#DoTheTriple. Crop Over 2023 here we come! See info, budget, fetes etc here!
Listen, next year is not promised. I am blessed to have the means, and I will be FULLY enjoying my life! This year is looking like 4 carnivals for me with number 3 being Crop Over.
Im looking to try a mix of old and new events and I can tell you already Im planning a new band for Kadooment Day!
If you are on the fence, it’s not too late.
Flights
As usual there is always a shortage of seats to get to cropover AND prices can get high. I have found a useful hack for those using Caribbean airlines though. They have a layaway plan! It comes with some strict rules regarding payment and late payment can mean you lose your ticket but the layaway plan can change a big one time bill into several smaller, manageable payments. If you don’t have access to a ticketing office, call them and ask about their layaway plan.
Accomodations
Like Jamaica, Barbados has a strong tourist industry and accomodation is relatively easy to find and affordable. Airbnb is also prevalent and good places can be found for cheap. Look for areas in the capital Bridgetown, and more specifically I have always found “St. Lawrence Gap” to be the ultimate location in terms of getting around, safety, food etc. Hotels are also in abundance and are generally well priced. In general it will cost you $100USD per night for decent accomodations.
Fetes
The fete list is still in development but the parties in Bim are the highlight of my trip. There is no early bounce! And the women wine on you like they are trying to kill you and the value for money is fantastic. In fact, the best carnival event I have attended, “Bliss” in barbados, is an absolutely spectacular event.
In the coming days I will have posts regarding fete lists to help you with your trip.
Transport
I always use dedicated hired local transport to avoid getting lost and to have the most convenient experience possible. Transport operators in Barbados are EXCELLENT, efficient and pleasant and reasonably priced as well. I’m going to give you the number of one of my day one transport operators who, if he cant help you himself, will get help for you.
Name: “STATEMENT”
Whatsapp: 1 (718) 219-7588
A Rough Budget:
Flight from Jamaica 700usd
Accomodation Thursday to tuesday 700usd
Fetes 500usd
Transport and food 200usd
Costume (male 450usd, female 500usd minimum)
Total: Approx 2650usd before choosing your costumes.
Remember, layaway the flight to spread the cost. Accommodations can go on your credit card in August and you can pay that back over time. So it’s only the fetes that you need all the money up front.
It can work on your budget!
So come join me as we head to the sweetest summer festival.
