A Tale of Two Hotel Groups, Elite & Almond

I have recently returned from a trip to the Caribbean. I stayed in Antigua and Barbados. This gave me a first hand chance to compare Verandah –  Elite’s two year old hotel in west Antigua with Almond Casuarina, the newest property in Barbados.

In location terms Casuarina is set on a white sandy beach to die for and it has the best nightlife in Barbados within walking distance.  The south coast of Barbados is also the windward side with big waves and a cooling breeze. Verandah is in an isolated position with two smaller beaches set at either end of the property. The beaches are protected and it is a great place to learn to windsurf or try a sunfish. For me the crash of the waves and the powder white sand of Almond Casuarina was the greater pull.

In terms of facilities both hotels have a range of restaurants and bars and great swimming pools. Verandah has a really large one as a focal point of the resort, Casuarina has a children’s and an adult only pool. There is nightly entertainment in both.

Verandah is more spread out with the need to get to reception by buggy. Casuarina is in a more compact location with some great trees in the centre of the property around which the accommodation circles. These gardens have been there for 25 years.

Both hotels have great kids clubs and a range of big rooms where 2 adults can share with 2 kids. Verandah has a small kitchenette in the rooms and a fridge. Their rooms will also take 2 adults and 3 kids.

In terms of staff it is always difficult. Clearly both hotels have excellent well trained professionals. On my visit to Almond Casuarina, I encountered a beach attendant and two waitresses who clearly had not had a good day, but there were others who were tuned in to our needs. In Verandah, we were charmed by Steve in the dining room. He had come from ultimate upmarket Jumby Bay, where he was Mr fix it. His service was superb and his humour great.

So what would I choose for my holiday…..

Tropical Sky sell both properties for around £1000 for a week (more in high season) inclusive of flights, accommodation on all inclusive, transfers and taxes. I would go to each in successive holidays – they are both excellent!!

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