Do you have the travel bug in 2020?

Barbados has been named as one of the 50 best places to visit this year by Travel + Leisure. The magazine reports that in putting this list of destinations together they “hit the books, scouring tourism statistics, scoping out major events, charting new flight routes, and logging hotel debuts.” Getting further insight from their A-List travel advisors, trusted writers, hospitality insiders, and other industry pros, Travel + Leisure was able to secure the scoop on the best vacation spots for 2020. They’ve got their sights set on Barbados and so should you – add a Barbados holiday to your travel plans for 2020!

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Make your travel experience even better by booking with us! Our Concierge Can team can provide you with all the tools you need to create lasting memories. Also, be sure to check out our Specials page for fantastic offers.

View all of our holiday homes here!

Getting Here

Barbados is very easily reachable from most countries in the world. The Grantley Adams International Airport offers direct links to a variety of markets, and several major hub destinations. The frequency of international flights ensures that you can  travel with ease. Popular airlines like Jet Blue with the addition of their premium flight option complements British carriers. The recent addition of a direct flight from Panama to Barbados was a historic partnership for the island. The island also features many additional seasonal routes to the UK and Europe during the peak season.

Choice of Accommodation

The range of accommodation on offer in Barbados has something for everyone. From luxury hotels to the more budget conscious offerings with value as a priority, travellers can choose their ideal holiday experience. A growing number of hotels are offering all-inclusive options with the completion of planned branded hotels, the options in this segment would be further enhanced. Complementing this range of hotels is a diverse range of vacation rental properties, with on-island providers – like our sister company Blue Sky Luxury – offering several staffed and managed homes and private estates, and modern beachfront apartments. Online marketplaces round out the choice of offerings to ensure that there is truly something for everyone. It’s no wonder Barbados has the highest repeat visitor percentage in the region at 39%.

Transport & Infrastructure
The paved road network along with the island’s relatively flat terrain and extensive public transport, make Barbados’ infrastructure one of the best in the region. The ABC Highway stands out as a vital route from the airport to the west coast and points along the south coast. The island’s modern telecoms options ensure that visitors are never out of touch with their home base. This extends to the island-wide cellular offering which facilitates the use of navigation apps which makes travel around the island easier.

Things to Do

When it comes to sun, sea, and sand, the Caribbean as a region offers this in abundance, and while Barbados is regularly recognised for having some of the region’s best beaches, there is so much more on offer to visitors and residents. These include: Bushy Park Barbados, the only Grade 3 FIA racing circuit in the Caribbean; the Garrison Savannah, a six-furlong grass horse-racing course which hosts the Barbados Gold Cup, one of the most prestigious thoroughbred classic horse race events in the Eastern Caribbean; a variety of polo fields which host several tournaments with international teams competing during the January to May season, and golf courses ranging from the affordable to the exclusive and many in between, several designed by internationally renowned course architects. Once the sun goes down, Barbados continues to shine, with world class restaurants and nightlife that include international hospitality brands like Nikki Beach.

Property: Clifton Plantation

These two departments of the Terra Group work very closely together.   Blue Sky Luxury is the holiday rental side of the business and they rent properties tailored to holiday rental stays.  Terra Luxury is the West Coast brokerage side of the business that rents long term rental properties as well as buying and selling of real estate.  Terra Luxury is the local affiliate of Knight Frank, which though based in London has a Global Network of 512 offices worldwide in 60 territories.

Many owners choose to rent their properties to offset the running costs and presently Blue Sky Luxury has 130 villas, apartments and townhouses in their rental portfolio; there are four property classification categories “Flagship”, “Luxury” , “Classic” & “Essential”.  Most of the homes are rented with a full staff complement in place and it’s not unusual for guests to return to a particular property due to the friendly and great service they have received.

Property: Westhaven

Blue Sky Luxury reservations specialists book rental properties directly as well as through 140 overseas agents and travel agents.   Many guests have become long-time repeat clientele and a large part of their business – well over 50% have enjoyed more than one visit.

Holiday rental guests are a good source of business for Terra Luxury especially as these guests have already experienced the island first hand.  They may be attracted to the laid-back, yet sophisticated lifestyle; the great weather all year round encourages outdoor living and by extension good health; the relatively safe surroundings and maybe even the attractive resident tax rates if clients make Barbados their home.  The real estate market is currently a buyer’s market and the experience of the Terra Luxury brokerage agents will make the process of finding the right property, at the right price a smooth and straightforward process.

Yes, pack your swimwear – The Caribbean awaits! Whether you prefer the intimacy of a condo or the ease of a staffed villa, just for you, 7-night bookings are available at some of our most coveted vacation accomodations.

High Trees

Really enjoy taking winter off by lounging poolside or on the beach deck at the newly renovated High Trees. With a cook and housekeeper on staff and a short drive to shopping and dining options, this villa makes a good choice for a group getaway. View Availability

Sandy Lane – Jamoon

Sandy Lane – Jamoon welcomes with its close proximity to pristine beaches, luxury duty-free shopping and a baby grand piano, perfect for creating warm winter memories. View Availabilty

Palm Beach 405

Relax at the elegant and comfortable Palm Beach 405. With its breezy open-plan living and gorgeous garden and sea views, this condo leaves very little to be desired for an intimate Christmas in the Caribbean. View Availability.

Tucked away in the popular community of 2nd Street in Holetown, St. James, you’ll find The Mews. The ‘not so typical’ restaurant showcases a unique layout that’s a true time capsule of traditional Barbadian architecture and its preservation allows for guests to sit in a truly quaint environment. Enjoy the view and your meal on the balconies overlooking the active nightlife below, the interior courtyard, private dining rooms, or the quirky nooks and crannies scattered about this one of a kind gem.

Inside the kitchen, you’ll find a team championed by new Executive Chef Anife Best, who has put his personal spin on the Euro-Caribbean cuisine that the restaurant is known for with a focus on ‘farm-to-table’ fine dining. As a locally owned restaurant, the Mews celebrates flavours of Barbados with fresh, local ingredients and produce all sourced in Barbados.

The Mews offers a Farm Fresh Special Menu that is curated based on that availability of fresh produce. You’ll find delicacies such as the Pickled Codfish or Local Pumpkin Soup along with Mahi Mahi Aglio e Olio or Clifton’s Pork Chops. From their traditional menu, you’ll find starters such as Lemon Butter Scallops & Shrimp and Confit of Duck, sumptuous entrées including Curried Rabbit and even a 28 Day Aged Grilled 10 oz Ribeye Steak … and if you can still fit dessert, we’d recommend the Sticky Caramel Bread Pudding or the Chocolate Tart with warm Coffee Ganache.

In addition to promoting Farm-to-Table fine dining and an overflowing wine list, guests will enjoy a wide variety of local art on display throughout the restaurant featuring spectacular pieces by local artists. If you’re looking to be entertained, look no further as you’ll be serenaded by local musicians and artists as you enjoy your meal…. especially on Friday night when you’ll be guaranteed live entertainment in any season.

The Mews is an excellent choice for a night out, as 2nd Street becomes ‘the spot’ to ‘lime’. With quite a few bars in the area, 2nd street has a great night life with The Mews at the heart of the action.

Other than the festive season in Barbados (take a peek our winter getaways), November is one of our favourite times of the year as we celebrate Independence Day and a plethora of fun activities. If you love the water, November offers the Barbados Open Water Festival and the Live Like Zander Junior PRO WSL (World Surf League) & Thomo QS 1000 WSL.

The Barbados Open Water Festival

This annual event and draws locals and visitors alike from all countries to take part in this fun, five-day competition. Check out last year’s blog where we interviewed veteran competitor Amanda Garcia – Property Manager of luxury villa Crystal Springs. This year, participants can take part in practice swims, optional dinners, and four races. If you’re staying on the  South Coast, Sapphire Beach condominiums are close to the action and lots of fine dining and entertainment options.  We highly recommend checking out the nightlife in “The Gap” as well.

Dates: 6th Nov 2019 – 9th November 2019 | Location: St. Michael

World Surf League Live Like Zander Jr Pro and the WSL (World Surf League) Thomo QS 1000

This event is very near and dear to our hearts as it’s held in honour of  Zander Venezia and Bill Thomson. The World Surf League (WSL) Junior is in loving memory of Zander while the homo 2019 QS 1000 in loving memory of Bill. Held at the famous Soup Bowl in Bathsheba, the event is always exciting and, a great opportunity to rub shoulders with the local Barbados community.

Dates: 7th November 2019 – 10th November 2019 | Location: St. Michael

Here are your new weekend plans so let’s get Ready, Set and Surf in Barbados! Socialising included!

*Photos compliments Global Swim Series and Barbados Surfing Association.

We’re all guilty of making those last-minute travel plans but with winter right around the corner, you’ll want to forget the freeze and stay warm at any of our stunning holiday rentals. From our intimate beachfront retreats to fully staffed luxury villas, you can decide on luxury your way.

Hemingway House

Tucked away between the serenity of Gibbes Beach and the highly popular Mullins Beach, Hemingway House is a beautiful two-story retreat that boasts unique vantages of the ocean and is ideal for families or groups. View Availability

Sugar Hill – Illusion

A luxurious villa situated in the exclusive Sugar Hill community, Sugar Hill-Illusion wows with its grand sweeping staircase leading down to the impressive pool and fantastic view to sea. View Availability

Sugar Hill – Sunwatch

Sunwatch is a luxury 6-bed room villa, set atop a majestic ridge overlooking the platinum West Coast of Barbados. View Availability

Palm Beach 405

Offering guests breezy open-plan living against a backdrop of white sand beach and turquoise ocean, Palm Beach 405 is situated on Barbados’ South Coast in a prime beachfront location. View Availability

Leith Court 16

Enjoy lazy days on the beach and all the comforts of home at Leith Court 16. Shopping restaurants and the famous St. Lawrence Gap are all within walking distance. View Availability

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Barbados beckons! Get the details on these and more of our most coveted vacation villas available for the Christmas and New Year by viewing the special here!

Rose in hand and toes in the sand.

We have all been in anticipation about what is happening on Mullins Beach for several weeks now. At last, The Sea Shed has arrived and has opened its doors.

Barefoot chic with an element of rustic luxury, this new seaside venue will offer a European-Caribbean beach club vibe with fresh foods inspired by French and local traditions.

“Sea to Slate” is the philosophy of this new trendy spot which simply means bringing fresh fish from the sea to your plate. Catch of the day? Yes please.

Other dishes include fresh lobster and octopus, stone-oven pizza, lasagna and the all time favourite burger, just to name a few. Mouthwatering cocktails and fine wines can also be found here.

Well known, Chef Jeremy Dupire is at the helm of this place and with him he brings a wealth of knowledge, talent and whole-hearted dedication to ensure an unforgettable food experience for you.

Beach service opens from 10am and includes beach loungers and umbrellas. The restaurant opens from 12noon and takes reservations up to 8pm daily. Closed on Tuesdays.

It’s new. It’s sexy. And the food is to-die-for.  A must try!

For reservations – (246) 572-5111

Facebook – Sea Shed Barbados

Instagram – seashed_barbados

Photo compliments The Cliff Beach Club

Sunday is now our favourite day of the week! The Cliff Beach Club has made us fall in love all over again with a fresh and timeless way to relax and while the day away. Lunch at the Beach Club features a live band and quite frequently a fashion show hosted by the in-house boutique.

Consistent with The Cliff’s well-established standard you’ll pull up to valet parking and a warm Bajan welcome from the friendly hostess. We’d recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early so you can enjoy a drink from their cliff-top bar as you admire the 180-degree panoramic view as the bar’s backdrop. After you pick your jaw up off the floor from the sheer magnificence of the view, we’d recommend enjoying a few specialty cocktails crafted by expert bartenders.

Photo compliments The Cliff Beach Club

Eclectic Ambiance

Best described as a mixed pot, few do it as seamlessly as The Cliff Beach Club. Its massive metal chandelier installed over the bar area is arguably the focal point of The Beach Club. Housing a combination of coastal, modern and African details, the restaurant is certainly unique. Spread out across three-tiered levels no matter your choice of seating you will experience uninterrupted views of the sea.

Vibes and more vibes

After a Sunday here, you’ll be walking with more pep in your step…or a wobble…depends! Lively and upbeat the Beach Club puts on quite the show. Boasting a mixed crowd of locals, repeat guests and newbies, the atmosphere is always friendly and your glass is never empty – their attentive staff sees to that!

Photo compliments The Cliff Beach Club

Mouthwatering Cuisine

Much like its 5 Star sister restaurant, The Beach Club offers world-class culinary delights and decadent desserts. Their a la carte options ensure there’s something for everyone. Spicy lobster risotto and the octopus carpaccio give life to the menu while classics such as battered cod and chips provide soul comfort.

Bringing to life the perfect mix of fun and food, The Cliff Beach Club has developed a winning recipe. A ‘must visit’ while on the island, The Cliff Beach Club will never disappoint.

With the holiday season fast upcoming, shopping is quite a polarising topic: some love it, others…well… not so much. As a Blue Sky Luxury Villa guest, you can design your personal shopping experience however you want to. There is no reason why you should be worried about where to find what you’re looking for or how you’ll get there and back to your holiday getaway.

Relax at Porters Villa

Shopping ‘til you drop

Although Barbados is a small island and nothing is truly “far”, location is a key consideration for most guests. Apartments like Sapphire Beach and Leith Court are close to major shopping hubs such as Bridgetown and Lanterns Mall. Holidaymakers on the West Coast can opt for shopping in historic Speightstown or Holetown, home of luxury amenities. Depending on the size of your party, Glitter Bay Apartments are a mere 15 mins drive away. For those who prefer a bit more privacy, stand-alone villas such as Jamoon in Sandy Lane, Porters Villa, and Tom Tom provide luxury and comfort. Just tell your Concierge what you hope to pick up and we’ll do the rest. An experienced driver can take you from your villa to every boutique, souvenir shop, and mall and even make a stop for a breezy seaside lunch.

Photo compliments Shutter In Motion

In-villa private shopping & Duty-free shopping

For those who do not want to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, all of your shopping can be done from your poolside chaise lounge…with a perfectly chilled cocktail. Browse online or from a catalogue and we can find and arrange an in-house showing of it all! Duty-free shopping is offered across the island. Just be sure to take your airline ticket and passport with you when you’re out and about making your purchases.