Here our Luxuria Villas top 10 attractions to consider when visiting Barbados:

(if you have any of your own attractions that you think should be included then simply e-mail us at info@luxuriavillas.com)

1. Go sailing for the day on a catamaran

An excellent day out for the whole family, a relaxing but also fun-filled day at sea. For most day cruises drinks are provided throughout the day and lunch is served on board. The boats normally stop at 2 or 3 destinations along the coast so that you can swim with the turtles and snorkel. The reefs offer some spectacular snorkelling, don't forget to take an underwater camera.

If you would prefer to charter a boat for the private use of your party instead of being on a commercial cruise with up to 50 people then contact Elite Leisure. They have two 27' Super Leisure Cruisers, one 21' Bayliner Speed Boat and a Glass Bottomed Boat for the exclusive use of between 2-12 passengers. For more information on the cruises on offer and prices click here.

2. Visit Earthworks Pottery in St. Thomas

This attraction is a magnificent experience, with every piece of pottery unique, providing an excellent opportunity for a unique souvenir. The pieces are made at the back of the store so visitors are able to watch and learn as the pottery is made (the attraction is open all year but the production staff normally take their holidays during August). There is also an art gallery, a studio and a café.

3. Go on an island excursion

There are plenty of excursion operators to choose from on the island and many different types of excursion including safaris, 4x4 adventures and ATV tours. Alternatively you could hire a car and go on your own excursion! If you hire a 4x4 vehicle there are lots of tracks for off-roading, however be cautious and ask the locals what the best routes are.

4. Go Hiking

A perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the island for free. Hikes are organised by the Barbados National Trust, and, although they are free, any donations to the organisation are much appreciated. Hikes take place on different weekends throughout the year and there are 4 grades, ranging from 6 miles long to 12 miles long. We recommend the shorter hikes if you would like to stop and take pictures. Find a hike that takes in the Signal Station at Gun Hill in St. George, or drive their yourself. It is the highest point on the island, offering wonderful panoramic views. Continue on the road that leads you to the signal station and as it loops back to the highway you can see the famous 10ft White Lion, which was carved in 1868 by British Army Captain Henry Wilkinson from a single piece of rock.

5. Take a rum tour and discover how Barbados rum is made

Barbados is famous for its rum and there are 3 rum tours to choose from, with the Foursquare Rum Factory in St. Philip, the Malibu Visitor Centre in St. Michael or the Mount Gay Rum Tour and Gift Shop, also in St. Michael.

6. Go to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve

This attraction provides the perfect opportunity to see a Barbados Green Monkey and is a great family day out. The Reserve is located at Farley Hill in St. Peter and is also across the road from the Farley Hill National Park. There are many animals to see, especially monkeys. It is a good idea to call before you go (246 422-8826) to ask when the next feeding for the monkeys is so you can get the best look.

7. Learn to surf

Barbados has some excellent surf venues, including the legendary Soup Bowl at Bathsheba. The waves at Sandbank and Ragged Point provide a excellent place for beginners to learn, with a good choice of companies available to provide tuition. Apart from surfing it is also possible to take kite surfing or windsurfing lessons.

8. Visit Ocean Park Marine Aquarium

Located at Balls in Christ Church this is another excellent family day out, with adults and children alike sure to be fascinated by the wonders of the ocean. There are open air habitats, aquariums and even a touch pool where visitors can carefully handle marine creatures. There are facilities for lunch and refreshments as well as a children's playground.

9. Take a beach tour

Travel the island stopping at the best beaches. Stop for a picnic at Barclays Park, enjoy some surfing at Bathsheba or body boarding at Crane Beach. If you would like to try water skiing or other water activities Mullins is a great beach, or if you would just like to relax and bask in the sunshine Gibbs Beach is perfect. Take your own tour and discover your favourite Barbados beach.

10. Experience the restaurants and nightlife

There is wealth of choice of restaurants catering for all tastes and pockets. 'Olives Bar and Bistro' and 'Ragamuffins' in Holetown offer excellent quality at a great price, as does the 'Waterfront Cafe' in Bridgetown. All 3 offer great meals for around US$10-US$20 per person. If you would like to spend over US$30 then the world famous 'Cliff' restaurant (pictured right) and 'Sassafras', both located at Derricks, are excellent choices.

In terms of nightlife there is an excellent choice of clubs, one of the best nightclubs is the beachfront 'Harbour Lights', just south of Bridgetown, with Bridgetown also having a number of excellent bars. St. Lawrence Gap is also a great place to head for vibrant nightlife, with the Jam Rock Café and Café Sol just 2 of the many great bars to visit..