The tranquil and beautiful Caribbean and its allurement illustrated in its pristine waters, tropical breezes, salty air, lush landscapes, hidden treasures and abundance of things to see and do, prompts tourists to seek out the many islands that makes up the Caribbean oases. Barbados is yet another sampling of the diverse and attractive appeal provided by Caribbean ambiance, that keeps tourists coming back for more.
Barbados is a small island located in the Lesser Antilles. It is 21 mile long and 24 miles long accounting for 166 square miles of land situated in the western area of the North Atlantic and east of the Windward Islands and Caribbean Sea.
As is the case with many other Caribbean Islands, Barbados is an island rich in tradition combined with historical integrity and fortitude. From indigenous tribes that called Barbados home for hundreds of years, Portuguese and Spanish invasions, to the reliance upon the slave industry customary of many Caribbean islands in efforts of working the sugarcane plantations for the production of rum, primarily. Pirates of the Caribbean would also instill their mark on the shores of Barbados in efforts of plundering for treasure. Two of the most notable pirates are Sam Lord who had a unique way of plundering for treasure. He would live on the shore of Barbados and hang lanterns in coconut trees along its shore. Merchant ships would see the lights, thinking they were heading for the capital of the island only to be confronted by Sam Lord where he wrecked their ships and confiscated its treasures. Then, there was Stede Bonnet aka. Pirate Gentleman, a retired British army major and plantation owner turned pirate in 1717. He would sail up and down the Northeast Coast of North America capturing and burning ships before returning to Barbados where he befriended famous Pirate Legend, Blackbeard.
The Sunbury and Fisherpond Plantation Houses, Morgan Lewis Mill, Sir Frances Hutson Sugar Museum, Holehill, Needham’s and South Point Lighthouse offer insight as to what life was like, at an earlier time in Barbados’ historical past.
Known today as a cosmopolitan country, the people of Barbados, commonly called Barbadians, are friendly, cheerful, warm and proud of their cultural heritage and love of life. Barbados possesses a rhythm of its own portrayed through its musical ingenuity. Calypso, reggae, jazz, R&B and gospel music can be heard emanating throughout the streets of Barbados. A host of Barbadian artists have gained exposure and recognition in the entertainment industry most notably by Grammy Award winning singer Rhianna with a host of number one singles to her credit.
Attractions and sightseeing opportunities available on Barbados are as common as the coral reef and sandy shores that line the island. One of the premier sight to see is the Mount Gay rum distillery that has been in business for over 350 years providing a distinctly tasteful and strong rum. There are two other rum factories on the island that deems your attention. They are Malibu and Foursquare Rum Factory, all located on the southern end of the island.
Awe inspiring seascapes, landscapes, natural cave systems and parks featuring Welchman Hall Gully provide excitement, drama, breathtaking beauty and charm of its own. The Welchman Hall Gully is a nature lovers paradise and geological playground with its gully and cave system. See what life looked like some 300 years ago complete with 700 species of native or naturalized plants, stalagmites and stalactites.
Because of its prominence as an exotic vacation destination, Barbados exudes a diverse array of restaurants, shops, resorts, entertainment and nightlife intertwined by its rich cultural and ethnic background. Depending on your personality, lifestyle, financial status or fascination with ambiance and flare, Barbados will not disappoint you in your endeavor of being pampered, dined, entertained and experiencing a wonderful vacation.
Barbados comes complete with a host of water activities as well to complete your vacation package. Water sports such as para sailing, boating and sailing, fishing, scuba and snorkeling, swimming, relaxing and working on that golden tropical tan are standard activities to compliment terrestrial endeavors available on the island.
Set sail or take to the air and experience Barbados, your exotic destination and vacation paradise!
