Barbados Information
Beaches Lapped by calm Caribbean waters, long ribbons of golden sands broken only by coral outcrops, line the glittering Platinum Coast on the west of the island. Barbados' most luxurious and upmarket hotels also cluster here so it is difficult to find an uncrowded spot. By contrast on the surf-splashed Atlantic shorelines to the east, you'll find beautifully rugged coastal cliffs concealing remote bays and beaches and large ocean swells more suited to surfing than swimming. Out and About In Barbados' capital of Bridgetown, Lord Nelson stands in National Heroes Square, the statue erected in 1813 and older than the one in London's Trafalgar Square. Another attraction in the capital is the massive Baobab tree, supposedly brought over from Africa in the 1700's and for shopping the busy port brims with duty-free shops. The islands Mount Gay rum distillery is the oldest in the world, its produce the main constituent of Barbados' excellent rum punch. One of Barbados' most visited attractions is the unique phenomenon of Harrison's Cave; an amazing gallery of stalactites and stalagmites, spectacular pillars, crystal-clear waterfalls and deep emerald pools. Dining and Entertainment The luxurious oceanfront restaurants of the Platinum Coast offer some of the island's finest gourmet, creole and seafood dining. Often mooted to be Barbados' most expensive restaurant, The Cliff boasts staggering ocean views and visitors flock to Payne's Bay for a taste of the Blue Monkey's coco shrimp and lobster burgers. But if you just fancy chilling out with the locals, check out the Bajan staple of fried chicken or head for St Lawrence Gap and along Bay Street for some of Barbados' coolest nightclubs where local bands play calypso, reggae and R&B most nights of the week. Activities Barbados boast the perfect conditions for a full raft of holiday water sports; swim with the turtles, feed tame tropical fish, or descend to the depths on an Atlantis submarine dive expedition viewing the coral reef and a sunken shipwreck. Trek out to some of Barbados' hidden bays and beaches on a 4x4 adventure touor across to the eastern and north eastern coast with swimming stops and visits to Edge Cliff, the pretty fishing village and surfing spot of Bathsheba and Joes River Forest, home to the Barbados Green Monkey. It is true that Barbados is a tiny island, just 21 miles long by 14 miles wide, but if you think that it wouldn’t have enough going on to keep you busy and entertained when on holiday, you would be mistaken. The furthest east of the Windwards, this very British island combines spectacular pink-hued sandy beaches with a rich cultural heritage. Yes, there’s plenty of “limin’” (chilling out), but from “wining” (a kind of dancing) to water sports, there’s more than enough to do to fill your days and nights.
Affectionately known as 'Little England', a certain British-ness pervades daily life, from place names (Clapham, Dover, Hastings and Lancaster are a few) to driving on the left, roundabouts and afternoon tea! The quick witted, chatty and very friendly Barbadians welcome visitors to their island and quickly make them feel at home!
To get a real feel for this pretty coral island, you need to head to the beaches. A catamaran tour around the island provides a completely different perspective of its natural beauty, while snorkelling amongst the coral reefs just off shore is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Head to the south side of the island if you’re looking to party. If you are a couple in search of romance or a family seeking a bit of peaceful quality time together, head to the west coast for its more laid-back holiday vibe.
A holiday in Barbados usually involves lots of pleasurable time spent at one of the island’s many all-inclusive resorts, where the meals, drinks, daily activities and evening entertainment are all provided as part of your holiday package. However, if you can force yourself to put down the rum punch and drag yourself away from the poolside lounge (yes, we know it’s an effort), you can discover the local flavour of the surrounding villages. If you only get one free afternoon away from the resort, head to Barbados’ rugged east coast for the breathtaking scenery, rugged cliffs and some monster Atlantic surf.
In the mood for a party? The island’s south shore is known for its bustling nightlife, particularly in St Lawrence Gap, with a number of great bars, restaurants, nightclubs and live entertainment. On the west coast, you’ll find Barbados’ beautiful white sand beaches edged by lush tropical vegetation and the calm waters of the Caribbean sea.
Make your way to the capital city of Bridgetown, where you can find beautiful 300-year-old colonial buildings, catch a lively game of cricket at the Kensington Oval, or simply keep your eyes open for a local game on a grass patch in one of the villages.
Many families and couples come back year after year to enjoy the laid back friendly atmosphere and whether its your first or tenth time here you will be sure of an holiday to remember. Wherever you go, whatever you choose to do on your Barbados holiday, the charm and hospitality of the locals is sure to capture your heart.
