How to Relax Like Rihanna on Barbados This Summer
Tan like RiRi on Barbados’ Crane Beach. (Photo: JUSTIN CAMPBELL/startraksphoto.com; Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.)
By Carrie Seim
Now that summer is upon us, the Caribbean perhaps isn’t tops on your list for a getaway. In fact, it’s a great time to visit — not only are hotel rates lower than in high season, there are far fewer tourists to share those cabanas with.
Our pick? Barbados — the place where rum and its no-worries umbrella drinks were literally invented.
An easy, five-hour flight from New York, this Lesser Antilles isle has tropical-colonial charm in spades, along with miles of ivory beaches and a rich musical and culinary heritage. It’s also a favorite haven for stars like Barbados native Rihanna, as well as Will Smith, Simon Cowell, and Mark Wahlberg.
Colorful Crystal Cave Resort. (Photo: Courtesy of Crystal Cove Resort)
Most celeb visitors decamp to the super-posh, super-exclusive resort Sandy Lane (from $1,150). Those without their own empires would be wise to walk a few steps down the beach and check into the delightful Crystal Cove (from $500/night).
This relaxed, all-inclusive resort boasts spectacular Atlantic Ocean views, bougainvillea-draped grounds, three lagoon-style swimming pools and a swim-up bar tucked behind a waterfall grotto. Its cheerfully painted village of 62 rooms and 26 suites are outfitted with balconies or patios and vibrant mod-goes-to-the-beach décor.
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Along with the thrill of never having to glance at a bill for the all-included food and drinks, guests are invited to enjoy free dining on the other side of the island at Turtle Beach Resort, a sister property in the Elegant Hotels Group.
A beach bunny on a rocky shore in Barbados. (Photo: Carrie Seim)
On Crystal Cove’s sandy shores, luxurious pampering (the seaside massage here is otherworldly) and an impressive array of complimentary water sports are on offer, including sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and water skiing. (Not to mention an armada of beach loungers, for those who prefer snoozing to surfing.)
The doting hotel staff will arrange lessons in everything from calypso dancing and steel drum playing to Bajan pastry-making and rum tasting. You can even learn how to “throw bones” (aka play dominoes) like a rum shop regular.
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Inside Harrison’s Cave. (Photo: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.)
Beyond the resort, adventure — and plenty of dancing — await. Begin with a tram tour into the depths of Harrison’s Cave, where waterfalls rush and pool, and a haunting natural cathedral of stalagtites and stalagmites haunts far below ground.
Next, it’s off to the parish of Christ Church, where you can explore the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs rocking a stretch of road called St. Lawrence Gap. Then amend for your sins with a stop by the beachside St. Lawrence Church, whose quaint steeple and charming windows perfectly frame the aqua waves and palm trees blowing just a few feet away.
Various catamaran outfits offer raucous rum- and reggae-soaked day cruises and snorkel sessions. But to delve deeper into Bajan history, book a heritage tour, which walks visitors through the stories of slaves and pirates, the architecture of plantations and chattel houses, and the island’s food and music legacy, as well as the lingering impact of its sugar cane plantocracy.
As dusk falls, head to Oistins Fish Fry, in the southern parish of Christ Church; it’s a Friday night must-do for every visitor to Barbados. Diners gather at long, communal picnic tables to feast on fresh-off-the-grill seafood and macaroni pie (imagine the best macaroni and cheese you’ve ever had, then add extra cream and plenty of Caribbean seasoning).
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For an even more authentic experience, beg a Bajan to take you to Q in the Community, a rotating outdoor dance party that no one on the island (except most tourists) would dare miss.
A Q in the Community dance party. (Photo: Carrie Seim)
The vibe at both Oistins and Q in the Community is that of a rollicking county fair, complete with open-air tents, homemade food, knick-knacks for sale, and an enthralling mix of music and dancing. Take a twirl at dignified ballroom dancing, romantic country two-stepping, or sultry calypso under the stars. Then slip into the wilder crowds rocking to soca and grinding to hip-hop, with deejays drawing impromptu dance parties into the street.
After all of that sandy fun, it may be hard to tear yourself back to NYC. But you’ll be rested and restored — and ready to book this winter’s flight south.
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