Barbados holidays - All Inclusive, package and luxury holidays to Barbados

A stunning little coral island facing the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other, Barbados boasts calm and idyllic beaches on the south ideal for those seeking the ultimate relaxing break and big waves in the north ideal for surfers and extreme water sports lovers in search of a fun and adventurous getaway.

This Commonwealth island nation retains a decisively British attitude in some ways and a laidback, carefree Caribbean warmth in others. It is ultimately this perfect balance, coupled with the beauty of its beaches, scenery and quaint parishes that makes the island so appealing to British travellers and worldwide visitors alike.

One of the most developed islands in the region with a literacy rate close to 98 per cent; you can expect to find world class resorts, top tourist facilities, boutique hotels, refined restaurants and great shops.

But beyond the luxury resorts dotted around Barbados' beautiful west coast, the central region in the island boasts some scenic landscapes that will simply take your breath away. Picture this: rolling limestone hills and vast plantation estates that show the wealth of the previous colonial owners and the strife of previous slaves. Marvel at various museums documenting this bitter chapter in the history of the island and stroll along several botanical gardens that make the most of the fertile conditions of the soil in this region. Barbados has a world of wonder to discover beyond its beaches and the chance to discover it during Barbados holidays is an opportunity not to miss out on.

Half a million visitors every year can't certainly be wrong and they pick Barbados holidays for the country's shimmering coasts, paradisiacal landscapes, glitzy hotels, glamorous venues, classic calypso rhythms, fun-filled carnivals (which see stars like Rihanna coming down - to her native land in her case - to join in the party) and the energising island vibe; all of which are elements that are quintessentially Barbadian, typically Caribbean and no doubt part of the island's timeless appeal.

Barbados holidays – A Snapshot

Beyond the luring pink sand beaches, great island vibe and charming locals, there is much more in Barbados to be seen and explored than you probably think. Once you manage to tear yourself away from the resort you will encounter so much more beauty than meets the eye.

If you're a nature lover you will be in true paradise as Barbados boasts spectacular natural wonders and interesting flora and fauna. From caves and underground lakes to lush gardens and fragrant trees, there is a world of beauty to be explored in Barbados.

Because of its peculiar geological conditions and the erosion of limestone rock in the north east of the island, the formation of caves and gullys have translated into some of the most popular attractions for eco-tourists with Harrison's Cave and Welchman Hall Gully being two of the most visited by holidaymakers. Barbados is also home to the second largest hawksbill turtle breeding population in the Caribbean and nesting areas are tightly protected to avoid vehicles or people crushing nests buried under the sands of some beaches.

Scuba divers and snorkellers will love Barbados underwater world, with spectacular coral reefs fringing the Barbadian shoreline and amazing opportunities for thrilling marine encounters.

With tourism in Barbados accounting for almost one half of the economy you will find no shortage of hotels in Barbados, to suit all budgets, from cosy guest houses and picturesque inns to full-blowing luxury and affordable all inclusives. Whether you want to indulge in a pampering Barbados holiday at an exclusive boutique hotel or you want to join in the fun at a larger resort, you will never be short options.

Surfers will love the wavy beaches along the island's eastern coast while those seeking calm crystalline waters will fall in love with the southern and western coasts. Sports lovers will love to join.

World-famous rums, intoxicating calypso rhythms, a two-month-long carnival season in summer and the lush beauty of its scenery, its coasts and its people, make Barbados an island too mesmerising to resist. Despite its popularity among many holidaymakers from the world over you will have no trouble making Barbados your own piece of paradise.

Package holidays to Barbados

The most straightforward way to book your escape to Barbados, our package holidays are the easiest, quickest, most trouble-free way to plan a holiday to remember. For your peace of mind our package holidays to Barbados come with all essentials included so accommodation, return flights and return transfers to and from your hotel all come into one single package at one single, competitive price.

Often you'll find we run specials and seasonal discounts on our holiday packages, throwing in added value for money to help you make the most of your travel budge. For a non-fussy, quick getaway to paradise package holidays to Barbados are the way to go.

All inclusive holidays in Barbados

Offering travellers a convenient way to pay all of the main expenses before arriving to their destination, all inclusive holidays have the advantage of including everything the holidaymaker will need for the most complete and exciting holiday experience.

With our all inclusive holidays you get to take your pick from our selection of fabulous all inclusive hotels and resorts in Barbados (for all pockets and budgets) which include all meals and drinks plus a host of amenities, facilities and activities at no added cost. For the perfect combination between an affordable escape and a fun-filled getaway, all inclusive holidays in Barbados are ideal!

Tailor-made holidays in Barbados

For the fussy traveller in search of something unique, tailored to their specific wishes and requirements, we can fully customise and tailor-make any of our holiday packages or, better yet, create a new one from scratch based on the traveller's special requests and needs.

Whether you want to explore various parishes in Barbados, staying at different resorts and getting a more well-rounded experience or whether you simply want to extend your stay beyond two weeks we can quickly help you sort that for you and create the perfect package for you and your travelling party. Our tailor-made holidays in Barbados can be tailored down to the very last detail, even if all you want is to add a couple of excursions and tours before your arrival or if you'd like some slight changes and alterations to be made to one of our set package holidays.

Luxury holidays in Barbados

For the most decadently pampering and indulging of Barbados holidays, we have an impeccable selection of five-star resorts to dazzle you and wow you to the very core.

For the most lavish of experiences you can choose to stay at the legendary The Crane Resort and Residences in St Phillip (over 100 years old and getting better and more luxurious every passing year) or at the exclusive, five-star The Fairmont Royal Pavilion in St James. Whatever your pick and wherever in Barbados you want to stay, if luxury Barbados holidays is what you're after, we'll give you plenty of choice with all the trimmings and added frills.

Where to stay in Barbados – Top 3 holiday destinations

St Lawrence Gap holidays

Located in the parish of Christ Church and famous for its livelihood, assortment of fine restaurants, diverse entertainment, buzzing nightlife, great shopping and multi-cultural allure, St Lawrence Gap is the place to be in Barbados if you're after all the action and the glamour. With a fine selection of hotel and fabulous resorts facing the most beautiful stretches of beach, live is a party in St Lawrence's Gap. During the day visitors can laze around the glorious beaches and sample the fresh local fare offered by food vendors, hit the shops and make the most of the duty-free stores or enjoy a fine meal at one of the elegant restaurants located in The Gap zone.

One of the most popular hotspots for visitors, St Lawrence is alive with the sounds of calypso music, reggae, jazz and blues. Home to what's probably the most exciting nightlife scene in Barbados here you can find a wide array of bars, pubs and nightclubs catering to all musical tastes where live concerts are also staged.

The Bajan Roots and Rhythms dinner show in the Plantation Garden Theatre is an experience not to miss to get a true flavour of West Indian culture. This is also a great spot for windsurfing with some pretty awesome waves to ride and a varied array of local excursions is also available. For a true taste of the colours, culture and sounds of the Caribbean this is the place to stay at!

St James holidays

Idyllic and serene, beautiful and majestic, the scenic parish of St James overlooks the tranquil turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea on Barbados' western coast. This place is hard to beat for excellent swimming, marvellous snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. You can even o golfing at a scenic golf course, visit a sugar plantation and sample the local rum produce at a local factory. During your time there make a stop at Holetown, a small and quaint beach town boasting a spectacular white sand beach ideal for water skiing and diving but also the historical site where the English made a permanent settlement in 1625.

Experience the warm-hearted friendliness of the Bajan people here and if you love history, the capital city of Bridgetown is a heartbeat away (or a short 25 minutes ride) and there you will find some of the most historic landmarks in Barbados as well as fantastically preserved buildings. St James is an ideal place for ultimate relaxation and a quiet and invigorating getaway while also being close to all the shopping and sightseeing action of the capital city!

Maxwell holidays

The Maxwell Coast is one of the most idyllic places you could find yourself in when going to Barbados. Boasting glorious year-round weather, beautiful beaches and a friendly Bajan atmosphere, this is the place to go for unwinding and enjoyin a fun san, sea and sand holiday with a laidback approach.

Many water sports are on offer here, ranging from surfing and windsurfing to sailing and kite-surfing. Beautifully landscaped golf courses beckon golf enthusiasts while nature lovers will be seduced by the beauty of Graeme Hall Swamp, the largest expanse of inland water in the island providing the ideal habitat for several bird species. Whatever it is you plan to do during your Barbados holidays, Maxell is a fantastic base and start point.

What to Do and Things to See in Barbados

Beaches in Barbados

With one half of the island facing the North Atlantic Ocean and the other being lapped by the gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea, you can expect two find two very different types of beaches in Barbados: the ones with gigantic waves and strong currents on the eastern side and the tranquil and calm turquoise waters on the west.

If you're after total relaxation and unwinding, we suggest you go for the eastern coast and if you're an adrenaline-seeking surfer, the east coast will quench your thirst for water adventures. Just be careful as some areas remain risky to swimmers because of strong under-tow currents.

History and Culture

For a brush with history a stop at Barbados capital city, Bridgetown, is a must. This is the cradle of ‘Bajan' (the local term for Barbadian) culture and is also dubbed "The Little England" of the Caribbean, considered the most British island in the region. And for the perfect blend between history and culture take a tour around one of island's former plantation estates and mansions to experience the colonial grandeur of homes such as St Nicholas Abbey, learn about the slaves' suffering and admire the beautiful landscape.

Nature

Due to its unique geological and geographical conditions Barbados is home to a striking variety of flora and fauna. Lying in the boundary between the Caribbean and South American plates, the shift of the Caribbean plate beneath the South American plate and the erosion caused by it means that a large proportion of the island is surrounded by coral reefs. Likewise the erosion of limestone rock in the Scotland District has resulted in the formation of stunning caves and gullys, out of which Welchman Hall Gully and Harrison's Cave are the most famous.

Barbados is also home to 4 different species of nesting turtles (loggerheads, leatherbacks and green turtles) with the second largest hawksbill population in the Caribbean. If interested in nature during your Barbados holidays a visit to the Andromeda Botanic Gardens is a must, as is a tour around the Flower Forest – comprising over 53 acres of trees, flowers paths. A hiking trip along inland trail or down a coastal pathway is also highly recommended. You can even get to spot a green monkey in a wildlife reserve or in a gully!

Shopping

Whether you want some special souvenirs to take back home at the end of your trip or whether you are a serious (or serial) shopper Barbados will give you plenty of choice when it comes to burning that plastic on the credit card and shopping ‘til you drop. Ample duty-free shopping is available at many establishments the most popular shopping districts in Barbados can be found in popular tourist resorts such as St Lawrence Gap, St James and Bridgetown.

Tips and Other Attractions

Money and Currency

The national currency in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar, often abbreviated as BBD or Bds$ and divided into 100 cents. For many years the Barbadian dollar has had a fixed rate of exchange with the United States Dollar where $1 USD is equivalent to $1.98 BDD or $2 BBD if you use American dollars to pay for items on the street.

In general terms you can pay with US dollars anywhere in Barbados but since the British Pound Sterling has an even better conversion rate we highly recommend you to take your pounds to Barbados instead of exchanging them for US dollars in advance. This is because, although the rate constantly fluctuates for British pounds you can generally expect to get around $3.50 BBD (or more) for £1.

Although some establishments do accept payment in British pounds others might not and in any case you will always get a much better rate of exchange if you get your pounds exchanged at the bank.

Banks can be found all over Barbados and changing money there is easy and straightforward. Banks are normally open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Thursday and until 5 p.m. on Fridays.

If you run out of cash on a Sunday you can always get your money exchanged at a local ATM which are open 24 hours and can be found everywhere in Barbados. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted throughout Barbados but American Express is not as they charge retailer higher fees than other credit cards.

At many establishments and especially at the more upscale restaurants and businesses in Barbados you may be able to pay with a credit card but beware of the charges that your card issuer or bank may impose on those kinds of transactions. If unsure always check with your bank before you go.

Nightlife

The night time scene in Barbados is vibrant and mainly concentrated in the always hip and chic St Lawrence Gap and along Bay Street. These areas often feature live shows and concerts on most nights of the week. The best place to move to the island's rhythms and absorb the Barbadian dancing flair, if you're looking for a hell of a Caribbean party you should head to these lively spots.

Public holidays in Barbados

Barbados has 12 bank holidays annually where everyone takes a step back from work to either relax or celebrate with friends and family. Unlike in the UK is a bank holiday in Barbados falls on a Saturday it's not rolled over to the next Monday, however if it falls on a Sunday it is carried overt to the following Monday as Sunday is already considered a public holiday.

• New Year's Day &mdash, like many countries guided by the Gregorian calendar, Barbadians celebrate the fist day of a new year on 1st January.
• Errol Barrow Day &mdash, celebrated on 21st January each year, this bank holiday commemorates the man who helped lead the country to independence from the United Kingdom, a former Prime Minister whom this day is named after.
• Good Friday &mdash, with an estimated 95 per cent of the Barbadian population being Christian, the island celebrates this religious festival that marks the crucification of Jesus Christ. As this is a holiday that changes each year it doesn't have a fixed date but falls sometime between mid-March and mid-April.
• Easter Monday &mdash, following on from Good Friday, Barbadians observe this national holiday that commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• National Heroes' Day &mdash, in remembrance of 10 of Barbados' major historical figures and most loved national heroes, Barbadians observe this bank holiday on 28th April, marking the birthday of Sir Grantley Adams, one of the 10 heroes and the 1st Premier of Barbados.
• Labour Day &mdash, like in many other countries, Barbadians celebrate Labour Day on 1st May with a bank holiday.
• Whit Monday &mdash, also known as Pentecost Monday or Monday of the Holy Spirit, this religious bank holiday in Barbados is observed after Pentecost, a movable feast in the Christian calendar. Its exact day is determined by the date of Easter and as such varies each year. It usually falls sometime in late May or early June.
• Emancipation Day &mdash, in recognition of the abolition of slavery, the 1st August has historical significance for Barbadians as it marks the date on which the island's slave revolt was led by Bussa, a national hero also referred to as the Right Excellence. Barbadians celebrate the abolition of slavery each year with parades, speeches, performances and educational displays around the statue of Bussa in the Emancipation Roundabout in St Michael.
• Kadooment Day &mdash, this day marks the end of the two-month-long Crop Over festival, Barbados' biggest and most popular yearly event. Kadooment day is celebrated with a big band after two months of celebrations, parades and colourful carnivals. Kadooment day marks the Grand Kadooment with a big finale in which endless parades take the streets with large music bands and participants dressed in elaborate costumes depicting various themes. This is the day in the Barbadian calendar where designers compete for the Designer of the Year award while carnival revellers get down and dirty dancing to the pulsating rhythms of calypso music. The day culminates with some going for a quick dip at the nearby beach giving a grand end to this famous festival. Undoubtedly a great time to be in Barbados!
• Independence Day &mdash, observed on 30th November each year, this bank holiday commemorates the date on which the Barbados achieved independence from Britain. There are major celebrations marking this day with the raising of the Barbados National Flag and playing the National Anthem and numerous celebrations running through the entire month of November, including sports competitions, community events and fairs. Around Independence Day the Parliament buildings, Independence Square, Independence Arch and many businesses in Bridgetown don festive lights using blue and gold-coloured bulbs to represent the colours of the national flag.
• Christmas Day &mdash, celebrated on 25th December, this major holiday and religious festivity is observed island-wide like in many other Christian nations around the world.
• Boxing Day &mdash, just like in the UK, Barbadians celebrate the day after Christmas with a bank holiday during which they relax and unwind after all the excitement of Christmas day.
• Crop Over Festival &mdash, although this festival isn't a public national holiday it marks two months (beginning in June and ending the first day of August) of carnival festivities, street marks, parades, folk concerts, art exhibitions, calypso bands and competitions for children and adults alike. Visitors going on Barbados holidays during this time will no doubt enjoy the festivities during this 2-month period.

The Weather in Barbados

Like in most of the Caribbean, the weather in Barbados remains reliably hot and sunny throughout the year with little seasonal variation in terms of temperatures (which always stay above the 20°C mark) and two distinct seasons: the humid and wet season, running from June to November and the dry season which runs from December to May.

Even during the rainy season you can still count on bright mornings and clear skies as most showers fall in the afternoon between the months of June and November. As a matter of fact these downpours are often welcomed as they freshen up the ambience and help cool down the sizzling temperatures during the hottest months.

July is the hottest and wettest month in Barbados with an average of 18 days of rain and although temperatures are at the highest they usually don't hover above 31°C. In contrast April is the driest month with an average of only 7 days of rain while the driest weather can be seen from February to May.

With temperatures in Barbados oscillating between 25 and 29 degrees Celsius throughout most of the year, with an average daily high of 28°C and low of 21°C in the cooler months and an average daily high of 30°C and average low of 23°C in the peak of summer, you can certainly expect Barbados to be warm and sunny enough, whatever the season or the month you pick for embarking on Barbados holidays.

Unsurprisingly the tourist high season runs from mid-December to mid-April, not only because the weather is the driest and most pleasant at this time but because it coincides with winter in the northern hemisphere, a time when most north Americans and north Europeans flee their chilly and frosty weather to warm up under the Barbadian sunshine.