Barbados is a coral island, created by constant volcanic activity from a far-off time. What makes this famous island so great? You could say it’s the beautiful coral reefs surrounding the water, endless art, activities, music, history, nightlife, but the biggest reason is the people. The mix of natural and human beauty in the island is matched by no other in the Caribbean.
Geography of the Island
Located in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies, Barbados is in the Caribbean region of North America. The island measures 34 kilometers (21 miles) in length and 23 kilometers (14 miles) in width, covering an area of 432 ㎢ (167 sq. miles).
Barbados is mainly flat, but also is home to rolling hills in its central highlands. Mount Hillaby is the high point of the nation. From powdery sand beaches, turquoise bays to the beautiful cities, Barbados has it all.
Culture of Barbados
A blend of West African, Creole, Indian, and British cultures is evident in Barbados. The wonderful citizens of Barbados are called Barbadians or “Bajan” and their numbers come in around 280,000. The majority of the population lives in or around the capital of Bridgetown.
Barbados was originally an English/British colony dating back to 1627, until the island gained its independence in 1966. The African influence on arrived when the slave trade did. The slaves worked the islands saving grace the sugar canes.
The mix of cultures is represented in the people, food, local dialect and much more. One of the biggest holidays and celebrations on the island is the Crop Over Festival. Held throughout July and ending in Grand Kadooment Day parade on the first Monday of August, this carnival involves variety of entertainment and celebrations for countless locals and tourists alike.
A true mix of old & new, conservative & open-minded, and English & African cultures makes Barbados entirely and truly unique.
Things to Do
With plenty of golf courses, sporting events, historic homes, and natural beauties spread through, Barbados is home of many attractions. Active travelers have a choice of many natural attractions at their disposal. One of the biggest attractions of the island is the famous Bathesda Beach located on the west coast. Home to the best surfing spot on the island and incredible rock formations that make for beautiful photography. Dover Beach follows Bathesda with its own offering of beautiful waves for surfing.
For those looking for calmer waters for a dip, Carlisle Bay provides incredible swimming spots and 6 shipwrecks for the fans of snorkeling. Hunte’s Gardens, located in St. Joseph parish, offers an array of colorful flowers, fern and breathtaking trees. If history and shopping is more your thing, then a walking tour of Bridgetown will truly give you an immersive experience. Every part of the culture is present in the architecture and energy of this beautiful city.
Harrison’s Cave is a wonder of limestone cavern while the Animal Flower Cave is the islands only accessible sea cave. You can also When you get your fix of nightlife or excitement in the Barbados do not forget to take a stroll down the mile-long Barbados Boardwalk.
Language and Currency
The official language in Barbados is English. You are also likely to hear Bajan dialect spoken in some parts, this language is a mixture of British English and various West African languages.
The local currency found in Barbados is the Barbadian or Bajan Dollar. The exchange rate stands around 1 USD: 1.99 BBD. To ease your mind, the U.S. dollar is also accepted across the island. You can also use several major credit cards.