Spirit of the Caribbean Luxury living and colourful flavours in Barbados

Spirit of the Caribbean

From its endless coral beaches to the heart of cricket, Tempus goes to bat for the Caribbean’s cultural capital, Barbados

Words: Shaun Prince

It would be enough if all Barbados had to offer was its endless expanses of sandy paradise beaches, surrounded by colourful coral reefs and tropical ocean life. But this small island nestled in the Caribbean has far more than sunny skies to its name.

Its troubled colonial history has resulted in a rich cultural identity and Barbados today is a country of vibrant colours, music and cuisine keen to make its mark on the neighbouring United States and further out to the Commonwealth of which it is still a part. Need proof ? The island’s official ambassador for tourism is none other than Bajan superstar Rihanna, and if you still aren’t ready to book your flight to this diamond island then allow us to join RiRi in asking: ‘Where have you been?’

Italian flavours reign at Carriage House

Soul food

Barbados is known for its beauty but for elite travellers looking for added exclusivity The Crane Resort, which boasts status as the Caribbean’s first resort hotel, remains the definition of luxury throughout its 40 acres on the island’s southeast coast. First opened in 1887, the resort was once frequented by the island’s plantation owners and wealthy merchants attracted to the refreshing sea breezes and the lovingly restored historic buildings – with their 200-year-old stone walls, 11-foot-high timber tray ceiling and antique furniture – now comprise of charming oceanfront suites that provide a feast for the eyes.

The resort’s more modern suites include the secluded Residences in the Park, where lush gardens are also enjoyed by the residence’s tame monkeys. Whether choosing between a ground floor suite with outdoor Jacuzzi and dining gazebo or a penthouse with a private sundeck and rooftop pool, there’s no end to ways for guests to escape from it all.

When you’re satisfied with your view, head to L’Azure for awardwinning authentic Caribbean cuisine against a cliff-top view of the rugged shoreline. Don’t miss out on fresh seafood dishes like coucou and steamed flying fish (the national dish), or pan seared mahimahi with spicy lentils and fried plantain. On Sundays, there’s more food for the soul in a brunch accompanied by Caribbean gospel and later live steel pan music.

For a change of pace, The Crane Resort also offers the choice of an Italian restaurant; The Carriage House poolside grill; or gourmet Japanese fare at Zen, where a tasting menu will provide the best dishes on offer or, for private dining, a 12-person sushi bar and Tatami room overlooks the sea from 50-feet.

“THERE IS NO END TO WAYS FOR

GUESTS TO ESCAPE FROM IT ALL ”

Sea views from your Penthouse Suite

For a taste of the Caribbean, head to L’Azure

Beach daze

From these heavenly viewpoints it is easy to see the other reason Barbados is such a popular destination: sport. From surfing and catamaran cruises where you can snorkel with turtle, to more oceanic adventures such as deep-sea fishing excursions, Barbados is not just for cricket lovers. Additional sporting fun can be found in nearby golf courses and the resort’s tennis courts, or if you’d prefer to soak up the sun, the soft pink sands of Crane Beach are accessible by a spiral staircase or glass elevator.

Whether sporting or sunbathing, follow up a hard day in paradise with a rum punch or invigorating smoothie at Bar 1887, where guests can also enjoy Bajan tapas and live entertainment.

Can’t bear to leave? We don’t blame you. For those swept away by the cool tides, The Crane Resort also offers 63 single-story studios to own, providing guests with a true home from home that maintains the total peace and seclusion that is so unique to the resort. The bright residences boast large private pools, rooftop decks or dining gazebos, underground parking and grand oceanfront vistas. A handful of private residences are available for around $1.3million (£995,000) and include access to a 24/7 concierge service, use of the Calypso kids club, a spa, art-gallery and photography studio – perfect for capturing that faraway paradise horizon.