Late Summer May be the Perfect Travel Time?

For most of the world it is back to school time and the beginning of the new school year. However, if you’re a lucky traveler it is bargain time. September is traditionally the lull between seasons – summer travel has petered out and the winter season is upcoming – and so hotel rates and other services, such as hired cars and beach rentals will be at the lowest that they will be for the year. Additionally, because there is less demand on the resources, bargains are also possible for those looking for upgrades and choice of attractions.

This late into the summer also means that temperatures are also a little lower, which is an added bonus for those looking to beat the higher heat of July/August. Beside the lower nightly rates for hotels, the savvy traveler can usually find a great beachfront suite at many of the island’s exquisite hotels up for grabs. Less tourists and local staycationers also means more flexibility of choice for attractions.

The freedom of a rental car is the best way to maximise your stay in Barbados. While we’re not a big island you will find that our scenery and attractions are not concentrated in a couple areas, and taxi fares can add up. The rugged east coast, with its surfing spots and natural Atlantic beauty is in stark contrast to the calm azure waters of the west coast and its glamourous villas.

Similarly the north coast is about as unspoilt an area of the island as you can hope to find. The pace of life is sedentary and the enjoyment is really in the solace of wide flat expanses of beautiful land. Contrast that with the south coast which is really the young person’s coast. A drive down Highway 7 on any weekend night lets you know that Barbados is awake and ready to have a good time. During the day some of the island’s most popular beaches and the endless restaurants make this a hive of activity, but the dark of night brings out those looking for everything from great reasonably priced dinners to full on bar and party crowds looking to fete the night away.

For the truly intrepid a GPS equipped rental car is the way to go. While Barbados’ very dense road network is very well mapped, there’s a lot to be said for just letting yourself get lost along a winding country lane safe in the knowledge that if a friendly local can’t direct you back to your intended destination, you can rely on the soothing voice of your Garmin.

Now you know when you should be coming, the next question will be how soon you can get here. Remember, last minute travel is never a problem at this time of year, and neither will be your rental car waiting for you at Grantley Adams International Airport. See you in Barbados!