Caribbean holiday

[AvonCallingBarksdale]

I’d like to go either to Barbados or Antigua next summer - we’ve been to Antigua before in January pre DC and I know summer is not so much of a sure thing weather-wise, but I’m led to believe it’s still good. I’m a bit overwhelmed by where to start looking. Any tips? We’d be a family of 4 with 2 DC aged 12 and 15. What kind of budget would we be looking at for a 2 weeks in a nice hotel? Also any particular websites to look at?? Thank you.

We went at the beginning of July to Antigua as kids had broken up as they'd finished exams. Ours are 16 and 18.

Weather was good enough for us. Storm Beryl gave us a hoofing great thunderstorm one night. And there were the odd days with short showers - but nothing serious.

We stayed at Verandah Resort. We really liked it but it's not a hotel with a bar and stage show thing. The suites are spread out through the estate and entertainment (mostly reggae bands with a singer) happens round the bar by the pool.

They have 2 beaches one of which has kayak/snorkel stuff/catamerans etc to borrow. And you can have lessons and it's all included. Also have pool tables and crazy golf.

There is a kids club up to 17 I think.

All inclusive was about £6200 including transfers. And we had 2 suites next to each other but the rooms were big and all had sofa beds too so you could all squeeze in one room if necessary.

We still spent another grand on top as you need taxis to get out to do stuff as well as paying for said excursions. The resort is on the Atlantic side so sea is a bit cooler than other resorts on the south/west of the island.

We have been to Barbados twice in July. Both times 100% fabulous. Our teens loved every second and are clamouring to go again. First time very hot with some short heavy downpours which were refreshing and keep the place lush. 2nd time almost no rain. Barbados isn't on the main hurricane path and hasn't had a hit for decades. Friend did go in October and was wetter but this year another friend went at Easter (peak time) and it was very overcast.
NOT East coast as sea too rough to swim. West coast fabulous but expensive. Not sure about South Coast.

Word of warning - eating out on Barbados is extortionate and there are no all inclusives on the west coast at least. If cost conscious, an option might be Glitter Bay apartments on the West Coast. Jaw dropping location and you could mix and match self catering (massive supermarket in Holetown (Massys) which is a short (slightly alarming!) bus ride away) with eating out.
Def use a specialist agent e.g. Destinology.
Real treat!!

The Antigua thing above looks an excellent option. Tbh not having all inclusive with hungry teens did cause me a bit of stress as prices were eyewatering.

Sorry it's called Glitter Bay Suites.

Excellent, thank you!

Been to the Verandah twice. Can’t recommend it enough!