Having last visited Barbados over 20 years earlier without children, we promised ourselves a return before the children flew the nest. This was that holiday and we were not disappointed.
Cassia 11 is exactly as depicted in the pictures, and was a wonderful, comfortable relaxing place to stay. Peter, the owner, gave us plenty of information before our visit. I agree with all of the previous reviews regarding the facilities so won't repeat those except for one. Ann, the housekeeper, is an absolute treasure. Since we stayed during the Crop-Over festival, she was able to give us tips on where to go, as well as looking after us extremely well. Nothing was too much trouble. Its the first time ever, we've returned from holiday with suitcases full of clean, ironed clothes.
If you are a golfer, you will enjoy this course which is immaculately kept and which will seriously test your handicap.
Mullins beach is nice,with plenty of facilities and the complimentary sunbeds and beach towels are welcome, but there are many other beaches on the island. It is still possible to find a beach completely empty, except for yourselves. We did, right next to Crane Beach on the south coast, reputedly one of the best beaches in the world. The beaches on the south coast tend to be wider than those on the West, although the sea is rougher. Great for wind/surfing.
If you want to explore the island at will, a car is essential, although there are companies offering a variety of tours to all the attractions.
We would recommend Stoutes, who can deliver, or you can pick up at the airport.
Harrisons cave, Bathsheba, Holetown, Bridgetown, Orchid world( a must for gardeners), Mount Gay rum tour and St Nicholas Abbey(more rum!) are all worth a visit.
For the active, there are plenty of watersports at Mullins, as well as cruises for snorkelling and turtle watching departing from Bridgetown. The children and I learnt to scuba dive, in Carlisle Bay at Bridgetown, with Barbados Blue who are based in the Hilton car park, and can thoroughly recommend them. Learn the basics in the hotel swimming pool, and then it is a short boat trip to dive over the wrecks in the bay. It is teeming with tropical fish, and the occasional turtle. Thoroughly enjoyable.
We visited during the Crop-Over festival and the Bajans know how to let their hair down. They are still the most polite and helpful people we have ever met.
It is a very different pace of life.
Just chill, relax and enjoy. We did!
