Barbados

“Little England” as Barbados is often referred to has a blend of British traditions mashed up with West Indies warmth.  Afternoon tea is still a thing at the best resorts, cricket is the national sport, deeply embedded in the culture, and a source of national pride, and you’ll find crochet lawns among the tropical gardens that Barbados nurtures.  The liveliness and richness of the island comes from the infectious West Indies culture and love for gathering and socializing over music, food and dance or just trading stories at a local rum shop.

This easternmost island sitting at the end of the Caribbean chain is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. West Coast beaches offer strands of white sand fronted by calm seas frequented by turtles and host most of the luxurious hotels along with five-star dining. The tides change on the low-key east coast with rough seas edging secluded coves and rugged cliffs where surfers seek out legendary swells. An exploration of the island reveals an interior of misty hills, colorful jaunty villages, and remnants of plantations once encircled with sugar cane that are now guest houses, museums and nature parks.