Of all the Caribbean islands that we feature, nothing quite matches the sophisticated charm and cosmopolitan chic of Barbados. It is renowned for its ‘Platinum West Coast’, offering miles of coral sands edged with swaying palm trees and sparkling waters. It is home to some of the Caribbean’s finest and most exclusive villas and hotels, fashionable restaurants and a wealth of sporting and leisure facilities. You can also still enjoy its unspoilt, undulating countryside and fields of sugar cane, which contrast with gullies full of tropical foliage and forested areas, and acres of bananas glistening in the sun. The wild and dramatic Atlantic coastline to the east contrasts with the outstanding beaches on the exclusive West Coast.

There are picturesque fishing villages where local boat building can be seen, and all thesights and scenes of the bustling capital, Bridgetown. Whilst the soft sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and alluring blue waters are unmistakably Caribbean, there are many aspects which reflect the island’s long history with England: Nelson’s statue, afternoon tea, cricket (almost a religion), local namesakes such as Hastings,Worthing and Brighton, a love of horse racing, and the list goes on. There are many first class restaurants to sample, which offer inspired local cuisine and a host of other worldwide specialities.

The nightlife is diverse; you can enjoy exciting floor shows with wonderful steel pan music, local calypso and reggae bands in beach bars, waterfront cafes with jazz bands, late night clubs or relaxing piano bars. But for many people, Barbados is the perfect beach haven, where sun, sand and sea are the name of the game.