Barbados: More Than Beaches

Barbados

We love the beaches of Barbados, but there's more to the island than soft sand and sun, as one Luxury Retreats employee recently discovered on a trip to the Caribbean's "Little England". From weekend polo matches to sophisticated rum tastings, Barbados means business even after you've rolled up your towel for the day…

Luxury Retreats' Director of Marketing Ben Tuff recently toured Barbados for the first time in almost ten years. His first thought? "What took me so long?" Ben remembered just how much he loved the island, which is different from other islands in the Caribbean in many ways. Barbados isn't just about the beaches – though they too are reason enough to go, if you love the sand – it's about the people, who are probably the friendliest he's encountered in the Caribbean, he says (with no disrespect to the rest!). In no particular order, these three Bajan experiences were the ones that stood out for him the most (with nary a mention of a beach in sight!):

1. Rum Tasting

For many, a trip to Barbados is synonymous with some cocktails made from Mount Gay Rum, the island's renowned spirit. Mount Gay is the oldest rum distillery in the world and has a distinct flavor and high caliber. Ben tried several varieties of the spirit during a special private tasting at Fustic House villa organized by Mount Gay representatives, who spoke about the history of the distillery as well as the rum-making process. Try this Barbados luxury villa: Tom Tom (below), a stylish new property that's great for entertaining.

2. Catamaran Tours

Sure, snorkeling is pretty commonplace in the Caribbean, but the best way to do it according to Ben is with a luxury catamaran tour, such as the one he did with Good Times Catamaran Cruises. Picked up right at his villa's beach, treated to unlimited cocktails and a delicious lunch buffet of local food, the (amazing) snorkeling is just one part of the experience. One memorable stop on the tour sees guests swimming with a family of sea turtles. Try this Barbados luxury villa: Fully-staffed West Haven Villa (below), a spectacular four-bedroom property right on quiet and exclusive Gibbs Beach. It's just a short walk to popular Mullins Beach, brimming with water sports.

3. Polo!

It's no surprise to find polo on this, the Caribbean's most British island. The sport is played and watched with fervor on Barbados, so any trip here should include this very local experience. Ben saw an international match at Holder's Field, and the scene was reminiscent of any swanky polo event on the mainland, except with nicer weather! Try this Barbados luxury villa: Pink Cottage (below), a gorgeous four-bedroom hideaway located on the grounds of an ultra-exclusive estate at Heron Bay. The large private acreage surrounding this villa, including a pond with boat, is great for kids to explore.

If you're interested in trying out any of our Barbados luxury villas, let us know! For more information, contact us at 1-877-993-0100 (North America), 1-514-393-8844 (International) or E-Mail to sales@luxuryretreats.com