Thursday 23 June 2016

Top 10 fun things to do in Barbados (Part 2)

Drive around island
After a couple of days dedicated to remaining horizontal, listening to the lapping waves as you lie on the beach, it’s time to explore what this magnificent Caribbean island has to offer! Renting a car in Barbados is really easy. Rental companies can deliver to the airport, to your hotel or you can pick it up from their offices.  This is the best way to see the island to allow you to go at your own pace and being able to make random pit stops to enjoy the view or just for a good looking rum or food shack! Alternatively to explore in style, we can arrange a private driver for you.



Deep sea fishing
For those who love the adrenaline rush and battle of reeling in a big game fish; Barbados has some of the most varied and exciting deep sea fishing. Off the shores of Barbados, you are likely to catch the infamous barracuda, Tuna, Wahoo, Dolphin (don’t worry it’s Dorado) as well as blue and white marlin! December to April are the best times to catch the big game and most Barbados fishing packages include transport, refreshments and equipment.



Rum tour
Rum is a major part of the Caribbean culture and way of life. Even visitors to the island will discover their new favourite drink at happy hour - A rum punch! Rum is one of the biggest exports with two household hold names – Cockspur and Mount Gay. Did you know that Mount Gay Rum is the oldest rum in the World? We highly recommend visiting the Mount Gay Rum distillery which offers a great insight into the history, how it is made and a some free tasters throw in!
The signature tour is $10 which allows you to take a look round the distillery with children but we would suggest the Cocktail tour at $50 USD which includes a rum cocktail making class and transport back to your accommodation (no children allowed). The tour guides have infinite knowledge that they love to share with you along with a healthy dose of Bajan humour and charm!



Diving
Explore over 150 shipwrecks and colourful reefs that are full of life as you scuba dive in Barbados. The most popular diving sites are ‘The Stavronikita’ and Carlisle Bay where you can come face to face with the feisty barracuda, beautiful rays and giant eels as you explore the depths of the Caribbean sea!




Harbour lights show

For a colourful, energetic and fun filled night of entertainment, we recommend the Harbour Lights Beach Extravaganza. With great food and fantastic entertainment, the dinner show at Harbour lights is a brilliant night for all ages. Spend the evening dancing in the sand to the live band after watching watching performances from stiltmen, fire eaters, acrobatic green monkeys and limbo queens! A fun night out for all of the family.  



Monday 13 June 2016

Planning Your Dream Barbados Wedding? Top 5 Things To Consider.


Barbados is a fairy-tale destination for your dream wedding. Whether you are dreaming of an intimate beachfront ceremony with a candle-lit aisle and the gentle lapping waves, or an incredible celebration with silver service at a five star resort; Barbados is the perfect choice for your perfect, incredibly special day. 

Organising all aspects of a wedding can be stressful, especially in a foreign country... but it doesn't have to be! Below, we have created a list of the top 5 things to take into account when planning your big day on the island to make sure it is as perfect as possible. 

1. Timing

This is one of the most important aspects to consider as there are only two seasons in Barbados - wet and dry! The wet season starts from June through til October with tropical storms occasionally appearing during this time so is best to be avoided! 

The 'high and dry' season, with the most visitors to the island, is from December to April. If you choose to marry during this seasons you will want to reserve hotels, villas and venues as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Also aim to send out your 'save the dates' up to 12 months in advance so that your guests can find the best rates for their flights and accommodation as prices will increase quickly.



2. Local Wedding Planner

Planning and delivering your perfect wedding in a different country can be difficult, especially with a time difference and 'island time'! We recommend hiring a local expert who 'on the ground' with excellent knowledge of the areas and venues, being able to give you a first hand account of everything and can help organise your perfect wedding down to the finest details.  

3. Arranging Marriage License

Getting married in Barbados is easy as there is no required length of stay or waiting period. We would recommend visiting the Ministry of Home Affairs a few days before the ceremony where the application for a marriage license has to be made in person, with signatures from a witness for the bride and groom. Both parties have to apply in person, which will require certain documents that can be found on the Government of Barbados website




4. Heat

If you're planning an outdoor wedding in Barbados the you must keep in mind the heat of the warm temperatures for your guests and when organising catering, flowers and drinks. It is best not to choose butter-icing on your wedding cake as this can melt and the cake will then possibly collapse. Choose a menu that will not 'wilt' too quickly in the heat and be sure to taste test before they are served to make sure the Caribbean spice isn't too much for your guests! 

5. Visit Before The Big Day

We definitely recommend visit the island at least once before the wedding to view the best venues, taste menus, secure reception spaces and hotels or private villas for both you and your guests. This is a great chance to also meet with local suppliers such as florists, photographers and caterers. Any excuse to visit Barbados is a good excuse!