Showing posts with label holiday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label holiday. Show all posts

Thursday, 25 May 2017

Our Favourite Romantic Places to Propose in Barbados

As one of the most idyllic destinations in the world, where better to pop the question to your significant other than the beautiful island of Barbados.

The white sands and aquamarine waters provide that perfect tropical setting for an ultimate romantic marriage proposal. 

Here are our Favourite Romantic Places to Propose in Barbados


Sandy Lane Beach




Imagine the calm Caribbean Sea lapping gently against the soft sand whilst the sun sets on the horizon. Sounds amazing, right?
Situated on the Platinum Coast, Sandy Lane beach provides exceptional views to inspire the greatest shows of romance. 

Catamaran Cruise




Bridgetown offers some incredible catamaran cruises  where you can spend the day swimming with the adorable sea turtles or the schools of colourful fish. A magical way to present your soul mate with a very special piece of jewellery!

Snorkelling




If a unique proposal is your goal, why not try an underwater theme? Snorkels are great in the calm and shallow waters or you could try scuba diving to create even more unforgettable memories. 

Bottom Bay




A scenic and secluded location fringed with palm trees and hidden away. Bottom Bay is on the south east coast of Barbados and can be that dream-like option for your proposal. Take a picnic, unwind and relax as the sun sets beyond the sea.

Our expert luxury villa and apartment consultants are available to help inspire you with breath taking properties in Barbados. Our bespoke and tailor made service is unrivalled with knowledge and experience in the area. 

Contact us today:
enquiries@elegant-barbados.com
+44 (0)1244 62 99 63

Wednesday, 17 May 2017

Barbados Festival Calendar

The tropical island of Barbados is home to the liveliest of cultures, a happy-go-lucky way of life and the most gorgeous scenery. Music and laughter are some of the main reasons why people flock to visit there as well as the beautiful sandy beaches, the crystal clear waters and of course, the rum!

With their famous parties and fun filled entertainment, Barbados fills the calendar with an array of exciting and engaging events.

Barbados Festival Calendar


January



A fantastic boat race around the island where participants compete for the sheer pride of winning and the ability to claim bragging rights whilst wearing the red cap! Dating back to the 19th century, the race celebrates Mount Gay Rum, the oldest brand of rum in existence.



Attracting many international artists, the Barbados Jazz Festival is held mid-January and provides audiences with historical outdoor settings to enjoy the music by the beach. The final is held in the beautiful Farley Hill National Park.




The end of January sees the Barbados Music Awards glam up the island with red carpet glitz. The ceremony recognises talented Barbadian musicians with big name labels such as Atlantic, DEFJAM and Sony/BMG all having at least one musician from the island in their name. Massive star, Rihanna, made her debut at this event back in 2006.



February



Possibly the island's most well-known event, the Holetown Festival is a week long celebration that pays tribute to the first English settlers and produces a mix of fairs, theatre and musical performances. 

A bus journey around the town is the best way to take in everything going on. You're able to visit exhibitions at the Holetown Museum, the vintage car parade, the street fairs or listen to public lectures. Open air concerts are also put on by the Royal Barbados Police Force and the Barbados Defence Force bands. 



March


This amazing horse race is known for attracting large international crowds and is considered a major event with a stunning parade. 



Assembling music, theatre and comedy, the Holder's Season closely follows the Sandy Lane Gold Cup. Considered to be the time when Broadway comes to Barbados, the event was hosted by legendary opera singer, Pavarotti back in 1997. 




CHUM FM 104.5 are welcomed to the island all the way from Toronto, Canada for a live broadcast at Harbour Lights Nightclub on the south coast; attracting big names such as Michael Buble, Nelly Furtado and  Bryan Adams to perform. 



A 2 day festival held in Queens Park that celebrates the integral agriculture on the island. The event is especially popular with children as there is always lots of livestock for kids to pet and feed. 



April


Mount Gay/Sagicor Annual Game Fishing Tournament
Held over the 1st weekend of April, this tournament brings together anglers and fishing enthusiasts from all over the world. 


Heroes Day
The 28th of April is a public holiday in Barbados honouring the island's National Heroes.




May


May is the month of sporting events with the 1st of May being Labour Day

A week long celebration featuring local and international high performance vehicles racing at different stages. Motor rallying has become an incredibly popular sport in Barbados and this event shows exactly why. Audiences can watch the exhilarating races from the Vaucluse Raceway, a stunning natural amphitheater with views of the countryside, the tracks and the sea. 



A tribute to the large community of Celtic immigrants and the links between Barbados and the Celtic countries Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Award winning chefs cook up a storm and brilliant mixes of folk music are all present at this fantastic event. 




The premier regional festival dedicated to gospel music, culture and lifestyle. It promises world class gospel singers from local, regional and international choirs to celebrate the standard of excellence it's known for. 


June


The Sherbourne Conference Centre holds an exhibition run by interior design company, Habitat. Here you can see projects on environment services, home orientated products and constructions. 

Bajan Unifest Sporting Festival
A week long celebration of hockey, football, swimming, netball, tennis and cricket matches all held at the university campus. 

July


July is the home of the Crop Over Festival, starting with the Opening Gala. The Pic-O-De-Crop semi-finals are held mid-month and the finals are a week after. You can find out more details about this amazing festival in our dedicated blog post!


August


Kadooment Day 
The 1st Monday of August and is basically a massive street party! Full of glitzy costumes, live music, delicious food and plenty of rum, it's not to be missed. 



A week of hockey! Teams from Europe, the UK and North America all travel to Barbados to compete in games.


September


September is a quieter month after the celebrations of the summer but you can still find equally impressive and fun things to do.

Sizzlin' Sand Beach Volleyball
All the national volleyball compete on the gorgeous local sandy beaches.


October


A big surfing event where competitors hit the waves for a chance to win a place in the November International Championships.



Barbados Music Festival
Yet more joyous music celebrated on the island with genres covered from rock, blues, folk and of course, reggae acts flown in from the UK.

November 


All the decorative lights are lit in Bridgetown to signify the beginning of the holiday season. An incredibly pretty sight to see.




Independence Pro Surfing Championships & Banks Pro Long Board Classic
Hosted at the famous Soup Bowl surfing spot on the 4th and 5th of November,  this major international surfing competition attracts world famous surfers to the island. 



December


Yet more sporty and energetic events lead to the festive period with the Run Barbados Marathon, 1/2 marathon, 10K and 4K walks all being held and featuring over 30 countries entering.

The Polo Season starts with events being held nearly every Sunday between December and May, promoting this already popular sport. 



Old Year's Night
A truly magnificent party to bring in the new year. Men are dressed in smart suits while the ladies glam up in beautiful evening gowns. Champagne is flowing, fireworks are going and everyone is guaranteed to end their year in spectacular style!



Would you like to visit this magical island for yourself? Our Barbados luxury villa and apartment experts are on hand to help inspire you with an extensive portfolio of gorgeous properties.

Contact us today:

+44 (0)1244 62 99 63
enquiries@elegant-barbados.com

Friday, 12 May 2017

Top 10 Beachfront Villas

The West Coast of Barbados is the place to visit for a truly unforgettable tropical retreat. With its gorgeous sandy beaches, crystal blue waters and the happy-go-lucky lifestyle, people from all over the world flock to the island to soak up some of the most incredible experiences. 

So why not stay in a world-class luxurious villa on the beachfront so you can be close throughout your stay? 

We have handpicked some of our favourites to help inspire you! 

Top 10 Beachfront Villas


Villa Greensleeves, St James



Features:
- 9 En-Suite Bedrooms
- An additional villa; 'Blue Point' with 4 bedrooms
- Luxurious Swimming Pool with swim up bar
- Flood Lit Tennis Court
- In House Cinema

You can view Villa Greensleeves on our website for more details and images.



Villa Crystal Springs, St James



Features:
- 10 En-Suite Bedrooms
- 1.7 Acres of Landscaped Gardens
- Your Own Private Speedboat
- Panoramic Sea Views
- Beautiful Terraces with Outdoor Dining Areas

You can view Villa Crystal Springs on our website for more details and images.


Villa The Great House, St Peter



Features:
- 8 En-Suite Bedrooms
- 30ft Gray White Pleasure Boat with Array of Water Sports
- Elegant Traditional Colonial Style
- Landscaped Gardens
- Professional Staff

You can view Villa The Great House on our website for more details and images. 

Villa Mango Bay, St James



Features:
- 7 En-Suite Bedrooms
- Private Beach Terrace
- Tropical Gardens
- Open Dining Gazebo
- Panoramic Sea Views

You can view Villa Mango Bay on our website for more details and images. 


Villa The Dream, St James



Features:
- 5 En-Suite Bedrooms
- Luxurious Contemporary Design
- Two Bars including Pool Side Bar
- Close to Golf Courses, Shopping & Night Life
- Covered Terraces 

You can view Villa The Dream on our website for more details and images. 


Villa Footprints, St James



Features:
- 5 En-Suite Bedrooms
- Infinity Swimming Pool
- Unique Contemporary Architecture
- Gym
- Panoramic Sea Views

You can view Villa Footprints on our website for more details and images.

Villa Sandalo, St Peter 



Features:
- 5 En-Suite Bedrooms
- Direct Beach Access via Private Gate
- 30ft Swimming Pool
- Amazing Sea Views
- Traditional Style Caribbean Decor

You can view Villa Sandalo on our website for more details and images.

Villa Fustic House



Features:
- 7 En-Suite Bedrooms
- Colonial Style Property
- 11 Acres of Tropical Gardens
- Lagoon Swimming Pool
- Private Estate

You can view Villa Fustic House on our website for more details and images.


Villa Bonita



Features:
- 6 Bedrooms
- Swimming Pool
- Panoramic Sea Views
- Close to Golf Course, Holetown & Night Life
- Spacious Patio Terrace

You can view Villa Bonita on our website for more details and images

Villa Moon Reach



Features:
- 5 En-Suite Bedrooms
- Beautiful Swimming Pool
- Secluded Tropical Gardens
- Gym & Games Room
- Panoramic Sea Views

You can view Villa Moon Reach on our website for more details and images


With the perfect weather, gorgeous beaches and heavenly Caribbean Sea to enjoy, we hope we've inspired you to take a peek at this beautiful island for your next holiday!

Speak to one of our experienced and expert luxury Barbados villa specialists today:

+44 (0)1244 629 963
enquiries@elegant-barbados.com
















Wednesday, 7 December 2016

The Top 5 Reasons To Visit Barbados


It goes without saying that Barbados is our favourite Caribbean Island, but here are just a handful of reasons why....


The People 


Its a known fact that Bajan people are some of the friendliest in the world! With a welcoming and laid back culture you'll be sure to see plenty of smiles & lots of laughter. Its part of the islands charm, and makes it a definite favourite tourist destination. 

The Beaches 


Crisp blue waters, soft white sand, blaring sunshine, is the ideal image of a relaxing beach, Barbados beaches are truly beautiful whether you want a peaceful day sunbathing, or a day of water sports you can do both! What more could you want? Well, actually this leads on to our next reason.....

The Best Rum Punch! 


Now, you'd be mad to go to Barbados without trying their famous rum punch! Fruity deliciousness, with a good kick! Once you've had one, you'll be hooked and happily sipping the night away.
(warning - take it easy, they are stronger than you think!)

The Turtles 


A popular one for the bucket list!
 Turtle spotting, & swimming with turtles are the most wonderful experiences for the whole family, creating fantastic memories. A chance to visit these fascinating creatures in their own environment, not one to be missed! 

The Sunsets 


Whether you're on a romantic trip, or a family holiday make sure you watch the sunset! 
Take a stroll along the beach, or find a beach front restaurant (better still, from one of our beachfront villas!) and take in the array of colours and beauty, its a perfect Instagram opportunity! 


If you're looking for your perfect villa to experience this beautiful island visit our website and contact our experts: 

Visit our social media sites for more inspiring images: 



*Images provided by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. 

Monday, 26 September 2016

The Top 5 Barbados Family Holiday Villas

Family holidays can create some of your favourite memories that will stay with you forever, no matter what age. Are you dreaming whisking your loved ones off to paradise? Leave the miserable weather, everyday routine and stressful office to spend quality time with your loved ones in one of the happiest places on earth - Barbados! Play on the beach 'til sunset, swim with tropical fish and sea turtles and explore the lush green rain-forests as you enjoy a truly memorable and relaxing holiday for all the family in Barbados.

For some inspiration we have hand-picked our top five, favourite luxury family villas for you. 

Villa Sunwatch

2 pools and connecting water slide
Childrens play house
Bright open spaces with inside and outside dining areas
6 bedrooms
View Villa Sunwatch on our website for more details and images. 


Villa Bluff House

Close to tennis, golf, watersports
Access to the beach
Butler, cook, maid
6 bedrooms
View Villa Bluff House on our website for more details and images.  


Villa West Haven 

Direct beach access
Great outside lounge area
Close to shops and amenities
4 bedrooms
View Villa Westhaven on our website for more details and images.  

Villa Casablanca

Private tennis court
Swimming pool
Access to Sandy Lane golf club and beach club
7 bedrooms
View Villa Casablanca on our website for more details and images. 


Villa Calliaqua

BBQ area
Large pool
Near golf and restaurant
5 bedrooms
View Villa Calliaqua on our website for more details and images.  

Barbados is not just a holiday destination for grown ups. There is plenty to experience, see and enjoy for the little ones too! What better place to introduce the kids to new cultures, cuisines and activities than the best Caribbean island? Forget the stress of trying to find a sunbed at the busy hotel pool or having to put up the sofa bed every night and instead, find your perfect private, home from home with a luxury child friendly villa that all the family will love! 
Contact our award-winning Barbados specialists today, who have unrivaled knowledge of the island and the best villas available!

Thursday, 25 August 2016

The 8 best waterfront restaurants in Barbados

The Cliff, St James

Arguably the most famous restaurant on the island, The Cliff has some of the best views and fine dining Barbados has to offer...with a waiting list to match! To get your spot on the prestigious terrace where you can look out to breath-taking, panoramic sea views off the cliff whilst watching sting rays dancing in the water below; make sure you book a few weeks in advance. For those who would love to arrive in style from their yacht, there is a small private dock and (fairly steep) stairs leading up the cliff to the restaurant. Minimum spend is $265 BDS per person for two courses, the price is worth the incredible five star food and service, so save your visit for truly special treat and celebration on your holiday. See a sample of their menu here. 

The Beach House - St James

The Beach House is a beautiful beachfront restaurant on the platinum coast that serves 'cool drinks and great food all day and into the night' as stated on their website. This may be a lesser known than the Cliff but it certainly has exceptional views and food to offer! Sip an ice cold cocktail as you relax and take in an incredible sunset from the terrace before perusing the wonderful menu of island classics and international cuisine. See the Beach House evening menu here.

Champers, Christ Church

Champers, known as the best restaurant on the south coast, has a romantic Caribbean ambiance as it sits on top of a cliff giving you fantastic, surrounding sea views. From their beautiful terrace you will also overlook the stunning Accra beach, or if you prefer to sit indoors you will be treated to delightful, fascinating art work covering the walls. View Champers dinner menu here. 

Cin Cin by The Sea

Cin Cin is another popular hotspot on the island. Pronounced 'chin-chin', this restaurant is an incredible contemporary and al-fresco restaurant with gorgeous, modern interiors and breath taking views of the west coast. We highly recommend reserving a table on the terrace but if you prefer to relax in the open plan interior, you will be surrounded by a glass wall stretching the length of the building to let every visitor enjoy the spectacular sea views from inside and out. The food is a delectable blend of European and Caribbean dishes. View the Cin Cin by the Sea dinner menu here. 

Atlantis, St Joseph

Fresh, authentic Bajan and Caribbean cuisine, The Atlantis is famous for its West Indian buffet held every Wednesday and Sunday, this is a popular with both the locals and visitors - so you know its definitely the best around! There is also an a la carte menu which changes every week, boasting the use of only local, fresh ingredients and meats. Whether you sit in the open plan restaurant or out on the terrace, you will have spectacular views of the rugged east coast beach. See The Atlantis lunch and dessert menu here. 


Cafe Luna

Situated on the rooftop of the Little Arches hotel, Cafe Luna invites you to dine under the stars in Christ Church.  Experience a taste of the Mediterranean in Barbados as you enjoy al-fresco dining with a panoramic view of the Caribbean sea. Chef 'Moo' is a multi-talented man, known for cooking some of the best food on the island as well as being a fabulous musician! Depending on how hungry you are feeling, you can choose from a great selection of truly delicious 'small, 'medium' and 'large' dishes. View the Cafe Luna dinner menu here.

The Fish Pot, St Peter

The Fish Pot is one of our personal favourite places to eat in Barbados. Located within an old fort directly on the water's edge, the Fish Pot has a wonderful relaxed island vibe with its large picture frame windows facing the sea. The chefs here take a purist approach to cooking by choosing to use fresh ingredients in their best form, enhanced with local flavours. We recommend the lobster ravioli and amazing lamb shank whilst sitting next to the fabulous pastel green shutters looking out to the horizon. See the Fish Pot lunch menu here. 

Daphne's

One of the the only 'true' waterfront dining experiences on the island, Daphne's has quirky, jazz inspired interiors and a fantastic terrace with panoramic views. We recommend having a pre-dinner cocktail allowing you to relax and try the signature watermelon whilst taking in the incredible view of the sunset and Payne's bay. The menu offers a modern take on Italian classics with Barbados seafood and style! View Daphne's dinner menu here. 

Many of our luxury Barbados villas have incredible beachfront dining that you and your friends can enjoy from the comfort of your own home! Our award-winning island specialists have unsurpassed knowledge of Barbados and the best the island has to offer. Get in touch today to talk to our experts about your dream Barbados holiday.