Our Barbados adventure kicked off with an incredible day on the water! Today's snorkeling expedition through Project Expedition delivered everything we hoped for in our first full day of Caribbean exploration – even with our ongoing luggage saga (more on that travel tip later!).
Our morning began aboard a comfortable cruise vessel with a crew that immediately put everyone at ease. As a travel advisor, I'm always paying attention to the little details that make experiences special, and this team went above and beyond. One of my daughters has always been hesitant around the ocean, and I was deeply impressed by how the crew handled her anxiety. While she opted to stay on board during our first stop, their patient encouragement and thoughtful accommodations – including providing an extra float and personal guidance – helped her build enough confidence to join us at the snorkeling spot. It was great to see her get in and try it out. She'll look back and remember that she went snorkeling in Barbados!
The highlight of our snorkeling adventure was exploring a fascinating shipwreck. Watching my teens' excitement as they discovered vibrantly colored fish darting through the coral-covered structure was priceless. While we missed the famous leatherback turtles (have to be in the right location at the right time), nature treated us to an impressive show of massive three-foot tarpon fish and a graceful trio of stingrays gliding through the crystal-clear waters. I think my son was the most impressed -- he spent the entire cruise with his head in the water trying to see as much marine life as possible! Below includes some of the fish we saw although not photos I took (I'm never comfortable bringing my phone near water after dropping it in the toilet years ago).
After spending time at the picturesque Carlisle Bay, we ventured into historic Bridgetown. Crossing Constitution River and passing Independence Square offered a perfect opportunity to share some local history with the kids. Barbados gained independence from Britain in 1966, and you can feel that proud heritage throughout the capital city. We learned that the trident on their flag is for breaking away from Britain and the flag colors (blue and gold) represent the crsytal blue water and sand of the island nation.
Our walk down Broad Street led us to a sweet treat – the Agapey Chocolate Factory and Shop, which was an instant hit with everyone. We all got chocolate ice cream - milk chocolate, chocolate and coconut, and mocha, plus I got some chocolate to bring home with us including my favorite - dark chocolate! So yummy!
A cab ride brought us back to our resort, where we ended the day poolside, letting the Caribbean breeze wash away any remaining travel fatigue.
Speaking of travel – here's a crucial piece of advice I'll now be sharing with all my clients: always pack a change of clothes and essential items (especially contact solution and glasses!) in your carry-on. Although I've said this a million times before, I'm guilty of not always following my own advice. Our checked bag with my husband's and my clothes is currently on day two of its own separate vacation somewhere between home and Barbados! While our teens' bags made it (thankfully they were all rollerboard carry-ons!), we're learning firsthand why the age-old travel advice about packing a carry-on with essentials is so critical.
For my fellow travelers and clients, here's what I strongly recommend packing in your carry-on:
At least one full change of clothes (including swimwear if you're headed to a beach destination) - Thankfully one of my teens packs a lot and brought more than one swimsuit and my husband is making do with a pair of my son's shorts.
Essential toiletries
Any medical necessities (our contact solution and glasses situation has been particularly challenging)
Basic accessories that can help mix up your look if luggage is delayed
Any expensive items or electronics (thsese we did have in our carry-on!)
While most luggage delays are resolved within 48 hours, those two days can feel much longer when you're hand-washing your one outfit each night or wasting vacation time in a taxi to go to a store to find some essentials! The silver lining? This experience has given me valuable firsthand insight to share with my clients. Sometimes the best travel advice comes from those less-than-perfect moments on the road. (and I'm pretty sure we will never leave glasses and contact solution in checked bags again!).
Tomorrow brings more adventures, and I'm excited to share them all with you. Stay tuned for more insights into family travel in Barbados, from hidden gems to practical tips that can make your Caribbean getaway truly memorable.