Things to do and see in Barbados

SWIM/SNORKEL WITH THE TURTLES - Get up close to these beautiful creatures. Best done through an organised Catamaran Cruise where you set sail with all drinks and lunch included. ‘Cool Runnings’ is a guest favourite; www.coolrunningsbarbados.com

VISIT THE EAST COAST – See the contrast between the calm west coast Caribbean sea water and the rough and rugged coastline on the east of the island – beautiful scenery and lots of rock pools to explore. Bathsheba/Cattlewash is a long stretch of beach, ideal for a relaxing walk or even a picnic, which can be had at the nearby Barclays Park. The towering hills also provide a beautiful backdrop. Swimming not advised at east coast beaches.

SUNDAY MORNING BRUNCH AT THE CRANE BEACH HOTEL – book in advance and have a hearty brunch at the beautiful Crane Beach hotel whilst being entertained by a fabulous Gospel Choir – this is a wonderful way to spend Sunday morning. Brunch is around $20 USD a head and you can eat as much as you want including wonderful fresh fruit, pancakes and the usual hot delights…

CRANE BEACH – voted one of the world’s top 10 beaches. The sea is rough here and not entirely suitable for swimming. You have to get to the beach through the Crane Hotel (entrance fee ~$5bds each) but you can lunch here and use the changing / bathroom facilities etc… The beach is reached via a fairly steep wooden staircase but well worth a visit!!

BARBADOS WILDLIFE RESERVE - If you have young children, a visit to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a must. Situated in a mahogany wood it is primarily a green monkey sanctuary but you will find lots of other animals there - most wandering freely including ducks, turtles, tortoises, birds, peacocks, otters, racoons, agouti and deer. Entry to the reserve also entitles you to visit the nearby Grenade Hall and Forest.

HARRISON'S CAVE – Great for adults and children alike – embark on a tram for a one hour tour of underground caverns filled with gurgling streams, cascading waterfalls and amazing snow white, pear-shaped stalactites…www.harrisonscave.com

OISTINS FISH FRY – a bit of a drive from the apartment but worth it! Every Friday night the fresh catch of the day is cooked ready for a lively night. The fish served here is divine – completely fresh and honestly cooked and costs next to nothing. There is a great atmosphere where families, locals and tourists can mingle together over a bottle of Banks.

WELCHMAN HALL GULLY – Welchman Hall Gully is a cool, lush, tropical mile-long ravine filled with hundreds of exotic trees and plants, including rare clove and nutmeg species – great for walkers

OCEAN PARK (Brand New) – the newest attraction located off the Henry Forde roundabout on the ABC Highway is worth a visit and is great for children who (if brave enough) can handle some of the weird and wonderful sea creatures in the ‘touch pools’. Visit www.oceanparkbarbados.com for further information.