We've just spent a beautiful week in Barbados and have some general information. Bougainvillea Resort - They are building a 5 story luxury condo directly next door to the resort. It is in the very early stages, i.e. they are digging and pouring the foundation so I imagine it will be going on for awhile. However, it was not very disruptive on the beach or at the hotel. Because of the way the resort is built in a U-shape facing the sea, you hardly hear any noise at all when you are on the actual hotel grounds. And on the beach, unless you are sitting right in front of the work site, the sound is drowned out by the surf and the strong breezes that are always on that part of the island. As for the Bougainvillea itself, our room was lovely, not tired at all and the staff were all very friendly and helpful.
Accra Resort - They have built a new addition along the north side of the resort. It is almost completed, i.e. the outside structural work is finished and they are moving to the interior. I would think that the heavy banging is over with.
Restaurants
There is a fantastic new lounge/restaurant at the entrance to the Gap, called Pravda (420-7617). It opened 4 months ago and is extremely stylish inside, all white linen sofas with tan accents - very minimalist. The service was very good, and they have a great cocktail menu. There are 6 or 7 appetizers and only 4 entres. Prices were not too expensive. It is in the old building where Coconuts was (a restored Chattel house). We sat outside and had a lovely view of the water, Pisces, etc.
The Restaurant at Southseas was as fabulous as ever. Excellent food and service.
We had an delicious dinner at Champers. Great service and huge portions.
We went to Holetown and had lunch at Cocomos and were very impressed with service, food and the view.
We tried Sweet Potatoes for the first time and thought the Bajan food was excellent. Again, great service and generous portions.

Hi Lobuzz, welcome back. Thanks to you and others on the board, we have booked our first trip to Barbados and the Boungainvilla Resort. I appreciate all of the useful information from your trip report, especially about dining.

Quick question, we booked a one-bedroom penthouse suite. I am not sure if they are located beach front or not. My question is which side of the resort, if you are facing the ocean, is the construction? I would like my travel agent to request the opposite side if possible. Thanks in advance.

Hi Easygoer - if you are facing the ocean, the construction in on the right (north) side of the resort. The way the resort is build, every room is an ocean view. It is U-shaped with all rooms facing the ocean and the pool, poolbar, etc. are in the "U". You enter your rooms from the back - or road side. Have a great time!

Thanks for the trip report. I spent a very enjoyable time on Barbados once upon a time, but I've not been back yet. It's nice to read a trip report on it, since it doesn't get a lot of press on this board aside from Lois who has made so many trips there now that I don't think she makes trip reports any more.

Hi Lobuzz,

Have just read your reviews about the Bourganvillea. We have been to the hotel before (albeit 5 years ago!) and have booked to go again in two weeks. There are four couples going as we all have something to celebrate. I am slightly concerned as to the ongoing construction as we have booked a one bedroom suite which from previous knowledge is situated on the side of the hotel where the building works is being undertaken.

The tone of your message suggests that there is nothing to worry about and that the disruption is minimal. To your knowledge were there any complaints from other holidaymakers or was it not really an issue. We are really looking forward to the holiday but just a little bit apprehensive on the building works! Any advice or tips would be most welcomed. Thank you.