The people, the food, the views, OH MY!

Barbados is an island that embraces visitors and gladly shares its local flavor. From the friendly smiles of strangers down to the local cuisine - visiting the island once will never be enough!

On the east side you get an "off the grid" feel and is a surfers paradise. It is sprinkled with small boutique hotels and local dive bars and restaurants. The views inspire an overwhelming desire to "get back to the basics".

The west side of the island is known as the Platinum Coast where you find the majority of the luxury properties. There are to many to mention, but this upscale area still maintains it's authentic feel. I drove through the streets of Speightstown, Hole Town and St Lawerence Gap with my new friend Renaldo and got the inside scoop on all the best places to go for food, fun and a little mischief. Two beautiful properties are highlighted below - Fairmont Royal Pavillion (the first 4) and Sandy Lane (all remaining).

The south side of the island is closer to the capital of Bridgetown. Here you will find properties to fit any traveler and budget - Sandals, SoCo, Sugar Bay and Bougainvillea. The south side is known for being the more lively/party side of the island with lots of nightlife, dining, shopping and pop up bars.

There are many all inclusive options on the island. From honeymooners that just want to get away to groups of family/friends traveling together. All inclusive properties make dining simple. HOWEVER, in my opinion you would be missing out on such an incredible culinary experience. From fine dining to dive bars and live music to poppin' clubs - all ages will find something that fits any mood.

Insider Notes:

Local Flavor - try the fish cakes or add a little "pepper sauce" to any dish

Local Rum Shop - John Moore's Bar

Local spots - Fisherman's Pub, McBride's

Fine Dining - Hugo's or Lonestar

Nightlife - Red Door Lounge or Jamestown (in Holetown)

Accommodations - standard hotels, 5-star resorts and breathtaking villas (I book them all)

Friday nights - everyone goes to Oistin's!