Caribbean travel tips and tricks

Situated to the east of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean, Barbados is an independent island nation and a tropical getaway with considerable historical sites to boot. With a long British history and settlements dating as early as 300 CE, Barbados offers travelers a tantalizing resort rendezvous and a taste of colonial and slave legacy. Book your airfare to Barbados before the high season ends and enjoy the tranquility of one of the most remote islands in the Caribbean.

Major airlines service the island’s fairly large international airport from most regions including Canada, Mexico, Europe, and the United States. If you choose to island hop through the West Indies, airfare to Barbados is easily accessible from Trinidad and Tobago to the south, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to the west, and Grenada to the southwest.

Travel to Barbados for the Sweet Life

After cotton crops failed on Barbados, the British introduced sugar cane to the island, which grew very well and also led to the development of rum drinks and molasses production. The plantation economy allegedly gave birth to the first appearance of the spiced island drink and visitors today can take a tour of the Mount Gay Rum factory, which is Barbados’ domestic rum producer.

Barbados is not all sugar and spice; the island is also a haven of white sandy beaches, surfing, fine dining and deep sea fishing. On the southern shore of Barbados you will find privately owned vacation rentals and time shares as well as the middle and lower range accommodations along the water, broken up by small seaside towns like Hastings, Maxwell, Rockley and Oistins. In the capital of Bridgetown, you will find duty free shopping, delectable restaurants and a mix of colonial and modern government buildings. Bridgetown is also the hub for docking cruise ships and mooring private boats. Travel to Oistins on a Friday night for the famous ‘fish fry.’ Dance, drink and eat with the locals until the wee hours of the morning.

Beyond the Beach of Barbados

Barbados has many activities for the active and adventurous if relaxing by the beach is just not enough. Get in with the iguanas at the extensive Barbados Wildlife Reserve and enjoy a pleasant walk through the exotic bird sanctuary or along the many footpaths surrounded by forests of monkeys. Harrison’s Cave, in St. Thomas province, is a very popular subterranean attraction and likely to be a bit crowded during the high season. If you’re still not tired, take a trip to Welchman Hall Gully where stretches of walking path are surrounded by think wooded forest and hundreds of wild exotic species.

Remember that Barbados was a long time British colony and therefore English speakers will have no problem communicating. Additionally, the island nation has one of the highest rates of literacy in the Western Hemisphere, making this tropical tryst hardly third world. Travel to any destination on the island is cheap and efficient by taxi or bus. The equator awaits, what are you waiting for?

Elyse Morgan
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/bring-yourself-back-to-life-in-barbados-barbados-travel-information-96691.html

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One of the most spectacular island groups in the entire Caribbean region are the Cayman Islands, a cluster of three sun swept islands situated northwest of Jamaica and due south of Cuba. Under the long term, but hands off political control of the British, the Cayman Islands successfully mixes Caribbean flair with English distinction to create a community that far outstrips its neighbors in wealth, pleasure, and prestige. Small wonder why this enchanted British territory is one of the most popular wedding destinations for couples from North America as well from the United Kingdom. You can plan to have your wedding event in the Cayman Islands too; please read on how you can make your paradise dreams become a reality.

Imagine that you and your espoused are getting married in a tropical paradise with all of your invited guests in attendance. Imagine that you have the choice of marrying on sandy white beaches, on the exquisitely manicured lawn of a private country club, or inside of a stately church or charming chapel. Yes, the Cayman Islands have it all and your choices in venue are only limited by your imagination.

What makes this island destination an exceedingly popular wedding venue is that it has so much to offer to everyone. Your guests will be happy to spend their time in the Cayman Islands where scuba diving is unmatched, enjoy a stroll along the famed Seven Mile Beach, take in a round of golf, involve yourself in shopping, or even do a little bit of business as The Cayman Islands is an important international finance center. No matter, your guests will be happy to wrap your wedding event around everything else they can during their stay at this island paradise.

Many couples choose to wed during the winter months as temperatures are typically in the mid seventies with no threat of hurricanes possible. Yes, the island cluster was hammered by Hurricane Ivan during 2004, but a concerted effort on the part of the government, businesses, and its citizens has meant a spectacular and rapid recovery. Naturally, if you are planning a wedding during the July to November timeframe, you will want to take note of this possibility.

Important events held in the Cayman Islands include Pirates Week which is actually a ten day festival closing out the month of October. A parade through George Town, the capital, along with street dances, music, food festivals, and sporting events help to make Pirates Week one of the most popular times for tourists to visit The Cayman Islands, therefore booking your wedding event well in advance of the festival will ensure that you are not disappointed.

In early May the Batabano Carnival is held, an event featuring hundreds of parading masked participants dressed in colorful regalia rivaling anything you have seen in Rio or in New Orleans for that matter. Batabano is also a popular time to hold a Cayman Island wedding with couples arranging their weddings to occur as close to the event as possible.

Summers are very warm in the Cayman Islands with daytime temperatures regularly approaching ninety degrees, but tempered by dependable trade winds. Many couples who desire a summer beach wedding choose to exchange vows just before sunset as the day’s heat retreats. With the sound of the surf accompanied by a stunning sunset, a beach wedding followed by a reception at the Hyatt Regency Resort Grand Cayman, Windham Sunshine Suites, Marriott Grand Cayman Beach Resort, or other top quality hotel is one way to celebrate what is certain to be a memorable event for the happy couple and their guests.

Michael Brito
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/your-cayman-islands-wedding-spectacular-76170.html

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As the economy slows down, everybody is looking for some extra ways to save a few bucks here and there.  Sometimes it seems like you are always trying to save but just need some extra ideas to help you keep that last buck in your pocket.  Here are 10 ways you can save money in a slowing economy:

1. Share a room - For most Americans, their number one expense (after taxes) is their housing cost.  If you are single and living in a two bedroom place, consider renting one of the rooms out or getting a roommate to help you split the costs.  Not only do you save on rent or get a subsidized mortgage, you also split utilities.
2. Share a car - If you and your wife or girlfriend or roommates can swing it, try getting rid of one of your cars.  You will save money on insurance, registration, and maintenance.  Plus, selling a car will put cash in your pocket.
3. Quit smoking - Although there are a million other reasons to quit smoking, maybe the cost will push you over the edge.  Quit smoking because it costs too much, not because you aren’t cool enough to smoke.
4. Don’t get tempted by all the sales - I have seen some pretty incredible discounts offered for some of the stores that are going under.  If you buy a new pair of shoes for $20 that was originally $80, how much are you saving?  You aren’t saving anything, you are spending!
5. Don’t get tempted by the financing offers - No payments for 2 years on this new HDTV!  How do you know if the economy will be back on track in two years?  You don’t, so avoid.
6. Turn your computer and TV off - Turn your computer off especially when you aren’t using it.  There is no reason to leave the darn thing on all the time.
7. Cancel your cable and internet - Let’s face it, you don’t need the TV or internet.  Why not go outside and enjoy the fresh air?  Cancel your cable and internet to save on the monthly subscription cost.  If you need to watch something on TV, go to a friends, go to a sports bar, go to the gym, or skip watching it.  See if you can get free wifi somewhere outside your house, or just use the internet at work.
8. Quit the gym - I don’t mean stop working out, but exercising shouldn’t cost you anything.  Go jogging for cardio.  Get some elastic bands for resistance training.
9. Compare alternatives - You might have a commute where you could drive, walk, ride your bike, take bus or train, and you don’t know which is cheapest.  Keep track of your gas bill or train fare, parking fees, and everything in a spreadsheet.  Eventually you will be able to see which form of commuting is the cheapest.  Put some variables and functions in your spreadsheet so you can see what happens if (when) gas prices go back up.
10. Keep track - Monitor your expenses closely so you can patch up any leaks.

Keep your expenses low and maximize your savings account, and you should be able to whether the storm.

Tom Noonan
http://www.articlesbase.com/personal-finance-articles/10-ways-to-save-money-in-a-slow-economy-747781.html

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The east shore of the Dominican Republic is a long stretch of white sand beaches, celebrity villas and exclusive resorts known as Punta Cana. Although Punta Cana is an actual city, the title refers to the entire 63 kilometer beachside region from Bávaro to Cabeza de Toro. With a plethora of all-inclusive resorts and countless ocean activities right out the front door, this tropical paradise is the ideal getaway for honeymooners, anniversaries, families and singles alike.

Travel to Punta Cana and experience the absolute final word in tropical vacation destinations. The Punta Cana International Airport handles over two million travelers per year, more than the airport in the capital city of Santo Domingo. Secure your airfare to Punta Cana this season and lock yourself into some of the most reasonable resort rates in the entire Caribbean!

The Exclusive All-Inclusive Punta Cana Experience

Resorts in Punta Cana are second to none and the all-inclusive experience is certainly the way to go. With airfare to Punta Cana, transportation and numerous activities and amenities included in the nightly/weekly rates, all you need to do is pack your bags. For the adventure seekers, most resorts include water sports, lessons and equipment as well as guided trips to various historic or commercial destinations in the Dominican Republic. The capital city of Santo Domingo and the smaller city of Higuey are only a short drive away and offer souvenirs as well as necessities at a fraction of the cost of the Punta Cana resort region.

Some resorts even include the opportunity to swim with dolphins or fly high on a circus trapeze. Snorkeling, jet skiing, and wind surfing are all very popular activities as well. Luckily, the entire point is protected by coral reefs that make the ocean calm enough and accessible for all level of swimmer. For those who wish to relax throughout the vacation, full service spas and beauty centers can be found in many of the hotels and resorts. Also, full service is offered by many establishments out on their beaches. Grab a palapa by the waves and place your drink or meal order any time of day without moving a muscle. For families, you will find organized kids clubs that provide all-day activities so you can get your own rest and relaxation!

Punta Cana Style and Sophistication

Travel to Punta Cana for some of the most luxurious beach, spa and dining experiences in the Caribbean. Oscar de la Renta and the Clintons have been known to frequent the white sand and turquoise water. Others come for the best deep sea fishing in the world. Foodies will find some of the most sophisticated and intriguing gastronomical offerings ranging from European fare to Caribbean tradition. Any way you like to travel, Punta Cana is at your service.

John Binder
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/prime-palapas-in-punta-cana-punta-cana-travel-information-96598.html

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Renowned the world over for its spectacular diving, friendly locals and beautiful pristine beaches, there is plenty to see both on land and water. Whether you want to explore a sunken wreck, dance the night away, or simply go sightseeing, Grand Cayman is the place to start.

Diving is the number one watersport in the Cayman Islands. There are many excellent dive operators that offer you every type of professional dive service, whether you are a beginner or a dive master, you can find what you are looking for. There are over 200 dive sites among the three islands that include a mixture of wall, wreck and reef dives. Your choices are endless. Other popular watersports include snorkelling, parasailing, board sailing, water skiing and ocean kayaking. Sportfishing is also very big in the Cayman’s.

Grand Cayman, the largest and most active of the islands, attracts 95% of the tourists. This island features over 120 dive sites, some with beach access and some by boat. One of the largest tourist attractions in the world is found here and that is Stingray City. You can swim alongside and feed swarms of stingrays in just 12 feet of water. It’s a snorkelling and scuba diving adventure that will never be forgotten!

If getting wet isn’t your thing, or maybe you’re just looking for a really unique experience; well that can be found aboard the Atlantis Submarines! Atlantis submarines offer rides aboard the 48-passenger Atlantis XI, and the Deep Explorer 1000 which takes two passengers on dives of up to 800 and 1000 feet below the ocean’s surface. The Seaworld Explorer takes 35 passengers just five feet below the ocean’s surface, and Cayman Submarines’ SEAmobile Submarine Tours also offers room for two passengers to explore underwater life at depths of up to 60 feet with a 360-degree view. Nautilus offers the 60-passenger air-conditioned Nautilus semi-submarine with a protected glass hull that cruises five feet below the sea’s surface. What a way to explore the world that lives under the sea!

To see a miracle of nature, head over to the Cayman Turtle Farm, the only one of its kind. The turtles are a protected species and there is no where else that you will see an endangered species raised so successfully for conservation. It is home to over 16 000 sea turtles that range in size from 6 ounces all the way up to 600 pounds! The farm has released close to 30 000 turtles back to their home in the wild since 1980 to help replenish the population.

While the real beauty of Grand Cayman lies under the water, it has plenty to offer on land. There has been an incredible amount of work and dedication to restore landmarks and bring the true history and beauty of this island alive. A true must see is Pedro St. James Historic Site. The birthplace of democracy and its first national landmark, you will find a historically accurate reconstruction of the 1780 Great House, formerly known as Pedro Castle, it is truly a spectacular site to see. One of the most beautiful locations in the Cayman Islands, it is a popular location for weddings and social events, with landscaped yards resembling a tropical park and an amazing view of the Caribbean. Among the many attractions located here, the main one is the 49-seat state of the art multimedia theater featuring a 20-minute video presentation on Pedro St. James and highlights 200 years of Cayman history.

There is a destination that most people who visit the Cayman’s have never heard of that should not be missed. It is Grand Cayman’s Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park featuring a visitor’s center, Heritage Garden and Floral Garden, a 2 acre lake and it is also a safe home to the endangered Grand Cayman Blue Iguana. You will see a diverse landscape of native trees and shrubs, wild orchids and epiphytes in a 65 acre park. The Park not only preserves a segment of the Caymanian landscape, but also offers a walk through time into the rich floral history of these islands and by demonstration encourages conservation and horticultural values.

As you can see, there are so many sites to see here on Grand Cayman. Others to note are a trip to the National Museum, as well as the National Trust where you can learn all about historic buildings, bird sanctuaries, wetlands reserves and nature trails on all three islands. And of course, no trip to Grand Cayman would be complete without a trip to Hell! You can go there and then come back with tales of a blackened and jagged rock formation that gives this little district in West Bay its name. Hell’s intriguing weathered rock formation is over 1 1/2 million years old and resembles the charred remains of a hell fire. Its own post office was opened in 1962 for tourists who wanted to send postcards from Hell.

The Cayman’s have the unique ability to make you feel at home as soon as you arrive, with beautifully landscaped resorts, you are sure to feel close to nature wherever you stay! If ever there was a place to live your fantasy lifestyle, the Cayman’s are it! Whether you are looking for luxury four-star hotels and condos on Seven Mile Beach, to comfortable guest houses and casual dive resorts, the islands are sure to meet your vacation needs. One of the Caribbean’s best selections of luxurious beachfront condominiums, apartments and villas are also found here.

There is so much to be found on Grand Cayman that you are sure to have the vacation of a lifetime! With unparalleled beauty, sophistication and a surprising amount of variety, whatever you choose to do, you’ll find your way - Cayman Islands Style!

Sarah White
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/find-it-your-way-cayman-islands-style-92974.html

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There are places suitable for vacation. There are places suitable for rest. There are places suitable for leisure. There are places suitable for luxury. There are places suitable for romance. And there are places suitable for everything that is mentioned. These are the places where you can set your honeymoon travel. Here are some of the honeymoon travel destinations where you can get a relaxing vacation, well-deserved rest, leisure, luxury, and romance.

Caribbean.
Located between North and South America, the Caribbean is the most sought place when it comes to relaxation, exquisite dining, luxury hotels, and of course world-class beaches and diving spots. The Caribbean is composed of several small countries including Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, and Aruba that showcase only the best place for honeymoon. Newlyweds can enjoy water sports and other water activities, pampering services, great accommodation, and great foods and colorful people.

Hawaii.
Another famous honeymoon travel destination is the islands of Hawaii. The isolated American State has 132 islands but tourists are restricted to just 6 islands. A total of 7 islands are inhabited. They are: O’ahu (The Gathering Place), Moloka’i (The Friendly Isle), Hawaii (The Big Island), Kaua’i (The Garden Isle), Maui (The Valley Isle),and Ni’ihau (The Distant Isle), Lana’i (The Secluded Island). For tourists and honeymooners, Hawaii islands offer world-class hotels, and beaches, exquisite foods, and a close to paradise experience.

Europe.
Traveling to Europe for a honeymoon would present you with lots of things to do and lots of places to visit. Italy for one has several ancient and cities with great historic sites, architecture and arts. France has great tasting foods and sites. The United Kingdom also has lots in store.

Las Vegas.
The gambling capital of the world is also one of the best local places to set your honeymoon. There are world-class hotels and resorts that offer honeymoon package whether you want to set your wedding at Las Vegas or simply would life to spend some romantic time there. Lots of entertainments await every honeymooner in Las Vegas including food, lights and sound attractions, nightlife, and more.

Africa.
Getting the feel of nature and seeing the wild at large is at its best in Africa. There are countries like Tanzania that offer a unique feel of nature and a vibrant touch of luxury in one. Exotic hotels are available in Africa for honeymoon that is something unique and wild.

Low Jeremy
http://www.articlesbase.com/marriage-articles/honeymoon-travel-destinations-you-will-love-94109.html

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India is one of the most beautiful countries in Asia. There are many vacation packages available with irresistible discounts.

Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand, India. This place is famous for its Dehradooni basmati rice (unique and delicious Indian rice) and its rich Lychee plantation. The city offers a lot of cheap vacation deals to lure foreigners to visit their country. More tourists will definitely be a big help to their economy.

Here are some of the recommended Dehrandun hotels that offer all inclusive deals for your vacation.

East India Golden Triangle

This hotel offers a 5 nights and 6 days all inclusive vacation. The package consists of twin sharing accommodation and daily meals that includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. There will be an air conditioned shuttle that will pick your group from airport to hotel and will tour you to the city. The bus to be used is All Indian Tourist shuttle, the official shuttle of the city.

You will be provided with a guided tour who speaks English fluently. You will not have to pay any entrance fees in the attractions you will visit. It has been all covered for. The package will likewise include all applicable taxes also. You do not need to worry about it.

However, it does not cover any dining expenses you will incur on your own, outside of the tour. It also does not cover international airfare. You will also have to pay for your own laundry and telephone expenses, airport tax and travel insurance and other services you will get that is not listed in the tour package.

This cheap hotel deal is more than enough to bring you to a whole tour of India. You can have nice and easy access of the famous sites and the beaches in Dehradun. The destinations are Bhubaneshwar, Puri, konarak and back to Bhubaneshwar in proper order.

If you are looking for a longer vacation, Kerala Package Tour India is the best for you. They have 9 nights / 10 days package. This package costs 1,349 US dollars per person. This package includes twin sharing basis hotel accommodation, full board basis accommodation to all places nearby, air conditioned shuttle for hotel transfers, sight seeing tours and all drives, boat ride to Thekkady, plantation visit
driver’s fee, monument entrances, and applicable taxes present in the time of vacation.

It will not include any meals, personal expenses like telephone calls, services not specified in the package deal, air and train fares, and travel insurance. You will also have to pay extra to get English speaking guides.

The tour itinerary will cover Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kovalam, Kanyakumari and Trivandrum in proper order.

Medieval Heritage of India is a trip for 17 nights and 18 days. The destinations include Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Orchha, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Ujjain, Mandu, Bhopal, Sanchi, Bhopal, Pachmarhi, Jabalpur and Mumbai in proper order. This costs 1,499 US dollars per person.

This includes hotel accommodation on twin sharing basis. It will also cover breakfast, lunch and dinner on all days of your trip. It will also cover airport, hotel and city transfer accommodation. There will be a boat ride for Varanasi. Train fare in sleeper class will be fully air conditioned. The package also includes English speaking guides, monument entrance fees, and other applicable taxes available during the time of trip.

This does not include meals taken outside of the tour, international airfare, personal expenses, insurance and taxes for airports and travel, and services not stated above.

There are many more vacation packages that can be offered all around Dehradun. When you take these package trips, you will surely drop by Dehradun. You can experience nice Dehradun while having these vacation trips. This will give you more than just a trip to India; it will give you cheaper prices for you to experience.

Explore India through Dehradun. You will see the beautiful and vast rice plantation not typically seen in other cities. Take these vacation packages if you have time. This will take one month of your time, the most. But you can take the shorter trip which is 6 days and 5 nights.

David H. Urmann
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/exciting-trips-to-india-858107.html

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The choice of specific holiday destinations vary usually depending upon the special area of interest that lies behind the decision to take up the trip. One may want to go to a number of various places for vacations. Different people have many different interests behind vacations – be it partying, diving or snorkeling, nature, watersports, sailing or wedding.

Scenic setting

The Caribbean Islands make for an ideal backdrop to celebrate weddings and honeymoons. It undeniably will be a lifetime experience, staying etched in one’s memories forever to say “I Do” amidst the luxuriant green groves, radiant beaches, and dazzling waters. One can opt for a tropical wedding ceremony and feel stress-free because experts that will leave no stone unturned to make this once-in-a-lifetime event unforgettable will manage the whole event!

Romantic Getaway

Once the wonderful wedding ceremony is over and you are finally married to your dream partner, the next thing on your mind would be to find an appropriate place for a honeymoon to sit yours and your partners needs. The Caribbean islands are blessed with many features absolutely suited for a romantic & quixotic getaway. You cannot refuse to give in to the quiet, sandy beaches, endless seas, and pleasant tropical nights.

To spice up your dreamy, quixotic Caribbean vacations, the all-encompassing resorts offer facilities, which go together with your trip a great way. You can choose a resort that offers enchanting accommodation, rich gourmet food, breath taking night life, and water activities. You can also opt for special honeymoon packages containing extra nights and upgrades to ocean front rooms.

To catch the attention of more visitors, some all-inclusive resorts offer additional services at an extra cost. These services include beauty treatments, photography, personal assistants, special decoration using red roses, pick up and drop facilities from and to the airport, etc. Whatsoever be the ranking of the resort, the most familiar gift offered to the couple is a sparkling bottle of champagne.

The wedding package offered by the all-inclusive resorts is referred to as “Wedding Moon” package, as it also covers the honeymoon. There are spacious and furnished villa-style suites with a kitchenette, veranda, ocean view cottage, fresh flowers, private waiters, and breakfast in bed the morning after the wedding.

One can enjoy an ideal romantic vacation in the Caribbean islands. The blue waters, candlelight dining, and warm and breezy evenings in private vacation islands make it a memorable experience. The Sandals Resort, Super Clubs and Beaches Resorts are some of the popular all-inclusive resorts that offer marvelous romantic Caribbean vacation packages.

James Penn
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-perfect-accomdations-in-the-caribbean-72716.html

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Barbados Naked

Welcome to my Barbados naked series. Here I will provide you with details of things to see and do on the island and recommend restaurants, bars and excursions that I have either experienced myself or had guests tell me just how good they really are. I hope that you find the information useful for your trip or research of the island and would be very pleased if you feel you could add anything to my information. If you do please do drop me a line at Admin@VIPvillas.com and we’ll look to add it to our ‘Barbados Naked’ feature for future readers. Please enjoy reading the articles which I will be posting weekly. The series starts this week with an introduction to Barbados, the main tourist knowledge points, some history and facts and figures.

Next week we’ll find out about restaurants and food on the island. I’ll be supplying details of the best restaurants in each town and district and giving you a flavour (if you’ll pardon the pun!) of what they offer. I’ll also detail some of the local dishes that you should try and while there.

Then comes activites. Barbados really does make the most of it’s weather. There are lots of activities to get engaged in from relaxing on the beach to the more energetic pursuits such as diving, watersports and or course golf.

Excursions follows that with a guide on what to do and when. This guide gives you all you need to know to actually ‘do it yourself’, so standby for a full breakdown of the island with contact details for excursion providers and tour operators.

You really can’t go all the way to Barbados and not sample the nightlife now can you!! Well click through during week 5 of my Naked Barbados series to find out which are hot and which are not. From beach bars to the high life of the West Coast this instalment has it all. Barbados naked it most certainly is!!

I have previously completed the top ten beaches in Barbados. Tune in to week six for an indepth look at the best beaches. I’ll be reviewing nearly all of them on the island so you can feast your eyes on those that the tourists don’t know about.

Week seven provides a calendar of events for 2009. Make sure you don’t miss a thning with an indepth study of all that there is going on in 2009.

And we finish in week eight. A whistlestop tour of all that is Naked Barbados!! I’ll round off my series for those specialist trips, getting married? Then tune in, fancy a nature trail? Then click through… it’s all here in this last ‘round up’ week.

So with no time to waste here is my opening piece. Please enjoy!!

FLIGHTS/GETTING THERE

Barbados is well connected to Britain and North America, and currently has a limited service from Continental Europe. With so many incoming flights it acts as a hub to other islands within the South Eastern Caribbean. This makes the island an excellent island hopping base if you intend on visiting other islands. VIPvillas.com can organise separate stays in luxury villas on more than one Caribbean island for you.

The following airlines serve Barbados:

UK:

British Airways from Gatwick

Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick and Manchester

Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA) from Gatwick using British Airways codeshare

BMI from Manchester.

Europe:

Martinair from Amsterdam

Condor from Frankfurt

USA:

US Airways from Philadelphia

American Airlines from New York & Miami

Air Jamaica from New York (JFK)

Delta Air Lines from Atlanta.

Canada:

Air Canada from Toronto

Regional:

Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA), Air Jamaica, LIAT, and American Eagle, which have flights across the Caribbean. Flights to the Grenadines are served by SVG air, TIA 2000 and Mustique Airways - the three airlines also operate together as Grenadines Airways.

ISLAND HOPPING

One very useful fact to know is that there are a number of flights from Barbados to the Grenadines, both as day tours and as transfers, that are known as ‘shared charters’. Practically speaking they run every day, but because they are run by charter airlines, rather than scheduled companies, they are not listed on the international computer systems. See below for the airlines that offer shared charter to the Grenadines.

REGIONAL AIRLINES

LIAT

Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA)

Air Jamaica

SVG Air

Mustique Airways

Trans Island Air/TIA 2000

Day trips to other islands:

Grenadines Discoveries

Fly to Union Island and join a Catamaran for a day sail, with snorkelling and swimming stops in Mayreau, Tobago Keys and Palm Island. $640 including lunch and drinks.

One day air tours to the Grenadines, St Lucia, St Vincent and Young Island, and Grenada.

If you would like to charter a plane, then they are available through:

St Barth Commuter

A local airline based in St Barths, which offers scheduled flights from there to St Martin/St Maarten and Caribbean private aircraft charters to islands all over the Eastern Caribbean. They have a fleet of five twin-engine planes and five specially trained (STOL) pilots with permission to land in St Barths.

SVG Air

A local Caribbean airline that offers charters to the Grenadines from around the region, often from Barbados, but also from St Lucia and Grenada, even from as far as Puerto Rico. SVG Air has around a dozen 5-19-seater planes and also offers island hopping and air ambulance services.

AIRPORT

Grantley Adams International Airport (airport code BGI, after Bridgetown, the island’s capital) is located approximately 10 miles/16km south east of Bridgetown city centre. VIPvillas.com have luxury portfolio of West Coast Villas in Barbados for you to choose from; they really are sheer luxury!

The airport has recently undergone a multi-million dollar expansion with the major phase completed in 2007. This included the construction of a new, much larger arrivals terminal which now houses 22 immigration work stations, five large luggage carousels and two duty free shops. The old arrivals hall has become part of an extended departure lounge and houses a new airside food court and retail concourse. Other facilities include a bank and postal services. Approximately four air bridges are part of the next set of improvements and there has been talk of enclosing the check-in area and installing air-conditioning.

PASSPORTS & VISAS

As a visitor to Barbados you will require a passport which is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry, along with a valid return airline ticket. This now applies to all American and Canadian citizens, whilst British citizens are required to hold a full 10-year passport. American, Canadian, British and EU citizens do not require a visa for short stays. Other nationalities please check with the Barbados High Commission or with your travel organiser for entry requirements

LOCAL TRANSPORT

The bus system in Barbados is a good one and the fleet of blue and yellow buses (BM licence plate) reaches every corner throughout the island on a regular basis. You will need exact change for the buses and they stop only at official bus stops, which are marked either ‘To City’ or ‘Out of City’ in a red and white circle. The destination is displayed over the front windscreen.

The Government service is supplemented by privately operated mini-buses (B licence plate) that are painted yellow with a blue stripe down the side, and route taxis (ZR licence) which are white with a burgundy stripe. These buses do give change, and they also play local music (somewhat loud at times) and can be hailed down anywhere on route. Destinations are usually on a sign placed in the bottom left-hand corner of the windscreen, and routes normally painted on the sides of the buses. It should be noted that ZR vans are an adventure as well as a mode of transport. They tend to stop at the drop of a hat and travel at speeds which are not for the faint hearted. But then they’ll go out of their way to drop a granny with her shopping outside her house. Avoid travelling at peak times when buses are packed to the limit. The fare to any destination is Bds$1.50 one-way. Depending on the routes, during the week buses can operate from as early as 5.30am to as late as 12.30pm.

For more information on the Government Transport Service, telephone Barbados 436 6820

CAR HIRE

Hiring a car is an excellent addition to a visit to the Caribbean, but particularly so in Barbados because there is plenty to do and because the island is surprisingly good to explore. There are some delightful beaches cut into the cliffs of the south east, which make for an excellent day out and picnic, and the Atlantic coast is wonderfully dramatic. Getting lost in the canefields is almost par for the course, so don’t worry when you do. Just stop and ask and someone is bound to help. Finally, there are all the restaurants to visit in the evening. From an island perspective, cars are a vital aspect of local life. The Bajans would prefer to drive a few hundred yards to work than to walk and so there is actually a rush hour each morning and evening. There are a staggering 1719 kms of paved road network on the island.

A local driving permit is required to drive in Barbados. This costs Bds$10 and can be obtained from the car hire company when you hire the car, or at any police station. If you are visiting during the winter season and know that you will want a car then it is advisable to book it well in advance otherwise, due to demand, it will be impossible to get hold of one. VIP villas can secure excellent car hire rates for you; better than the main car hire companies. You must have held a licence for at least two years to hire a car in Barbados, and be at least 21 years of age and under 75 years of age.

Indicative prices can be found below.

2007-08 Stoutes Car Rentals Rate Guide in US$ per day/week:

Mini Moke Auto (4str) - 61/265

Jimny Jeep (Soft top) Auto (4str) - 69/320

Terios Jeep 1500cc (Hard top) A/C Auto (5str) – 85/420

Vitara Jeep 2000cc (Hard top) A/C Auto (5str) – 95/490

Rates are in US$, subject to 15% VAT and are valid 16 Dec 2007 to 15 December 2008.

Comprehensive insurance is included in the rental rate except for a deductible of US$1,500 in case of loss, accident or damage to the vehicles - regardless of fault.

A collision damage waiver (CDW) is offered to cover this deductible at a cost of US$49/week or US$10/day. Clients are charged for the petrol in the vehicles at the time of hire, and should return the vehicles empty. Child seats and booster seats are available for hire on request. Car hire rates, CDW, petrol, and extras such as child and booster seats are subject to 15% VAT. Payment is made for the hire at the time of delivery.

DRIVING & PARKING

Driving is on the left on Barbados, don’t forget your driving licence!

Generally speaking drivers are fairly courteous and, being quite conservative, they tend to abide by the Highway Code. However do be cautious going around roundabouts, as not all drivers know which lane they ought to be in. You will also need to keep an eye out for Z vans and minibuses which stop in the middle of the road at the drop of a hat. Try to avoid going anywhere during the rush hour, when all of the major roads heading into Bridgetown, Holetown and the South Coast tend to be back-to-back with traffic (the local radio stations have traffic reports during both the morning and evening rush hours). Almost every household on the island seems to own a car, and for those that do not there are plenty of families who have more than one. Some children still walk to school, so as there are very few pavements (sidewalks) you should drive with caution during the start/finish of the school day. Take special care when going around blind corners in rural areas.

Drink driving laws are being introduced so check for new regulations.

Seat belts are compulsory and failure to wear one attracts a fine of Bds$500. The speed limit in Barbados is 37 mph/60 kph except on the highways (55 mph/80 kph) and in Bridgetown (20 mph/32 kph).

PARKING

The parking fee for official car parks in Bridgetown, and at the airport, is currently Bds$1 per hour or part thereof, and $6 for the whole day. Tickets are issued on entering and payment is made on exit.

TAXIS

Taxis are widely available around Barbados (if you can’t find one just walk into the nearest hotel and they’ll find one for you), with taxi stands located at the airport, Bridgetown Harbour, and Bridgetown at Independence Square Lower, Broad Street and Heroes Square, South Coast at Accra Beach - Hastings Rocks, West Coast at Sunset Crest Shopping Centres 1 and 2.

Taxis are not metered. Instead the fares are fixed. However it is always a good idea to confirm the cost of your journey before setting off.

Rates by distance should not exceed Bds$2.50 per mile or Bds$1.50 per kilometre. The flat rate per hour is Bds$32, with waiting time Bds$7 per hour between 6am to 10pm, and Bds$8 per hour between 10pm and 6am.

MEDICAL

Generally the climate in Barbados is pretty benign and there are only a couple of issues that you can encounter here that are not in Europe or the States. Check that your coverage for polio and tetanus is up to date. There is no malaria in Barbados, but there are very occasional outbreaks of dengue fever – another mosquito-borne disease which happens after considerable rain. You should take normal precautions against mosquito bites. If you are susceptible then make sure to use insect repellent during daylight hours and after sunset.

Visitors’ prescriptions can be fulfilled by local pharmacies, following consultation with a local physician.

HOSPITALS

The medical facilities in Barbados are among the best in the Caribbean. There are eight polyclinics throughout the island and two hospitals.

The general hospital is Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Bridgetown which has 600 beds and operates a 24 hour A&E department.

There is also a modern private facility at the Bay View Hospital in St Michael which does not have an A&E Dept., however there is the FMH Emergency Medical Clinic in St Michael.

VACCINATIONS

Vaccinations are not required for entry into Barbados, though you may with to check with your GP prior to travelling. There is one exception, for travellers who have come from areas infected with of Yellow Fever, where a vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one (1) year of age.

ELECTRICITY

Domestic current will operate appliances designated for 115/230 volts AC, 50 Cycles, with 2-pin US style plugs and sockets.

TELEPHONE

Barbados has a pretty good telecommunications system and it has recently been deregulated so that mobile phones from abroad will work (though calls can still be pretty expensive). The networks are Cable & Wireless, Digicel and AT&T Wireless.

The international dialling code for Barbados is +1 246 followed by seven digits. When on-island simply dial the seven digits. If you are staying in a villa do check to see if the phone allows international calls, as some have debars, which will need to be lifted, and for which there is a deposit.

Internet services are available at most hotels, and some villas, plus a number of internet cafes have now opened. Cellular phones can be rented or a roaming feature can be added to your own mobile

Overseas phone calls can be made from any phone booth around the island, payment for which is by credit card or a local pre-paid calling card.

TIME ZONE

Barbados is 4 hours behind GMT and so during the winter it is four hours behind Britain and five behind the rest of Europe, and an hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the States. Barbados has no daylight saving time in the summer so the island is then five hours behind British Summer Time (six behind the rest of Europe) and on the same time as the eastern seaboard of the United States.

TOURIST INFORMATION

There are Barbados Tourism Authority information offices at the airport, between the arrivals hall before Immigration and the Departure Lounge, t 428 0937; at the Deep Water Harbour (where the cruise ships come in), t 426 1718; and at the BTA’s main office on Harbour Road, Bridgetown, t 427 2623.

Outside Barbados you will find BTA offices in the following places:

Britain: 263 Tottenham Court Road, London W1 P 7LA, t 020 7636 9448, btauk@barbados.org

Canada: 105 Adelaide St West, Suite 1010, Toronto, Ontario M5H 1P9, t (416) 214 9880, toll free 1800 268 9122, btapublic@globalserve.net

USA: 800 Second Ave, New York NY 10017, t (212) 986 6516, btany@worldnet.att.net; 3440 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1215, Los Angeles, CA 90010, t (213) 380 2198, btala@worldnet.att.net; 150 Alhambra Circle Suite 1000, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, t (305) 442 7471, btamiami@barbados.org

DEPARTURE TAX & TAXES

Departure tax is no longer payable at the airline check-in desk as it should be included in the cost of your airline ticket - please check your ticket to confirm this. This tax (passenger service charge) is payable by all passengers leaving the island (exempt for stays under 24 hours) and over the age of 12 years. The amount increased to Bds$55/US$27.50 on 1st February 2007.

Hotel and villa accommodation incurs a 7.5% government room tax and a service charge in Barbados, which is normally added to your bill (unless you are staying in an all-inclusive hotel). It can make quite a difference to the eventual price of your holiday, so if you are booking direct make sure you calculate it in when pricing up your trip.

A 15% VAT applies to most services including car hire, tourist attractions, restaurants, retail (apart from Duty Free items), excursions etc, but this is usually included in the published price, except for car hire rates, which are usually quoted excluding VAT so you’ll need to add it.

WEATHER

Barbados boasts that it has 3000 hours of sunshine each year. Certainly even within the Caribbean it has an excellent climate. Temperatures vary by just a few degrees across the year and because it is surrounded by sea the island rarely gets too hot, except occasionally in summer, particularly if it is still. Generally though, there is a breeze to take the edge off the heat. The best time to visit is in the winter, when the northern hemisphere is at its coldest in February, though this is of course the high season and the most expensive time.

The rainiest time of year is over the late summer months between August and late October. Often the sun comes back out after a shower, but occasionally a blanket of cloud will spin off a weather system in the northern hemisphere and may cover the island with cloud for a few days.

Barbados lies just on the edge of the hurricane belt, but has not been seriously affected in recent years.

WATER

Most of the water in Barbados is artesian water, rainwater that has soaked into the limestone structure of the land. Generally it is drinkable from the tap and tastes good, but in restaurants you will be offered a choice of bottled or local water. However, with so much pressure on existing groundwater supplies in recent years, a desalination (the largest in the Caribbean) facility is now in operation, which provides water for 20% of the island’s population, currently within the Spring Garden Highway area where the plant is located. Sandy Lane Hotel also has a desalination system.

Piped water was introduced to Bridgetown in 1861, and to commemorate the event an ornamental fountain, made in Britain, was erected in 1865 in what is now Heroes Square.

CHILDREN

In general children are well received in Barbados, but some of the smarter hotels have an age restriction policy at certain times of year, especially during February and March. Others offer special children’s programmes. Most villas are well geared up for children too. It is easy to find babysitters and they cost approximately Bds$20 per hour, plus transport home.

There is not an abundance of playgrounds in Barbados at the moment, however six of the Chefette fast food outlets now have Kids Zones (air-conditioned at Rockley) and each playground has slides, cars and rides and other activities and also cater for parties. Pizzaz pizza restaurant in Sunset Crest in Holetown on the West Coast also has its own playground.

Apart from frolicking in the sea and building sand castles, there are a number of child friendly activities available on island: the Barbados Museum has a dedicated children’s gallery with an exhibition called ‘yesterdays children’ in the Kidd Gallery, Folkstone Marine Park near Holetown is a recreational underwater park with a snorkelling trail, an interpretive centre and museum with marine displays and a saltwater aquarium, there is also a picnic area, tennis and basketball courts and a playground. The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is popular with children for the animals on view, as is Atlantis Submarine and Harrison’s Cave. The Barbados Golf Academy has an 18 hole mini course with special rates for 14yrs and under. There is a Drive-in Cinema near the Sheraton Centre, which also has an indoor cinema. Farley Hill National Park has a picnic and play area. See later instalments of Naked Barbados for further Child friendly activities in Barbados.

Adventure Beach at The Boatyard has kayaks, pedal boats, glass bottom boats, ocean trampolines, a floating rock climbing ice-berg, beach volley ball and snorkelling. Accra Beach in the Rockley area is another popular beach spot and is good for boogie boarding with boards for hire. Batts Rock on the West Coast (close to Calabaza Restaurant) has good swimming and snorkeling, plus a small children’s playground with slides, swings and see-saws. There is a parking area, picnic benches, shower and changing facilities, and drinks machine.

CORPORATE/INCENTIVES

Barbados has excellent facilities for corporate clients in all types of group, incentive and corporate travel and events. The island has good international and regional air links, making it easy to get to. Where accommodation is concerned, some of the VIPvillas larger villas can make ideal settings for smaller groups. Especially those that come staffed with chefs.

For meeting facilities outside of the featured properties note:

Sherbourne Conference Centre, St Michael, t 467 8200

www.bcslbarbados.com

Multi-level conference and event facility with 164,000sq ft of meeting and exhibition space, for trade shows, conferences and special events of up to 1200 persons, seated theatre style in the largest room. Eleven meeting rooms, five break-out rooms, two foyers and two dining rooms, mass media facilities and state of the art telecommunications equipment, infrared Simultaneous Interpretation System

Frank Collymore Hall, Central Bank Building, Bridgetown

The Grande Salle, at 61’x 29’, can be used for exhibitions, art showings and meetings, with five large & eleven small screens. The Meeting Room seats 70 and is equipped with presentation and projection equipment.

WHAT TO PACK

Consider the following items when packing for a trip to Barbados:

Adequate sun protection, high factor sun cream, sunglasses, hat/cap and a lightweight beach-shirt/blouse/t-shirt; suitable beach and walking shoes; mosquito repellent containing DEET suitable for use all day; cream for insect bites. Also consider and adapter plug, film and batteries for camera; toiletries; beach mat/towel; preferred brand of coffee/tea; small torch.

Clothes - lightweight cotton clothing, with elegant/casual attire for evenings. Note that most good restaurants and top hotels require that men wear long trousers and shirts in the evenings, not shorts, flip-flops or t-shirts. During the festive season people tend to dress up and a few of the more exclusive establishments may request jacket and tie. Women may wish to pack a lightweight wrap or jacket during the winter months, as the evenings (Jan/Feb) sometimes feel cool after the heat of the day.

You should be aware that it is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing in Barbados. It is also an offence to bring in meat products from the UK.

BANKS

International and local commercial banks operating in Barbados include the Bank of Nova Scotia/Scotia Bank, Barbados National Bank, First Caribbean Bank, Caribbean Commercial Bank, Royal Bank of Canada and The Mutual Bank. The Central Bank of Barbados has been in operation since 1973. The island also offers offshore banking and insurance services.

Bank opening hours are Mon-Thurs 8am to 3pm and Fri 8am to 5pm. Most banks are closed on the weekend, but the Mutual Bank has two branches that open until 7pm on Fridays and until 2pm on Saturdays, and the Caribbean Commercial Bank opens from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. ATMs are located across the island, including the airport, harbour, some petrol stations and shopping malls. Note that ATMs will only give out Barbados Dollars (not US Dollars) and some charge for overseas cash transactions.

Banks require customers to show their passports when cashing traveller’s cheques. You will need to show a transaction slip as well if you wish to convert Barbadian dollars back to your home currency.

CURRENCY/CREDIT CARDS

The currency of Barbados is the Barbados dollar (Bds), which is fixed to the US dollar at a rate of US$1.00 = Bds$1.98 (some street/beach vendors may do a straight 2 for 1). All prices on island are quoted in Barbados dollars, with the exception of hotel rates which are in US only, and duty free items where the local Bds$ price is shown alongside US dollar price. US dollars (notes only) are accepted throughout the island, however you will often find that the rate of exchange will not be as favourable in hotels, supermarkets and large stores as that in the bank.

CREDIT CARDS

Most of the major credit cards (including debit cards) are accepted anywhere that deals with tourists on a regular basis. Do not expect local bars or small local restaurants to accept them (if in doubt double check in advance), but you will find that the larger supermarkets often do. It is worth noting that certain credit cards may attract an additional charge.

Next week I’m covering restaurants and food on the island so make sure you click through to read it. I will detail specific restaurants and include contact details for them so put that together with the taxi numbers and you’re on your way!!

 

 

 

Mark Craven
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/barbados-naked-573058.html

read comments (3)

We are looking to take early retirement living on an Island, We speak English ,we are learning Spanish and cost of living mmust not be on the high side.

Well if you’re American living in Cuba is not an option as there is presently a trade embargo against the island.

Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are very friendly towards American tourists. Puerto Rico is a U.S. commonwealth and while it is expensive when compared to other islands, you’ll have access to goods, services and direct air links to most of the U.S. from here.

The Dominican Republic also has American friendly towns/cities such as Puerto Plata, Case del Campo, Punta Cana and Sosua. These area have good infrastructure.

English speaking islands that are good for Americans include the Turks & Caicos, the Bahamas, Anguilla, Antigua, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Cayman Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands and Barbados.

The Dutch and French West Indies are also great but are harder to migrate since they have to operate under control from Amsterdam and Paris. The French islands would also be very expensive since they only use the Euro.

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