Why Brits have been flocking to the island of Barbados for decades

Some might say 9.30am is too early for a rum punch. Luckily for me, Steve, the bubbly Bajan captain at the helm of the catamaran I’ve just boarded, isn’t one of them. Sublime Caribbean sunshine is pouring into the boat’s bar area, while the signature Barbados tipple is being poured, rather generously, into our glasses.

 

This may only be my second day on the island, but it hasn’t taken me long to get used to the unwavering friendly nature of the locals – and their love for some good old rum. As we pull away from the dock for a day of leisurely cruising, I settle down, drink in hand, out on the main deck.

 

From a cloudless sky, the sun’s warm rays dance across the water and I catch a glimpse of a throng of tropical fish zipping below the surface. The term ‘island paradise’ has never been more fitting.

 

Hotspot

 

I’m not the only one to fall for Barbados’s charms. Last year, more than 630,000 people touched down on these soft white sands – just 11% short of the island’s all-time best year for tourism in 2019. Now, the island is on track to hit a new record number of visitors – and Brits are leading the charge.

 

In the first quarter of 2024, visitors from the UK accounted for almost half of Barbados’s arrivals, cementing its status as the island’s number one source market. And, as I soak up the sun, culture and laid-back way of living, it becomes clear why. A huge draw is the myriad opportunities for rest and relaxation.

 

Finding a moment of tranquillity is easy here, whether on a sun-drenched catamaran or back on dry land surrounded by sand and sea. The rich coastline that encircles the island means pristine beaches aren’t hard to find, with buzzy spots on the more touristic west coast and tranquil bays in the south.

 

While on a fam trip with Elegant Resorts, I spend a week perusing the isle’s sandy spots, attempting to rank the ultimate powder-perfect locations. After much deliberation, I decide the top spots have to go to the secluded stretches on the doorsteps of the two hotels in which I stayed – O2 Beach Club & Spa and Fairmont Royal Pavilion.

 

Nothing quite beats the feeling of leaving your suite and having the sand between your toes within a maximum of three minutes. At both properties, the shores are never crowded and staff are always attentive (refreshing snack of frozen grapes, anyone ).

 

Beachside bliss is guaranteed. As well as praising the endless array of beaches available, Elegant Resorts’ general manager of its Barbados office, Kevin Maynard, tells us about the epic culinary options for clients.

 

“I recommend trying the island’s fine dining options, such as Sea Shed and The Lone Star Restaurant, all within 10 minutes of each other on the west coast – but don’t be afraid to venture down south to enjoy some local fun at Oistins Fish Fry, where fresh seafood is always on the menu,” he says.

 

World of choice

 

If being as close to the ocean as possible is clients’ top priority, they’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting somewhere to stay in Barbados. Although five-star properties can be found in many of the island’s regions, there’s a particularly enticing range of luxury product on the west coast.

 

As well as what is arguably the country’s most premium address – Sandy Lane, the iconic property that’s home to 113 rooms and suites and a five-bedroom villa – there’s a smattering of luxe hotels to satisfy all kinds of affluent travellers.

 

The family-run Coral Reef Club offers seclusion, with 88 rooms, suites and cottages peppered throughout the five hectares of perfectly manicured tropical gardens.

 

Farther along the beach, sister property The Sandpiper is well equipped for families, with Two Bedroom Suites and a raft of watersports available, while Cobblers Cove is tucked away among lush greenery, offering the perfect spot for a romantic retreat.

 

I’m so taken with each of these properties that it’s impossible to pick a favourite, which must surely mean I urgently require a second trip to this island paradise to help me make up my mind.

 

Agent views

 

Lucy Bunting, Il Mondo

 

“It’s clear to me why Barbados is called the ‘Happy Island’ – it’s alive with passion and creativity, from locals dancing in the street to calypso music to the brightly coloured houses scattered across the island.”

 

Matt Szepietowski, The Travellers Boutique

 

“I can see why so many of our clients who come back from Barbados comment on the scenery and nature – it’s incredible. The vibrant colours and amazing landscapes are something you will never forget. A highlight for me was seeing the dramatic colours of the tropical fish and the giant turtles – it was really special.”

 

Kelly Baldwin, Aspire Travel

 

“What truly stood out for me was the warm and welcoming nature of the locals, who made us feel right at home. I was captivated by the vibrant culture, lively music and delicious local cuisine. Even with just one visit, Barbados has a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to return to discover more.”

 

Book it: Elegant Resorts offers seven nights’ B&B at Fairmont Royal Pavilion in a Luxury Oceanfront Room for £3,945 per person, based on two people sharing and including flights, lounge passes and transfers.
elegantresorts.co.uk