Sandals Barbados

Firstly we would like to let the managers and staff know that we had a fantastic holiday at Sandals. This is our 25th time in Barbados, but the first time at this property Everything was as we expected and perhaps even more as the pool, bar and restaurant selection was excellent ( disappointing that we never saw American Tavern open after breakfast) but that's a minor point. We were perhaps a little bit wary before arrival as there were some poor reviews online, but we have realised over the years that you make your own holiday in Barbados and should get into the island vibe. We needn't have worried as those poor reviews are way off mark and didn’t represent the resort or the staff when we were there. We always make sure we say hello to all staff and chat where appropriate as we know they have a difficult and demanding job and by making that effort, you always get a return smile and greeting. Some guests may not be of that ilk and maybe that’s why they feel as they do. However when they are at the bar and say quite loudly that they “need 2 strawberry daiquiris” – do they really “need them”? Maybe saying can I have 2 strawberry daiquiris please would be a more suitable alternative Its hard to single out people as so many made our holiday but I think we have to mention top of the list Keanna who was servicing our room each day. A pleasant lady to chat to and she did an absolutely great job in keeping the room clean, providing towels, toiletries etc- fantastic- please let her know we appreciated it At the bars Janicia and Johnoy were great fun at the beach bar, plus others at the lobby and courtyard bars who always engaged- sorry don’t have all of your names, but you know who you are – particularly the barman who recognised my rugby league team and told a great story. Gardens were immaculate- I wish they could come over to England and teach me their secrets There are some reflections that could be improved on - these are not complaints, but feedback to enhance the customer experience • we were celebrating our anniversary and my birthday ( which was in July) This was mentioned when booking the holiday and at check in, but nothing in the room - not even a note of welcome and congratulations. • on previous holidays to Barbados there has always been soca music at the bars- particularly beach and pool bars. I know Sandals cater for a wide range of guests particularly from the USA, but playing local music at least for part of the day will get people into the culture and be able to appreciate the local talent. More local music acts at night including steel pan is also worth considering • information- absolutely nothing in the room regarding how to book restaurants , or local and resort information- needs to have something so guests can look through for options. First time visitors especially need some information about the island and highlights. • radio in room - again this is nice to have as guests can again pick up on local music, news and events • glass bottomed boat- we had to go to the dive shop as there was no phone directory in the room and was then told it only goes out on a Wednesday. As we checked in late Wednesday afternoon and checked out Wednesday morning, it meant we couldn't go out on it- something we was really looking forward to. Perhaps it should go out at least twice every week So in summary Location including beach – great 2 resorts in one with all the available facilities- great Room and service –excellent pool and bar choice- excellent (I’m still longing for a Mount Gay rum and a Banks beer – not at the same time obviously) Restaurants- so many couldn’t go in them all in our time there, but good food and choice at most of them and additional fun at Kimonos Staff – vast majority will always say hello if you take the time to say hello or even chat to them Activities- lots going on and your choice if you take part of it, not all for me to be honest, but first time I’ve been to a bowling alley and even though I wasn’t very good, it was still fun and that’s the key – you are on holiday , have fun and if something isn’t quite right just mention it to a manager as they want your holiday to be fantastic Is it expensive- yes- is it perfect – no ,is it good value for money – definitely, would we go back- already thinking of it and saving up

I am compelled to share my recent experience at Royal Sandals in Barbados to inform potential guests about the significant issues I encountered during my stay. While the hotel’s facilities were visually stunning and spacious, the service and operational shortcomings made for an extremely disappointing experience. Upon arrival, the check-in process took an exhausting four hours, with staff who were disrespectful and unhelpful when we requested a room change to better suit our needs. No orientation was provided, leaving us to navigate the large property without guidance, which was disorienting and frustrating. The behavior of some staff members was unacceptable—we observed employees smoking marijuana behind the bar, which delayed service and left customers waiting. The promised butler service was virtually nonexistent. Daily, our room was inadequately stocked with essentials like coffee, water, and towels, with issues consistently unresolved. Most concerning, the hot water was disconnected for the final 24 hours of our stay, forcing me to take cold showers, which led to illness after returning home. The bellboy service was equally unreliable. Despite multiple attempts to request assistance with our luggage the night before departure, no one responded, and the hotel lines were perpetually busy. We were told by three staff members to leave our suitcases in the hallway and go, forcing us to roll our luggage ourselves through the expansive property—a physically taxing 10-minute ordeal that was both frustrating and painful. To make matters worse, we were given incorrect information about the airport shuttle departure time. When we reached the lobby, we discovered the shuttle had already left without us. By sheer luck, we found another shuttle heading to the airport, but this was not due to any effort from Royal Sandals. Overall, the service at Royal Sandals in Barbados fell far short of the expectations set by its reputation. I hope this review encourages the management to address these issues to prevent other guests from facing similar disappointments. I strongly urge potential visitors to consider these experiences before booking.

My husband and I spent seven nights at Sandals Barbados the week of August 31st, and the staff was incredible from start to finish. Most of our time was spent scuba diving (14 dives!), and the dive team was outstanding. Melissa was so helpful with all the planning, Seth kept everyone laughing and relaxed, and Ryan, our dive master, went above and beyond to make us feel safe and confident during our wreck certification—he is truly exceptional. We also want to give a shoutout to Tom at the Merry Monkey—funny, efficient, and made every visit a highlight. Sandals Barbados, you have some real treasures on your team. We can’t wait to come back! —John & Susan Booth

OMG!!!! Best vacation ever!! Sandals Barbados owes me nothing!! What beautiful resort and the staff was amazing. Due to my flights being delayed I lost a day and a half at the resort not to mention my luggage wasn’t at the airport when I got there. The staff upgraded me to a suite and I forgot all about my horrible experience with the airline. It was my first time there, but definitely not my last. Lot of fun, good eating, dancing and great music. We celebrated my sister’s 50th birthday it was epic!!! Thank you Kiara, Mellisa and shakita and a host of others on the staff, Kiara won my heart with her fun filled bubbly personality can’t wait to see you guys again ❣️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sandals Barbados is pure paradise! The beach is breathtaking, the food is world-class, and the staff make you feel like family. Every detail is perfect—whether you want relaxation or adventure, this resort has it all. One of the best vacations I’ve ever had—I can’t wait to return! 🌴✨