You don’t need Simon Cowell’s stash to chill out on the golden beaches of the Caribbean’s most popular island, Barbados, says DUNCAN WRIGHT

THINK Barbados and  ­images of beautiful, sandy beaches, rum punch and a hefty price tag spring to mind.

After all, if Simon Cowell and the Rooneys choose to holiday on this Caribbean isle time after time, it’s likely to be available only to the rich and famous.

So you might be surprised to learn the West Indies are within reach for us mere mortals who have not made our millions just yet.

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A new player has entered the market, offering breaks in Barbados which combine affordability and comfort.

Travel City Direct has already established a reputation for providing holidays to Florida – and the company has now branched out into the Caribbean.

Its cheap package deals, with flights on Virgin Atlantic, are sure to attract plenty of interest.

Islanders say once you get a taste of Bajan life you never stop going back.

Even though the rich and famous have moved in, they have not been able to take over and spoil Barbados. Not one of its beaches is private, for instance.

So although you might not be able to afford the £3,000-a-night luxury of the Sandy Lane resort where Simon stays, you can share the same stretch of beach as him.

Not that celebrity spotting is the main attraction of the place.

You’ll either be doing what the locals do best – chilling out – or be busy e njoying the sights, sounds, culture and other pursuits.

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Dramatic
Most accommodation is on the west coast of the island, where the Caribbean Sea gently laps on to mile upon mile of golden sand and stunning bays.

The east coast is far more rugged as the strong waves of the Atlantic crash against dramatic rocky beaches, posing a challenge to even the most talented surfer.

I stayed at the All Seasons hotel on the west coast, an affordable and charming resort five ­minutes away from Sandy Lane.

Set in grounds dotted with palm trees and a swimming pool, the self-catering complex offers you the option of preparing your own food to help keep the budget down.

And just a short stroll down the road you can be staring out on to crystal blue waters, body-boarding, snorkelling or jet-skiing up and down the coast.

You can spend a day ­chilling out on the deck of a Tiami 40ft catamaran which glides up and down the west coast before dropping anchor in a couple of bays so you can snorkel and swim with the turtles and tropical fish which live on the coral reefs.

You’ll be collected right from your hotel, board in Bridgetown, the island’s capital, before settling down to relax, soak up the sun and enjoy a few drinks and the local cuisine.

Alternatively, take in an island safari, visit the factory that makes Mount Gay Rum, inset below, go deep-sea fishing or treat yourself to a helicopter tour to view Barbados from the air.

Taxis are cheap if you want to get around and many hotels put on shuttle buses.

But an even more affordable option is to climb on board the regular buses that circuit the island.

There’s plenty of enjoyable nightlife and you really do have to take in Oistins Fish Fry on a Friday evening.

Lively
Oistins on the east coast is the island’s main fishing community and boasts a modern fish market where you will discover a real feast from the seas.

With reggae music blaring or a band playing on stage, you can stroll around the vast array of food huts and sample all types of freshly-caught seafood or Caribbean ­delicacies cooked any way you want, for about £5 each.

This is a lively night where tourists and locals all mix and party – and although you may have to queue for your food, it tastes delicious.

Plus, there is always the rum punch, Banks beer and music to while the time away.

You’re also guaranteed a good night out in Holetown, on the west of the island, which has plenty of bars and restaurants.

For authentic Italian cuisine try Spago or enjoy the ocean-front setting and fresh seafood at ­Zaccios.

A night watching the Bajans in karaoke action at the One Love bar is an experience to remember.

But the real party area is St Lawrence Gap, where you will discover a strip of bars, restaurants and clubs, none of which are too expensive.

Another great spot is the Harbour Lights club, which stretches out on to the sandy beach just south of Bridgetown.

For £25 you get entry, all your drinks and a full-on, open-air party with live ­entertainment.

So whatever your budget, Barbados is an island full of treats for you to enjoy.

FACT FILE:

Stay seven nights at the All Seasons Europa, Barbados, with Travel City Direct from £709 per person. Price is based on two adults and two children (under 12) sharing on a room-only basis. Includes direct return Virgin Atlantic flights from Gatwick and return resort transfers. Price is based on June 14 departure. For more details and to book see travelcitydirect.com

OUT & ABOUT: Tiami Catamaran trip – daily trips from £55 per person including lunch and drinks. See tallshipscruises.com

Island Jeep Safari costs £55 per person, including lunch at Sunbury Plantation. For details click on Barbadosgreathouse.com