The Barbadian flag, a vibrant blend of blue and yellow symbolising the sea and sun, perfectly encapsulates the essence of this stunning Caribbean gem. With its sandy beaches, delectable cuisine, rum, and unique wildlife, Barbados is truly a paradise. A trip to Barbados would be incomplete without mentioning perhaps its most famous export, pop sensation Rihanna. Born on this island, she’s affectionately known as Robyn by locals who treat her more like an old friend than an international superstar. She has a tribute in National Heroes Square, thanks to her generous donation during the pandemic. The star also chose her homeland for the Caribbean launch of her beauty brand, Fenty. But it’s not just Rihanna who’s smitten with Barbados; Simon Cowell, Lewis Hamilton, Oprah Winfrey, Holly Willoughby and Prince Harry are frequent visitors too.
We checked out this celeb-favourite holiday destination
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Barbados Food and Rum Festival My visit, however, was less about star-gazing and more about indulging at the renowned Barbados Food and Rum Festival. Hosted every October in Bridgetown, the capital city, the festival honours the country’s culinary legacy and its claim to being the birthplace of rum. It’s a gastronomic extravaganza featuring local and global chefs, rum makers and food personalities, reports the Mirror. The opening night at Oistins Bay Garden is a memorable celebration of Bajan culture, complete with steel bands, dancers, stilt performers, fire breathers and, naturally, mouth-watering food. We popped by the lively Pat’s Place for a bite to eat, where I’d highly recommend trying the flying fish or marlin – both were simply divine. We also made it to the Rise & Rum Breakfast Beach Party – a word of advice: make sure you’re well-rested as this shindig kicks off at 4am. Despite the early hour, it’s an event not to be missed, with everyone donning yellow, witnessing the sunrise, partying on the sands and exploring the food and drink stalls. Just a heads up, the rum punch packs quite a punch!
Barbados’ Food and Rum Festival is a culinary highlight
(Image: Production Company – 13 Degrees North Productions)
Other must-attend events include the Rum Route Street Party showcasing the island’s distilleries, and the Journey Of Food night, where top-notch chefs like Michelin star recipient Michael O’Hare whip up unique culinary delights at various eateries across the island. The Liquid Gold Feast marks the grand finale of the festival, exuding elegance with black-tie attire and a string orchestra. As it’s the closing night, participating chefs pull out all the stops, presenting their most spectacular dishes, desserts and cocktails. My personal favourite was the exquisitely flavoured mahi-mahi served on a potato fritter. Where to stay in Barbados The O2 Beach Club and Spa is a breathtaking hotel boasting unparalleled views. I had the privilege of staying in a plush suite complete with a spacious bathroom and furnished balcony – the perfect spot to watch the sunrise and sunset over the sea. The hotel also offers activities like yoga and aqua aerobics, and you can book massages and facials at its bright and airy Acqua Spa. If you’re fortunate, like we were, you might witness baby turtles hatching on the beach. We joined the hotel staff and other guests in gathering these tiny beings for their first journey into the ocean – a truly unforgettable experience.
Ocean views from the suites at O2 Beach Club and Spa
(Image: O2 Beach Club and Spa)
The food in Barbados Bajan cuisine is among the best I’ve tasted, especially the seafood. The hotel offers a variety of seafood dishes, including a scrumptious lobster salad and coconut prawns at its trendy Elements restaurant. For a more laid-back atmosphere, Bluefin serves up tasty fish tacos, a delightful salmon salad and an extensive selection of rum. We even tried our hand at cooking under the guidance of chef Trevon Stoute, learning to prepare local favourites like fried flying fish, delectable macaroni pie and an amazing sweet potato and pineapple salad.
Some of the delicious food served at the O2 Beach Club hotel
(Image: O2 Beach Club hotel)
What to do in Barbados There’s plenty to keep you busy in Barbados. Highlights include Harrison’s Cave, a natural marvel and filming location for Netflix’s Outer Banks series, and a tour of Rihanna’s childhood home and her current lavish villa, One Sandy Lane. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Cherry Tree Hill. A standout moment was a boat tour around the island with Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises, complete with cocktails, music and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters. Remember to bring an underwater camera to capture the vibrant marine life and shipwrecks. How much does it cost? Seven nights all-inclusive at O2 Beach Club and Spa starts from £2,699pp including flights from London Heathrow, private transfers and a 40% room discount. Price based on selected October departures and two adults travelling together, subject to availability. Book via Trailfinders. For information and tickets for the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, click here.
