35 Days around the sun: Hastings, Barbados
So as promised we are kicking off with our first ever post in our new series '35 days around the sun' as mentioned in previous posts this series is inspired by turning 35 in October this year & wanting to celebrate my return to GTG in 2025. I know I have a lot of lost time to make up for (years in fact) so why not start with my first place on my bucket list and that is Hastings, in Barbados.
For context I have chosen this place because its somewhere my parents hold a lot of fond memories- it is where they eloped back in 1989 to get married. My parents are still together today and I always dreamed to follow in their footsteps in getting married here myself one day. I think its only right that as in 2025 when I got engaged this special place needs to be at the very top of my bucket list. I have put together a short review guide of the best places, to stay, eat & of course get wed in one of the Caribbeans most celebrated cities. I hope you enjoy getting to know Hastings just as much as we have over the years. I cannot wait to say I do here sometime in the near future.....
How to get here:
Flights are usually the first thing you need to think about when planning a major trip of a lifetime & especially a wedding destination holiday. I would start looking for flights as soon as the date has been booked in with the venue so you know you (and/or your guests) can get there on the dates you need. I would use the usual internet search engines or skyscanner website to get the best deals. British Airways offer direct return flights from London to Bridgetown from as £900pp in Economy Standard (Flight only deal).
Once you fly into Bridgetown Airport you will need to then arrange transport to get to Hastings, which is a small village located in the Christ Church area of the country. It is a short ride away (21-25 mins approx. by vehicle). Taxi or Coach transfers are the safest, & easiest option, but buses are also readily available across the island. Failing that you can also rent cars inside the airport at the designated desks. (Or hire one online before you travel).
Preferred Public transport: There is a 24 hour taxi service at the airport- usually signposted, Taxi fare is around 75$ (BDS). (£30.00 approx.)
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| Credit: Dreamstime.com |
Where to stay:
Next item on the agenda is where to stay on the island. There is an abundance of accommodation options on the island, the ever popular Air bnb being a top hit amongst tourists and nomad travellers, if you are looking for that more self catered feel. Or you could also look into book other apartment options or long term rentals if staying for longer than a month to get the best deal on your trip. I prefer however to look more towards Hotels for this kind of trip, as If I were planning my wedding here on the island I would want to be waited on hand and foot to really make my stay as special as it can be. I would probably opt for a larger hotel as I like to explore and don't just want to chill around the pool of a day. As a couple we usually opt to stay in a few hotels to break up our stay, as we tend to stay in multiple locations so I started my search using the trusty ole faithful booking.com to find the best deals.
This deal's particularly caught my eye:
02 Beach Club & Spa hotel, Christ Church-offers an all inclusive resort package complete with beach front location in one of the most exclusive parts of the island.
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| Credit: reversving.com |
Typically prices start from around £662.00 (out of season) based on a 1 night stay in a 'luxury one bedroom suite with ocean view' for max 2 people. If booked directly with the hotel website you can receive some great savings & packages (they also include Wedding packages & Honeymoon) all prices subjected to quotation at time of booking and you will need a consultation before booking.
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| Credit: Reversving.com |
Sights to see:
The Island has lots to offer and lots of things to see & do, of course you have the incredible idyllic beaches complete with an array of water sports- from the ever popular jet-skiing to swimming with the Sealife/deep sea diving.
If like me you like in indulge a little retail therapy why not try and visit the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in the heart of Holetown. They have loads of fab designer shops, Gucci, Cartier, Louis Vuitton and the best bit is they are all duty free!
If you are feeling more adventurous you should check out Harrison's Cave which is one of the islands most visited attractions. There's so much to see down there including the amazing waterfall and the deep pool below.
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| Credit: beach.com |
Pick of the best restaurants & bars:
If like me you like to explore the local cuisine whilst you are away why not check out these local recommendations-
The Lone Star, Mount Standfast- serving the best authentic Italian on the island, and giving off the best beach views anyone will be envious of.
The Cliff, Derricks- Another fantastic and picturesque island restaurant to visit day or night. Chef even had a Michelin star-so one for a very special occasion. Serving up the best Caribbean and meals from Around the world, this one doesn't disappoint.
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| Credit: Photorestuarant |
Planning a spectacular wedding/blessing/civil partnership ceremony:
There are sooooo many ways you could do this, and I really do think part of the fun would be to plan this trip and your big day on your own. I would love nothing more than taking the time to research every part of the island. If however you have the spare cash to splash! & are short on time you could also look into finding a wedding planner/company over there that would do it for you. here are a list of websites which might help....
So there we have it! Our first city ticked of the 35 days around the Sun bucket list. Please share with me if you have visited Hastings & even better if like my parents you also held your wedding/civil ceremony here. I would love to learn more about this beautiful island. Stay tuned next month for our next instalment in the series.
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