When people talk about living in an “island paradise,” Barbados is often in the conversation.
Amazing weather, white sand beaches, vibrant culture and nightlife, and the sense that you’re “getting away from it all,” this island has all of that and more.
Located on the eastern end of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean, Barbados as an island has seen its fair share of cultures and peoples come through its ports, which have heavily influenced its development. Today, Barbados is one of the more densely populated islands of the Caribbean, while at the same time being one of the most luxurious.
What is Barbados Know For?
We all know that Barbados is almost synonymous with beautiful white sand beaches, but the island has far more to offer.
First of all, Barbados is one of the islands of the Caribbean that has been heavily influenced by both England and the United States, and in that sense, is one of the more “Westernized” places in the region. Though the cost of living is somewhat high due to its location so far away from the mainland, it has solid infrastructure and modern amenities you would expect from anywhere in the United States.
The culture on Barbados is unlike anywhere else. It has a unique mix of African, Irish, British, Creole, Indian, and Portuguese heritage that influences everything from local dialects to the amazing food.
Golf, cricket, and horse racing are popular sports on the island and make up a large portion of the local entertainment. The heavy British influence on the island means that the locals follow popular sporting events and personalities from Britain closely.
There are many popular cultural festivals that take place throughout the year, including a Celtic festival and the ever-popular Food and Rum Fest. Speaking of which, rum is also one of the things Barbados is recognized for. The island has been producing its own rum for over 300 years and is widely known as one of the single best places to get it.
In Bridgetown, the capital, you can enjoy world class fine dining and a rich shopping experience at the various Broad Street shopping malls, all easily walkable and perfect daytime excursions or nights on the town.
The island also has plenty to offer for the adventurer, including great hiking spots, cruises, diving and snorkeling, kayaking, kitesurfing, go karting and more!
While beaches have already been mentioned, it’s worth noting that Barbados has four distinct shorelines that create unique experiences depending on which part of the island you’re on.
The western beaches are calm and perfect for relaxation and sunning, while the eastern coast is a surfer’s paradise, with more breaker activity and entertainment on the beach. To the north you will find much more rugged shores that make for amazing photography and views, and the southern shore features reefs and tidal pools, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Crane Beach, on the Eastern side of the island, has been hailed as one of the top ten best beaches in the entire world. That’s some rather stiff competition, so you can imagine that Barbados has a reputation like this for a reason. Its natural beauty is something to behold, along with its culture and entertainment.
