Dreaming of Barbados: Why We Swapped Jamaica for a Sandals Escape in 2026

It’s literally freezing.

Snow is piled high, the roads are locked down, and going anywhere feels questionable at best. We’re bundled up, cabin-fevered, and very much stuck inside for the next few days. And when winter decides to fully commit like this?

We do what we do best.

We dream. ✨

Specifically, we’re dreaming of warm trade winds, turquoise water, and a tropical reset—because on April 30, 2026, we’ll be trading snow boots for sandals (the footwear and the resort) as we head to Sandals Barbados. This trip has been circled on the calendar for months, and on days like this—when the world outside is white, frozen, and wildly uninviting—having a warm, beachy vacation on the books feels less like a luxury and more like a survival strategy. We are sharing this again so that you get INSPIRED to join us!! And of course, this is our cushy way of sending you all warmth, too.

Why We Changed Plans: From Jamaica to Barbados 💔➡️🌴

Originally, this trip was set to take us back to Jamaica, a destination we love deeply. But after Hurricane Melissa caused devastating impacts to parts of the island, we had to make the tough call to change plans. We’ll be honest—this wasn’t an easy decision. Sandals has done (and continues to do) incredible work supporting their resorts, staff, and surrounding communities after hurricanes. And yes, there was a real possibility that we could have been among the first guests welcomed back after reopening.

But ultimately, we decided to give Jamaica a bit more time.

Not because we don’t trust Sandals—quite the opposite—but because recovery after a major storm is complex. Infrastructure, surrounding excursions, beaches, and local communities all deserve the space and time to fully rebound. When we return to Jamaica (and we absolutely will), we want to experience it at its strongest. So with heavy hearts but open minds, we pivoted.

And that pivot led us right back to Barbados.

Why Barbados Won This Time

We’ve been lucky enough to experience both Antigua and Barbados, and honestly? You can’t go wrong with either. Antigua’s beaches are breathtaking, and it was very much in the running. But this time around, Barbados ultimately won us over—and here’s why.

Two Sandals Resorts, One Seamless Experience

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Barbados is that there are TWO Sandals resorts right next door to each other:

• Sandals Barbados

• Sandals Royal Barbados

Staying at one gives you access to both, which means:

• More pools

• More bars

• More beaches

• And—our favorite—a significantly larger dining scene 🍽️

A Standout Dining Lineup

Dining was a big deciding factor for us this time, especially after comparing options across islands.

Between the two Sandals Barbados resorts, guests can enjoy 20+ restaurants, including favorites like:

• Butch’s Chophouse – A classic Sandals steakhouse with upscale vibes

• Chi Asian Fusion – Bold flavors and a sleek atmosphere

• Kimonos – Teppanyaki fun that never gets old

• La Parisienne – Elegant French cuisine

• Neptune’s – Fresh Mediterranean flavors with ocean views

• American Tavern – Elevated comfort food done right

When we compared that variety to other destinations (including Antigua), Barbados simply offered more range, more atmosphere, and more choice—perfect for a longer, indulgent stay.

The Island Itself

Beyond the resorts, Barbados as an island is vibrant, welcoming, and rich with culture.

From:

• Calm, swimmable beaches on the west coast

• Dramatic cliffs and waves on the east coast

• Historic Bridgetown and UNESCO-listed sites

• Rum distilleries, catamaran cruises, and local food scenes

Barbados strikes that perfect balance between relaxation and exploration—which is exactly what we’re craving right now while staring out at snowdrifts.

Why We Always Keep a Warm Trip on the Books

Right now, the world outside feels cold, quiet, and completely frozen in place.

But knowing that Barbados is waiting for us—that there’s sunshine, ocean air, and a Sandals welcome with our names on it—makes winter feel a little more manageable.

Having a warm, beachy vacation planned isn’t just about travel.

It’s about:

• Something to look forward to

• A mental escape on the hardest days

• And a reminder that seasons change—even when it doesn’t feel like it

So while we’re snow-locked, sipping hot coffee instead of rum punch, we’ll keep dreaming.

Because come April 30, 2026? We’ll be trading frost for sunshine and winter blues for Barbados blue waters.
And honestly—dreaming has never felt so necessary. If you are interested in WARMING up, and let’s be honest, after this brutal winter weather, we’ll all be in need of thawing out - let us know! We have booked our Sandals Barbados Vacation with Kristen Faye Alfred, of @travelwithkristen — she would love to help you get your Sandals Vacation booked.

How to Cruise to the South Caribbean Stress Free

Sailing the South Caribbean with Virgin Voyages: Packing Tips, Pro Tips, and Unforgettable Moments

If you’ve ever dreamed of an adults-only cruise where luxury meets laid-back vibes, Virgin Voyages is calling your name. We—Shelby and Megan—recently set sail on an adventure through the stunning South Caribbean, with stops in Barbados, St. Lucia, Tortola, St. Maarten, Antigua, and a departure from Puerto Rico. December was the perfect time to cruise—warm breezes, turquoise waters, and just the right amount of holiday spirit on board.

So, grab a cocktail, kick back, and let us take you through our trip, plus some handy pro tips and packing must-haves to make your Virgin Voyages experience seamless!

Packing Tips: Essentials You Won’t Want to Forget

Let’s talk about packing smart. Virgin Voyages cruises are all about effortless style and comfort, so packing light (but right) is the way to go. Here are some must-haves:

• Packing Cubes – Keep your suitcase organized and easily find your outfits for every occasion. Check out our favorite set here: https://amzn.to/4jK3Vy6

• Sun Hat – The Caribbean sun doesn’t mess around. A stylish, packable sun hat is a lifesaver for beach days. We love this one – it was so easy to fold in our travel bags, yet still super accessible: https://amzn.to/3Q5qRdp

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Whether you have health issues that require medication or if you just like to be well-prepared for any illness scenario, we love this Travel Pill Organizer! https://amzn.to/3QbRXj2

• Waterproof Phone Case – Perfect for those catamaran rides and snorkeling trips. https://amzn.to/4gptPEq

• Comfortable Sandals – You’ll be doing plenty of exploring, so comfy and stylish sandals are a must.

• Portable Chargers – These are a MUST during travels! Ours came in handy numerous times (shocker – we took a lot of pictures, videos, notes and all things for this content!) https://amzn.to/40Mre1o

• Swimwear & Cover-Ups – Pack a few so you’re always ready for a spontaneous beach stop or a dip in the ship’s pool.

• Casual Chic Outfits – No need for formalwear, but having some trendy yet comfy outfits will keep you feeling great for dinner and entertainment onboard.

• Sea Sickness Bands or Ginger Chews – Just in case those waves get a little too friendly.

Pro Tips for Sailing with Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is all about breaking the mold of traditional cruising. Here’s what we learned to make the most of the experience:

• Download the Virgin Voyages App ASAP – This is your lifeline for booking restaurants, excursions, and activities. Popular spots fill up fast!

• No Buffets Here! – Unlike traditional cruises, you won’t find massive buffet lines. Instead, The Galley offers a trendy food hall experience with everything from ramen to fresh-made salads.

• Late-Night Eats Are a Thing – Craving a burger at midnight? The 24-hour diner has you covered.

• Take Advantage of the Included Fitness Classes – Whether it’s sunrise yoga or a high-energy HIIT workout, the ship’s fitness options are next level.

• Don’t Skip Scarlet Night – Pack something red and get ready for a night of fun, dancing, and surprises.

• Book Spa Time on a Port Day – You’ll get a better deal, and the ship is quieter while most passengers are off exploring.

Our Favorite South Caribbean Moments

Tortola to Jost Van Dyke: A Slice of Paradise

One of our favorite days was hopping on a catamaran from Tortola to Jost Van Dyke. The ride itself was breathtaking—crystal-clear waters, salty breezes, and an instant feeling of relaxation. Our main destination? Ivan’s Stress Free Bar.

Let’s just say, the name says it all. Picture yourself sipping on a Painkiller cocktail, toes in the sand, reggae music floating through the air, and zero worries in sight. If you’re looking for an authentic Caribbean beach bar experience, this is it.

Barbados: Shipwrecks & Stingrays

We set out on an excursion with Tranquility Cruises in search of sea turtles. While the turtles were a bit camera-shy that day, we still had an unforgettable underwater adventure. We swam alongside stingrays, schools of vibrant fish, and even explored a shipwreck! The clear, warm waters of Barbados made every second feel magical.

Antigua: Local Charm & Stunning Beaches

The glorious infinity pool view from Sheer Rocks, at Ffryes Beach in Antigua. The weather, the view, and those turquoise waters don’t get any better than this!

Antigua quickly became one of our favorite stops, thanks to our incredible taxi driver and impromptu tour guide, Chocky. He took us on a cultural tour of the island, stopping at local shopping spots and scenic viewpoints before dropping us off at Little Ffryes Beach, a perfect slice of paradise. We also made time to visit Sheer Rocks at Ffryes Beach, where we sipped cocktails and enjoyed the most spectacular ocean views from their cliffside lounge. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Antigua!

St. Maarten: Thrills & Chills

St. Maarten was all about beachside relaxation and adrenaline-pumping adventure. Watching planes land at Maho Beach was a wild experience—where else can you be sunbathing while jumbo jets fly just overhead? But the real rush came from zip lining at the world’s steepest zip line, The Flying Dutchman at Rainforest Adventures, an absolute must-do for thrill seekers!

Why Virgin Voyages is a Game-Changer for Adults

If you’re looking for a cruise that feels elevated yet fun, Virgin Voyages is a winner. From the modern, boutique-hotel vibe of the cabins to the incredible dining options (all included—no upcharges here!), this is the perfect cruise line for adults who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

The best part? No screaming kids, no rigid schedules—just pure, unfiltered vacation bliss.

So, if you’re thinking about your next getaway, let Virgin Voyages take you on an unforgettable journey. And if you need a few essentials to make your trip even better, don’t forget to check out our packing recommendations above!

Stay tuned! Throughout February, we’ll be adding more detailed posts about our specific cruise experiences. But that’s not all—we’ll also be sharing tips on how to best enjoy travel and all things Virgin Voyages. You won’t want to miss it!

Until next time—cheers to adventure, exploration, and stress-free travel!