Wednesday 24 August 2011

Visiting the Caribbean

Arriving in Barbados with its modern airport – Grantley Adams International – immigration was a breeze and we were soon on our way by taxi to Coconut Court Beach Hotel. It only took about fifteen minutes which was great as all we wanted to do was get to the beach and into the sea. Coconut Court is a three star hotel on the south coast of the island; the rooms were clean, spacious and functional. The beach was large – plenty of space for every one staying at the hotel - and beautiful. Only a short distance into the sea, no more than thigh high at low tide, are a line of ‘reef balls’ full of tropical fish for you to see and feed.

We just loved the beach at Coconut Court as we found it very safe, our grandchildren played for hours on end (loads of sun screen required) They also have a very good beach bar and restaurant serving local Caribbean and European food.

We pre-booked an island tour with Ted’s Tour, a real must as you get to see the whole island and it is very different, from the rugged east coast to the tranquil Caribbean Sea on the west. Bathsheba on the east coast with its ruggedness and miles of beach was most enjoyable just to stroll along in the warm Caribbean sunshine.

Another must thing to do is a catamaran trip; the hotel activities desk arranged this for us. We were collected from the hotel and taken down to the careenage to board our catamaran. We sailed out of the careenage heading down the west coast of the island to arrive, after a stunning sail along the coast of about one hour, to swim with the turtles an experience not to miss. After swimming with the turtles we headed back towards Bridgetown and moored up close to a wreck to snorkel. On entering the water we were faced with a vista of fish in all shapes, sizes and vibrant colours. Waiting back on board after our snorkel was a great buffet. We pulled into the careenage wondering where the last five hours had gone. This was a truly fabulous day out.

Eating out was varied with a choice ranging from local Caribbean to European, from fast food to fine dining, something for everyone.

Last and by no means least we must not forget the local people, everyone we meet and had contact with could not have been more friendly and helpful. We felt safe at all times walking or driving around the island.

Ten days is not enough, we need a month!

http://www.intimateholidays.com/