The Voice takes in beautiful Barbados…and says thanks for the memories

BARBADOS, ONE of the Caribbean’s most popular islands, is a firm favourite with tourists.

Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and famous platinum coast it is easy to see why it is such a favoured holiday destination. 

Only 166 square miles and divided into 11 parishes, Barbados is one of the smaller islands, but one of the Caribbean’s most developed countries, with so much to offer.

There are a number of must see attractions, including crystal clear beaches, picturesque botanical gardens, the famous Harrison’s Cave, and the 17th-century plantation houses like St. Nicholas Abbey, to name a few.

Another favourite spot loved by tourists and locals alike is Oistins, situated on the south coast, which is an active fishing town and famous for it’s lively weekend activities. 

Friday night in particular is where they host ‘fish fry’, an evening of food and drink serving up fish, lobster, chicken and much more in an informal setting along the strip.

Oistins is a definite must when visiting Barbados and an opportunity to eat, drink and dance with the locals.

Whatever time of year you decide to go to Barbados, there is always something do!

Whether it be horse racing, exploring the island, sampling the rum or joining in with the Crop Over festivities.

Kadooment Day celebrates the end of the Crop Over celebrations (July/August), masquerade bands make their way to Mighty Grynner Highway with participants dressed in stunning sequin costumes, elaborately decorated with colourful feathers, jewels and bright accessories!  

Watch from the street or follow your favourite music truck and dance the day away! As the Bajan’s say “Crop Over it sweet fuh days!”

Deciding where to stay in Barbados can be difficult as there are a number of amazing hotels along the west coast but the recently refurbished, The Club Barbados, part of the Elite Island Resorts group, offer an all round amazing experience.

Located in St James along the prestigious platinum coast, its ocean front location is perfect if you’re looking for a beach holiday. 

The adult only, all-inclusive hotel offers guests an authentic experience.

Superior Oceanfront Room 

My time at The Club was made extra special by the amazing staff including Jeanette who ensured all our needs were met, including providing us with an oceanfront room. A spacious suit, consisting of two twin beds, lounge area and a balcony overlooking the sea, made for an exceptionally comfortable stay.

Cuisine

You’ll never go hungry at The Club with a wide variety of deliciously fresh food throughout the day!

The huge buffet style breakfast will set you up nicely for the day and see you through to lunchtime where each day is different!

Local food is served in the afternoon giving you a delightful taste of their local cuisine.

Still hungry? Fear not, poolside snacks are available throughout the day! There are two restaurants at The Club to choose from for your evening meals.

The Sunset restaurant has a beautiful ocean view and a wide selection of specialities and local favourites.

Enid’s with its colourful Bajan decor serves up traditional flavours, conveniently located near the Rum Shop Bar for pre and post dinner drinks. 

Tranquillity Body & Soul Spa

Always one of my favourite parts of the trip – there’s nothing better than a spa treatment for ultimate relaxation. 

With a number of restorative treatments on the menu, you’ll definitely be in for a treat.

Signature specialties include rejuvenating baths, couples massage, aromatherapy salt scrubs and body wraps.

I opted for the Rainfall Therapy body treatment which included a warm Moor Mud wrap, followed  by a Vichy shower of natural water, guided to massage and cleanse the body.

I felt completely relaxed and rejuvenated after this treatment and would definitely recommend. Make sure you book all your treatments in early to avoid disappointment. 

Water sports 

For those who like a bit of adventure while on holiday, the water sports shop offer a number of thrill seeking activities including, paddle boarding, water skiing, windsurfing, Hobie cat sailing, kayaking and more.

If you’re looking for a more chilled experience, the boat ride across each side of the island followed by snorkelling with the turtles makes for a perfect afternoon at sea.

The experienced staff ensure you have the best time. Dana and Rosco completely made our experience so don’t worry if you’ve never done it before, you’ll leave a pro!

Entertainment 

The Club provides live entertainment everyday of the week!

After dinner, guests are welcomed up to the stage to sing and dance to popular reggae tunes alongside a live band!

The weekly beach party is one not to be missed. A large selection of food carts on the night allow you to sample traditional Bajan flavours throughout the night.

After you’ve eaten all that you can eat, live entertainers take to the stage and if you’re lucky you’ll get chosen to display your best moves in front of an audience. It’s a great way to burn off all those calories.

Enid’s Cooking School

Why not take a little bit of the Caribbean back with you and sign up to Enid’s cooking class, where you’ll learn how to make some authentic Bajan dishes that you can recreate at home.

With live demos and student participation, it’s a great way to brush up on your cooking skills.

Friendly and vibrant, head chef Enid taught us one of her signature dishes, Cou Cou – a favourite amongst the bajans. Once confident with our newfound skills, a three course meal is served to give you a true taste of the Caribbean. A great experience, one you never knew you needed.

I can honestly say my time at The Club was truly special. The warm and friendly staff were so welcoming and made our stay one to remember, hence loyal guests returning year after year.

I’ll definitely be back soon to make more memories!

Thank you to Elite Island Resorts and Virgin Atlantic.  

Chantelle flew Virgin Atlantic: London Gatwick – Barbados for £661 return

Visit: www.eliteislandislandholidays.com and www.virginholidays.co.uk