Christian Clerx struint voor MASTERS Magazine de hele aardbol over. In deze rubriek tipt hij over de leukste plekken. Dit keer Barbados: een prachtig eiland in het Caribisch gebied, dat zo’n anderhalf jaar geleden afstand heeft genomen van de Britse Kroon en nu een zelfstandige republiek is. Qua vliegtijd (negen uur) en locatie is het een alternatief voor de geijkte ABC-eilanden. Naast hagelwitte zandstranden en kristalhelder water staat Barbados bekend om zijn fraaie natuur, cultuur en uitstekende restaurants. Clerx licht een aantal pareltjes uit…
This is one of the most popular beaches on the east coast of the island. The rugged Atlantic coast and jagged rocky landscape give Bathsheba Beach, popularly known as the "soup bowl," a touch of pristine beauty. The beach is a particularly popular destination for surfers looking for a challenge and waiting for the ultimate wave while paddling in the water. A somewhat lackluster spot for swimming, but the views certainly make up for that.
Eagle Beach
Another popular beach, with tourists and locals alike. Eagle Beach is loved for its stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and turquoise waters. Get a nice cocktail at one of the many bars on the beach and take some time to enjoy the view. If you end your day here, be surprised by a phenomenal sunset - this is one of the best places on the island for that.
HOTELS
SugarBay
This comfortable and luxurious hotel with excellent value for money is in a prime location: on a picturesque bay with fine sandy beach. Several beach bars ensure that you never have to walk far for your drink (if the friendly staff hasn't already brought it). In addition to evening entertainment, the hotel offers variety with three indoor restaurants. SugarBay is especially popular with those who prefer a smaller-scale setup. Book a room with an ocean view, and you'll have that wow effect every morning.
Fairmont Royal Pavilion
This west coast hotel is tucked among lush tropical greenery. The elegant resort features 72 rooms and suites with balconies offering unparalleled ocean views. Treat yourself to nothing but the best? Then take one of the 650-square-meter Beachfront Suites: they feature butler service and a terrace directly adjacent to the powdery sandy beach. At the Palm Terrace restaurant, you'll sit front-row at sunset over the Caribbean Sea, while at open-air restaurant Taboras, you'll enjoy exceptional international and local cuisine in a relaxed setting. Service is as you would expect from a Fairmont hotel: distinctly good.
RESTAURANTS
Naru Restaurant & Lounge
There are many restaurants in Barbados with great sea views, making it difficult to choose one. Naru Restaurant & Lounge makes it easy: this restaurant's location and sublime food have surprised many a visitor. Just steps away from the sea, Naru offers an exciting mix of Caribbean cuisine, Asian techniques, sushi and traditional Japanese dishes, resulting in an unforgettable dining adventure. The combination with modern decor and excellent service makes it a well-nigh perfect experience.
Asian Spice
Indian cuisine is very popular in Barbados, which is why Asian Spice is known as an island classic. The All Seasons hotel-based restaurant serves deliciously spicy, exotic and aromatic meals inspired by authentic Mughlai dishes from northern India. The menu features grilled chicken, lamb, ground beef and vegetables cooked in sauces and seasoned with spices such as turmeric, coriander, chili pepper and cardamom. The spices come from India, but the halal meat comes from local farms to ensure the highest quality.
MASTERS Magazine #53
Curious about the rest of the great places? In the spring edition of MASTERS, three entrepreneurs shed light on the future: Raymon Pouwels (GO Sharing), Merel van Helsdingen (Nxt Museum) and Tim van der Wiel (GoSpooky). According to the latter, ever-accelerating technological advances offer tremendous opportunities. "There has never been a better time to have a good idea. Technology is in your pocket!" Sports journalist Jaap de Groot outlines the contours of the new playing field of international sport after the resounding success of the World Cup in Qatar. And futurist Adjiedj Bakas also shines his light on the future. According to him, next year will be dominated by the search for the economy of happiness. "We are not only going to look at what makes us money, but what makes us happy," he says. Perhaps this edition contributes to that, with a look back at MASTERS EXPO, a road trip with the new Range Rover and interviews with equestrian Pope Jan Tops, Red Bull Racing team boss Christian Horner, chef Margot Janse and visual artist Spencer Tunick.
