Are you dreaming of whisking the family off to sunnier shores? With the recent announcement of Aer Lingus’ new route connecting Ireland to Barbados from Autumn 2021, now is the perfect time to start planning a reunion with your loved ones on the picture-perfect island of Barbados.

Boasting beautiful white sand beaches, a vibrant culture and delicious food, it’s no secret that Barbados is known worldwide as a paradise for holidaymakers of all ages. Barbados is also the perfect destination for an unforgettable family adventure – and here’s why!

Accommodation Options

Whether you choose a beachside bed & breakfast, a family-friendly hotel, or a quaint guesthouse, there is an abundance of accommodation options throughout the island, especially on the south and west coasts so, you’re sure to be spoiled for choice when planning your dream family holiday to Barbados.

The island is home to a number of small, independent, indigenously owned accommodations that offer quality services, safety, affordability, comfort as well as a truly Barbadian experience for guests both big and small. The family-friendly Dover Beach Hotel, located just off St Lawrence Gap, is a great choice for tourists travelling with kids. Or smaller families may opt for the Best E Villas, offering comfortable two-bedroom apartments in Christchurch.

Barbados is also home to numerous beautiful, fully catered, luxury villas which are ideal to host your group of family and friends after a long period apart. These high-end properties cater to visitors who may not necessarily be counting costs but, who are looking for value for money. Boasting modern, tasteful decor, exquisite furnishings, plush lawns, and staff to cater to your every need, the villas are lavish, self-contained, and offer the privacy and personal touches to allow you to reconnect with your loved ones. Villa Tara, a tastefully furnished four-bedroom villa located in Sunset Crest, is a popular choice with families visiting Barbados, boasting its own plunge pool as well as proximity to the beach. Travelling with a larger group? Check out Mango Bay in St James. This luxurious seven-bedroom villa is often described as one of the most beautiful villas in Barbados and a perfect option for big families.

The Cuisine

Barbados is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, and for good reason! From street food to top quality restaurants and everything in between, Barbados has plenty to offer even the fussiest of eaters. Dining in Barbados combines convenience and relaxation with idyllic scenery and, of course, delicious food. Enjoy the Caribbean sun and dine al fresco in the numerous casual eateries dotted around the island offering dishes from all over the world, such as Blakeys, Just Grilling and The Beach House.

No trip to Barbados is complete without tasting traditional Bajan cuisine. Try the island’s national dish, flying fish with cou-cou, or macaroni pie, a Barbadian take on macaroni and cheese and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

One incredible Bajan food experience not to be missed is The Friday Night Fish Fry at the Oistins Bay Gardens. Here, locals and tourists alike enjoy delicious food amongst art and craft stalls, live music, and an unbeatable Barbadian atmosphere. With tons of tasty cuisine and fresh seafood on offer, you can be guaranteed to find plenty of options to tickle your taste buds. This is a great evening activity that the whole family are sure to enjoy.

Beautiful Beaches

Between the beach and the water, your family will never be short of things to do in Barbados! The island is home to more than 80 pristine white-sand beaches, many of which are recognised as the most beautiful beaches in the world. Enjoy water sports including boogie boarding and paddle boarding at Pebbles Beach or discover the island’s marine life with a snorkelling excursion at Carlisle Bay Marine Park. For a truly magical experience, head to the south and west coasts and take a family boat trip to swim with turtles – it won’t disappoint!

Things to Do

There’s more to Barbados than just beautiful beaches. The island is known as one of the best spots in the Caribbean for walking and hiking trails, suitable for both kids and adults, beginners and experts. Hike Barbados, a group sponsored by the Barbados National Trust, run weekly expeditions following some of the island’s favoured routes, from relaxing strolls along the coast or through lush botanical gardens to trickier but rewarding hill climbs or cross-country rambles.

Harrison’s Cave is one of Barbados’ natural treasures and makes for a great experience for the whole family. Located in the central uplands5r of the island, this limestone cave boasts flowing streams, deep pools of glassy water and towering crystallised columns. Take a tour and marvel at this natural wonder for yourself, enjoying exhibits and interactive displays suitable for all ages as you explore.

Want to enjoy time off parent duty? Whether you’re staying in a hotel, apartment, cottage or villa, there is no shortage of qualified and experienced childcare offerings available in Barbados. Choose from a range of certified babysitters, kid’s clubs or day cares on the island and enjoy your down time with peace of mind.

Safety

Barbados is considered one of the safest Caribbean islands to visit, making it the ideal destination for the whole family. In terms of COVID-19, Barbados has handled the pandemic well, implementing a range of regulations to help suppress the spread of the virus. Barbados is also in the process of a mass COVID-19 vaccination programme and with over X people having already received their vaccine, Barbados leads the way as the most vaccinated country in the Caribbean.

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For more information please visit www.visitbarbados.org

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