Barbados, whose capital is a surprisingly attractive city, is truly a paradise. Amazing beaches with white sand that leaves no residue on clothes, clear water, magnificent nature and gentle sun. This is exactly what the traveler, who is tired of gray everyday life and daily routine, craves.
Fairytale island, dream island
Today we will visit a unique corner of the planet - Barbados. Where is this country located and what makes it special? Such a question can cause a storm of emotions among travelers who have been there. And also a whole avalanche of laudatory words, because she does not leave indifferent any guest.
So, this is an island in the Caribbean small in size, part of the Lesser Antilles group. Its fantastic landscape is created by lush tropical nature, turquoise waves and long beaches, rugged lagoons. And if you add to all this a mild, even climate throughout the year and an abundance of entertainment, you simply cannot find the best place to relax and improve.
Surrounded by coral reefs, Barbados, the capital of which is the country's main resort city, is mostly flat. Only on the east coast, washed by the Atlantic Ocean, can one see small slopes. The West Bank is washed by the glorious Caribbean Sea.
In the past, this territory belonged to the British Crown. And today Barbados, where there are many monuments of the colonial era, carefully preserves the traditions of the Foggy Albion, for which it is often called Little England.
Main city
The reader already knows that the island is Barbados, its capital is the next stopping point on our route. This is a beautiful settlement, the main port of the country and the largest resort. Its name - Bridgetown - comes from two bridges that are thrown over the bay, deeply crashing into the coast. This picturesque bay divides the city into two parts. About one hundred thousand people live here permanently. It is worth noting that the island capital is one of the main free ports in the Caribbean, and therefore it houses the offices of major companies and the residence of the government.
Sights of the capital
Barbados, whose capital is already known to us, is proud of its attractions. In the central part of Bridgetown is Trafalgar Square, and on it is a monument to Lord Nelson. The one who forced the French and Spaniards to abandon the capture of the island and leave it to Britain. From the square begins Broad Street - the main shopping area, and also offers a fabulous view of the harbor called Careenage. Both bridges will lead to the main markets of the island.
If you go east from Trafalgar Square, you can get to St. Michael’s Cathedral, which is notable for the fact that George Washington prayed here in 1751. It was the only trip of the American president outside the United States. The temple building is built in a classic style of coral stone.
To the east of the temple, the Royal Park has spread its emerald tent, famous for the fact that it grows baobab over a thousand years old and houses a theater (the former residence of the commander of British troops). And a mile from the capital is the Barbados Museum.
Things to do?
What else can you do on the island, besides sightseeing, swimming and lazy lying on the beaches? It is proposed to go on a boat trip, ride a sailboat, go down to the bottom with scuba diving, play golf. In January, the festival of jazz music is annually held, which attracts people from all over the world. On the island you can book a short excursion to the places where the filming of “Pirates of the Caribbean” took place, and to the nearby islands.
Places for rest
An island in the Caribbean seems to be created for relaxation. Its south coast is ideal for fans of surfing. The area is full of small hotels of three and four star levels, numerous bars where rum is for sale, there are discos and restaurants. The capital of nightlife is the town of St. Lawrence Gap.
If you are planning a vacation in Barbados and prefer a quiet pastime, then choose the west coast. The waves of the Caribbean are surprisingly transparent and clean, and the sands have a golden hue. Here are the best hotels of the island, cozy bars and restaurants.
The east coast, washed by the Atlantic Ocean, is very beautiful. It is suitable for lovers of secluded relaxation, as there are few tourists here. It offers wild beaches and first-class surfing conditions.
The country of Barbados in the north is sparsely populated. But here is a wildlife sanctuary (only 25 kilometers from the capital Bridgetown), which is home to turtles, otters, green monkeys, roe deer and other exotic inhabitants.
Hotel sector
Barbados hotels are a different story. There are a lot of them on the island, and among them there are establishments that differ in a royal interior, but there are more modest hotels. But they all offer first-class service so that the guest’s life resembles being in paradise. Among the five-star hotels, professionals and experienced tourists are advised to choose Beach View, Sandy Lane Hotel, Hilton Barbados Resort, The Sandpiper, Dover Beach Hotel, Yellow Bird Hotel and others.
The four-star establishments that people have responded positively to are The Crane Residential Resort, Ocean Two Resort & Residences, Mango Bay All Inclusive, Bougainvillea Beach Resort, Port St. Charles If the traveler is looking for a three-star establishment, then you should pay attention to the Blue Horizon, Little Bay Hotel, Divi Heritage.
What do people say?
And what do people who visited Barbados say? Their reviews are the most enthusiastic, as the islanders know exactly what the traveler needs. And this is the best addition to heavenly living conditions and climate. People say that there is amazing water, like no other Caribbean resort. A lot of beaches and water activities, but few locals. Even the capital may seem like a provincial town with a rich historical past. Relax on the beach can be combined with sightseeing. Tourists are also advised to be prepared for high temperatures, as even in May days the afternoon is too hot.
Some more useful tips
Going to Barbados, a traveler should know that sunbathing naked or topless is strictly prohibited here. Little England sacredly honors traditions and does not depart from moral standards.
Most retail establishments are open from half past eight to 16:30 from Monday to Friday, Saturday is a shortened day, and Sunday is a day off. The island has duty-free shops, supermarkets (open until 20:00), specialized shops selling rum. Prices here are quite high, and sellers often do not give change (no small money).
You can enjoy local specialties and other dishes at the restaurants. Especially popular on the island are flying fish delicacies and seafood.
You can get to Barbados by plane. The airport is fourteen kilometers from the capital, which can be overcome by bus or taxi. It’s convenient that taxis work around the clock, but they don’t have a meter, so you should agree on the fare in advance.
Now you all know about holidays on a paradise island of the Caribbean, how to get there and what to see there. So pack your bags, buy a ticket and go on an unforgettable vacation. And that he will be just like that, we have no doubt. After all, Barbados was created for a quiet lying on the shore, crazy diving into the waves, incredible adventures in the depths of the island and exploring its rich history. Have a nice trip!