Global tour operator holidays'>Virgin Holidays has announced plans to build an airport departure lounge with a difference: it will be located on a beach in Barbados.

From summer 2018, flyers leaving the Caribbean country will be able to be transferred straight from their hotel to The Departure Beach, located on Brownes Beach in Carlisle Bay, where they will drop off their luggage and receive their boarding pass.

Until it is time for them to board, they will be able to swim in the sea, take a drink at the beach bar, sunbathe or access an air-conditioned lounge with a children’s area and complimentary internet access. Shower and changing facilities and lockers will also be included.

The cost of entering the lounge will be £20 for adults and £15 for children.

Explaining the concept, Virgin Holidays said: “Life should be a beach every day of your holiday – especially your last day.”

According to the Independent newspaper, Cheryl Carter of Barbados tourism marketing added: “We’re thrilled that Barbados has been chosen to pioneer such a revolutionary concept – and as it’s situated on one of the most picturesque beaches on the island, why would you choose to waste that last day of your holiday?”