Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Amanda Stancati
Besides its sunny beaches, Barbados is known for its British roots, friendly people, and shining star: Rhianna. This charming Caribbean island is small in size, but carries a refinement that attracts both the elite and backpackers wanting a taste of the island life. You may associate Barbados as the luxury island and we explain why. Here are our top 9 reasons to visit Barbados:
1. Beaches
Beaches are more pristine on Barbados’ west coast, while the more rugged east coast makes it a good spot for surfing. People visit to kayak, swim with turtles, and snorkel past the colourful coral reefs surrounding the island. Luckily, there are no vendors trying to sell you products while you sunbathe, just the warm ocean breeze and swaying palms to keep you company.
2. Harrison’s Cave
The most famous of the Barbados landmarks is Harrison’s Cave, with its pools, waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters. Take a day trip to guide you through the underground system of tunnels and see the display of stalactites and stalagmites, natural mineral formations that hang from the ceiling or emerge from the ground.
3. Restaurants
The cuisine is Barbados is top-notch – and visitors know it. From mahi-mahi to macaroni pie, Barbados boasts a ton of specialties. While you won’t find the golden arches, you will find the fast-food chain, Chefette with their broasted chicken, Banks Beer which originated in Barbados, and fresh mangos, coconuts, and sugar cane. Don’t miss out on a taste of the spicy, salty fish cakes or a slurp of Rum Punch, a cocktail made with Mount Gay Rum from the world’s first rum distillery! This rum has been crafted using Barbados’ sugar cane since 1703. Take a tour of the distillery and enjoy different varieties.
4. Resorts
Barbados isn’t just for people with deep pockets: From luxury resorts where you can park your yacht to hostels where you can stay for cheap, Barbados has all types of accommodations for different budgets. There is a mix of all-inclusive and European plan hotels (sans meal plan), but a lot of people opt for a condo-style accommodation, bed and breakfast, seaside cottage, or boutique hotel as well.
5. Shopping
Shopping in Barbados is fantastic, with shopping malls, farmer’s markets, and craft markets throughout. The main shopping area in Bridgetown is Broad Street, with the Bayshore Complex located just outside of the city. Bridgetown has great duty-free shops and department stores while Holetown and Speightstown have lots of craft and gift shops worth visiting.
6. Nightlife
Barbados has some of the best nightlife in the Caribbean, from its nightclubs in the St Lawrence Gap (known as “The Gap”) to the reggae music that makes up the island’s soundtrack, to the famous Friday nights at Oistins seaside fish market for music, amazing food, and a good time. The Oistin’s Fish Fry transforms the village into a night-long street party with vendor stalls and pumping music. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss on your Barbados vacation!
7. Activities
Barbados has activities like horseback riding, golfing, and visits to attractions like the Botanical Gardens and Garrison District. Enjoy water sports like body surfing, fishing, kayaking, parasailing, and kitesurfing – plus scuba diving and snorkeling to discover life underwater. You can also partake in sports like cycling, hiking, tennis, and more.
8. Bridgetown
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital city rich in history, Bridgetown offers cultural buildings, shopping malls, and street vendors. The Bridgetown Boardwalk is a great place to enjoy a view of the sunset and boats. If you’re looking for history, visit National Heroes Square, the Jewish Synagogue, and the Parliament Buildings.
9. Bajan hospitality
In Barbados, time is slow and people are friendly, a welcomed contrast to the hustle and bustle of life back home. Take the time to build friendships and soak up the culture: dance to the music, taste the food, and enjoy every moment.
CONTACT AN AGENT WHO’S BEEN TO BARBADOS AT 1-800-665-4981 TODAY!
For more tips, check out the 100 best things to do in Barbados.
