In the Caribbean, Barbados is considered to be in the Lesser Antilles island group and is well renowned as being a fast developing nation, which makes it very popular with tourists. The warm tropical weather, gorgeous Caribbean beaches (some good for surfing) and mix of duty free shopping, wildlife reserves, festivals and general atmosphere make this a great destination whether you are looking for a beach holiday or something with a little more substance.
Famous for Rum, make sure you visit one of the 1200 rum shops and sample ones such as the oldest, Mount Gay Rum. The duty free shopping all over the island is something that makes it extremely popular with tourists, whether from cruises or visiting the island by air. Make sure that you look up your tour operator’s guidelines on alcohol if you want to take a tipple home though, as some may restrict the amount that you are allowed to take.
Look up The Plantation Theatre in Barbados in order to get a proper feel for the place and for the pace of West Indian life. Offering a vibrant show, Bajan Roots and Rhythms is a performance which should not be missed, and is held at the theatre every Wednesday and Friday in the evenings. With a buffet included, this is a full evening’s entertainment for people of any age.
It is the waters you should take to if you really want to experience Barbados at its best though. Known for sports, the island has east beaches which are good for some lighter surfing, but there is one thing that is absolutely fantastic for offering the best water sports in the area. Head for the Hilton Hotel near Bridgetown for Barbados Blue Water Sports and explore the local seas. Offering PADI certified scuba diving instruction; you can see coral reefs, shoals of brightly coloured fish and even shipwrecks. There is also a Sea Turtle habitat which can be visited, to see the much loved creatures in their natural environment. The southern side of the island is the best for kayaking, windsurfing and sailing if this is more your scene. There are many chances for tourists to make the most of all that the sea has to offer, there are various rental services available around the island’s shoreline, so you can get the equipment you need for the sports.
Adults and children over 3 feet tall can take the ultimate tour of the waters though. Atlantis Submarines Barbados is based originally around Bridgetown and has 2 submarines which take people out to see the coral reef which Barbados is so well known for. 2 miles long and 60 feet high, this is a natural wonder that does not require diving to see it.
Enjoy the many rum based drinks on the island whilst overlooking great sea front panoramas and then head out in the day to make the most of the waters, and you will soon see why Barbados is so popular with tourists. Just remember to leave room in your suitcase for all the treasures you can bring back.
Happy Holidays