New York private club. Once a chattel-house, it has been converted into a lively yet low-key hang-out, painted scarlet red inside and out, with black lacquered tables and portraits of Jackie O and Marilyn Monroe adorning the walls. They do fabulous martinis - including the signature Scarlet Rocks - and the menu is a mix of small bites through to main dishes including a delicious fish pie. Scarlet caters for the midnight crowd who flock after hours to party, although Sunday nights are more chilled.

The Cliff

Derricks, St James

Tel: 246-432-1922

Often termed the best restaurant in the Caribbean, The Cliff opened in January 1995 to rave reviews and hasn't looked back since. There's a dedicated following of repeat customers, including a long list of celebrities and chef Paul Owen impresses with a trend-setting menu that doesn't compromise on quality and taste. Its location is fabulous - built into a cliff alongside the sea, every table has a breathtaking terrace view. Attentive service, imaginative lighting effects and an excellent wine list.

The Fish Pot

Little Good Harbour

Tel: 246-439-2604

Charming setting in an old fort and on a wooden deck just above the sand, perfect for lunch or an evening out. Well worth the drive beyond Speightstown.

The Gourmet Shop

5 Chattel Village, Old Town, St James

Tel: 246-432-7711

Create your own picnic at Sarah Hamilton's store The Gourmet Shop, which has the most delicious ingredients around, from tamarind balls, caviar and foie gras.

The Lone Star

Mount Standfast, St James

Tel: 246-419-0599

Fabulous food in a beautiful location, this trendy yet casual dining spot occupies the former Lone Star Mechanics Garage, and has become one of the must-go restaurants on the west coast circuit. Its relaxed, beachfront setting makes it an ideal choice for a leisurely lunch and dinner is equally a treat. Fresh quality local ingredients capture flavours from Asia and the Caribbean through to simple, hearty English dishes - the traditional English roast is unbeatable!

The Mews

2nd Street, Holetown, St. James

Open for dinner Monday - Saturday with live music on Fridays

Tel: 246-432-1122

A favourite with the west coast crowd and many south coasters as well. The Mews, although primarily known for their food, has rapidly developed into one of the more popular bars on the west coast. Proprietor, Chris Hoad and Head Chef, Nick King, are two good humoured characters who manage to keep patrons well entertained into the wee hours! After hours it becomes a bustling after dinner rendezvous and drinking spot. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere in this charming and sometimes surprising place!

The Tides

Tel: 246-432-2248

Holetown, St James

Popular chef Guy Beasley makes excellent use of fresh local fish, with contemporary seafood dishes as well as meat and vegetarian dishes, carefully prepared with a flair that draws upon the best traditions of Italy, France, Asia and the Caribbean. Set on the water's edge within a lush tropical garden, it also houses 'The Tides Gallery' for lovers of great food and fine art.

Nightlife

Barbados has a great reputation as one of the party islands of the Caribbean, with an abundance of bars and late night haunts on the south coast through to sophisticated restaurant bars on the west coast that attract a good crowd. Recently, a number of contemporary city-style bars have opened, for those after a taste of South Beach cool on this classic Caribbean island. The local rum shops are also great for a night out Bajan-style!

South Coast

Pravda Lounge

No. 1 St. Lawrence Gap

Christ Church

Tel: 246-420-7617

Pravda epitomises a new luxury, backed by a hip soundtrack and an ambience of cool comfort. Located on St. Lawrence Gap, it is an ultra-modern bar, with vast expanses of white on white and mouth-watering martinis.

Boat Yard

Bay Street, Bridgetown

Tel: 246-436-2622

Lively on the right night, which tends to be Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Harbour Lights

Marina Villa, Bay Street, St. Michael

Tel: 246-436-7225

A very popular open-air spot located on the South Coast, with a fun beach party on Monday nights (all ages welcome) and very lively on Fridays as well. Popular with locals and visitors, dance the night away to international music, with free drinks until 2am.

The Ship Inn

St. Lawrence Gap

246-420-7447

Best on a Thursday, this is the original bar and dance club, still going strong with great live bands. Also shows live sports and serves simple food for those that want to eat.

Cafe Sol

St. Lawrence Gap

246-435-9531

A Mexican experience - sombreros on the walls, wild cocktails with some fajitas to accompany them. Very popular bar with visitors and locals.

McBrides

St. Lawrence Gap

246-435-6352

A version of the Irish Pub theme with nightly entertainment, from 80's music through to reggae.

Surfers Bay

This idyllic liming bar is located in Silver Sands. Live bands are on offer with a very friendly atmosphere.

West Coast

Scarlet

Paynes Bay, St James

Open Tuesday - Sunday from 5pm.

Tel: 246-432-3663

“Low key lounging and high heels haute couture.” That is the vibe at this new Barbados hot spot - an intimate and stylish venue befitting of a London or New York private club. Once a chattel-house, it has been converted into a lively yet low-key hang-out, painted scarlet red inside and out, with black lacquered tables and portraits of Jackie O and Marilyn Monroe adorning the walls. They do fabulous martinis - including the signature Scarlet Rocks - and the menu is a mix of small bites through to main dishes including a delicious fish pie. Scarlet caters for the midnight crowd who flock after hours to party, although Sunday nights are more chilled.

Crocodile's Den, aka Croc's

Payne's Bay

Has developed from a simple rum shop to a hip place for the younger crowd to be seen.

Elbow Room - Bar and Grill

2nd Street, Holetown

Tel: 246-432-1927

The latest hot-spot and extremely popular with Barbados's in-crowd. Lively and very busy on Friday and Saturday nights - live DJ Saturday and Sunday nights. The Elbow Room is open-fronted, so drinkers spill out onto the street and mingle with the crowd from The Mews next door. Cool, casual atmosphere with stonegrill dining earlier in the evening from 7pm.

Lexy - Piano Bar and Cabaret

2nd Street, Holetown

Tel: 246-432-5399

A newcomer to the Holetown scene in January 2007, Lexy's has already gained a good loyal following of locals and visitors. There is live music and entertainment each night, from owner and former Broadway performer Alex 'Lexy' Santoriello and during the season there are guest appearances by international pianists.

Weather

Places of interest

Bridgetown

The capital, Bridgetown, on the southwest corner of the island is small but busy with lots going on. Worth seeing is National Heroes Square (formerly named Trafalgar Square in 1806) with Nelson's Statue, erected in 1813 and the Dolphin Fountain that commemorates the advent of waterworks in Bridgetown. Opposite here, the Parliament Buildings date back to 1871 - Barbados has the third oldest parliament in the English speaking world. St Michael's Cathedral, completed in 1786 on the site of an original church, was consecrated in 1661. The Jewish Synagogue is the oldest in the Western hemisphere, dating back to 1654. The Central Bank Building (tallest building on Barbados) houses the Frank Collymore Concert Hall. Spanning the Careenage now is Independence Arch.

Harrisons' Cave

St Thomas

Tel: 246-438-6640

Underground tram ride through natural limestone caverns with streams, waterfalls, pools and stalagmites and stalactites. Adults Bds$32 and children $14.

Garrison Historic Area & The National Cannon Collection

St Michael

The former British Military Garrison, with St Ann's Fort dating back to 1704 and the Main Guard with handsome clock tower dated 1803. A military cemetery is located to the back of the fort, and there is a large collection of 17th Century cannons (largest in the world) which includes one of only two cannons with Cromwell's Republican Arms on it. Now headquarters to the Barbados Defence Force.

The Garrison Historic Tour

Bridgetown

Tel: 246-430-0990

Uncover the military history of Barbados from 1640 onwards on this 2-hour tour that includes a visit to the West India Regiment Room, the Military Cemetery, a replica of the Mermaid Tavern where the charter of Barbados was signed in 1651. You will also see St Ann's Fort itself, including its signal tower and a collection of 17th century cannons which are mounted outside the Main Guard. An alternative 4-hour tour includes a visit to the museum and lunch.

The Barbados Museum

St Ann's Garrison, St Michael

Tel: 246-436-1956

Housed in an early 19th-century British military prison, it now features engaging displays of the island's history, with information about the colonial era, slavery, emancipation and military history. There is also a children's gallery, and African culture gallery and a collection of rare maps and prints.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

St. Peter

Tel: 246-422-8826

A walk-through zoo opposite Farley Hill, with short paths that meander through a mahogany forest of scurrying green monkeys, deer, otters and tortoises, and a small aviary with parrots and toucans. There is also a small aviary with parrots and cockatoos, a reptile house with iguanas and snakes and an orchid display. The monkeys are most lively during their afternoon feed.

Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill

St Andrew

Tel: 246-422-7429

Dating from around 1727, this is the Caribbean's largest and most complete working mill. Climb to the top for some great views of the island.

St John's Parish Church

Hackleton's Cliff

One of the loveliest churches on the island, with glorious views (set on an 800ft cliff) of the East Coast. The churchyard is also the burial place of Ferdinando Paleologus, last descendant in the line of Emperor Constantine the Great, who was a warden of the church and died in Barbados in 1678.

Sunbury Plantation House

St Phillip

Tel: 246-423-6270

One of the oldest houses on the island dating back more than 300 years and a fascinating insight into plantation life. It was painstakingly restored after a 1995 fire and is furnished with antiques, many made from Barbadian mahogany. All rooms are now open for viewing. In the area behind the house is a collection of horse-drawn carriages. Available for weddings and private functions. 5 course candlelit dinners are served at the 200 year old mahogany table, from Bds$150 per person exclusive of tax and service charge. Courtyard restaurant.

Tyrol Cot Heritage Village

Codgrinton Hill, St Michael

Tel: 246-424-2074

Flagship property of the Barbados National Trust. Built in 1854, Tyrol Cot is a traditional Bajan village built on the former home of the first Premier of Barbados, Sir Grantley Adams. The Village includes a replica of a slave hut, a working Blacksmith's, a Chattel House Museum depicting life in the 1920's, a rum shop and local art and craftwork. The Old Stables restaurant serves local and regional food.

Getting there

Table showing travel times to this destination

Travel information
Direct flights from	Gatwick, Manchester
Airports	Grantley Adams International, Bridgetown
Flight time from UK	8h 45m (direct)
Time difference	GMT -4 hours (BST -5 hours)
Car hire available at airport
Departure tax	Included

Barbados Hotels

Sophisticated charm and cosmopolitan chic lie at the heart of this most 'English' of Caribbean islands - a favoured haunt among celebrities and those 'in the know'. Some of the finest hotels and softest sands are along the 'platinum' west coast, with excellent restaurants and bars in the south and the rugged east coast ready to explore.

Fairmont Royal Pavilion  

St James, Barbados

Location, location, location! A much loved leading resort on the island's West Coast, with an unrivalled beach presence and a recent $10 million spend, this is a natural choice for discerning clients.

Almond Beach Club and Spa  

St James, Barbados

An attractive, all inclusive resort, with high standards of service in relaxed surroundings and the additional benefits of the complimentary facilities at the Almond Beach Village.

The hotel will be closed for refurbishment between 19th September 2008 and 1st December 2008.

The House  

St James, Barbados

A calm, relaxed ambience is complemented by a personalised service at this boutique home-from-home property - a rare find on the prestigious west coast with the famous Daphne's Restaurant next door.

Bayfield House  

St Peter, Barbados

The recently restored Bayfield House, best described as a charming bed & breakfast hotel, is full of history and the perfect hideaway for those looking for a charming getaway in Barbados.

Coral Reef Club  

St James, Barbados

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, family owned and run Coral Reef Club is an all round favourite, combining traditional old colonial style with understated luxury and impeccable service. Add to this a recent revamp and the best has just got better!

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