Sunshine and Vultures

The Gorgeous weather continues in Cyprus at the end of February, this afternoon we took a walk out to the edge of the village towards the sea, we noticed four large Griffin Vultures making lazy circles in the Sky....a beautiful sight.

Photographs taken by Mark Lipscombe

Yet Another Birthday rolls around

So another Birthday comes around for Rob and one little boy sent him a special birthday message, meanwhile, Mandy presented Rob with a very special painting that now has pride of place in our living room.

       










In the evening we popped out for a couple of drinks and ended up at the 1911 club watching Steve Welsh doing his act.

                                 

A review of the Trip

Days 15 & 16 Returning Home

We left Bridgetown on a lovely Summer's evening and took the 7 hour flight to Gatwick, London, the first thing we noticed as we arrived at 6.30 am was that the  temperature was only just above freezing which was a bit of a shock to the system. Clive soon picked up and Carmel made us a lovely cooked breakfast at the Cumberland guest house before retiring for some much needed sleep.

The next day we hopped on a train at Horley train station and made our way to the town of Guilford which is about 40 minutes away. We explored the streets of the town and then made our way up to the impressive cathedral.

On the Wednesday morning we had a very early flight out of London back to Cyprus, we were pleasently surprised to find a temp of 24 degrees and sunshine awaiting us back in Paphos.

Day 14 - Barbados

So we come to our final day in Barbados, We have had a truly memorable trip, saw some glorious places and met some lovely people.  Now for the long trip home, but not before one last visit to the beach and a swim in that wonderful Caribbean sea. 

 Last night we had a very nice meal in the Azul restaurant as the waves crashed into the sea wall behind us.

Oistens Fish fry Night

 Mandy and I decided to immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of Barbados by visiting Oistens for the famous Friday night fish fry. As we made our way there, the excitement in the air was palpable, and I couldn't wait to dive into the local atmosphere.

Upon arriving, we were greeted by a lively scene—small huts lined the area, each one bustling with activity as they prepared and cooked the day's catch. The aroma of freshly grilled fish wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and chatter from both locals and visitors alike. It felt like the whole community had come together for this weekly celebration.

We weaved through the crowd, captivated by the colorful stalls and the enticing variety of dishes being served. The choices were overwhelming! From succulent grilled snapper to spicy fish cakes, everything looked mouthwatering. We settled at one of the bustling huts, where the friendly vendor recommended the grilled mahi-mahi. We ordered a couple of plates, and while we waited, we took in the vibrant atmosphere around us.

As we enjoyed our meal, the lively sounds of a nearby band filled the air. The music was infectious, and soon we found ourselves tapping our feet and swaying to the rhythm. After finishing our delicious fish, we ventured to the large stage area, where locals and tourists alike were dancing with abandon. It was impossible not to be swept up in the joy of the moment.

Mandy and I joined in, laughing and dancing alongside people from all walks of life. The sense of community was palpable, and it was a beautiful reminder of how food and music can bring everyone together.

Barbados - Cool Runnings Catamaran trip

We woke up to a beautiful sunny morning in Barbados, the kind of day that instantly lifts your spirits. The sky was a vibrant blue, and the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore beckoned us to start our adventure. We were excited as we joined the "Cool Runnings" Catamaran, which set sail from Bridgetown harbour.

As the boat glided away from the dock, I felt the warm sun on my skin and the refreshing ocean breeze in my hair. The crew was friendly, and their energy was infectious. We chatted with fellow passengers, all equally eager to explore the stunning waters of Barbados.

Our first stop was Carlisle Bay, a paradise for snorkelers. Once we donned our masks and fins, we slid into the crystal-clear water. It was like entering another world. Schools of colorful fish darted around us, weaving in and out of the coral reefs. We snorkeled over two shipwrecks, remnants of history now transformed into vibrant underwater habitats. The sight was mesmerizing—the fish seemed to dance among the corroded metal and coral, creating a beautiful contrast.

 These wonderful animals looked an moved with such grace that it was a pleasure to watch them. We then set sail up the Western coast of the island and anchored off in a secluded bay where a truly superb lunch was served. 

Then, as we sailed for home, the party atmosphere kicked in, fueled by a few delicious rum punches. Each sip seemed to add to the infectious energy on board. We danced to upbeat music, laughing and chatting with fellow travelers, all while the sun began its descent into the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant hues of orange and pink.

Mandy and I shared smiles and knowing glances, both agreeing that the Cat's staff had truly outdone themselves in looking after their guests. Their friendliness and attentiveness made the experience unforgettable.

In the evening we watched a duo called "Two guitars" who entertained the hotel's guests with some great tunes.

Oistens, Barbados

We found ourselves in beautiful Barbados, ready for sun-soaked adventures. However, our plans for a leisurely morning were dashed as the skies opened up, and rain poured down relentlessly. Rather than let the weather dampen our spirits, we decided to embrace the day differently.

We hopped on a brightly colored Reggie bus, which was a delightful experience in itself. The bus, filled with locals and the infectious sounds of reggae music, had an atmosphere that was lively and warm, contrasting beautifully with the dreary weather outside. The ride was short, just a couple of miles down the road, but it was full of character, with the cheerful chatter and laughter of fellow passengers making the journey enjoyable.

Soon, we arrived in Oistins, the main fishing village on the island. Despite the rain, Oistins was alive with its vibrant culture. The smell of fresh fish filled the air as we strolled through the village. Fishermen were unloading their catches, and the sight of colorful boats bobbing in the water was mesmerizing.

We wandered through the market, where fishermen displayed their catches of the day—snapper, flying fish, and more—while lively conversations floated around us. Mandy and I couldn't resist stopping at one of the many food stalls, where we ordered a platter of grilled fish served with macaroni pie and coleslaw. The fish was so fresh and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the tangy sauce that accompanied it.

After exploring the market and picking up some delicious snacks, we strolled over to the nearby beach. The soft sand felt warm beneath our feet, and the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore created a perfect backdrop for our afternoon. As we settled onto the beach, something caught our eye—a little boy, no more than four years old, was determinedly learning to surf.

With a bright smile plastered across his face, he paddled out on a small board, his tiny frame full of energy and enthusiasm. Each time he wiped out, he quickly got back on his board, laughing and calling out to his father on the shore. It was heartwarming to see the way his father cheered him on, offering encouraging words and playful shouts.

We watched in awe as the boy finally caught a wave, standing up with all the confidence of a seasoned surfer. For a moment, he balanced there, arms outstretched, before tumbling back into the sea. The joy on his face was infectious, and we couldn’t help but clap and cheer for him as if we were part of his little audience.

We returned to the Sea Breeze and Robbie was given a lesson on how to use a boogie board, the lad's a natural.

Bridgetown , Barbados

Mandy and I decided to explore the vibrant island of Barbados, and one of our first adventures was taking the "Reggie" bus into Bridgetown. The bus was an experience in itself—brightly painted and filled with lively music. We squeezed into our seats, surrounded by locals who greeted us with warm smiles, setting the tone for what would be a fantastic day.

As we arrived in Bridgetown, we were immediately taken by the town's colorful charm. The buildings were painted in bright shades, creating a lively backdrop as we strolled through the streets. Everywhere we looked, there were smiling faces—people going about their day, enjoying life under the Caribbean sun.

We wandered into the local markets, which were an absolute delight. The vibrant stalls were filled with fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. We stopped to chat with the vendors, who were so friendly and eager to share their stories. One stallholder even insisted we try some local fruits. The flavors were incredible, bursting with sweetness that made us feel like we were experiencing the true essence of Barbados.

 

We decided to stop off at the marina for a bite to eat. The place was buzzing with energy, filled with the chatter of locals and tourists alike.

As we settled down at a cozy spot with a view of the harbor, we watched in awe as the deep-sea fishing boats began to return from their long day at sea. The crews, all sun-kissed and lively, expertly maneuvered their catches, gutting the fish with practiced ease. It was fascinating to see the fruits of their labor—glimmering fish reflecting the bright sunlight.

While we enjoyed our meal, we were treated to another delightful spectacle. Several turtles began surfacing nearby, poking their heads out of the water to gulp in air. Their playful movements added to the charm of the moment, and we couldn't help but smile as we observed their serene grace. It felt like a little slice of paradise, watching the vibrant life of the marina unfold before us, all while savoring delicious local cuisine.

   

A wedding in the Hotel in Barbados

On a hot morning in 2016, Mandy and I found ourselves lounging by the pool at our hotel in Barbados. The sun was blazing, the tropical breeze felt delightful, and we savored the moment as we dipped our feet in the cool water. It was the perfect way to unwind, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of distant waves crashing against the shore.

But then, without warning, the skies darkened, and we were suddenly hit by a tropical downpour. The rain fell in sheets, drenching everything in sight. We quickly gathered our things and sought shelter in the hotel lobby. Fortunately, we stumbled upon a lovely afternoon tea and scones hour. As we sat there, savoring warm scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, we laughed about how quickly the weather could change. It was a cozy, unexpected treat that brought us closer together as we chatted with fellow guests, sharing stories of our adventures.

Once the rains passed, the sun peeked out from behind the clouds, casting a golden glow on the beach. Curious about what was happening outside, we made our way to the shore and were delighted to find a wedding ceremony unfolding before our eyes. Two of our fellow guests were exchanging vows right on the beach, the waves serving as their backdrop. The couple looked radiant as they smiled at each other, surrounded by their loved ones.

From the moment we arrived at the Sea Breeze Hotel, we were enveloped by the warm Caribbean breeze and the alluring scent of tropical flowers. The hotel boasted well-manicured gardens that seemed to bloom endlessly, each flower a splash of color against the lush greenery.

Every morning, we’d wake up to the sound of waves gently crashing against the shore, drawing us outside to explore the beauty surrounding us. The gardens were meticulously maintained, with pathways winding through vibrant blooms and palm trees swaying lightly in the wind. We often took leisurely strolls, hand in hand, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the cheerful chirping of birds, and the occasional rustle of the leaves as a gentle reminder of the island’s lively spirit.

But it was the beach that truly captured our hearts. Just a few steps from our room, the soft, powdery sands welcomed us. The crystal-clear waters sparkled in the sunlight, inviting us to take a dip. We spent countless hours lounging on the beach, sipping rum punch while the sun warmed our skin. 

In the evening we went to the hotel managers cocktail party and met Ian and Rosemary from London.

Day 8 - Barbados

Mandy and I awoke to the gentle sway of our cruise ship as we docked in Bridgetown, Barbados, at 7:00 AM. The excitement of a new destination filled the air, and we quickly cleared immigration and customs. The warm Caribbean sun was already shining, promising a perfect day ahead.

After disembarking, we made our way to the Sea Breeze Hotel on the South Coast. The short journey only heightened our anticipation as we passed colorful buildings and friendly locals. Upon arriving, we were greeted by the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere, but our thoughts were already drifting to the beach.

We wasted no time in heading to the gorgeous local beach. The moment we stepped onto the powdery sand, it felt like stepping into a postcard. The stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean stretched out before us, glistening in the sun. We quickly changed into our swimwear, eager to dive into the refreshing sea.

As we swam, I was struck by the beauty around us—the gentle waves lapping at our feet and the sun warming our skin. The water was the perfect temperature, inviting us to linger longer. We floated, laughed, and explored the underwater world, marveling at the colorful fish darting around us.

 

The first thing we noticed was the way the waves danced along the shore. The sea can get a bit lively on this side of the island, but that was hardly a deterrent for us. If anything, it was an invitation! We eagerly grabbed the boogie boards the hotel provided and dashed toward the water, our laughter mingling with the crashing waves.

Riding those boards was an absolute thrill! Each wave offered a new rush, pushing us toward the shore with a sense of freedom and exhilaration. We spent hours out there, trying to catch the biggest waves, wiping out more times than I could count, but the saltwater and sunshine made it all worthwhile.

After our boogie boarding adventures, we’d lay on the soft sand, feeling the warmth seep into our skin. We sipped on cold drinks, indulged in some delicious local cuisine, and talked about everything and nothing, all while soaking in the beauty of our surroundings.

In the evening we had dinner in the Mermaid restaurant and the listened to a local trio in the hotel's lounge.