A lower-mid-range option in Bridgetown, the Barbadian capital, the Hilton Barbados Resort appeals to both business travelers and vacationers, especially families; it’s one of the best values on the island. A protective rock jetty on the beach is a bit of an eyesore (despite this, the beach is fairly nice overall, with plenty of space), the food and overall service get somewhat mixed reviews, and there’s no swim-up bar; but the property offers a second beach area, a nice lagoon-style swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and green vegetation, an outdoor jacuzzi by the pool with rock features, three tennis courts, a modern fitness center, a kids club for ages 4-12 (with separate activities for ages 4-7 and 8-12), butler service, a small spa with the first heated quartz sand bed in the Caribbean, and a great selection of water sports. Rooms come with balconies, modern wood flooring, flat-screen TVs, native Bajan art, walk-in showers, floor-to-ceiling windows, and work desks; many have great ocean views. Activities include scuba diving and snorkeling via Barbados Blue Water Sports next door, horseback riding (nearby), kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, sailing, swimming with sea turtles, outdoor yoga classes, salsa classes, and beach volleyball (on a good court). The historic Needhams Point Lighthouse is right on-site and downtown Bridgetown is just a few minutes away. Off-site shops and restaurants are within walking distance, as is the Barbados Museum & Historical Society.
All travelers to Barbados are required to present proof of a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test taken at a an accredited or recognized laboratory within three days prior to arrival. It is also necessary to complete your on-line immigration and customs form by going to www.travelform.gov.bb. The form should be completed 24 hours prior to arrival, and preferably include the upload of your negative COVID-19 PCR test result. Travelers will be required to retest with a COVID-19 PCR test 5 days (120 hours) after their arrival in the country. If the result of that second PCR test is negative, that traveler can now enjoy unrestricted movement to public spaces (including the beach). Guests from High and Medium Category countries (which currently includes the UK, the US and Canada) must quarantine in their rooms until the second test is negative.