Blue Sky Luxury Archives - Blue Sky Luxury
Destinations

logo ×

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Paradise Is One Boarding Pass Away

Good news! If you hate layovers and love rum punch, paradise is closer than you think. With several direct flights to Barbados from major Canadian, European and US cities, getting to the island has never been easier (or breezier).

Whether you’re flying in for a quick reset or a well-deserved getaway, here’s where you can skip the airport shuffle and go straight to sunshine:

a family of 3 standing in an airport carpark taking suitcases from the trunk of a car. Heading on a direct flight to Barbados

Photo by FreePik

CANADA

Toronto (YYZ)  –  Air Canada – 5 hrs 40 mins

EUROPE

Amsterdam (AMS)  KLM (from Oct 2025) – 9 hrs 00 mins

Düsseldorf (DUS) – Condor (seasonal) – 9 hrs 20 mins

Frankfurt (FRA)  Condor (seasonal) – 9 hrs 20 mins

London (LHR) British Airways, Virgin Atlantic 8 hrs 50 mins

London (LGW)  British Airways, Virgin Atlantic – 8 hrs 50 mins

Manchester (MAN) Aer Lingus UK, Virgin Atlantic – 8 hrs 09 mins

United States

Atlanta (ATL) Delta – 5 hrs 20 mins

Boston (BOS) – JetBlue – 5 hrs 20 mins

Charlotte (CLT) – American Airlines  5 hrs 05 mins

Miami (MIA)  American Airlines – 4 hrs 02 mins

New York (JFK)  JetBlue, American Airlines – 5 hrs 26 mins

New York (EWR) United Airlines  5 hrs 32 mins

Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines – 5 hrs 10 mins

Washington D.C. (IAD) – United Airlines – 5 hrs 17 mins

 

Beach in barbados with blue lounge chairs and umbrellas. Framed by palm trees

 

Seasonal routes may vary, but most cities offer direct flights to Barbados several times a week, especially during winter and holiday seasons when escaping snow becomes a national sport. So if you’re craving turquoise water, golden sand, and a villa with your name on it, there’s likely a direct flight waiting to make that happen.

Ready to skip the layovers and experience the island life? We’ll help you land softly in Barbados, no matter where you’re flying from. Explore Villas or Get in Touch to plan your escape.

 

Written By: Eshe Blackett

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

DJI_0377.jpg

Barbados is more than just its famous beaches and luxury resorts, it’s an island full of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden spots waiting to be explored. If you’re planning a summer getaway, take the road less travelled and experience the island like a local. From secret beaches to vibrant food spots, here’s your guide to discovering Barbados’ best-kept secrets.

 

Find Your Own Slice of Paradise: Hidden Beaches

While Crane Beach and Miami Beach get most of the attention, some of the most breathtaking stretches of sand are tucked away from the crowds. Shark Hole, a small, secluded cove on the southeast coast, feels like a natural swimming pool surrounded by cliffs. If you’re up for an adventure, head to Bottom Bay, a postcard-perfect beach with coconut trees and turquoise waters, ideal for a quiet picnic or an afternoon of relaxation.

Aerial View of Sharks' Hole Barbados     Aerial view of Bottom Bay, Barbados

Shark Hole                                                                      Bottom Bay

 

Local Bites: Where to Eat Off the Beaten Path

Forget the tourist traps—some of the best food in Barbados comes from roadside stalls and small family-run spots. Cuz’s Fish Shack near Pebbles Beach serves up the best fish cutters (Bajan-style fish sandwiches) on the island. For an authentic taste of local cuisine, stop by Lemon Arbour in St. John on a Saturday for a plate of pigtails and a cold Banks beer, a favourite weekend tradition among Bajans. And if you’re looking for a hidden gem for dinner, The Bay Tavern in Martin’s Bay is known for its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere right by the ocean.

The Best Fish Shack in Barbados      Barbados Dining: Bay Tavern

Cuz’s Fish Shack                                                The Bay Tavern

 

Explore Beyond the Beach: Nature & Adventure

Barbados is full of lush landscapes and outdoor adventures if you know where to look. Hunte’s Gardens, tucked away in the hills of St. Joseph, feels like a tropical fairy tale with its winding paths and vibrant flowers. For something truly unique, take a dip in Animal Flower Cave, a sea cave on the northern tip of the island with natural rock pools and stunning ocean views. If you’re into hiking, the Hackleton’s Cliff Trail offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged east coast, far from the bustling tourist areas.

     Photo

Hunte’s Gardens                                                           Hackleton’s Cliff Trail

 

Experience Barbados by Night: Local Vibes & Live Music

Nightlife in Barbados isn’t just about fancy bars—it’s about energy, music, and good vibes. Skip the usual tourist spots and head to John Moore Bar, a tiny rum shop right on the water, where you can sip on a rum punch with the locals. On Fridays, the real action is at Oistins Fish Fry, where fresh seafood, live music, and dancing come together for an unforgettable night out. If jazz and live bands are more your style, Blakey’s on the Boardwalk offers a chilled-out atmosphere with great music and even better views.

John Moore Bar   

John Moore Bar                                                                Oistins Fish Fry

 

Get to Know the Real Barbados

The best way to experience Barbados is to slow down and take it all in. Drive through the countryside and stop at the small villages, where friendly locals are always up for a chat. Visit a local market like Cheapside Market in Bridgetown to pick up fresh tropical fruits. Or simply grab a chair at a beachside rum shack and watch the sunset—sometimes, the best experiences are the simplest ones.

Barbados has something for everyone, but the real magic happens when you go beyond the usual tourist spots. This summer, take the time to explore, taste, and experience the island like a local. Whether it’s finding a secret beach, discovering your new favourite rum shop, or hiking to a breathtaking view, there’s always something unexpected waiting for you in Barbados.

So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the real Barbados. You won’t regret it!

 

Written By: Shanelle Harris

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

In this fast-paced world, the term “luxury” often evokes images of extravagant mansions, designer clothes, and sleek sports cars. However, luxury is a deeply personal concept that extends far beyond material possessions. It resides in the experiences, feelings, and moments that bring us joy, comfort, and fulfilment.

So let’s explore the essence of luxury from a personalised perspective, uncovering what it truly means for each individual.

Luxury Beyond Material Possessions:

For many people, luxury is not confined to the tangible. It goes beyond accumulating luxurious items and displays of wealth. Instead, it finds its roots in the intangible aspects of life that money cannot buy. It could be the feeling of contentment and peace that comes from spending quality time with loved ones, nurturing meaningful relationships, and creating cherished memories. For some, luxury is found in the simple pleasures of life—a warm embrace, a genuine smile, or a beautiful sunset that takes their breath away.

The Luxury of Time:

In a world where time seems to slip through our fingers like grains of sand, having the luxury of time is a precious gift. It allows us to slow down, savour the moment, and fully immerse ourselves in the present. Having the time to pursue our passions, indulge in hobbies, and invest in self-care adds an invaluable sense of luxury to our lives. Whether it’s taking long walks in nature, reading a book uninterrupted, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in solitude, time becomes a luxurious commodity that brings balance and fulfilment.

Luxury as Self-Care:

True luxury also entails taking care of oneself—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It involves carving out space in our hectic lives to prioritise our well-being. Engaging in regular exercise, nourishing our bodies with wholesome food, practising mindfulness, and allowing ourselves to rest and rejuvenate are all aspects of self-care that contribute to a luxurious lifestyle. When we prioritise our well-being, we cultivate a sense of inner abundance that permeates every aspect of our lives.

Luxury in Connection:

At its core, luxury thrives on the meaningful connections and relationships we forge with others. Being surrounded by a supportive network of family and friends and sharing laughter, love, and support is a luxury that money cannot buy. The knowledge that there are individuals who genuinely care and uplift us during both good and bad times creates a sense of security, belonging, and ultimate luxury.

Luxury is a deeply personal experience that varies for each individual. It transcends material possessions and resides in the moments, feelings, and connections that bring us joy, fulfilment, and inner peace. By embracing the notion that luxury can be found in the intangible aspects of our lives, such as time, self-care, and meaningful relationships, we begin to understand its true essence. So, dear reader, take a moment to reflect on what luxury means to you. Discover and cherish those experiences that bring you genuine happiness, and let them enrich your life with a touch of true luxury.

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

 

Summer is here, and it’s time to start planning your next adventure. Barbados, a true gem of the Caribbean, is full of fun and exciting activities that will make your summer vacation unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to relax, party or explore, this island has something to offer everyone. Here are some must-see activities to do in Barbados this summer.

Crop Over Festival

If you’re visiting Barbados in the summer, you’re in for a treat as the island celebrates its Crop Over Festival. This festival is a celebration of the end of the sugar cane harvest and a time to celebrate the culture of the island. Crop Over features lively music, street parades, and delicious food. You can expect to see colorful costumes, street parties, and plenty of dancing.

St. Nicholas Abbey with Grinding of Canes

St. Nicholas Abbey is a historic plantation home and rum distillery. This stunning property offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and see how life was in Barbados during the 18th century. The distillery still uses the traditional method of grinding sugarcane to produce rum, and visitors can witness this process in action. The plantation also has beautiful gardens and a museum that showcases the history of the property.

Catamaran Tours

One of the best ways to enjoy the island of Barbados is by sea. A catamaran tour is a great way to see the island’s stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters. You can choose from a range of tours, from snorkeling trips to sunset cruises. Most tours include lunch and drinks, making it the perfect way to relax and soak up the sun.

Swimming with the Turtles

Barbados is home to a variety of sea turtles, and swimming with them is an unforgettable experience. There are several tour operators that offer guided tours to see the turtles up close. You can also rent snorkeling gear and explore the waters yourself. The turtles are friendly and curious creatures, and it’s a magical experience to swim alongside them.

Oistins Bay Garden Fish Fry

The Oistins Bay Garden Fish Fry is a must-visit for foodies. This weekly event is a celebration of Barbadian cuisine and culture. You can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Bajan dishes, and live music. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great night out with friends or family.

Harbour Lights Beach Extravaganza

Harbour Lights Beach Extravaganza is a beach party that takes place every Wednesday and Thursday night. This event is the perfect way to experience the nightlife in Barbados. The party features live music, fire dancers, and a DJ playing the latest hits. The party takes place on the beach, so you can dance the night away under the stars.

Make Barbados your destination for your summer vacation. Whether you want to relax on the beach, party the night away or explore the island’s history, Barbados has it all.

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

 

 

You have just purchased your new holiday home and want to decorate and set it up for rental.  

Our Property Management team at Blue Sky Luxury Barbados has lots of experience helping new owners set up and manage their new holiday homes. Here are some tips on how to set up your property as a Short Term holiday rental.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written By: Pamela D’Andrade, Blue Sky Luxury Property Manager

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

 

Are you ready to dance the night away? Barbados is a perfect vacation spot to grab drinks, laugh with friends, meet people, and show off your dance moves. The varied nightlife scene has plenty to offer everyone.

Popular Spots

Here are some of the most popular clubs, spots, and bars in Barbados:

Festivals and Events

Moreover, the island is also renowned for its celebrations and occasions that feature music and dance. The Crop Over Festival is one such occasion, which occurs every year between June and August. The festival brings locals and visitors together to party as it commemorates the conclusion of the sugar cane harvest. The Grand Kadooment Day, a procession of color and song that highlights the best of Barbadian culture, marks the festival’s conclusion.

Barbados is the ideal travel location if you enjoy dancing. There is something for everyone in Barbados, whether you love bars and nightclubs or festivals and events. Pack your dancing shoes and be ready to enjoy Barbados’ exciting nightlife.

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Congratulations on taking the leap and investing in a property! Rental homes are a long-term investment. If well-maintained, a home will continue producing income for decades. Your new purchase offers passive income and limited maintenance and repairs responsibility. Of course, you also have the freedom of an amazing business opportunity, which over time increases in price.

The First Steps

Now that you are ready to enter the rental market, let us look at how to get you there, stress-free, with competent guidance from our property management team. Having Blue Sky Luxury as your Property Managers brings tangible and intangible benefits. We do more than oversee the running of your property. 

Our Property Management team provides responsible management:

We will also provide a monthly expense statement and quarterly manager’s reports. Once you have determined whether you will be renting furnished or unfurnished, we can enroll you to our Blue Sky Luxury group plan that offers the best rates for building and contents insurance. We will complete a Property Manual with a list of certified technicians. Regular scheduled servicing and preventative maintenance visits guarantee that your equipment operates at optimum proficiency. Benefits include extending the lifespan of your home inventory and keeping your home in pristine condition. Once you have secured a rental, we will carefully read the lease to ensure tenants uphold their contractual obligations.

At handover, the water and electricity metres are read, and an inspection is completed with the tenant. Service and maintenance checks are performed. These checks include steam-cleaning furnishings, Air Conditioning maintenance, and servicing fire safety equipment. We document any concerns and provide a copy of the inventory, keys, gate fobs, and equipment operating instructions. This makes it hassle-free for the tenants’ departure.

During a tenancy, we will promptly coordinate and fix any landlord-related tenant issues, inspect the external areas, and coordinate onsite work at the property. We will also schedule an interior inspection to ensure tenants maintain the property as agreed. We will continue monthly monitoring to ensure that rents are collected and utility payments remain up-to-date.

So, what are you waiting for? If you are reading along and are excited about the prospect of being a landlord and this sounds like a suitable long-term investment for you, then take the next step with us, the property management experts.

Written By: Diana Tasker, Blue Sky Luxury Property Manager

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

 

Are your friends trying to convince you to visit Barbados, but you are not sold on the trip? Check out our five reasons why Barbados should be your next vacation destination. 

It’s easy to get to Barbados

In most cases, Barbados is just a flight away and is one of the most easily accessible islands in the Caribbean. For North American visitors, direct flights leave cities including Miami, New York, Boston, or Toronto bound for the Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) and arrive in five hours or less. Our friends in Europe, fear not, as direct flights depart most major cities including London, Munich, and Manchester. 

PS: Barbados also caters to private jets and yachts. Dedicated private hangars and ports provide entry to the island.

The Rum 

Barbados is the Birthplace of Rum. Is this a reason to visit? Yes. We do believe so!

Tours are available at Mount Gay Rum Distillery, St. Nicholas Abbey, and Foursquare Rum Distillery and will allow you to fully immerse yourself (not only) in the rum-making process but in a bottle or two! Barbados has four rum distilleries currently in operation:

  1. Mount Gay Distillery began producing rum in 1703 and is the world’s oldest continually operating distillery with 320 years under its belt. 
  2. In the north of the island, we have St. Nicholas Abbey producing an elegant and classic rum called “Annabelle.”
  3. West Indies Rum Distillery, much to Captain Jack Sparrow’s delight – should he ever run aground in Barbados, is located on Brighton Beach and produces the famous Cockspur rum.
  4. The parish of St Philip is where Foursquare Rum Distillery and Heritage Park call home. The distillery produces the Real McCoy and the award-winning Doorly’s rum. 

The Heritage

Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison join an elite and protected list of heritage sites like the Great Barrier Reef, The Great Wall of China, and the Taj Mahal. 

Cit by UNESCO as “an outstanding example of British colonial architecture consisting of a well-preserved old town built in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, which testifies to the spread of Great Britain’s Atlantic colonial empire. The property also includes a nearby military garrison which consists of numerous historic buildings. With its serpentine urban layout, the property testifies to a different approach to colonial town-planning compared to the Spanish and Dutch colonial cities of the region which were built along a grid plan.”

Come journey through the streets of Bridgetown, explore the Blackwoods Screw Dock, tour the Nidhe Israel Synagogue & museum, the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere. Visit the Barbados Museum and The Garrison Savannah. Both places have knowledgeable and interactive tour guides on the UNESCO World Heritage Site walking tours. 

The Food 

Barbados is considered the culinary capital of the Caribbean. If food is your passion, join us in October 2023 for the Barbados Food and Rum festival and embark on the gastronomy tour of a lifetime. The cuisine in Barbados is exceptional. The influence of British, African, Irish, and Creole with adaptations from India is hard to duplicate. 

Barbadian classics include Macaroni pie, roast breadfruit, fish cakes, pudding and souse, and our national dish Cou-Cou and flying fish. If you do nothing else you MUST visit Oistins Bay Garden. You will find fresh fish, community, and local entertainment.

The Beaches

The island has over 70 pristine beaches with miles of crescent-shaped white sand and is world-renowned as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

Popular spots include Silver Sands Beach- famous for kite surfing. Rockley Beach on the south coast connects to the boardwalk and offers great swimming options.

Travel to Sunset Crest and Mullins Beach on the west for swimming, snorkeling, and catamaran cruises.

If you wish to unwind and bask in the sun or gain an adrenaline rush with watersports, then Barbados is the place for you. 

Contact us to book your Barbados vacation!

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Small home projects in Barbados can become a hassle and very time-consuming.  Things often work on “ Bajan time “, and this cuts into time spent on the golf course, at the beach, or sipping on a sundowner.

The property management team are experts at all things home maintenance.  This is what we do!

We are skilled at ensuring small projects around the home are tackled as quickly and efficiently as possible, so that you can enjoy your home, and not spend your time in Barbados around home projects.

We Work with the Best

Each property manager has a team of skilled and high-quality contractors and suppliers on call. These relationships are paramount to ensuring that we can have someone on property the moment we need them in an emergency, and who we trust to maintain your property throughout the year. Equally important, these contractors work with our property management team to ensure basic maintenance projects are handled smoothly and to the Blue Sky Luxury standard.

When your air conditioner is being serviced, or you have a new appliance being installed, you don’t want to be stuck at home waiting for it to be delivered and installed.  We can take away that inconvenience.

These tasks seem small, but can be frustrating, and patience-testing.  Leave that to us.

We keep an open line of communication to ensure you are aware of each small project, but don’t have the hassle of taking care of it yourself. Often, we take pictures, or send updates to keep you in the loop! Of course, there are some home owners, who just want it sorted and don’t wish to know the details.

Hassle-Free Management

When you come to your home in Barbados, you want to walk in and enjoy it. You don’t visit to have to make arrangements to have the Ac units serviced, the gutters cleaned, and to fix up the peeling paint on the shutters. The majority of our work happens “ behind the scenes “ when you are not in your home.  We take this time to make sure everything works the way it needs to, and looks the way you want it to. Time is money, and your time is valuable.  Part of our goal is to ensure you make the most of your time in Barbados, the way you want to.

Let us take care of the coordination, installations, services, and maintenance checks so that you can maximize your time here.

 

Written By: Alexandra Clark, Blue Sky Luxury Property Manager

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website

Luxury Villa holidays

Curious about the term “villa” as it relates to vacation rentals?

A villa experience (in Barbados) typically refers to renting a private luxury estate with expert staff, impeccable interiors and a host of on-site luxe amenities. Villas can also encompass a less lavish experience however the premise is that the villa is private to you and your guests. Whereas with a hotel it is a shared experience with multiple guests on the same floor.

 

How do you book a villa?

It is best to trust a reputable company that has been in the villa rental business for over 20 years. Having trusted international and local affiliates is also a good sign. A good villa rental company will have an authentic website and a reservations department where you are able to chat online or send an enquiry. When booking a villa, here are some easy steps to follow:

  1. Visit blueskyluxury.com to start your search.
  2. From the home page enter your arrival and departure dates, total guests and number of bedrooms needed.
  3. Once your search results are returned you can book directly online from the property you choose or send an enquiry to an agent. (Booking online is secure, all credit card information is encrypted.)

 

Ok! So you are booked. No bell man? No front desk? No restaurant? Hotels have staff available to assist 24/7 and offer a wide range of services such as: room service, housekeeping, and concierge services. What does a villa have?

Many high-end luxury villas have staff such as butlers, chefs, housekeepers and laundresses for the duration of the stay. Concierge & Guest Services and Property Managers are also on hand to make the experience more convenient and luxurious. The concierge offers a more personal and customised vacation experience by arranging fast track, groceries, meals and activities before you even arrive. Property Managers are on call 24/7 in case anything goes wrong at your villa. You will always feel secure as a Guest Services Agent will check with you at your convenience to ensure that all is well. Some holidaymakers prefer to dine out or make use of fully-equipped kitchens. It’s a great option to either plan menus with your chef or to cook on your own. 

 

What can I expect when I arrive? 

Hope you like rum punch! In some villas the staff will meet you on arrival with a beverage and give you the grand tour. Expert staff members will let you in on any insider information to make you feel more welcome in your home away from home. Welcome packs have lots of information on the island as well as contact numbers in case of any emergencies.

 

Privacy and independence: Villas typically offer more privacy and independence than hotels, as they are separate, self-contained properties.

 

Loads of space: Villas usually have more living areas than hotel rooms, which can be especially beneficial for families or groups of friends travelling together. In most cases a villa be double the space of a hotel room.

 

Outdoor space: Many villas have outdoor areas such as a pool or a patio, which can be great for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful weather in Barbados. Private gardens offer a relaxing oasis for barbecues or a space to rejuvenate in absolute peace.

 

Amenities: Depending on which villa you choose, like hotels, villas can have a wide range of amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and spas.

Ultimately, the choice between a villa and a hotel will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your trip. We recommend trying the villa life at least once, you won’t regret it. You have all the privacy of your home while enjoying the beautiful scenery and luxurious amenities of Barbados.

Written by La Toya Louizon,

Holiday Rentals Manager

Blue Sky Luxury, Barbados

 

 

 

Stay in touch, we love to hear from you!

Direct Barbados: 1.246.622.4466

Freephone UK: 0800 0885574

Toll Free US/CND: 1 866 404 9600

Email: experts@blueskyluxury.com

 

Go back to our website