Escape the everyday in Barbados

If you are looking to switch off and recharge – far from the burdens of life back home, set your sights on Barbados. This island offers so much to wash away your stresses and cares, starting with sunshine and surf, and ending with a rum sundowner.

Pure escapism lies around every corner, with luxury resorts that cater to your every whim as well as new and intriguing wonders to discover. Here are some of our favourite reasons for a rejuvenating trip to Barbados.

For a Barbados honeymoon

This is a paradise island that is famed for powdery white beaches and turquoise waters – nowhere more so than on the west coast. Weddings on the beach are a common sight, but it is just as popular as a honeymoon destination with its five-star accommodation and facilities, as well as hideaway coves for the ultimate escape.

For the sandy shores

Search out locations like Miami Beach (don’t be fooled by the name), which has deep, clear waters for swimming; or Shark Hole for a sandy cove hidden from most tourists’ agendas. If you fancy a beach with a bit more lifestyle and action, there’s Rockley where the surf will keep most amateurs happy or a three-kilometre boardwalk that takes you to Hastings. For a bit more flamboyance by the sea, go to Payne’s Bay Beach which neighbours both Rihanna’s villa and the Sandy Lane hotel and resort. This is where your celebrity spotting moments will happen. Maybe you prefer to escape on adrenaline – in which case the water sports around the island are excellent, but the east coast will keep you more than entertained with its Atlantic waves.

For the city sights

If culture is your thing, the Bajan island has many sites and attractions – both natural and man-made. Top of our list is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bridgetown and its garrison. The colonial architecture here exemplifies the British efforts on the island from the 17th to 19th centuries and demonstrates the innovations of town planning during the colonial era.

There’s also historic Jacobean mansions, and a wonderful synagogue to explore. At the right times of the year, Bajan culture is also visible in the colourful and vivacious carnivals – with bands playing steel drums and rum-fuelled crowds dancing from dusk to dawn.

For the perfect accommodation

Where you stay is as important as how you fill your days. Cobblers Cove is a gem of a resort that is perfect for honeymooners and hopeless romantics alike. Candle-lit, private terrace dinners with the best cuisine of the island make this a trip of a lifetime. You’ll also have the chance to attend unique events at the hotel such as opera on the beach and cabaret in the garden.

Another excellent private resort is The Sandpiper, which should be top of your list on this island. Hidden amongst a tropical garden, service and attention to detail here is paramount and nothing is too much trouble. It’s relaxed and charming, sophisticated and chic.

Whatever you want from a tropical island escape, rest assured that Barbados can provide it: barefoot luxury, carnival chaos and natural beauty to take your breath away. All you need to do is get there – and our beach specialists are on hand to help you do just that.