which is a great all-inclusive resort, great for families. It's quite a trek from the airport, taking about 1 1/2 hours by road. This journey in itself is a breathtaking experience, as you wind around banana plantations, small villages and rainforest. The Papillon is a low rise development, of 140 rooms split into 3 categories. We had booked a standard room, but on arrival we were upgraded to a superior room, a few steps away from the swimming pool, and just a few more to the beach. This was because they only allow small children in the ground floor rooms. Everything was close by, the restaurants and bars, childrens club, gym, and a shop. This really was a friendly place, all the staff and (most of) the locals are really friendly. They really go out of their way to make sure you are happy with everything. We went in June, the sun was hot every day, we also saw some rain, but it's so warm, that you just wanna stand out in it - it's over in no time.

Entertainment at the hotel was great too, with a never ending stream of talented local acts. These ranged from typical Reggae and Soca acts, fire eating, and even fashion shows. On several occasions the audience were invited to take part - limbo being a favourite amongst young and old. Karaoke was also popular, with bottles of Champagne to be won, (of which we won 3 bottles). There was a definate party feeling each night, but it was also very casual and relaxed.

We visited quite a few of the 'attractions' on offer on this beautiful island.

This is the sunset which I saw from just outside my room......believe me it was stunning.

Some advice....
Take plenty of Sun tan lotion - it is expensive locally, and you will need more than you think

Barter with the locals - you will be approached by the locals on the beach, in the towns, on tours - everywhere. They will be offering taxis, shells, coconut carvings, jewellery, aloe vera, and of course the local green herb. If you are interested in the wares, barter with them, as almost certainly they will be asking silly prices for things. Quite often you can be pushed into a sale, by the patter, first 'giving you a gift', but then explaining the need for hard cash. Most of the locals will take no for an answer, but some can be quite pushy.

Jump Up - be sure to visit the weekly street party in Gros Islet. This is where locals and tourists stand side by side for a night of music, dringing, eating and dancing. Just be careful, there are a lot of people there and pick pocketing is common. Try to keep hold of your partner, and I would advise against taking children who may not enjoy the crush. You can get on the bus from the hotel, and have a few hours at the party, then be safely brought back again - the bus won't leave until everybody is back (which is useful as we had problems finding it!). The bus driver went searching for us!

Rum - this has got to be one of the best buys to take back with you, at about £3 for a 1litre bottle. There is quite a selection, if you visit one of the supermarkets. The 80% alc content (double strength) rum is a killer, and it smells really potent. You could use it to make a rum jelly if you were feeling really wicked. (See my recipe for Vodka Jelly)

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