The south-east edge of Barbados feels fresh and open, with trade winds and big skies. Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle Resort sits in Long Bay, St Philip, at the end of Belair Road. It is a fine base for island days. Plan a slow trip to Oistins for the fish fry. Dip into Bridgetown for old streets and shops. Take a drive to Bathsheba for wild surf. End with Bottom Bay for soft sand and quiet.

Your room sets the tone, clean and bright, with smart details. The resort offers 422 rooms, with 37 suites for extra space. Pick a Deluxe Room with resort or ocean views, or step up to a Terra, Ember, or Zephyr Suite with two balconies. The Ocean Suite adds an outdoor tub for late soaks. Expect a 55-inch LG 4K TV, a Nespresso machine, and a bath with both a tub and a shower, plus robes and slippers.

Sun and sea take centre stage on this coast. You can stretch out on the sand, then slip into warm water for a swim. Each night, music and shows lift the air near the main pool. Join games and contests set across the resort. Families enjoy sessions near the family pool and the Kids Club. For a change of scene, head to Oistins Fish Fry or a bay.

Luxury feels easy when everything runs on time. The all-inclusive plan covers meals, a stocked mini bar, and 24/7 in-room dining. You can drift between six pools, with a wading pool for small ones. The Spa at Wyndham Grand Barbados spans 13,000 square feet and holds seven rooms plus a spa pool. Kids can head to the Kids Club while you book a class. A chef's garden and water reuse respect the island.

Food matters here, so dress to create the mood you want. Castle View Restaurant suits a polished night, with prime cuts and seafood from an open kitchen and a set dress code. The Mediterranean Market brings five kitchen styles, from Italian to French, with craft cocktails and mocktails. Sam Lords Grill keeps lunch casual by the pool. Start with a drink at Lantern Bar or Lucy Lounge. Finish at Burnt Cask Rum Bar for island rums.

Big moments need a stage, and this resort brings one with style. The Trident Grand Ballroom spans 10,000 square feet and can be divided into zones for your event. Daylight pours in, and chandeliers echo the lantern tale of Sam Lord. A 20-by-24-foot digital wall adds drama for speeches and dance sets. You also get four executive meeting rooms and both indoor and outdoor event space. Add custom menus, then let the night run its course.