Has Jamaica Toppled Barbados As Caribbean Hotspot?
Jamaica is set to overtake Barbados in the popularity stakes in 2016, with soaring numbers of visitors and celebrity fans. Although both islands are pretty amazing in their own right, where would you prefer to holiday? Here we put the two Caribbean retreats head-to-head to see what they have to offer…
Beaches
Barbados – You’ve got 92 kilometres of pristine powder-soft sand to explore. And all of them are public so you’re free to beach hop and even rub shoulders with the stars at popular celeb retreat, Sandy Lane.
Jamaica – The famous Seven Mile Beach has made an appearance on several ‘World’s best beaches’ lists thanks to its long stretch of shimmering white sand backed by clear, turquoise waters.
Standout sights
Barbados – The beaches are Barbados’ star attraction along with its kaleidoscopic coral reefs.
Jamaica – Combining a sandy coastline with a lush, mountainous setting, Jamaica’s scenery is truly striking. A visit to Dunn’s River Falls, a 600-foot waterfall that cascades over limestone cliffs – is an absolute must.
Unique experiences
Barbados – Stunning snorkelling and diving opportunities are on offer here. You can explore shipwrecks and swim alongside turtles and barracudas. Back on land visit Harrison’s cave which is home to giant caverns, icy pools and waterfalls, plus a little train to take you around.
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Jamaica – Bit of a Cool Runnings fan? You can actually bobsleigh down a mountain (minus the snow). Check it out below. Come sunset, you can visit Rick’s Cafe for a cliff diving show every night. River rafting, horse riding and hiking Dunn’s River Falls make up the rest of Jamaica’s must-do attractions.
Vibes
Barbados – Nothing to do with the green sour fruit – ‘liming’ is actually the Barbadian term for eating, drinking and hanging out with your mates and is an essential part of Bajan culture. With its friendly, carnival spirit, there’s always time to lime in Barbados.
Jamaica – The laid-back island is renowned for its super-chilled vibes, but you can take your pick from lively resorts or quiet bays. Negril is Jamaica’s original ‘take it easy’ destination where the hippie vibe still exists.
Food
Barbados – Crispy flying fish, macaroni pie
Jamaica – Jerk chicken, Jamaican patties
Celeb spotting
Barbados – Simon Cowell, Rihanna, Olly Murs, the Rooneys
Jamaica – Jay-Z, Beyonce and Jude Law
Flight time
Barbados – 8 hours, 14 minutes
Jamaica – 9 hours, 12 minutes
Jamaica or Barbados? Where will you book your holiday?