Categories for Barbados

Sunny Getaways to Escape the Cold in Winter

As winter approaches and temperatures start to drop, now is one of the best times to start looking for your next holiday adventure. With countless sunny destinations to choose from, it can be difficult to choose the perfect place for your getaway. Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered! Check out our list of tropical island favourites you should consider when booking your next vacation.

Barbados

Famous for its crystal clear water and pristine beaches, Barbados is a Caribbean paradise full of diversity and adventure for everyone. The Barbadian people are welcoming, well-spirited, and great hosts. There are plenty of fun things to do, like surfing, shopping, and visiting distilleries. Rum is the national drink of Barbados and has been produced on the island for centuries, so you sit back, relax, and sip on some rum all while appreciating the country’s rich history. The island also offers fantastic deep-sea diving where you can observe wild sea creatures like seahorses, turtles, stingrays, and reef sharks. If seeing and learning about animals interests you, you should also check out the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, which is full of diversity with animals like monkeys, pelicans, and tree frogs. Barbados has over seventy miles of beautiful beaches with diverse nature and coastlines. If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay in Barbados, consider booking at gorgeous villas like Kiko or the Sandy Lane Suite.

St. Barth

With a rich history, a gorgeous coastline, and sizzling entertainment, St. Barth is another fantastic sunny getaway spot. French and creole food is a must-try on this island, with all kinds of restaurants to choose from depending on your tastes. As an overseas collectivity of France, one can visibly see the warm and charming French influence on the island. If you like to sail, this place is one of the best islands for water adventures. There are countless activities you can do to enjoy the crystal clear waters. St. Barth also has one of the largest and most luxurious collections of villas and five-star resorts in the Caribbean. If you don’t feel like sorting through them, we’ll go ahead and give you our favourites: Dei Sogni, Dunes, or La Plage. These three properties are sure to make you swoon. From their stylish architecture and decor to their endless amenities, every detail is accounted for to ensure top comfort and relaxation.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

If you’re a fan of island hopping, you’re going to want to visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Grenadines are a collection of thirty-two islands in the Caribbean, famous for their gorgeous beaches and crystal blue waters. The waters are home to seven species of whales and eleven species of dolphins, making this one of the best places in the Caribbean to spot exciting marine life. If you like to dive, consider visiting the Tobago Cays, a marine park full of colourful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs.

Those that book a long stay often find themselves in the mood to switch up the scenery. The island of Bequia is only an hour’s ferry ride from St Vincent, making it the perfect day trip. It’s the second largest of the thirty-two Grenadines and is often outside of the tourist’s path. The island is free from traffic, huge resorts, and the overall commotion of heavy tourism. If you’re looking to relax and enjoy a calmer atmosphere, Bequia is a recommended island to visit.

We also recommend that you make a stop in Mustique, a more secluded island frequented by celebrities like Mick Jagger, Prince William, and Kate Middleton. The landscape is largely untouched but scattered with luxurious homes and villas. A lot of people have never heard of Canouan Island, but it boasts some of the most precious waters and best snorkelling spots in the world. The island is full of luxury hotels, villas, mega yachts, and private jets. The streets are safe, quiet, and a wonderful place to unplug and relax. Lastly, Petit St. Vincent is another great island to escape to during the colder months. It’s the southernmost of the islands and incredibly small – only 115 acres!

There are endless top-tier villas to choose from if you decide to visit the Grenadines. Paraiba is an excellent villa located on Mustique Island, and Little Blue Ocean, located on Canouan Island, is another beautiful residence with a pool, guest cottage, and amazing ocean views.

Stop fantasizing about spending the winter months laying out in the sun, swimming in the sea, and exploring nature, and start turning those dreams into a reality. Get in touch with us at Simply Islands and let us help you plan your next vacation. What are you waiting for? Escape the cold this winter and meet us on the islands!

As winter approaches and temperatures start to drop, now is one of the best times to start looking for your... View Article

15 Fun Facts That You Never Knew About The Caribbean

As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, the Caribbean is full of fascinating information. From its diverse culture and history to its stunning tropical landscapes, there’s a lot to learn about this beautiful region. Here are 15 fun Caribbean sea facts you probably never knew about!

1. So… How many islands are there, really?

You may be asking yourself what Caribbean island should I visit? It’s no easy choice, considering there are 700 different Caribbean islands, islets, reefs, and cays. You heard that right – 700! They cover an area of more than two million square miles, stretching from Mexico all the way to Venezuela. Cuba is the largest island country in the Caribbean at 42,803 square miles with Saint Martin being the smallest at just 37 square miles. Each island is beautiful and unique, so there’s no wrong decision!

2. What does ‘Caribbean’ mean?

The term ‘Caribbean’ is derived from the Caribs – the indigenous tribe of the Lesser Antilles, the long arc of small islands stretching from the Virgin Islands to Grenada. Today, small Carib communities remain in the Carib Territory of Northeast Dominica and St Vincent. So, in case you’re wondering, is it pronounced CaRIbbean… or CaribBEan? Carib is pronounced with the accent on the first syllable (CAR-ib), and the proper pronunciation that is the most respectful to the natives is “care-ib-BEE-an”.

3. About the pirates…

Another interesting fact about the Caribbean is that Jamaica is home to the world’s first “pirate” city, Port Royal, which was known for its lawless inhabitants such as Henry Morgan and Blackbeard. They used it as a base for their operations from the 1650s through the 1690s, raiding settlements and shipping on the Spanish Main. It is often referred to as the wickedest city on earth.

4. What about Barbados?

Barbados is thought to have been inhabited by humans since the second millennium BC. It was previously home to Saladoid-Barrancoid people, and then later Arawaks before the European colonisation of the Americans in the 16th century. As you can see, there are countless Caribbean cultural facts to learn about due to the long history behind different islands.

5. What makes the Bahamas so special?

The Bahamas has very unique wildlife including flamingos (their national bird), swimming pigs, iguanas, stingrays, sharks, and sea turtles all living together within its waters. If you go, definitely make it a goal to meet some, if not all, of these wonderful creatures!

6. What is Cuba like?

Cuba is home to many endangered species such as Cuban crocodiles, which are small but strong swimmers and can only be found in Cuba. You can also find Amazona leucocephala parrots, also known as Cuban amazon here. These birds are noisy, wary, and gorgeous. They are often found in flocks of up to 20 or 30 birds!

7. What should you see in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico holds many attractions, including El Yunque National Forest. It is the only tropical rainforest in the national forest system and is also a sacred place in Puerto Rican culture. It’s full of beautiful wildlife, rivers, pools, and waterfalls cascading across its land.

8. Why visit Martinique?

Martinique has black sand beaches that are composed of tiny fragments of lava rock called tufa – providing stunning views at sunset when combined with the island’s blue waters and surrounding green hills!

9. Yes, there are mountains in the Caribbean!

Saint Lucia offers some amazing natural wonders such as the Piton Mountains. These are two volcanic plugs situated along a rugged coastline that offer spectacular views and breathtaking hikes amongst lush rainforest terrain.

10. Wait, how many beaches are there on Antigua?

Next on the list of facts about the Caribbean, is Antigua’s beaches. Did you know that it has got 365 of them spread around its coasts? You could visit a new beach every single day for a year! A few favourites are Valley Church Beach, Darkwood Beach, and Pigeon Point Beach.

11. There are two very unique islands…

Saint Kitts & Nevis are unique islands separated by a strait called ‘The Narrows’. The shallow channel offers gorgeous views and is accessible by ferry, water taxi, or sailing trip. Interestingly, the water is only 25 to 35 feet deep the whole way across!

12. Does the Caribbean make for a romantic holiday?

The Dominican Republic is known for its romantic spots including La Romana. Here, visitors can enjoy candlelight dinners coupled with moonlight strolls along white sand beaches beneath starry skies. Sounds nice, right?

13. Review your ABCs!

The ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire & Curaçao) offer snorkelling along colourful coral reefs filled with tropical fish ranging from angelfish to parrotfish. They are the ideal spot for underwater photography lovers!

14. The Caribbean is fabulous for bird watchers.

Trinidad & Tobago not only boasts crystal clear blue waters but also has an abundance of wildlife including Scarlet Ibis birds. These beautiful bright red birds can be seen while enjoying boat tours around the mangroves.

15. The Caribbean is simply inspiring…

Finally, Jamaica boasts one of the greatest pieces of music ever known: Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds”. He was inspired by his homeland and how it’s blessed with beauty, so much so that he wrote this classic reggae tune about it!

We hope you learned something new by reading these facts about the Caribbean culture, history, and island life. As we’ve seen throughout this blog, the Caribbean is a truly fascinating place. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting adventure, or a cultural immersion like no other, it’s sure to deliver. With its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, the Caribbean really is a paradise on Earth!

So why not come explore the Caribbean for yourself? With its endless possibilities and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Get in touch with us here at Simply Islands if you’re interested in hearing more of our recommendations or treating yourself to a luxury trip.

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10 of the Most Popular Caribbean Foods

Ahhh… the Caribbean. Home to sandy beaches, beautiful blue seas, and so much more. While the region is known for its scenery, no visit would be complete without sampling some of the best Caribbean cuisines. Whether you’re eating traditional recipes that have been cooked for centuries or sampling new creations from up-and-coming chefs, there’s no doubt that you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds on these incredible islands. So, I’m sure you’re wondering, what food do they eat in the Caribbean anyway? Let’s find out! Read along as we take a look at 10 of the most popular Caribbean foods.

1. Ackee and Saltfish

This traditional Jamaican dish is made with ackee fruit, salt cod (or other types of salted fish), onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It can be served as either a stew or an omelette-style dish and is typically served with dumplings or bammy – a type of flatbread made from cassava root flour.

2. Jerk Chicken

Jerk chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Jamaica, where it originates from. It’s marinated in a mixture of spices including allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet peppers before being grilled over hot coals for an incredibly flavourful result.

3. Run Down

Another one of the best Caribbean foods is known as Run Down. You can find this hearty stew in Jamaica, Barbados, and beyond as it has gained popularity throughout the region thanks to its delicious blend of flavours from coconut milk and herbs like thyme and chives. It is typically made with fish (usually kingfish) although some versions also include shrimp or pork as well as vegetables like bell peppers and okra.

4. Callaloo

This is often referred to as “Jamaican spinach” because it has a similar taste albeit with different textures due to its heartier leaves that are thicker than typical spinach leaves. Callaloo is traditionally made with taro or amaranth leaves but can also include other vegetables such as okra or even pumpkin depending on what region it’s being made in. It often includes ingredients like onions, garlic, scallions, and various types of meats like bacon or ham hock for added flavour.

5. Conch Fritters

These crispy fritters are typically found around The Bahamas Islands but now have spread across the entire Caribbean region due to their deliciousness. Conch meat (from large sea snails) is chopped up and then combined with flour before being deep-fried until golden brown. They’re also perfect for dipping into spicy sauces for an extra kick!

6. Curry Chicken

Next on the list of 10 of the most popular Caribbean foods is Curry Chicken. This classic Caribbean dish hails from Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago, but you can find variations throughout many other islands in the region too. Curry chicken combines succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a thick sauce made from curry powder blended with onions, garlic and ginger then finished off with Caribbean fruits like mangoes or pineapples for an added sweetness.

7. Plantain Chips

Plantain chips are a favourite throughout many islands in The Caribbean, typically fried or baked and then seasoned lightly with salt. But they don’t stop there. Add some smoked paprika or chilli powder if you want something spicier or try them with different condiments like garlic sauce or mango chutney. This makes them especially irresistible.

8. Cassava Pone

What’s Caribbean food like in terms of dessert? One fan favourite is cassava pone. This dense pudding-like cake can be found all over Caribbean countries, but each nation has its own unique spin on it depending on what ingredients they have locally available. It’s especially delicious when eaten warm and topped with freshly grated coconut flakes!

9. Bakes

Bakes are deep-fried dough pockets that can be filled with anything from cheese to fish to vegetables, depending on personal preference. Although there are many ways to make and eat them, they are known as a special Caribbean breakfast treat. They are also often served with condiments like hot pepper sauce or tamarind chutney for added flavour and spiciness!

10. Coconut Bread

Last on the list of 10 of the most popular Caribbean foods is Coconut bread, a sweet bread found within Caribbean islands such as Grenada and Dominica. This loaf-style bake uses freshly grated coconut alongside dried fruit such as raisins, sultanas, dates, and apricots. It is combined into one dough before being baked into an irresistible sweet treat. Slather it with butter and top it off with your favourite jam – divine.

Bonus Beverage: Rum Punch

Now you may be wondering, what is the most popular beverage in the Caribbean that you can pair with some of these top Caribbean foods? One drink the region is especially well known for is rum punch. This classic mixture usually contains various types of white or dark rum, tart lime juice, syrup, and bitters. Depending on where exactly you are, flavourings like pineapple juice and grenadine may also be included in the mix. Rum punches are served from Jamaica to the British Virgin Islands and beyond — no matter where you go, you’re sure to find some form of rum punch on any menu! They tend to be slightly sweet with a hint of spice and sourness and can be taken frozen or shaken over ice. This refreshing beverage is sure to put you in an island state of mind!

A trip to the Caribbean offers limitless unique experiences, but the food certainly makes it extra special. Now that you know what food the Caribbean is famous for, perhaps you are ready to start planning a trip. If you happen to go, make it a goal to try at least a few (if not all) of these top 10 Caribbean dishes! Exploring and trying local cuisine is one of the best ways to get a true taste of what a place has to offer. Not only does it provide an opportunity to try unique flavours and textures, but it can also be a great way to experience different cultures and customs. From fresh seafood to comforting desserts, each dish offers something special that adds flavour to your journey.

When planning your trip, if you’re looking for a place to stay, check out our luxury Caribbean villas and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you have about the food, culture, or lodging!

Ahhh… the Caribbean. Home to sandy beaches, beautiful blue seas, and so much more. While the region is known for... View Article

10 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Barbados

If you’re looking for a luxurious island getaway, look no further than Barbados. This beautiful island nation is located in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean Sea and is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and luxury resorts. The island has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24-30 degrees Celsius (75-85 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round, making it the perfect place for a vacation. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Barbados has something for everyone. Here are 10 can’t-miss things to do on your vacation in Barbados.

1. Relax on the Beach

With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters that stretch over 70 miles of coastline, it’s no wonder that Barbados is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, windsurfing, and more. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or simply take in the stunning views, you’ll find what you’re looking for on one of Barbados’ many beaches.

2. Diving and Snorkeling

With crystal clear waters and over 50 dive sites to choose from, Barbados is a paradise for divers and snorkelers alike. Visitors can explore coral reefs exploding with tropical fish or swim with turtles and stingrays in one of the many shipwrecks around the island.

3. Hit the Links

Barbados offers a golfers’ paradise to those who are looking to spend a day out on the green surrounded by breathtaking scenery. With four world-class golf courses on the island, golfers of all skill levels will be able to find challenging and scenic courses to play during their vacation. Choose between Royal Westmoreland, Sandy Lange, Apes Hill, and Barbados Golf Club to try out your million-dollar swing.

4. Spend a Day at Crane Beach

Located right below the historical Crane Resort, Crane Beach is consistently named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With a unique, pink tint to the sand, Crane Beach is an idyllic spot that’s perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. You can spend your afternoon boogie boarding, sunbathing on a beach chair or walking along the cliffs surrounding the beach.

5. Sip on Some Rum at Mount Gay Rum Distillery

Mount Gay Rum is a world-renowned rum distillery that warrants a visit from anyone who enjoys spirits. During your tour, you’ll learn about the history of Mount Gay Rum and how it’s made, and of course, you’ll get to sample some of the delicious rum that they produce. The distillery is located in Bridgetown, so it’s easy to visit even if you’re staying elsewhere on the island.

6. Indulge in a Spa Day

If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate during your trip, there’s no better way to do it than with a spa day at one of Barbados’ many luxury resorts. Most resorts offer an extensive menu of treatments ranging from massages and facials to body scrubs and wraps, so you can customize your spa day to meet your every need. Afterwards, you can take advantage of the resort’s other amenities like the pool or beach before heading back to your room for a well-deserved rest.

7. Dine at one of the West Coast’s Fine Restaurants

Barbados is home to some truly excellent restaurants, so if you’re looking for a culinary adventure, look no further than the West Coast. From fresh seafood to succulent steak, you’ll be able to find something to satisfy your cravings. Popular restaurants include Daphne’s Restaurant, The Cliff, Tides, and Dockside at 1359. And of course, don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass (or two) of Mount Gay rum.

8. Go on a Catamaran Cruise

There’s no better way to see the turquoise waters and lush scenery of Barbados than from the deck of a catamaran. You can find cruises that depart from various points along the coast, so regardless of whether you’re staying in Bridgetown or Holetown, you’ll be able to find a cruise that’s convenient for you. Many of the cruises include stops at popular snorkelling and swimming spots, so you can cool off in the crystal-clear waters while enjoying views of the island’s colourful coral reefs.

9. Enjoy the Nightlife

If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene, head to St. Lawrence Gap where you’ll find an array of bars and clubs to suit any taste. If you’re looking for nightlife entertainment during your trip, Barbados is never in short supply. On any given night, visitors can enjoy live music, dance clubs, bars, and casinos. Dance the night away against the backdrop of the glistening Caribbean Sea.

10. See the Wildlife

For nature lovers, Barbados is definitely worth the journey. The island is home to numerous species of birds, reptiles, and mammals including green monkeys, iguanas, and sea turtles. Visitors can also take part in whale-watching tours to see humpback whales that migrate to the waters off Barbados every year from November to April.

Barbados is an island paradise with more than just beaches and resorts. Visitors can explore the island and learn about its rich history and culture. Choose to spend your days relaxing on the beach or exploring the depths of its waters, this beautiful island has so much to offer, you won’t be disappointed. Contact Simply Islands to let us help you plan the holiday of a lifetime.

If you’re looking for a luxurious island getaway, look no further than Barbados. This beautiful island nation is located in... View Article

Departure Beach: how to get rid of that ‘last day’ holiday feeling

Does anybody look forward to that last day of holiday? The one where you’re kicked out of your fancy resort before noon, and then spend the rest of the day waiting for your
transfer? Or the one where you spend the day at the beach and then have to sit on a flight with sand stuck in places it shouldn’t be?

It’ll come as no surprise that Sir Richard Branson has found a solution to the most unproblematic of holiday problems, and has opened a departure lounge, complete with
check-in desk, on one of the Caribbean’s most popular beaches.

And so, now operating on Brownes Beach in Carlisle Bay, Barbados, is Virgin Holidays’ first ever Departure Beach – an innovative way to waste those last few hours of annual
leave. Travellers check in at dedicated desks, picking up their boarding pass while they’re at it, before being granted access to a very slick beach club complete with
showers, a toes-in-the-sand style bar and restaurant and direct access to the sea. Luggage is checked in at Brownes Beach, ready to pick up from the baggage belt at the
final destination. Plus, guests get a free transfer from their hotel to Departure Beach, then onto the airport – where all that’s left to do is go through security.

In those two days, I’d eaten at beachfront Daphne’s, known as “Rihanna’s favourite restaurant”. I’d bumped across the glittering blue-green waves of the calm Caribbean Sea
on the western side of the island on a jet ski, then dodged mongoose and monkeys on the eastern coast, home to crashing, moody Atlantic waves favoured by surfers. I’d
whizzed around the island on a tour, stopping at the 17th-century St James Anglican church, which (oddly) has a photograph of Tony and Cherie Blair framed by the entrance.
I’d tried to go for post-dinner rum punches at the bars along Holetown’s Second Street, but preferred crawling into my bed at the Treasure Beach hotel instead…

When you’re done with all that, then you go to Departure Beach. And you don’t feel sad at all about the fact your Bajan holiday is almost over.

The new concept was deemed so important to the holiday company that Sir Richard Branson himself had even flown in from his home on Necker Island in the nearby(ish)
British Virgin Islands, alongside a bevvy of famous faces including DJ Maya Jama, Laura from Love Island and Pixie Lott. We were all sinking rum punches, with the
exception of Sir Richard: when I asked what I should order at the bar, he told me he’s a “virgin guy” on the tropical punch.

Virgin Holidays’ managing director, Joe Thompson, hints that there may be other Departure Beaches rolled out across other islands, most likely in the Caribbean – although
there are “no firm plans” right now..

Does anybody look forward to that last day of holiday? The one where you’re kicked out of your fancy resort... View Article