We have just returned from a really enjoyable week at Sugar Bay, with a few small exceptions. I'll get the bad out of the way first!
This was our first trip to Barbados, and it certainly won't be our last! :)
The not-so-good bits...
I'm aware some of these issues are no fault of the hotel, and I do understand I'm probably being a little picky in some scenarios!
Men walking on the roof: We had a top-floor room, and on two mornings we were woken around 7am by heavy footsteps above us. There were men walking around on the tin roof directly above our room. Was this really necessary at 7am?
Main pool: The water seemed a little murky on a couple of days. It was particularly noticeable at night once the pool lights came on. It didn't stop me going in, but if you're a clean freak, it's something to note.
Drinks: Some of the drinks were far too strong, to the point where they were almost undrinkable. I love a drink, and a few of the bartenders used measures, making cocktails that tasted really good. Others were super quick at serving, but the drinks tasted like petrol, with two-thirds rum and a splash of Coke! That's not for me. I'd much rather wait a little longer and actually enjoy my drink.
Hotel grounds: Although lush and tropical, the grounds needed a little more attention. There were lots of dead leaves and branches around. There seemed to be plenty of staff working across the resort, but these little jobs appeared to be missed.
Arrival: When we arrived, there was no porter and no welcome drink (although one did arrive some time later). The lady on the front desk was rather direct and didn't make us feel particularly welcome. It wasn't the arrival we were hoping for, especially as so many reviews rate the hotel staff so highly.
Pool and beach bars: Both bars were crawling with flies, wasps and ants, particularly around the fruit and dirty glasses. When you look closely, both bars are looking quite tired and are in urgent need of a facelift.
Now onto the good!
The food was excellent! Breakfast and dinner at the buffet were genuinely very good and rivalled many five-star hotels we've stayed at in the past. The guys in the whites are doing a fantastic job, so keep it up!
The food at Colin's, down by the beach, was also really tasty, served hot and with good portions. The menu changed daily, which was a nice touch.
À la carte restaurants: The hotel has two à la carte restaurants, which you need to book when you arrive. When we checked in, there was very limited availability, with only 8pm or 8:30pm slots offered. This was actually fine for us, but once seated, we felt quite rushed.
We were told the kitchen was closing and were asked to order our desserts when we first sat down! The food was good and the staff were polite, but the whole experience felt rushed. For us, dinner is the main event of the evening, so this was disappointing. Oddly, when I offered to pay the surcharge, other slots suddenly became available?
Our room: We stayed in a two-bedroom Signature Villa Suite. The space was lovely and spacious, with two balconies, which was great.
However, I would have expected a few more touches for this room category, such as some bathroom amenities, an evening turndown service and perhaps a proper coffee machine. Instead, we had a kettle and instant coffee, which was a little disappointing.
There was also no bath and only a single sink basin.
On the plus side, the new beds were incredibly comfortable. I'd actually say they were one of the highlights of the holiday!
The beach: The beach area is absolutely stunning! The rocks in the sea create a lovely lagoon feel, making it perfect for my kiddos, who loved swimming out to the round floating islands several times a day. There was no pool bar service though, if you wanted a drink you have to go and get it.
The hotel itself is quite compact, which we liked, and there are plenty of staff around. You never have to wait long for a drink, and everything is within easy reach.
The staff: With the exception of our experience at the front desk when we first arrived, the staff across the resort really are the hotel's best asset. From the lovely ladies serving coffee at breakfast to the water sports guys, everyone was fantastic. Friendly, helpful and always happy to assist.
Overall, we had a really enjoyable week at Sugar Bay. The food, beach, comfortable beds and wonderful staff were definite highlights. There are a few areas that could do with some attention, particularly the bars, general maintenance and some of the finer touches you'd expect from this type of hotel.
Despite the little niggles, we had a lovely holiday and made some great memories. Barbados is a beautiful island, and we will definitely be back! :)
