I am one of the few who have had the pleasure of traveling recently. My youngest sister got married in Miami in January, and my Mum, my sister and I flew up to attend. Other than everyone having on masks at Miami International Airport, you would not really notice a big difference in getting through the airport, both entering and leaving.

When arriving in Barbados, however, it is very obvious that this is not business as usual.

Tucked away in the popular community of 2^nd street in Holetown, St. James, you’ll find The Mews. The ‘not so typical’ restaurant showcases a unique layout that’s a true time capsule of traditional Barbadian architecture and its preservation allows for guests to sit in a truly quaint environment.

In this world of ‘new school’ (post-market crash), business is tough and extremely competitive. Buyers are difficult to find and are very cautious with decision making. While I have only ever known the ‘new school’ world, I am fully aware that the real estate world of ‘old school’ (pre-market crash) existed in a booming market with buyers falling out of the sky.

Being a huge fan of anything Michelle touches in terms of restaurant design and service and in total adoration of anything Larry cooks, I was beside myself when he called to ask if I could come to be a ‘guinea pig’ for Dockside at Port Ferdinand. This is the new masterpiece of Larry and Michelle Rogers, which is nestled in Port Ferdinand.

Something else is on the cards for the lucky prospective owner of the lots at Clearwater Bay!

In addition to perfectly turquoise waters and breathtaking views, the property has recently welcomed a neighbour in the island’s latest - and anticipated to be one of the trendiest - beach bars on the west coast - La Cabane!

Yes, Barbados is a popular vacation destination. But, the tiny nation has a deeper relevance for over 280,000 persons who have the birthright to call the island their native home. Each November, this national pride shines through, and a uniquely Barbadian showmanship gets underway in celebration of the island’s Independence.

The most obvious perk of living on an island is the beautiful beaches, and the beaches in Barbados are everything - sandy coves, craggy cliffs, glassy waters, churning waves - everything. But, if there is any doubt that Barbados ticks all the boxes when it comes to beachfront living, then let us introduce you to some of our favourite coastal spots that may very well be the future location of your home sweet home.

On the island’s lavish west coast sits the town of Holetown. Its heart and surroundings are the plush home of luxury, international musings and decadence, but before this became the trademark of the coast, it was revered by historians and locals alike as the crèche of Barbados as it is now known.

On a global perspective, the fashion scene is one that has an incredible mass appeal, and our captivation with this fine art culminates each year in major cities across the world with the staging of global Fashion Week. With New York’s week wrapped up and London’s underway, Milan and Paris wait in the wings to unveil their own prestigious week of celebrating fashion forwardness. These events have grown into massive economic powerhouses, with New York fashion week attracting over 230,000 attendees to more than 500 shows that total in the generation of almost US$900 million for the Greater Metropolitan area.

To hear the words Barbados, birdie and eagle in the same sentence may seem odd but mundane; but, to the pert ears of those in-tune with the sport, it undoubtedly screams golf. Beyond the bewitching beaches that coerce you to stay waterside when in Barbados, there is another world lying in wait that presents grandiose greens, fantastic fairways and pesky bunkers. There isn’t a truer case of this than on the western seaboard in the parish of St. James, where tee time is any time at three of the most prestigious golf spots on the island - Sandy Lane, Royal Westmoreland and Apes Hill.

Living a stone’s throw away from pristine white sand beaches and any-time ocean dips is a luxury almost everyone craves. After all, let’s face it; with one look at those turquoise Caribbean Sea views, it’s hard not to sink into relaxation mode. Luckily in Barbados, we’re spoilt with an endless selection of beaches from the more tucked-away spots ideal for seclusion to the activity-packed shores bursting with family fun.

"We believe our architectural heritage is part of who we are as a people; that buildings and landscapes provide us with an in-depth view of the craftsmanship, trade and culture of their time.” These are the sentiments of the Warren family, owners of St. Nicholas Abbey whose stated mission is: “to ensure its preservation for both future generations of Barbadians and visitors to our island.” - Larry Warren