Barbados mailer by ITC Travel Group

Barbados THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO

Getting there

Hotels

Time difference: GMT -4 hours Flying time: 8 hours 30 minutes (direct) British Airways flies daily direct from London Gatwick. Alternatively, Virgin Atlantic has frequent direct flights from both London Gatwick and Manchester.

Ideal for

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

9. Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels 10. Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels 11. Mango Bay 12. Treasure Beach 13. Bougainvillea Beach Resort 14. Sandals Barbados 15. Ocean Two 16. Sea Breeze 17. Little Good Harbour 18. The Atlantis 19. Little Arches 20. Port Ferdinand 21. Saint Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay

Sandy Lane The Fairmont Royal Pavilion Coral Reef Club The Sandpiper Colony Club by Elegant Hotels Cobblers Cove Tamarind by Elegant Hotels The House by Elegant Hotels

Couples and families, championship golf courses, internationally acclaimed restaurants or a twin centre holiday with the Grenadines.

Our insight Key events in the Bajan calendar include a celebration of opera, music and theatre in the shape of the Holders Season, which takes place every March, the Oistins Fish Festival each April and the Crop Over Festival every July. Home to our Caribbean headquarters, this small but perfectly formed island is a favourite gathering place of the rich and famous and offers a vibrant culture that takes life at its own pace.

17 20

Speightstown 6 21 2

Climate Holetown Month

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Mar

Apr

May Jun

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Aug

Sep

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Nov Dec

Temp Â°C

Rain (mm)

112 147 147 170 178 206 97

Hours of sunshine

Bathsheba

11 5 3 4

1 12

BARBADOS

7 8

Grantley Adams International Airport

Bridgetown 16 9

13 15 14

Oistins

Welcome to Barbados I’m delighted to introduce you to ITC Luxury Travel’s expert guide to Barbados, featuring top tips, outstanding resorts and excellent savings for holidays to an island that holds a very special place in the heart of ITC. Why? Well for us it’s where we began: laying its claim as our first luxury holiday destination way back in 1974 and securing its place as our most travelled to location ever since. With that kind of longstanding knowledge, it’s no wonder we’re considered in the travel industry to be the ‘Barbados experts’. For me personally, there’s nowhere quite like Barbados, and over the years it’s provided me with a multitude of perfect holidays. Whether it’s been exploring the island’s rugged east coast with my husband in our pre-children days, or watching our kids delight as they catch their first glimpse of Sandy Lane’s picture-postcard beach, Barbados has always been able to ‘tick all the boxes’. The enduring attraction of the island has, in my mind, been the result of two things: firstly its ability to stay true to its roots, celebrating the Bajan way of life at every opportunity. And secondly, its superb ability to couple this with embracing the new. It’s because of this that I believe Barbados to attracts so many repeat visitors year after year, who, like me, are continually and simultaneously charmed by its distinctive culture and latest finds. So whether you’re looking to embark on your first visit to the island, or your twenty-first, I hope this little book on Barbados provides you with insightful tips and inspiring holidays. As ever, you’ll discover more about our destinations and portfolio in the Caribbean at www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk, and our Travel Specialists (almost all of whom have visited Barbados themselves) are available to offer their personal advice on 01244 355 611. Oh, and don’t forget to sample the local rum punch…it’s addictive! Jennifer Atkinson, CEO

Explore the Island A rum do

Barbados’s most famous export, rum, runs like blood through the island, with a tipple or two, or even a distillery tour, a great way to experience the nation’s favourite drink. Rum punch is a much-loved choice (a combination of rum, lime, sugar and bitters), with the traditional rum cake (a bit like a British Christmas cake) a scrummy alternative for non-drinkers. One of our preferred spots for a drop of rum, and something of a Bajan institution, is ‘Harold’s Bar’ at The Sandpiper. “The bar started as a beach counter top in 1990, and then in 1998 a group of guests got together and made a sign saying ‘Harold’s Bar’ to thank me for my service,” Harold himself told us. He welcomes new guests to the resort with a Planters Punch - made with two shots of local dark rum, lime, pineapple and orange juice.

Sporting nation The Caribbean is known for its love of cricket, and when the West Indies are playing at the Kensington Oval the island of Barbados really comes alive. If you’re a fan of the gentleman’s game then check out our sister company ITC Sports Travel; hosting tours to all the finest fixtures. Another sporting favourite on the island is polo, which our Travel Specialists would be delighted to book your tickets for. Golf is also a big draw to Barbados for fans of the fairways, with the three world-class courses at Sandy Lane, as well as nearby Royal Westmoreland, among the finest.

Dates for your diary 19-22 November, 2015 Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival 16-24 January, 2016 Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race March 2016 Holders Season July - August 2016 Crop Over Festival

Shop ‘til you drop If you’re looking to pick up a few souvenirs while on holiday, then Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in Holetown is perfect for duty free designer names, such as Ralph Lauren, Burberry and Louis Vuitton. Alternatively, experience a more local vibe on Second Street - just opposite Limegrove.

By land and sea There are plenty of ways to explore the island of Barbados, but hiring a car, or even an open-air ‘Moke’, is one of the best means to get a sense of how different east and west are.

Nature’s playground Some of Barbados’s finest attractions have been enticing visitors for decades, and having offered luxury travel to the island for more than forty years we’re well placed to know the very best. Among our ‘top picks’ from the island’s natural wonders are: Harrison’s Caves, Bathsheba rock formations and pools, Andromeda Gardens, swimming with turtles and taking a jeep tour through the island’s forests.

At sea, a sunset catamaran cruise is a wonderful experience, particularly for honeymooners, while the whole family will love a trip on the Atlantis Submarine; a 66-foot underwater vessel that dives 150 feet to the bottom of the ocean, providing spectacular views of beautiful coral gardens, shipwrecks, tropical fish and sea turtles.

East Meets West

Surf’s up

If you’re a fan of hanging ten, few places in the Caribbean can rival Barbados’s east coast and its world famous waves at the ‘Soup Bowl’ at Bathsheba. Be warned though, thanks to the Atlantic swell, the power and size of the waves on the east coast are not suitable for beginners on some beaches. However, non-surfers and amateurs can enjoy the tidal pools of Bathsheba, or the Atlantis Hotel can advise novice surfers of calmer east coast beaches where professional instruction is available, while Little Good Harbour boasts its own in-house surfing instructor, Ken Mayers. Our Concierge team can pre-book your lessons.

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Sun’s out

tis The Atlan

Hotel

Take a hike Visitors to Barbados who enjoy an amble through new and interesting terrains will revel in the scenic coastal paths of the northern and eastern sides of the island. Battered by the waves, the rock formations and cliffs on the eastern side make for captivating and undulating landscapes, while the rich vegetation further inland create an entirely different and tropical backdrop for your hike. While you’re in the region, head to St Nicholas Abbey for a tour of this fascinating plantation.

Barbados is a wonderful year-round destination, with peak period being between mid-December and April. Despite this, other months of the year are equally appealing, with May in particular affording fantastic deals and still glorious sunshine. A dual-destination trip staying on both east and west coasts, such as that offered by sister properties Little Good Harbour and The Atlantis Hotel, is perfect for making the most of the island’s stellar sunshine; with the latter in a prime position for catching sunrise, the former for sunset. The Atlant is

“My husband and I just loved our stay at The Atlantis and were wowed by the contrast of the east coast after years of holidaying on the west coast. That side of the island is so completely different, rugged and beautiful; like scenery out of Jurassic Park! We got some Banks beers and sat on the cliffs watching the surfers catching waves in the Soup Bowl at dusk; it was very special.” Jennifer Atkinson, CEO r Good Harbou staurant, Little The Fishpot Re

Hotel

‘East Meets West’ 7 nights half board from £1,685 per person (4 nights at Little Good Harbour and 3 nights at The Atlantis) including flights and transfers.

The Cliff Restaurant

Bajan Food and Drink

Fine dining

Barbados offers a truly superb selection of fine dining venues and with our more than forty years’ experience creating luxury holidays to the island, we’re well placed to know the very best. A favourite with our clients - and a restaurant at which we can pre-book your reservation and even organise a wedding reception or party - is legendary The Cliff. This waterside eatery is exceptional. However, if you want something a little more casual, try the newly opened The Cliff Beach Club with its more informal atmosphere. Other very notable mentions for fine dining on the island include the beachfront L’Acajou at Sandy Lane, Daphne’s, between The House and Tamarind by Elegant Hotels, The Fish Pot at Little Good Harbour and the luxury boutique hotel and restaurant The Lone Star. Chic, sleek and contemporary, Cin Cin by the sea offers a mouth-watering menu, while easy going luxury can be enjoyed at Tapas. Get the catch of the day

Laidback fare Alongside the delicious 5-star dining on Barbados, you should really experience eating like a local too to give you a flavour for Bajan life. Oistins Fish Market is the place to do this; best explored on a Friday night. Here you’ll enjoy rubbing shoulders and partying with locals to the sweet strains of Calypso music. The food stalls offer tasty fried fish, washed down with rum punch.

Oistins

at Cobblers Cove

“The fabulous food and drink in Barbados is one of the many reasons I return year after year, as well as recommending the island to my clients. A few of my favourites include Sunday Brunch with a steel band at Atlantis, the Lime Bar at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre for a Bajan lemonade and the local vibe at Oistins on a Friday - it’s an absolute ‘must’. For a treat, the Lone Star is perfect; when you step down into the restaurant from the hotel it’s like walking into a postcard.” Sharon Williams, Travel Specialist

Brunch in Barbados

Fill your boots!

Perfect for celebrating in style or marking your last day on the island, a Sunday brunch is an all-round crowd pleaser. Among the best are Sandy Lane’s famous buffet, the Caribbean dishes at Atlantis and The Crane’s Sunday breakfast brunch accompanied by a gospel choir!

The dining options are so varied on Barbados, it can be a little overwhelming. An easy option is to go all-inclusive, with resorts such as Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels, Mango Bay, Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels, Sandals Barbados and Sea Breeze flying the flag on the island for this style of holiday.

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Foodie favourite If wining and dining is a big part of your holiday, ask your Travel Specialist about Cobblers Cove; who often have celebrity chefs in residence and offer experiential activities, such as fishing for the catch of the day with the resident fisherman, then having your catch cooked by a chef. Fine fare at The Cliff

Where to stay?

With so many luxurious resort options on the west coast of Barbados, it can be hard to choose your holiday hotel. This is where our expert Travel Specialists will help you; using their firsthand insight and knowledge to make honest recommendations. Golf fans, families, couples, groups, or simply those on holiday ‘just because’; few could deny how superb a stay at Sandy Lane is. Since 1961 it has been attracting luxury sun-seekers to its shores, never losing sight of its Bajan roots, yet modernising over the decades to offer guests unique and exciting developments. You’ll be wowed by the service, with every detail thought of and every whim catered for. For tranquillity among pristine gardens and a glorious beach, take a closer look at family-owned and run Coral Reef Club. The tropical grounds are a sight to behold and we highly recommend a garden tour during your stay. What’s more, numerous improvements have recently been made at the resort - including a fresh look for the restaurant and the offering of new Spa Wellness Retreats. We’re delighted to let you know that The Sandpiper will be reopening from November following its significant renovations. New additions at this Bajan favourite will include a 60-foot lap pool and three One Bedroom Suites on the beach, which can be inter-connected for families or groups. This chic, boutique-style hotel is perfect for both couples and families alike, with facilities and amenities thoughtfully delivered for both.

West Coast

Sandy Lane

Coral Reef Club

What to experience?

The Sandpiper

If you’re staying at Sandy Lane, then a spa treatment is an absolute ‘must’ - the spa itself offering more than 47,000 square feet of luxurious indulgence. The children’s and teen’s club ensures younger visitors are looked after too, while every guest visiting at a celebratory time of year will be spoilt by the Sandy Lane service - such as personal gifts at Christmas! If you’re a lover of watersports, then Coral Reef Club is well-equipped for you, with complimentary non-motorized watersports including Hobie Cat, Laser and Sunfish sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling, as well as a scuba diving school onsite too. Sister hotel The Sandpiper shares Coral Reef Club’s many 5-star offerings, however one of our favourite experiences here is on a Wednesday night, when the owners host a cocktail party by the pool followed by a West Indian/ international buffet with favourites such as Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding and Caribbean Shrimp and Lobster Salad.

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

“Sandy Lane has created a special place in my heart, with its beautiful stretch of sandy beach laden with the signature pink umbrellas, the amazing choice of rooms and most importantly the staff with their wide smiles and excellent hospitality. An absolute ‘must’ is the Sunday Brunch, with steel pan music in the background and a full array of food on offer, from oysters and lobster to Sunday roast with all the trimmings. You definitely want to forgo breakfast that morning to fully appreciate the sensational display.” Marie Sheldrick Account Manager, Chairman’s Club

Sandy Lane

Coral Reef Club

The Sandpiper

Romance, Spa or Golf experience or US$1,200 food & beverage credit

Stay 7 nights pay for 5

7 nights bed & breakfast from £1,539 per person

7 nights bed & breakfast from £1,565 per person

Saving up to £380 per person

Saving up to £425 per person

7 nights bed & breakfast from £3,599 per person Saving up to £380 per person

Terms & conditions apply; offers are subject to change and availability. Prices include return ﬂights and transfers. For full details of offers including travel validity dates visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

West Coast

“At Fairmont Royal Pavilion I loved the fact that the Beachfront Junior Suite has a spacious, sheltered outdoor terrace, which is perfect for families with young children who can still enjoy being outside but without the worry of too much sun. These suites also boast access to the beautiful beach.” Kerrice Hill-Cherry, Travel Specialist

A destination for everyone

One of the many factors to have ensured Barbados’s place as a favourite luxury holiday destination for decades is its variety of hotels and resorts to suit every kind of traveller. For a much-loved spot, take a peak at Treasure Beach, which welcomes many of its guests back year after year. If boutique luxury is your thing, look no further than adultonly The House by Elegant Hotels which has just 34 plush suites. Meanwhile, Mango Bay provides the perfect mix of being all-inclusive (and all the many benefits that brings), while also being just a short stroll away from the restaurants, bars and boutiques of fashionable Holetown and the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre for when you want to get out and about.

Port Ferdinand

New to the island our luxury residences at Port Ferdinand, perfect for families or groups and boasting the newest fine dining restaurant in Barbados. 7 nights from £2,295 per person

Colony Club by Elegant Hotels

The Fair mont Ro yal Pavi lion

Cove Cobblers

Timeless favourites Thanks to our years of experience organising holidays to Barbados, we have fantastic relationships with the luxury hotels and resorts, with many considered ‘old friends’. Colony Club by Elegant Hotels is one such, which not long ago had a refurbishment that has further secured its place as a favourite with our clients. Here you can enjoy watching the sunset from the Sunset Deck on the beach, and revel in the lively atmosphere at the weekly ‘lobster and jazz night’. Another superb choice is Fairmont Royal Pavilion, set on what is widely considered to be one of the best beaches on the island and the perfect place to swim with turtles. The old world charm and modern sophistication of this elegant retreat makes it an all-round crowd pleaser. Our Travel Specialists who’ve been out to Barbados recently reported back that the refurbishment at Cobblers Cove is sublime, with the complimentary afternoon tea a real highlight. Children’s activities here are particularly good, with extras put on over the school holidays such as learning to play cricket at the renowned Franklyn Stephenson Academy.

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Colony Club by Elegant Hotels Up to 35% off accommodation rates 7 nights bed & breakfast from £1,465 per person Saving up to £445 per person

The Fairmont Royal Pavilion Stay 7 nights pay for 6 7 nights bed & breakfast from £2,055 per person Saving up to £310 per person

Cobblers Cove Stay 7 nights pay for 5 7 nights bed & breakfast from £1,785 per person Saving up to £455 per person

Travel in style Located on the southern coast of the island is Grantley Adams International Airport; into which you’ll fly on your luxury holiday to Barbados. We can arrange direct flights from both Gatwick and Manchester*, with a flight time of just over eight hours, on either British Airways or Virgin Atlantic.

ls Turtle Beach by Elegant Hote

What’s more, when you book with ITC Luxury Travel we ensure your holiday gets off to a flying start with VIP meet and greet straight from the plane and access to the new British Airways lounge for returning First Class passengers travelling on the airline. Our Concierge team can also arrange access to the Airlines’ Executive Lounge for anyone who wants this added indulgence on their return journey. * Virgin Atlantic only

South Coast Party town

The south coast is a great spot for visitors to Barbados who enjoy a vibrant nightlife and excellent value for money resorts. If you like to shop, party and ‘dine local’, head to the south coast’s hub of activity; St Lawrence Gap. The food vans here are a great way to experience authentic Bajan dishes like macaroni pie and fish cutter, while the various cultures and live music venues ensure a party every night of the week.

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Where two waters meet The south coast is where the waters of the Atlantic Ocean meet the Caribbean Sea; creating a superb setting for watersports. A great spot to simply watch - or take part - is Silver Sands Beach, where kite surfers flock to enjoy the prime conditions. If you’ve hired a car, take a trip along the coast road for beautiful views and photo opportunities.

Where to stay? A haven for nature, engulfed by tropical gardens on one side and bordered by a white beach where sea turtles nest on the other, Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels is an all-inclusive, all-suite resort close to St Lawrence Gap. Spend your days by the freshwater swimming pools and your evenings listening to steel drum bands with a rum punch in hand. And speaking of rum punch, one of the finest settings to enjoy a cocktail or two is the Panorama roof terrace at Ocean Two. This adult-only rooftop patio, with pool and bar, has superb views of Oistins Bay and is a prime spot to watch the sun set. Perhaps try a ‘rum-spiked’ coconut from the fresh coconut station right on the resort’s beach! Bougainvillea Beach Resort is located on two stunning beaches and has an impressive array of facilities including two beachfront restaurants, watersports, tennis court and a gym. Choose from a range of board options and the newly refurbished rooms also include kitchen facilities. Children under 16-years-old stay free all year round, offering unbeatable beachfront value!

Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels Up to 35% early booking discount 7 nights all-inclusive from £1,639 per person Saving up to £585 per person

Ocean Two Up to 45% early booking discount plus US$50 cocktail credit 7 nights room only from £1,099 per person Saving up to £315 per person

Bougainvillea Beach Resort Up to 20% early booking discount 7 nights room only from £1,185 per person Saving up to £85 per person Terms & conditions apply; offers are subject to change and availability. Prices include return ﬂights and transfers. For Forfullfulldetails detailsofofoffers offersincluding includingtravel travelvalidity validity dates visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Ocean Two

ach Resort Bougainvillea Be

Fam ily-F riend ly

y Saint Peter’s Ba

Little mermaids

If you’re the parent to a water baby, Barbados is a wonderful place to let them enjoy their passion. Swimming with turtles is an absolute ‘must’, while a catamaran cruise provides a great adventure for the whole family. Watersports on the island offer something to suit everyone from surfing to sailing, paddle boarding to windsurfing!

Sports stars Sporty kids will find plenty to inspire on Barbados, with numerous sports camps run by former international players. Ask your Travel Specialist for advice on the best resort to suit your Elegant Hotels child’s forte; whether that Crystal Cove by be cricket at Cobblers Cove or tennis at Sandy Lane.

Tamarind by Elegan t Hotels

Where to stay? Among the newest offerings in Barbados is Saint Peter’s Bay - a real ‘home from home’ environment with plenty of space in your personal residence. All accommodation options boast views of the Caribbean Sea, a concierge to attend to your every need and a daily maid service “so everyone is on holiday”. Younger guests can spend time at the kids’ clubs onsite or at sister property Port Ferdinand, which also offers a toddlers’ play area with movies, a swimming pool and climbing frames; just a 10 minute journey away in the free water taxi. A great all-rounder which the whole family will love is Tamarind by Elegant Hotels. Facilities here for guests travelling with children are superb, with every detail thought of. There are family-friendly guestrooms and menus, golf lessons and babysitting; just about everything you could think of! Highlights include the complimentary Flying Fish Kids’ Club for those aged 3-12 years old and Aqua School; trained nannies available for childcare; and Club Tamarind, a family lounge equipped with entertainment. Our clients and Travel Specialists who have stayed at Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels as parents have raved about it upon their return. The all-inclusive food is fantastic for young tums, with the Kids’ Buffet at Reflections Restaurant a real favourite.

“Families with children from young babies to teenagers will all find their perfect holiday on Barbados. If it’s a structured kids’ club programme you’re after then Crystal Cove is ideal. Or for older children, the teens’ club at Tamarind is a really cool hang out zone with all the latest gadgets! And for ‘big kids’? Try the golf simulator up at Saint Peter’s Bay! Of course most children will simply love Barbados’s beaches and watersports; you just have to find the time to fit everything in.”

Natalie Russell-Blackburn Perkins Account Manager, Chairman’s Club

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Saint Peter’s Bay Stay 7 nights pay for 6 7 nights room only from £4,795 per family of 3 sharing Saving up to £410 per family

Tamarind by Elegant Hotels Up to 35% early booking discount 7 nights bed & breakfast from £3,325 per family of 3 sharing Saving up to £815 per family

Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels Up to 30% early booking discount on all-inclusive plus child stays free 7 nights all-inclusive from £4,350 per family of 3 sharing Saving up to £1,730 per family

The Caribbean Experts Thanks to more than forty years of sending our clients to the Caribbean, we have decades of expertise in these beguiling islands. Barbados in particular was where it all started for us, and it’s from here that our more extensive knowledge and longstanding friends and contacts hail. Among our professional Travel Specialists, almost all have visited the island and seen for themselves the level of 5-star service we offer there. So they’re well placed to make personal recommendations and use their know-how to get you those coveted last seats in a ‘booked out’ restaurant, or that complimentary room upgrade with views of the sea. What’s more, the staff at our ITC office in Barbados - at the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in Holetown - are on hand throughout your holiday to the island to offer ‘Meet and Greet’ at the airport and any assistance and advice in-resort which you may require. Destination Manager Kerin Austin, who heads up our Barbados office, is legendary on the island for her many years of experience. Having worked for ITC for more than 20 years, she’s well placed to offer superb tips for your stay. Remember, our Concierge team here in the UK is also on hand before you depart to arrange all those little details that will make your holiday extra special. So if you want to book your tee times at Royal Westmoreland or even a romantic proposal at one of the island’s best restaurants, they’re here to help in any way they can. Call 01244 355 610.

Start and end your holiday to Barbados in ultimate style and consummate luxury with flights from our preferred partners at British Airways. With daily, direct flights scheduled from London Gatwick Airport (plus additional flights during peak periods), travelling to Barbados with the airline is convenient and time savvy. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, the superb selection of cabin options mean thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an in-flight experience to suit every budget; whether you opt for the high-end indulgence of First or the full-service economy of World Traveller.

Call our Travel Specialists on 01244 355 611 or visit www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk/barbados

Sales Telephone: 01244 355 611 ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited, Concorde House, Canal Street, Chester CH1 4EJ Email: info@itc-uk.com Web: www.itcluxurytravel.co.uk Your call may be recorded for training purposes.