15 Incredible Things Barbados Is Known For
Category: The IslandsMarch 3rd 2023Back to our Sandals Blog > > >
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In any case, ahead of a Bajan holiday, it makes sense to learn all you can, so that while touring, you have a better understanding of why things are the way they are. As one of the best vacation picks in the Caribbean, be sure to take in some beach action while there, and all the other activities that can help you live the best Caribbean life, if only for a few days!
In this article on our Sandals Resorts Blog:
15 things Barbados is known for
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1. Tropical beaches
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What would the Caribbean be without its gorgeous beaches? A little less mesmerizing, but still pure paradise! Fortunately, you won't have to experience beach-less vibes in Barbados. In fact, the island is known for having some of the most diverse beaches in the Caribbean, where you can relax and lounge at your leisure, snorkel with turtles, or take in some water sports action. Try beaches on the west and south coasts for calm conditions, and beaches on the east coast if you fancy riding some waves. More on that in the following section!
Insider tip: Love to have unlimited cocktails on the beach? Sandals offers two all-inclusive resorts in Barbados,
Sandals Royal Barbados andSandals Barbados both located right on the beachfront, where you can have first-dibs on some of the best beachside spots. Guests of one Sandals resort, can make use of the amenities and restaurants of both resorts!
2. The surf is fantastic!
The Caribbean is becoming increasingly popular with the surfing crowd, and islands like Barbados are at the forefront. The south and east coasts of the island are where you can find the biggest waves, and often, even surfing competitions. November to June is the best time to ride the waves, and the south coast is often the preference for surfers who want quick access to restaurants and entertainment as well. Near the town of Oistins, Freights Bay is a sheltered bay on the south coast that surfers enjoy because of its offshore winds. Branden near Bridgetown is also a good spot, ideal for surfers of all skill levels. The Soup Bowl, Bathsheba on the east coast has earned its fame, as has Surfing South Point, on the south coast. Batts Rock and Tropicana on the west coast, and Maycocks on the north west are also worth a spin. If you go to these beaches to watch and not to surf, it's a good idea to bring along a picnic basket to enjoy with good company.
3. Barbados is the birthplace of rum
If ever there was an island that can claim being the place where rum originated, it's Barbados. Mount Gay Distilleries in particular, has been churning out rum since 1703 in Barbados. The distillery produces the oldest rum in the world. Across the island, there are over 1,500 rum shops, and more distilleries, including Foursquare Distilleries and St Nicholas Abbey; a plantation house, museum and rum distillery. Whether or not you already have a favorite rum mix, chances are you'll find a better one in Barbados.
4. Barbados was once British but is now an independent island country
Barbados was once British, and the island became independent in 1966; this happened after first being occupied by the British in 1627. Ahead of its independence, the island was a British colony until internal autonomy was gained in 1961. Still today, even though the island is independent, Barbados has close ties to the British Monarch, which is represented by the Governor General. The Queen remains the head of state of Barbados.
5. Mega-star Rihanna
Believe it or not, Rihanna has very humble beginnings on the island of Barbados. She's come a long way since then, now being a famous singer, song writer, designer, actress, and the face behind the trending brand Fenty Beauty, one of the most popular makeup brands in the world. Rihanna frequently travels back to the island for the famous Crop Over carnival celebration, and she promotes her island whenever given the opportunity. 'Riri', as she is known by her fans, was honoured with the title 'Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary' for Barbados in September 2018.
6. Pirate history
The Caribbean's pirate history is intriguing, and it isn't all just a fictional story created for the purposes of putting together a best-selling movie. Pirates did at one point dominate the seas in this region, terrorizing ships in the area. Two notorious pirates of Barbados were Sam Lord and Stede Bonnet. As far as pirates went, Sam Lord was among the more innovative, as he took his plundering ways to the shores. Lord would hang up lanterns in coconut trees to confuse vessels into thinking they were headed to the capital city. Many would wreck their ships on the reefs, and the wheels would be in motion for Lord's deviant plans.
Stede Bonnet on the other hand, was a gentleman of a pirate, and a retired British army major. He turned to the 'dark' side in 1717, and even went as far as purchasing his own pirate ship. His ship was known as 'Revenge', and he sailed it off the New England Coast. Along the way he captured and burned many ships, and later returned to the Caribbean. He befriended the legendary pirate, Blackberry, who at one point took over the reins of his ship, which were later returned. Eventually, Bonnet was captured, and put to death by way of hanging, in 1718.
7. The land of the flying fish
Flying fish is a popular catch in Barbados, hence the references to the island and flying fish, and the reason this species of fish is featured in the island's national dish, cou cou and flying fish. Cou cou and flying fish is made by steaming the fish with local spices and other seasoning, and serving it up along with cou cou, which is made with cornmeal and okra. There are many other popular dishes that you can try while in Barbados, which you can learn more about in our
8. Crop Over festival
Crop Over is an epic
9. Sir Garfield Sobers was born in Barbados
Sir Garfield St. Auburn Sobers was born in 1936 in St. Michael, Barbados. He is known as one of the world's greatest living cricket legends. An all-rounder on the field, Sobers played on the West Indies cricket team from the time he was 16. Among his notable achievements is setting a world record in 1958 by scoring 365 runs, without being struck out. That record was finally broken in 1994, but still today Sobers remains a National Hero in Barbados.
10. Locals call themselves 'Bajans'
Bajans, as they are known, are full of character, and most are extremely patriotic. While you may want to call them Barbadian, most will quickly correct and inform you that they are in fact, 'Bajan'. Though both terms are correct, the world 'Bajan' somehow seems better able to encapsulate the personality of the vivacious people of this island. While in Barbados, you'll also hear plenty of people referring to the island by its nickname, 'Bim'!
11. Chattel Houses
Chattel Houses are small, movable wooden houses, which are closely tied to the island's heritage. Their origin goes back to the plantation days, when movable houses would be purchased, that could be moved from one property to another. Chattel houses are popular with homeowners who may not necessarily own the land on which they live. These houses are normally constructed on blocks, which makes them easier to move, whenever necessary. Years later, these types of houses continue to be a prominent feature in some parts of Barbados, in more elaborate and unique designs.
12. Green monkeys
Monkeys are a rare find for most of the smaller islands of the Caribbean, but not so in Barbados. The Green Monkey is a common sight on the island, and sometimes even pops up in people's gardens. Locals believe that Green Monkey came from Senegal and the Gambia in West Africa 350 years ago. Over time, the monkeys developed different characteristics, as compared to those from West Africa. You have the greatest chance of encountering a Green Monkey in Barbados if you visit places like St. John, St. Joseph, St. Andrew or St. Thomas. These monkeys are mischievous and playful, so don't be surprised if you spot one taking a stroll in your
13. Beautiful views from vantage points
Barbados isn't known to be a mountainous island, but that doesn't mean you can't get amazing views from some vantage points. Mount Hillaby in St. Andrew for example, the highest point on the island, is 1,115 feet above sea level. The views from the top are outstanding, including photo worthy perspectives of the Scotland District.
14. Horse racing
Garrison Savannah has a British air about it, and rightly so - it has been rooted firmly in the Barbadian landscape since the colonial era, 1845 to be precise. History suggests that troops were once stationed in the area where Garrison Savannah can be found in Bridgetown, hence the name. In late February and early March, Garrison Savannah plays host to the Barbados Gold Cup, a thoroughbred horse race which has been on the events calendar since 1982. Other than that, if you're interested in horse racing excitement, you're best going during any of the three seasons; January-April, May-September, or November-December. It isn't usually expensive to watch horse races, with tickets for some events as low as 10 Barbadian Dollars.
15. The Mongoose
Mongeese are often compared to weasels, or stoats. You may see these little critters scurrying across the road, especially if you're travelling on a road surrounded by greenery in the Barbados countryside. They are small, furry animals, which are usually brown/grey in color, and they were introduced to Barbados from India for a very specific reason: to kill rats. At the time, the increasing rat population was affecting the sugar cane industry, but this plan backfired with the realization that rats are nocturnal, while Mongoose are not. Either way, there's still quite a few mongeese on the island.
Eight authentic souvenirs to bring home with you
1. Bajan seasoning
If you're considering purchasing Bajan seasoning to take home, try some of the most popular island varieties, like the Delish Bajan Seasoning jars. This seasoning brand is all you'll need to spice up any dish ahead of cooking, and a helpful hint is leaving the spices on overnight for maximum flavor. Put some in your suitcase so you can recreate your favorite Bajan meals in the comfort of your home.
2. Mount Gay Rum
Mount Gay Rum is one of the items you don't want to return home without, once your trip is over. It is one of the most famous rums of the island, and has international appeal, particularly considering the reputation of the Mount Gay Distilleries, where it is produced. Mount Gay, and the local rum known as Cockspur, are two island favorites, but Mount Gay wins out this time around because of their super informative and fun distillery tours!
3. Tamarind balls
Tamarind balls are super popular in many Caribbean islands, and in Barbados you can try this sugar coated sweet and sour treat which packs tremendous nutritional benefit. Tamarind is known to lower cholesterol, aid digestion, and promote heart health, and it is also a good source of vitamin B and calcium. Since Bajans are known to live longer than many other nationalities, it's not a bad idea while there to learn their secrets to healthy living, and allow these to permeate your vacation, and your life.
4. Barbados cane sugar
Unwind and live in the moment-and have plenty of tea while you're at it. At teatime, swap the conventional sugar for some local cane sugar, which is a healthier alternative. You can also learn about the history of sugar cane on the island while you're at it. Keep in mind that sugar cane conversations in Barbados often lead in roundabout way to Crop Over, which is tied to the festival's origins.
5. Bajan pepper sauce
Add some spice to your Bajan vacation, or maybe just your food, by getting familiar with the local pepper sauces. Islanders love pepper sauce on just about everything, and it's not a bad idea if you can handle spice-a bit of pepper sauce really has a way of adding that 'zing' to an ordinary meal. Try the Aunt May brand which you can get at most supermarkets in Barbados and beyond, and don't be afraid to experiment with the many other options.
6. Banks beer
Most Caribbean islands have their own distinct beer, tooted most by locals, and Banks beer is that of Barbados. You won't have a hard time finding a cold bottle of Banks while on the island, as it is available at most bars and supermarkets. Many restaurants also have Banks beer on offer, and it goes well with a tasty Bajan style lunch!
7. Local art & Jewelry
There are quite a few places in Barbados where you can go to shop for art, jewelry, and other souvenirs. One of these is the Oistins Fish Fry held every Friday, which normally features among the food, drinks, and excitement, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more 'made in Barbados' items.
8. Coconut bread
Coconut bread is a Caribbean favorite, but Barbados is one of the islands where the recipe for this treat is most perfected. You may hear Bajans referring to some versions of coconut bread as sweet bread, and the best way to have it is with a steaming hot cup of your favorite tea. You can find coconut bread at some local restaurants, and in most supermarkets.
Bonus: Ten interesting facts about Barbados
1. Barbados' name was once 'Los Barbados'
Who knew beards and fig trees could be inspirational? This was the case for Barbados once upon a time, when a Portuguese sea captain known as Pedro A. Campos pondered over the island's numerous bearded fig trees, and decided the island needed a name which emphasized how much of a prominent feature those fig trees were. And so, Barbados, before it was known as Barbados, was called 'Los Barbados', which means 'bearded one'.
2. The grapefruit originated in Barbados
As delicious and popular as it is today, grapefruit was once known as the forbidden fruit. As Barbadian legend would have it, it was discovered in Welchman Hall Gully in the 18th century. Its existence is said to have something to do with a cross-pollination that occurred naturally, between Shaddock and Sweet Orange. In Barbados you can have local grapefruit juice with any meal that you choose, or you can savor some fresh grapefruit juice in a tasty island cocktail.
3. You can visit one of the 18 last remaining Concorde planes at the airport
The Barbados Concorde Experience is one of the most promoted tours on the island, and you don't have to go very far to see what this tour is all about. In fact, this experience unfolds right at the Grantley Adams International Airport and involves touring a hangar-museum. The main attraction here is a supersonic passenger airliner, known as a Concorde, which is one of 18 still in existence in the world. The one at the hangar-museum is a British Airways aircraft G-BOAE (Alpha Echo). You can walk the red carpet into the Concorde and learn all about what made it different from other airliners, during its heyday.
Tip: Check out our '
Things to do in Barbados ' article for other amazing attractions and points of interest.
4. Cattlewash beach in St Andrew is known for its healing properties
The name Cattlewash beach was derived from cattle wading in the sea at this very location. These days you won't find any cattle around though. In the past, people would travel from all over the world to Barbados to experience healing rituals on this beach, a process that was said to cure many ailments. This went on for several years, and whether there is any truth to these claims, a dip in the waters of Cattlewash beach in the Bajan sunshine is sure to leave you feeling refreshed. Beware of strong currents though, swimming into the open waters is not recommended at Cattlewash beach.
5. Holetown was the first settlement in Barbados
The area was originally named Jamestown after King James I, of England. Holetown is in the parish of Saint James, and while there you can spend some time exploring the Holetown Beach. Holetown also hosts its own festival every February.
6. Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados was destroyed by fire in 1666
Right after the devastating fire, the House of Assembly through an Act ordered the stoppage of construction projects using wood to complete buildings. Since that fire, the city has been rebuilt and developed in such a way, that you likely won't be able to tell that it once burnt to the ground.
7. Bridgetown, was once called 'Indian Bridge'
The name 'Indian Bridge' referred to the bridge constructed in Barbados, by the Indians. Its name switched up some more over the years, changing to 'Town of St. Michael', and then finally, Bridgetown. The name Bridgetown came after a new bridge was constructed, somewhere around 1654.
8. The first Governors returned to England in shekels
Captain John Powell sailed to Barbados on the first English ship to the island, which had gone off course. He and Captain William Deane, known as the first and second Governors of the island, were both arrested during their terms as governor. As history tells it, both returned to England in irons.
9. Being 'Barbado'ed' was not a good thing
No one wanted the be 'Barbado'ed' back in the day, as the term referred to the deportation to Barbados as a punishment. People considered enemies of the crown were sent off to Barbados to serve as the first slaves on the island. These white slaves were known as indentured servants. This kind of deportation was common between the years 1640 and 1650.
10. Barbados has the third oldest Parliament in the Commonwealth
Whether or not you're a history buff, it can be an enjoyable experience to walk through some of the older areas of Barbados, which feature olden architecture, like that of the Parliament Buildings on Broad Street, Bridgetown. Established in 1639, the Barbados Parliament is the third oldest Parliament in the Commonwealth.
Barbados has it all and then some...
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Whether you're looking to have a holiday where you can immerse yourself fully in the history and culture of the island, a never-ending outdoorsy adventure, or an exciting time where all you need to think about is what you'll have for your next cocktail, you'll find all that and more in Barbados. With the experiences to be gained during your holiday, you'll certainly leave the island with enriched insight on this part of the world, which continues to be one of the most highly rated vacation destinations. Book one of
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boutonniere
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At Your Wedding Reception
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and non-alcoholic beverages
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with white or magenta dendrobium topper
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cushioned Chiavari chairs
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non-alcoholic beverages including freshly
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On Your Honeymoon
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or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
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EPIC WEDDING PACKAGE
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travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31.
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Pre-Wedding Events
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At Your Ceremony
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At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
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- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature
cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Three-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with rose topper
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from the plated or buffet menus and a premium
bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly
brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas
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On Your Honeymoon
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For Your Anniversary
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At Your Wedding Reception
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• Single-tiered white fondant cake
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& white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
On Your Honeymoon
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• Honeymoon Package
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For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
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Some of our destination weddings
Sandals Grande, St. Lucia, Large Group, Destination Wedding
I wanted to share (with permission) these gorgeous pictures from a destination wedding 2 weekends ago we had the privilege of being a part of and booked by Lia. She chose this over the water wedding chapel in St. Lucia with friends and family there to help celebrate. I love her flower crown and her dress and how happy she is. Picture perfect. Congratulations Kate and Curtis! We are so happy for you!
Beaches Resort, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Destination Wedding
Lia was very helpful for us in planning our destination wedding to Ocho Rios, Jamaica. We had gone through a few other travel planners first who didn't seem nearly as interested in our needs. We really appreciated the way Lia helped us navigate through some of the complexities, including the local laws of Jamaica and the planning with the resort itself. Even once we got to the resort and ran into a few snags, Lia was able to quickly get those resolved very quickly. We would highly recommend her for anyone planning a destination wedding or any other vacation. Thanks, Lia, for making our destination wedding the most special day of our lives.
Playa Del Carmen, Large Group, Destination Wedding
Wedding planning can be stressful and overwhelming, but if you're planning on having a destination wedding, especially with a large group, I would highly recommend using All Inclusive Weddings!
From beginning to end, they help with every step; i.e., finding the venue, creating a custom wedding website, and booking all your guests. Their office manager, Linze, was very responsive, helpful, and so sweet! Everything turned out smoothly and we couldn't be happier!
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Destination Wedding
Stephanie was our incredible travel agent for our destination wedding! She helped with every aspect, quick communication and AMAZING coordination with over 50 different people over 8 states. Stephanie from the beginning, gave options and talked through so many questions I had. I could not have asked for a better right hand woman! 10 out of 10 for Steph, we could not appreciate & trust her more!
Incredible Agent For Our Destination Wedding! 10 Out Of 10 For Steph!
Such an amazing week of memories,laughter & love! Thankful for our people and truly blessed beyond words ♥ï¸â™¥ï¸
Royalton Blue Waters, Montego Bay, Jamaica, Destination Wedding
My husband and I worked with the company's owner, Lia Vincent, and office manager, Linze.
Lia & Linze were both very warm and friendly, and from day one, we could tell cared about us as a couple and our destination wedding success, rather than just seeing us as more clients. I get stressed out easily, so planning my own wedding alone was overwhelming, even though my wedding was 10 months out. I ended up working with Linze, and we pushed up the wedding date with a little less than three months to prepare. I was initially nervous about using a travel agent / wedding planner, but it turned out to be a huge blessing, because it took away a lot of the stress and worry I was experiencing. A bride has so many things to worry about, so having someone else bear the brunt of the work and worry about the nitty-gritty details was a HUGE relief for me.
Why spend hours analyzing vendors and reading reviews, when you can have a pro do it? If you want an intimate wedding, if you want to elope, or if you want a huge all-out, go-into-debt-for-years wedding, and if you're in the market for a wedding travel agent, Lia and Linze should be at the top of your list!
The day of the wedding, everything was so beautiful, and so much better than I could have done on my own. Lia's company finds the best local vendors, so you know you'll get great value in your package, and what's nice is her company offers different packages for different budgets. We worked with and met AMAZING vendors! The reception was so elegant that as soon as I entered the reception, I felt amazement, joy, and relief because being the worrywart and control freak that I sometimes can be, it was hard for me to trust someone to somehow make everything perfect. Lia was able to give us the dream wedding we couldn't have done ourselves. Our family and friends were also amazed, and repeatedly told us how great the wedding, reception, and food were at the resort.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Destination Wedding
I used Stephanie Tindall to help me choose the perfect resort in PV Mexico for where my guests would stay for my destination wedding. She went round and round with me helping me find the perfect location. It had to be nice, trendy, not to outrageously expensive and within a certain mile radius of a marina where my guests needed to go for the wedding. She helped everyone get booked and when things became a little hectic as tracking sometimes can get. She took care of the details. One of my guests had passport issues and she helped talk them through what to do. It was such a relief to have a point of contact for travel related issues so I didn't have to be stressed about it. She did this all with a patient, positive? upbeat and kind attitude through the entire process. I highly recommend her.
Thank you again,
Darby Brown
UNICO, Riviera Maya, Mexico Destination Wedding
Unico was wonderful and the perfect place for our wedding! It was quiet and the ceremony was better than expected. We had it on the gazebo and it was away from everything, which was great. The photography was beyond our expectations. We have not received our video yet, but assume it will be just as great. I also used the in house vendor for make up and hair, and was not disappointed. The wedding coordinator, Nazareth, was so sweet and on point. We used the local host quite a bit with WhatsApp, which was quite convenient. Food and drinks were amazing. We were disappointed that 2087 restaurant was down for half of our stay for repairs. We ate at Mi Carisa on our wedding night, which was the perfect choice. Service was also best there. We scheduled 2 tours through the hotel, a sunset cruise and Chichen Itza express. The boat tour was nice. Chichen itza tour was too fast and ok. We really appreciate your recommendations and help booking our wedding and stay. It was wonderful! Thank you again, Juliet and Jason
Hard Rock Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Destination Wedding
We just got back from an AMAZING wedding weekend yesterday. I can't begin to thank you enough for your help and support during the entire process. Everyone had a great time. It truly was one of the best days of my life and I can't believe how stress-free it was once I got there. Thank you Thank you!
Secrets Playa Mujeres, Mexico, Destination Wedding
I have never used a travel agent before Lia. I have always been the "I can do everything cheaper by myself on the internet" type person; most of the time, it works great. When my husband and I decided to have a destination wedding, we were not sure about anything - number of guests, length of stay, etc; we also have very demanding jobs, requiring constant travels up until the week before our wedding. So we thought that a travel agent may be a lifesaver; as it turned out, she was. Lia was endorsed as an expert in destination weddings on the American Express Travel website. Although she lived over a 1,000 miles away, I felt comfortable.
As I am not a "girly" person, wedding planning was not my thing; however, party planning and event coordination are. Lia and I treated this "event" like a business and I loved that about her; I needed someone to be truthful and provide honest advice. As it is with my job, I like corresponding via emails because I can have all the information on hand and in writing at all time; Lia always accommodated that, and always very promptly. I'm not talking about several emails over a few months; I'm talking about over the course of over a year. Lia was there to provide support when I had a hard time reach the wedding coordinator; she was there when I freaked out at the resort regarding my brother's return transportation (as it turned out, my brother spoke with the wrong transportation company); she was organized to be able to provide me with spreadsheet of all guest arrival information; she always submitted my requests to Classic Vacation and the resort promptly. James and I cannot thank Lia enough to make everything go smoothly for the biggest event of our lives. All 48 of us had such a great time that we absolutely see another group vacation in the future.
UNICO 2087, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Read the full details about this destination wedding in our blog post, Mark and Casey Simpsen's Destination Wedding at UNICO 2087. This couple was also featured in the UNICO 2087 Resort blog post, UNICO Destination Wedding, Casey Shelley & Mark Simpsen
Beach Palace Cancun, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Lia being referred to me saved me so much wedding planning mental anguish! I had tried with a few other travel agents before I had two different people give me Lia's name, and with each of the previous TAs they had to look into things and call me back (I'm still waiting for those calls). Getting in touch with Lia was a whole new experience, she answered all my initial questions in that first phone call, had so many recommendations, and it was obvious she knew exactly what she was doing. By the time we hung up the first phone call, I had decided on a destination and venue (per Lia's suggestion). She was a God send! A year later, we are still having people talk about what a great trip it was and people are always amazed by what a great turn out we had. We ended up with about 60 people, all booking through Lia and everyone had a flawless experience. One even asked for her name when planning her destination wedding a few months later and was just as pleased! Lia told me a lot through the planning process that I was such a laid-back bride, but it really was because she left me nothing to worry about. She answered any question I had, was always quick to respond to calls and emails, and helped me plan the most perfect wedding ever. I wish I could re-live it all again!!
Cozumel Palace, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband Cameron and I got married at the Cozumel Palace in June of 2014 and could not have been more happy with our experience. A destination wedding was definitely the way to go for us and Lia was a great asset in our planning.
Throughout the process we felt completely at ease as she handled some of the most important details of planning for this special time. From her first recommendations of resorts and destinations to her help arranging travel for our closest family and friends we always felt grateful having Lia on our side. We highly recommend Lia Vincent and Palace Resorts for your destination wedding!
Le Blanc Spa Resort, Destination Wedding
I am truly so grateful for you and all of your help! Le Blanc was amazing! NOTHING could have been better, except maybe the weather, but the staff, food, and service were above and beyond! We will definitely go back there!! Love, Love, Love you for all of your help - Can NOT thank you enough!!
Beach Palace, Cancun, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Our Dream Wedding!
Lia was a phenomenal help from the beginning. She was referred to me by a friend, and I was incredibly thankful that we used her. When we started planning, we became overwhelmed with all of the information that is available.
We met with her for about 45 minutes one afternoon, took her pictures of spaces we had seen online and liked, and gave her a list of our "must-haves", a list of things that would be nice but didn't matter too much, and a list of things we absolutely did NOT want. She kind of thought about things for a minute, and then listed 3 resorts that fit every single one of our needs. She then ran sample pricing from EVERY location our guests would be traveling from so we could figure out what best fit our and our guests' travel budgets. After about a million more questions from me, we finally settled on her initial recommendation, the Beach Palace in Cancun. As we went through the process, any time I had a question, problem, or was just worried about something not being right, she was my go-to person. I'm not kidding, she would answer me in like, less than an hour 99% of the time. She even took my file home one weekend to give me more time to figure something out before she ran credit cards and got it booked. She was a Godsend!
Riu Palace, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband Cameron and I got married at the Cozumel Palace in June of 2014 and could not have been more happy with our experience. A destination wedding was definitely the way to go for us and Lia was a great asset in our planning.
Lia with Lia helped us plan our destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico. We had a total of 11 people and she helped each of them set up their arrangements. From the beginning she was so helpful and always quick to respond. She made the entire process a breeze. She communicated with the wedding coordinator at the Riu Palace and made sure everything was just like we wanted. We did not have any issues at all, thanks to Lia and all of her thorough planning. Each of our guests bragged on her and said how easy it was to work with her. I would recommend Lia for all of your planning needs whether it be just a short vacation or a destination wedding. She knows what she is doing and will make sure all of your questions are answered and that you have the best vacation.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband and I got married in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico right off the beach. It was pure bliss, and everything I could have ever dreamed of! I may be biased, but destination weddings are certainly the way to go and thanks to our wonderful Travel Agent Lia Vincent at Vincent Vacations, we were able to find the perfect place! I had the opportunity to be able to edit the straight out of camera photos from my wedding! Here is a glimpse of our wedding day in paradise!
Iberostar, Grand Punta Cana, Destination Wedding
We had the most amazing time at our wedding. Our guests are still talking about what an amazing trip it was! Thank you for your help with organizing this unforgettable time for us, we cannot wait to put our pictures in our new frame!
Dreams, Puerto Aventuras Resort, Destination Wedding
Lia, thank you very much for all of your help with our PERFECT wedding vacation!
Excellence, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Destination Wedding
"It was beautiful! Everybody had a fantastic time!"
The staff was wonderful, the rooms were gorgeous, and the food was AMAZING! Our wedding could not have been more perfect and if you have any brides that want a beautiful wedding on a budget, The Excellence Punta Cana would be my number one recommendation. Emy and Livia were fantastic and everything was just PERFECT! Chris couldn't even believe how wonderful it was.
Thank you again for all of your help!!!
Dreams, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Our Dream Wedding!
As soon as Jimmy asked me to marry him, I knew we would want a destination wedding. We love to travel, and we love the beach, so there was no more perfect place to start our lives together than a beach in Mexico!
I am not the wedding planning type, and I knew that with a destination wedding, we could get someone else to plan the details for us. Luckily for me, my friend Lia at Vincent Vacations specializes in Destination Weddings. Lia had taken care of trips for us in the past, and I knew she was the perfect person to help me plan this trip. I was right! She helped me look through destinations, and we found the perfect spot: Dreams in Puerto Vallarta! The package came with a wedding planner, who took care of the details for me. 21 of our friends and family came with us, and everyone loved the resort. Our party ranged in age from 7 to 82, and everyone agreed it was an amazing trip. There were activities for the kids, and plenty of excursions for everyone to choose from. The staff was wonderful, and pampered us from the time we arrived. One of my bridesmaids had a broken foot and was on crutches, and was in a wheelchair some. The hotel staff assisted her anytime she needed it, including carrying her and her wheelchair up and down large flights of stairs. They were amazing! All the rooms are ocean front, with beautiful views. Jimmy and I stayed in the "Preferred" tower, and our room came with a great balcony with a hot tub! Most of our guests stayed in the other tower, but the resort is small enough, this was not a problem at all. They all loved their rooms as well. The wedding planner met with me in advance to work out the last minute details and timing. When our wedding day came, everything went perfectly. We got married on the beach right in front of the ocean. We had a sound system and a dj who played all the songs that we picked out in advance. My Dad is a minister, and he performed the service for us. We had 21 in our wedding party, but it felt like a much bigger wedding because lots of people watched the wedding. You could see people everywhere on their balconies watching, which made us feel like rock stars. We had a Mexican band that played a few songs after the wedding. The wedding came with a photographer and videographer who did amazing job! We took pictures right after the wedding, then we had dinner which also came with the wedding. We had steak and chicken which tasted great. Of course, I also asked them for chips and guacamole. (I love the guacamole in Mexico.) They were happy to oblige. They provided the wedding cake after which was amazing. After the wedding, my husband and I stayed for another 4 days, and it was paradise. I could not have asked for a more beautiful place to get married, or a less stressful way to do it. Thanks Lia and Vincent Vacations for making our special day an amazingly unforgettable experience!
Jamaica, Destination Wedding
Love the pictures one of our brides just shared from her elopement in Jamaica! Thank you for sharing with us! Did you know we book Destination weddings of all sizes? If it's just the 2 of you or a group of 250, give us a call!
Grand Fiesta Americana, Los Cabos, Mexico, Destination Wedding
This was the best and easiest decision we made about our entire wedding! Lia at All Inclusive Weddings is the absolute best, extremely intelligent, hard working, and so caring. She truly makes you feel like you are her only client throughout the entire process. We had about 120 people coming to our Cabo wedding and even had to switch resorts, visitors coming from all different states and even Europe. She was calm, and kept the bride and groom calm! Every detail was taken care of and it was made to be the most perfect wedding!
Finest, Playa Mujeres, Mexico, Destination Wedding
I just wanted to thank you for all your hard work to arrange the hotel and transfers for Ashley and Robbie's wedding. It was perfect and everything that she had ever dreamed of! The resort was amazing! We had great food at all the restaurants. The staff went over the top to accommodate any needs that you could have had! Everyone felt safe and the beaches are beautiful. Since it's more private you don't get the crazy vendors walking the beach trying to sell you stuff. Our family loved it so much and we defiantly will be planning another vacation. You will be the first I call if we need help to organize something! Thank you again for everything
We have been in business since 2013, and booking destination weddings since 2002!
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