Los Angeles & Barbados Multi & Twin Centre Holidays

The beaches, swells and warm weather are a huge draw for those wanting to visit LA, so the best time to enjoy those things is between April and June, or from September to October. That’s when the temperatures are the most pleasant, so you can enjoy all your activities without being rained on or at risk of sun exposure. There's also less chance of smog, which could cast a literal dark cloud over your holiday. A beach getaway in Barbados is best enjoyed during the dry season, which runs from December to April. You’ll get plenty of sunshine and the ocean is calm, so you can go in for a dip anytime you like. For those into surfing, the best time to visit is between November and July when the Atlantic swells bring good waves to the east coast of the island. June to November, is considered the wet season, which is a common factor to consider when visiting the Caribbean, as the weather is more volatile and, as you’d imagine, wet. But the truth of the matter is, both destinations have moderate climates and their own charms at any time of the year, so you’ll just need to decide how you’d like to spend your time there.

California is typically in the Pacific Time Zone while Barbados is in the Atlantic Standard Time Zone, meaning there’s a three-hour time difference when both regions are on standard time. However, it's important to note that the United States, observes Daylight Saving Time, while Barbados does not. That means that during that time in the US (from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November), Los Angeles moves to UTC-7 (PDT), resulting in a four-hour time difference. So, the time difference can be either three hours or four hours, depending on the time of year.

The best airport for LA is definitely LAX. It’s well-connected to domestic and international destinations with a wide range of international flights, making it a very convenient choice for your departure. Grantley Adams International Airport is the major airport serving Barbados. It has good connections to various destinations, including North America and Europe. 
 

There are so many beautiful outdoor spaces in Los Angeles, reflecting the gorgeous Southern California landscape. A stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk will be accompanied by street performers, surfers, rollerbladers and an eclectic mix of locals and tourists. Take a hike in Runyon Canyon and enjoy panoramic views of the city and perhaps a celeb spot or two. The scenic trails and nature in Topanga State Park and Malibu Creek State Park are also a site to behold. You can get some steps in and relax away from the bustling city.

Hitting the beach is an absolute must during your Barbados twin centre holiday. Some of the best stretches include Crane Beach, Miami Beach, and the calm waters of Carlisle Bay. You can enjoy all the usual holiday activities like swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding while you work on your tan. The clear waters around the island are perfect for exploring coral reefs and shipwrecks. Some of the best places for snorkelling and scuba diving include Carlisle Bay Marine Park and the SS Stavronikita wreck. Very Pirates of the Caribbean. Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so an absolute must to visit. You can take in the historic architecture, visit the Barbados Museum, and take a tour of the historic Garrison area. Barbados is also known as the birthplace of rum, so you can't visit without trying some of the local spirits. Make sure to take a rum distillery tour and learn about the history and production of rum and sample different varieties.

Packing for this type of holiday will require a versatile wardrobe to accommodate the different climates and activities you might plan. You’ll need swimsuits and light layers, for sure. Opt for cotton or linen for Barbados, as it will work well in the tropical climate. Los Angeles is milder, so it’s best to pack clothing that you can layer. T-shirts, long-sleeve tops, and light sweaters or jackets are useful. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, and slap on the Factor 50. 

Each area has its own vibe so it’s a matter of choosing the right one for you. Just south of Santa Monica, Venice Beach is known for its bohemian atmosphere, the famous Boardwalk, and Muscle Beach. Located northeast of downtown, Pasadena is home to a charming Old Town, the annual Rose Parade, and the Norton Simon Museum, meaning there’ll be plenty to do right on your doorstep. Culver City has a growing arts and food scene and is a more relaxed option that’s still close to the rest of LA. But if you really want the full LA experience then you should really consider staying in Beverly Hills. With Rodeo Drive offering the best shopping and fine dining, with stars strutting by, it’s a no-brainer.

Being a relatively small island, Barbados offers a surprisingly large variety of options for accommodation and experiences. St. Lawrence Gap, also known as "The Gap," has a great nightlife scene, lots of restaurants, and dazzling entertainment. If you want to be close to the capital city's historical sites and shopping districts, staying in Bridgetown is a good choice. The West Coast is a great choice if you're looking for luxury and more tranquillity. 

The Santa Monica Pier is a historic structure with an amusement park, restaurants, shops, and beautiful ocean views. You can make memories on the rollercoasters, enjoy corn dogs and cotton candy, and pick up some magnets and souvenirs that will remind you of your trip every time you look at them. It’s one of the most visited places in Los Angeles and even people-watching will make for a highly entertaining afternoon. Known for its eclectic atmosphere, Venice Beach is famous for its boardwalk, street performers and unique shops. As seen in multiple movies and TV shows, Venice Beach is more than a beach - it’s a lifestyle. Who knows, you might see two spandex-clad figures in neon rollerskates upon your next visit.

One of the most popular attractions is The Crane Beach. It’s known for its pink-tinged, powdery sand, sparkling turquoise waters, and dramatic cliff setting. It’ll feel like a fairytale and look fantastic in photos. Barbados also boasts many other attractions like botanical gardens, wildlife reserves, and historic sites that will give you insight into the island’s rich past and bountiful present.

LA is renowned for its taco culture, with many street vendors and taquerias serving up a wide variety of the beloved dish. You can also find an array of other Mexican and Oaxacan delicacies, including burritos, enchiladas, and tamales on your Los Angeles twin centre holiday. Also known for its food truck culture, LA offers everything from gourmet burgers to artisan ice cream as well as international street food including Thai, Ethiopian, Salvadoran, and more. 

Other than being the birthplace of queen Rihanna, Barbados is famous for its exquisite beaches that will leave you breathless. Some of the most notable ones are Crane Beach, Accra Beach, and Bottom Bay. Barbados is also known for its music scene, including calypso and reggae, and holds annual festivals celebrating its music and culture. Widely regarded as the birthplace of rum, the island has a long history of rum production, and it's home to some of the world's most famous rum brands, including Mount Gay Rum so make sure to grab yourself a tipple.