Go beyond Barbados’ beaches! From Bajan heritage and flavourful cuisine to world class golf, diving (and of course, rum!) this island has something for everyone…

Ad Feature by British Airways

Every holidaymaker dreams of the holy grail – an incredible destination that has something to offer everyone.

An absolute all-rounder that can keep the adventurers and history buffs just as happy as beach dwellers and foodies.

Well, look no further than Barbados. This beautiful and dynamic island in the heart of the Caribbean really is diverse enough to keep everyone happy.

All-round destination, all year long: Barbados promises a trove of wonders (Pictured: Bathsheba Beach)

And with British Airways flying there all year round from Heathrow and in winter from Gatwick too, it’s easier than ever to get to.

So why is this island so special? Here’s what it offers:

FOR THE FOODIES

You’ll never be disappointed with Bajan food as Barbados is recognised as the culinary capital of the Caribbean.

Its fish is legendary with local delicacies including flying fish, swordfish, tuna, lobster and shrimp – why not try the rustic charm of the popular Oistins Fish Fry for a seafood feast?

Classic Bajan eats include the national dish of cou-cou (cornmeal and okra) with flying fish and conkies (cornmeal again but sweetened this time) – a must-have when celebrating the island’s Independence Day in November.

A tasty corner of the Caribbean, this island’s local dishes make the most of the native produce (Pictured: : Fisherman’s Pub, Speightstown)

In fact, there are over 500 dining experiences in Barbados from five-star establishments to roadside snack bars and beachside tavernas where you can dine under the stars.

And remember, this is the birthplace of rum where no celebration or business deal happens without a tot or two. Join them by trying Mount Gay Rum, the world’s oldest and still going strong 220 years after it was first produced.

FOR THE EXPLORERS

This is an island of remote bays, gullies, rainforests, caves…all manner of natural beauties just waiting for you to discover them.

Take an Island Safari Tour in a rugged 4×4 to uncover hidden secrets, hop on the electric tram into the extraordinary Harrison’s Cave with its limpid pools and stalactites or uncover a mansion in ruins at Farley Hill National Park.

Fancy yourself a true adventurer? This island’s caves are begging to be explored (Pictured: Animal Flower Cave)

Alternatively, go hiking in the Coco Hill Forest under a canopy of mahogany and tropical fruit trees to really see the country at its best.

FOR THE HISTORIANS

First occupied by the British in 1627 until full independence was awarded in 1966, Barbados has a rich history to discover. And many of its old buildings including lighthouses, plantation houses and forts have been preserved and restored for people to visit.

History buffs should head towards Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its stunning colonial architecture dating back to the 17th century.

Living history: Barbados has a compelling cultural heritage that’s reflected in the architecture of its older buildings (Pictured: Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison)

The Parliament buildings are a must-see as Barbados has the third oldest Parliament in the entire Commonwealth as is the Garrison area which still houses the island’s defence forces today.

The beautiful Sunbury Plantation House, fascinating Barbados Museum and the Museum of Parliament and National Heroes Gallery are also well worth your time.

FOR THE ADVENTURERS

Water sport fans are well catered for in Barbados with windsurfing, snorkelling, jetskiing, boogie boarding, kayaking, kite surfing and water skiing available on the island.

It’s also heaven for scuba lovers with all year round diving and numerous reefs and wrecks to explore and turtles, moray eels, frog fish and seahorses to swim with. It’s also a great place to learn and for night dives too.

Beaches bursting with adventure – Barbados’ sandy coasts are a perfect playground (Pictured: Bathsheba Beach)

Snorkel your way to the reefs and get better acquainted with the marine life under the waves (Pictured: Exploring the crystal-clear waters of Barbados)

Golfers will have the time of their lives thanks to the five PGA Standard Golf Courses on the island. Major tournaments abound throughout the year with the biggest being the Sir Garry Sobers played over four days by almost 300 people.

FOR THE BEACH DWELLERS

 Ok, so we said ‘go beyond Barbados’ beaches’ but with more than 60 palm-tree strewn stretches of paradise on the island, we just couldn’t stay silent…

Find your favourite – surfers should head to the windswept east of the island, while the west coast offers calm waters and the south has perfect conditions for both swimming and snorkelling.

Crane Beach deserves a mention as it’s consistently voted one of the ten best in the world but also check out Bathsheba Beach, Holetown Beach, Bottom Bay, Rockley Beach, Carlisle Bay…need we go on?

Surf’s up: An active afternoon catching waves or a leisurely one catching rays – the choice is yours (Pictured: Bathsheba Beach)

Alternatively, why not stay on a beach? British Airways Holidays have an irresistible roster of resorts and hotels nestled right on the island’s sandy coasts.

All-inclusive Sugar Bay Barbados (the resort) isn’t just on Sugar Bay (the beach) but is steps away from a tranquil ocean lagoon too.

Or there’s the nearby award-winning Coconut Court Beach Hotel, a laid-back, family-run affair that’ll make you feel right at home.

FOR THE FOMOS…

Finally, when you visit, make sure you visit Oistins Bay Gardens on a Friday or Saturday night to party, eat and drink with locals to Calypso music.

And if you’re there in August, join the annual Crop Over Festival, a centuries-old tradition to celebrate the end of the sugar season.

For more information and to book your Barbados holiday head to ba.com/barbados

British Airways – your gateway to the Caribbean

British Airways flies to 14 different Caribbean islands – more than any other UK airline.

Their in-house tour operator, British Airways Holidays offers the full package from flights and hotels to car hire and airport transfers.

All British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected, include 23kg checked baggage allowance per person as standard and offer a 24-hour holiday helpline to ensure peace of mind throughout your holiday.

And it’s so easy to book an amazing trip with British Airways Holidays as you can secure your holiday with a low deposit from just £75pp, with flexible payment options before you fly*.

*T&Cs apply. Deposit balance due 7 weeks in advance for long haul. See ba.com/deposits for more information.

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