St James, Barbados – The Sun-Starved Haven

Barbados holidays will never be complete without having to set foot at St. James Parish located at the West Coast or the island’s Platinum Coast. This one of eleven districts of Barbados is considered as the central hub for tourism as it houses the finest beaches not only in the island-nation, but also the whole of the Caribbean. Moreover, according to reports, this is the district-of-choice of 18 billionaires around the world. So, when going here, expect to see luxurious and breathtaking beach mansions and magnificent resorts.

St. James is home to more than 20,000 Barbadians and employs the most locals for the tourism industry. The largest city within this Parish is Holetown. A festival held every 2nd week of February has attracted vast number of visitors who are very eager to join and immerse themselves into the rich and fused heritage of both African and English traditions. With this annual event, tourism’s peak season in this Parish is February. Guests would usually book at least 6 months to 1 year prior to their scheduled trip.

St. James is not the central place for tourism during Barbados holidays for nothing. To name a few of the majestic beaches thriving within its coastlines are Mango Bay, Treasure Beach and Almond Beach Resorts. Mango Bay is famous for its postcard-perfect scenery with activities that will set-up families and friends for unforgettable bonding moments. Within this resort, people can go scuba diving and enjoy golf. Tourists can also charter a boat to cruise the 6-mile stretch of breathtaking coastline. Some other cruises and trips available within Mango Bay are Catarman Cruise, Glass Bottom Boat Ride, Island Tour, Oistins and more.

The white sand gleaming as the sun light strikes is just one of the many things that people should anticipate when in Treasure Beach. The accommodations here are regarded as the Caribbean’s finest. A perfect picture of sunset is the Almond Beach’s flagship. This majestic resort is popular for weddings and honeymoons. The restaurants here serve delectable dishes and unmatched gourmet cuisine.

A stopover within the Royal Westmore Golf Club is a must when in St. James. This 500-acre coastal land and developed golf haven is regarded as the Caribbean’s best. This course also hosts Barbados Seniors Open yearly, where some 40 professional golfers around the globe gather for a price. It is also the last leg of the European Seniors Tour.

After enjoying the unrivalled beauty of St. James and its beaches during Barbados holidays, it is just right to top the experience with a luxurious shopping spree at the Chattel House Village, Sunset Creek, and the West Coast Mall. These three malls offer branded and lavish items at tax-free prices and guests just have to present their valid passport and return ticket to avail the cut.

Before leaving this stunning locale and even the island-nation, pay a visit to one of the oldest school and church within the Caribbean region: the Queen’s College that was built during the English occupation and the striking exterior and interior of St. James Parish Church that was built in 1628 and was restructured in the 1700’s after the fire that claimed the majority of the spiritual center.