The west coast is where the glamour of Barbados lives, with its calm waters, the established resorts filled with luxury hotels, restaurants and exclusive shopping, all thrive around this well established region, but don’t dismiss the rest of the island, stay on the east coast to experience the surfer vibe as the Atlantic waves crash in, or the developed south coast with its varied accommodation that suits all budgets.

The Sandpiper on the west Coast of Barbados is a popular choice for the discerning holidaymaker, the understated luxury evident in its natural tones and glorious views; the rooms are quite amazing, with tree top suites that will take your breath away; this hotel is a great location for pampering, relaxation and water-sports. Those wanting to live the surfer life, will love The Atlantis Hotel at Tent Bay on the east coast, the noise of the crashing waves reminding you why this area is so popular amongst surfers, the restaurant in the hotel is a real treat, well known in the area and offering great food as well as spectacular ocean views.

Barbados entices some of the world’s best chefs to its restaurants, bringing with them a wealth of global cuisines, this when coupled with the islands bounty of seafood, native exotic fruits, and colonial influences, creates menus that befit the luxury resorts in which they are found.

The Fish Pot in St Peter’s on the west coast may not sound inspiring, but this restaurant is a class act with some of the freshest fish on the island, cooked in the most imaginative of ways, although relaxed, there is no disputing that you are in expert hands, although you certainly pay for the privilege! Sweet Potatoes on the south coast serves traditional Bajan food, expect to lots of Creole flavours on the menu, along with plantains, crab cakes, flying fish, all accompanied by amazing rum punch – don’t visit here is you’re in a rush, as you may want to stay a while.

Barbados is all about the water, from snorkelling and diving, to surfing and kite-boarding there are activities offered at all the resorts, make sure you that you choose the part of the island that offers your preferred activity, or ensure that you have access to a hire car or you may be disappointed.

If you prefer to view the waters rather than interact with them, there are sea excursions from all the main resorts, taking you around the island to see the beautiful untamed coastline that remains inaccessible on foot.

Visiting Barbados from January until April generally guarantees the best of the weather, pleasant heat without the humidity and intensity that is seen during the summer months; the downside is the high prices, between Christmas and Easter the prices spike, although May can be a good month to travel, with pleasant weather and room discounts to be found.

As the spring heads towards summer the hurricane season arrives and although hurricanes rarely hit, the storms that cover the island can be ferocious (particularly between August and October), hurricane season continues until November, after which the prices begin to rise again.