We stayed in Barbados for a week a few years back and it was lovely, I do believe we were in the quiet St. James area. I would call it a little more refined than SXM, you have to wear long slacks (for males) and no shorts (for men or women) when dining out. I did see some people in nice jeans when dining out, but it was definitely more upscale dress. The food was really delicious everywhere we went, we found the people to be wholesome and healthy. Lots of people walking to work, whistling and jovial. No nudity allowed here, and you do drive on the other side of the road (than US). I would go back anytime, not a beach person but I do recall they looked very nice and not all that busy. Car was necessary IMHO.