The most English of all the Caribbean islands is also one of the most beautiful with idyllic sandy beaches, a friendly Bajan culture, great restaurants and a fabulous choice of hotels. Under British rule for more than 300 years and independent for over forty, Barbados offers a unique blend of Caribbean cool and British tradition with polo played on the island, sumptuous teas served most afternoons and cricket a national obsession. A luxury Barbados holiday is fantastic for couples, friends and families.

One of the larger Caribbean islands, Barbados is a wonderful destination where you can easily spend a couple of weeks exploring the island, hopping between hotels, playing golf, being pampered in a spa, enjoying a host of watersports or just relaxing on the beach. There’s so much to do and little chance to be bored.  The west and north coasts of Barbados are where you’ll find the best hotels ranging from large luxurious resorts to intimate boutique hotels, many with wide-ranging facilities, large spas and fantastic kids’ clubs.  Barbados is also something of a culinary hotspot and in 2007 was the first Caribbean island to be given it’s own Zagat guide.

Known for it’s glamorous expat scene, a luxury holiday in Barbados can be as relaxed or as glitzy as you like. Dress up for sunset cocktails and go for dinner at legendary island restaurant Daphne’s, grab the kids and head out for a fun family supper or walk barefoot along the beach to the resort restaurant and relax for the evening.

Away from the chic west coast scene a Barbados holiday on the east coast is also worth exploring. A wildly beautiful place of rugged beaches pounded by Atlantic waves, it offers a strikingly different side to the Bajan experience. Hire a jeep and set off to see sights such as Harrison’s Cave, the Andromeda Botanical Gardens and Farley Hill National Park or alternatively, head out on a boat to explore the water. From fishing to diving and snorkelling, there’s an activity for everyone.