Curator’s statement
I stayed at the Sandals Barbados and would highly recommend it for those looking for a beautiful tropical all-inclusive resort.
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I love an all-inclusive vacation. My husband and I went to Sandals, Barbados recently and it did not disappoint. We have been to Sandals in the past (Halcyon, St. Lucia and Ochi, Jamaica), and the main reason for returning to a Sandals Resort is consistency. There is consistency in the service you receive, the restaurants and the cleanliness and beauty of the resort.
Why Barbados?
Our main priority for this trip was somewhere tropical that didn’t break the bank. What we didn’t realize were that flights are not as frequent as we would have preferred, but since then, I believe they have added more (plus, it all depends on where you are traveling from to begin with).
The main aspect we love about Sandals Barbados is that it is two resorts in one! They are truly connected, so you can just walk from one to another and enjoy all of the restaurants and activities at each one. Altogether, there are 21 specialty restaurants, 11 pools, including a rooftop pool, six whirlpools and 14 bars! You will not get bored at Sandals. If you want activity, there are all kinds of things to do, including water-sports, excursions (at an extra fee), games, activities, land sports and more. You can be a joiner with other guests or just lay on the beach or by the pool all day (we did a bit of both). One day we even rented a Jeep and drove around the island exploring sights and views (highly recommend).
The restaurants include a huge variety of foods. Italian, Steakhouse, Asian Cuisine, Tropical, you name it. And the bars range from sleek, sexy nightclubs, an English tavern or my favorite: the pool bar. Also, you can enjoy live entertainment with various stage shows every night.
The pools also vary from active, foam parties with games and DJs to a pool by the spa that plays tranquil music among the sound of a lovely waterfall.
Additionally, there are a few shops you can visit and the spa offers all sorts of wellness services and massages. There is a state-of-the-art fitness center on the resort, as well. And just walking around through the two resorts, you will love the beautiful landscaping and lovely seating areas scattered purposefully throughout.
As for the rooms, they are spacious and clean with many different types to choose from. Ours overlooked the pool with a balcony. Some enjoy their own soaking tub and some are on the lagoon that flows throughout the resort. And they also have private villas on the Royal Barbados side with private pools that look amazing. You can even have your own butler if you like!
One of the best takeaways is going to a meal and never having to carry a wallet or money since everything is included. If you are looking for a relaxing all-inclusive vacation, Sandals is an excellent choice.
Need to know
I recommend Sandals Barbados because of their consistent service, beautiful resort grounds, plenty to do and an incredible selection of restaurants.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Barbados. In need of further inspiration? Check out Alana D'Andrade’s guide, Escape to Paradise: Barbados Awaits.
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Shanna Paynter
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