The Caribbean is a location that many people have seen but few have experienced. You would have seen images throughout movies, posters and of course brochures themselves. One of the most famous if the islands located in this region is the island paradise of Barbados, famous for its white beaches, turquoise water and rich and vibrant culture this is one island you have probably heard of before. If you are planning a trip to this part of the world be it on a holiday or from a cruise you will find everything you are looking for, rentals in barbados are it for accommodation, transport or chartered fishing are all in abundance, plus anything else you can think of.
While most people get caught up in the world wind of their location, many people forget to ask about the islands many facets which make it such an amazing and unique location, here I’ve compiled a list of key facts about Barbados which may help to inform you and help you on your journey.
Geography:
The capital of Barbados is Bridgetown which also acts as the main transport hub of the island and contains its main international airport. The island is roughly 21 miles long and 14 miles wide meaning transport is quite easy with many different forms of transport available.
The west and south of the island have relaxing seas suitable for swimming and snorkelling while the East coast is much more suitable for advanced surfing. The north coast isn’t recommended for any water activities due to the powerful Atlantic Ocean hitting the coastline.
The highest point on the island is only 1,120 feet (340m), so not exactly a hiker’s paradise but the perfect place to take an evening stroll within the jungle canopy and rolling hills. This does make ideal conditions when a cool breeze does pass through the island cooling down the average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius.
History:
Barbados once a former British colony, colonised in 1625 and it remained so until 1966. Once covered in Fig trees, these were destroyed to make way for Tobacco and coffee plantations. These were worked on by Slaves from both Europe and Africa, whose descendants now make up the population of Barbados.
It also has the third longest functioning parliament having maintained governance since 1639. This has helped create the strong economic and political links which many of its neighbours do not share.
Language:
The official language of Barbados is English with strong local dialects. This makes all tasks and information easily digestible to native English speakers and those of other languages as well. Most of the laws are enacted form common British laws, so hopefully, you won’t have any issues with regards to communications and information.
Currency:
The local currency is the Barbados dollar which is $1USD-$2BD most major currencies can be exchanged on the island but if you have USD exchanges will be much easier and faster. With a rather high GDP and obviously its famous location you can expect prices to match or be higher than in your native country.
This doesn’t mean that Barbados is not open to travellers of all budgets though, with many affordable accommodations and dining options.
Infrastructure:
As already states Barbados has a well-functioning an intact transport network. Similar to this all other major services are in very good condition with clean and safe drinking water available across the country, along with electricity, and public services such as toilets and showers, many of which are located on the public beaches to the west and south of the country.
People:
With a population of roughly 280,000, Barbados can sometimes feel like one big town rather than an island state. But what Barbados lacks in numbers it certainly makes up for it in diversity and cultural celebration.
With a mix of mainly African and British influences on the island, you will find anything from world class cricket players to wonderfully colourful annual festivals which celebrate everything from the country’s Independence Day of new crops throughout the year. These infuse, dance, food and music.
Cuisine:
Famous for its seafood there is a national dish which combines this love of seafood with an African twist. Flying fish and Cou-Cou is the national dish of Barbados and is traditionally served on a Friday.
Flying fish is the national symbol of Barbados and make one half of this meal, the other half is Cou-Cou made of yellow cornmeal and Okras or less traditionally breadfruit and green bananas. A tasty meal and a must try on a visit to Barbados. You will be happily surprised at how tasty this is.
Sports:
Due to the major influence of Britain on the country, popular sports in Barbados are very similar to Britain with the number one sport being cricket followed quickly by Horseracing and athletics. With a strong history in each of these fields, taking the time out to see one or more of these sporting events will definitely not be a wasted day.
Kensington Oval is the national cricket grounds, while most of the big races are held at Garrison Savannah, one of the oldest tracks on the island.
As you can see Barbados is not simply beaches and the ocean but a country with a vibrant and varied history and culture. Hopefully, these facts can aid you in discovering more about this little piece of paradise and wat you can find there.