Barbados

With a reputation as a winter getaway for the rich and famous, Barbados is a coral island with wonderful white-sand beaches and, arguably, the most agreeable climate in the West Indies with an average annual temperature of 85 F. The Old British charm is still evident. Pastel coloured plantation houses stand amid fields of sugar cane whilst cricketers in whites play beneath the palm trees.

A cosmopolitan, picturesque island of contrasts, Barbados is famous for the fabulous beaches and calm turquoise waters of the West Coast, but a 30 minute drive across the island to the ruggedly beautiful East coast is a must. Part of the island charm is the way luxury hotels, villas and restaurants mingle with colourful ‘chattel’ houses where local families still live and enjoy a leisurely pace of life. There is no need to hurry in Barbados; leave behind the rat race; take things easy; unwind; play some tennis, have a round of golf or simply enjoy lazing on the beach with the occasional cooling dip in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean sea.

Dining is a delight, with fish one of the staple foods, the famous flying fish; seasoned Bajan-style is a must, as well as Snapper, Grouper and Kingfish. The west coast is renowned for its restaurants and menus, which invariably include local as well as international cuisine. Luxury hotels range in style from traditional colonial to international glamour, similarly the staffed villas available to rent - beachfront hideaways to superstar mansions.