Perched on the beautiful, secluded, pink-sand Crane Beach in southeastern Barbados’ Diamond Valley, The Crane has the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating hotel in the Caribbean. It opened in 1887 and caters especially well to couples with a quiet vibe, outstanding panoramic clifftop views, excellent service, and exceptional overall value (the TripValue here is +6, which ranks among the very best in the greater Mexico/Caribbean region). With a Aaa Overall Beach Resort Rating, it’s robust in just about every major category. On-site activities are very limited, there isn’t much in the surrounding area (in terms of off-site shopping, dining, and other attractions), and the spread-out grounds can be difficult to navigate on foot for less mobile guests; but the property offers one of the very best pink-sand beaches in the Caribbean (complete with cliffs, plenty of real estate, and a remote feel), an outstanding cascading swimming pool complex plus an adults-only cliffside pool overlooking the ocean, a private and serene atmosphere, various meal plans (including a full all-inclusive plan), five excellent restaurants, a luxurious spa with a varied menu that includes couples treatments and hot stone massages, a great complimentary kids club for ages 4-12, and an on-site shopping village with an art gallery. The fitness center offers personal training and yoga and Zumba classes. The resort’s condo-style rooms come with kitchens and washer/dryers (in most), balconies or terraces, mahogany four-poster beds, marble bathrooms, and an upscale colonial style; some have private plunge pools and/or top-notch ocean views.
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.