Winter getaways: Elegant Hotels and new direct flights from Boston to Barbados

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With the cold of winter fast approaching and memories of the last winter in mind many New Englanders are dreaming of tropical climates, crystalline waters and white sandy beaches. Jet Blue ’s new direct Saturday service between Boston and Barbados and its promotional pricing makes this Caribbean island a most attractive choice.

photo used with permission from Diamond Public Relations and Elegant Hotels

The early morning departure from Boston gets passengers to Barbados in time hit the beach in the afternoon. Departures from Barbados allow for a leisurely morning before heading back.

Travelers are becoming increasingly aware of all the island has to offer and visits to Barbados from the United States are up over 25%. Yet Barbados remains quaint and relatively undiscovered by the American market.

Barbados, the most Western of the Eastern Caribbean, is known as “Little England.” It will be celebrating 50 years of independence this coming year and retains its British heritage while offering the visitor an authentic island experience in Barbadian culture.

Soak up the sunshine and tropical breezes. Sample fresh sugar cane. Enjoy local specialties like oyster and fish fries. pudding and souse, macaroni pie, and, on this island with more than 1500 rum shops, rum punch.

Elegant Hotels offers unique exotic and authentic experiences with their distinctive collection of five luxurious beachfront hotels with adults-only, resort and all-inclusive options. Whether you want to go “limin” (partying) with the bar scene along the fun-loving south coast or unwind with the serenity of the calmer waters of the posh “Platinum Coast” to the west, it’s a place to be as active or idle as you please.

You can even arrive and get married the same day. The ceremony must, however, be before sunset.

The Elegant Hotels are intimate properties where visitors get to know the staff. Many return year after year.

There is a repeat rate of over 60% in season, which runs from Christmas through March.

Elegant Hotels offer a premiere Bajan holiday. There is water taxi service between the properties and exchange dining options. Each has a beach and pool ambassador service.

Non- motorized and on the west coast, motorized, as well, are complimentary. Wi-Fi is free. And dining is as decadent as you please. From polo lessons at a prestigious club to teen cinematography and family movie night there is something to suit all.

Elegant Hotel's properties include the Colony Club, which retains its ambience as a 70 acre former plantation home, Tamarind, a hip contemporary chic family beach getaway, The House, an adults-only ultimate Caribbean beach house hideaway, Crystal Cove, the premiere all-inclusive escape for romantics, and Turtle Beach, the ultimate all-inclusive beach resort popular with the energetic and families.

The Elegant Hotel group also includes Daphne’s, a waterfront italian fine dining Italian-style experience.

Ready to plan your winter getaway and visit Barbados ?