There’s more to Barbados than just Sand, Sea & Sun
Can you believe we’re two months into 2016 and motoring on into March? Neither can we. This means that the Sandy Lane Gold Cup is just around the corner. The Southern Caribbean’s biggest race day and most prestigious race is a staple on the first Saturday in March. This year is no different. The pomp and pageantry is not to be missed, as there is no other atmosphere like horse racing in a UNESCO heritage area while enjoying a tropical carnival atmosphere that only Barbados can deliver.
If horses are indeed you thing, then you’re in luck. A short drive north from the Garrison Historic Area to the West Coast/Gold Coast of the island and you’re going to find yourself in the epicentre of the local polo scene. Late winter polo in Barbados is a tradition going back over 130 years. With 3 active polo fields and a strong local cadre of players there is usually polo to be found every Thursday and Sunday afternoon at this time of year. For the even more adventurous, there are also opportunities for polo lessons on the teaching fields.
Traditionally strong trade winds are a hallmark of this time of year on the island. While that may be excellent for kite-surfing, wind-surfing and sailing, it proves to be a great challenge for golfers of all abilities. With its excellent courses, Barbados’ golfing scene is very vibrant and locals and visitors alike are spoilt for choice and spectacular views while enjoying their favourite game. Just load up your rental car and make your way either south or west, and you’ll soon be within shouting distance of a championship course.
Of course, you can always just load up the hired car and embark on a driving adventure crisscrossing the island and its vast network of paved roads, which all seem to lead to the beach! Punctuating those lazy days on the beach are opportunities to visit numerous open house and gardens in the programme run by the Barbados National Trust every Wednesday afternoon during the season. Being mobile also means diversity in beaches, since you can mix up your days with calming turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea on the West Coast with the more rugged surf of the East Coast with the raw power of the undisturbed Atlantic Ocean.
Whether the beach is your thing, or you’re looking for a more balanced holiday; belt yourself into a hired car and enjoy our island. So remember to book your rental early and make sure you take the GPS option if you’re planning to maximise your time in the sun! Barbados invites you to escape your winter and make the most of your tropical getaway!
