All A New Visitor, Day-Cruising or Staying Over, Needs To Know About the Best Of Barbados
Upon the end of my first day in Barbados I was wondering what happened to my wife's incredible skill of discovering the most perfect of pearls of the Caribbean from a pile of unmarked oysters. She has always had the knack of researching islands, hotels and destinations and separating the hype from fact. By the end of our second day on Barbados and those next seven to come, my faith in her discernment was more than restored. In fact I marvel even more at her keen insight and judgement in discovering life's wonders.
Barbados was much more than we expected!!
Barbados Basics
Barbados is the most easterly island of the Caribbean's West Indies islands with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea lapping gently on its westerly shores. The climate is a pleasant 84F-88F all year round with sunny skies and a constant cooling northeast trade wind. One is always comfortable in the shade.
It was British possession for hundreds of years with most residents still speaking the English language with a British/Bajan dialect. Barbaods boasts the highest literacy rate of all the Caribbean Islands.
I liked that the electicity is much like that of the USA so no converters were needed. I easily picked up a roaming signal and could use my cell phone to call the states anytime and everywhere on the island we visited. Though they have their own currency, the Barbados dollar, the US was accepted everywhere and at this time the US dollar is worth exactly double of the Barbados dollar so the math conversion is quite easy to determine. $1 US = $2 Barbados.
Barbados happens to be more populated per square mile than any other Caribbean Island. It's black and white population still hold onto much of the British, African and West Indies influence of their culture even after gaining their own independance in 1966. The people we met were by farthe most friendly and helpful we have ever met in the Caribbean. They seem to value tourist and you will also learn much about their leading export sugar. Many examples of the Bajan hospitality will be noted within this review.
Crime is not a major problem in Barbados as it is on some other Caribbean Islands we have visited. That said, taking caution as to knowing where you are and when there, should be part of your usual thoughts of safety.
It was in learning of the island and it's people that my wife and I quickly found out how to enjoy all this little West Indian destination, less than two hundred square miles, has to offer.
Getting Around Barbados
Because we were staying longer than a week our plan was to rent a car, drive around the island and visit the many historic and natural destinations it has to offer rather than paying take tours to them. We like the freedom to linger at some places and move on from others.
We did rent a car for a few days and, having already done so in England and the Virgin Islands, I was more than comfortable driving on the opposite side of the road with the steering wheel on the right. On our first day, however, we were not prepared for the traffic and we made the mistake of driving into and through Bridgetown, their main port, at the tail end of rush hour. Yes, Barbados does have a traffic problem that I have not experienced in other Caribbean Countries. The roads and signing were a bit of a challenge at first but after three days of travel we were quite comfortable getting our bearings. A strong suggestion about renting if aprehensive aboput driving. Although there may be a few destinations that could be closed, rent a car on a weekend. The roads are relatively clear those days and it's much easier getting around quicker and with less pressure.
Though that first day was tainted with heavy traffic and also ill-winds on the north-western part of the island causing less than clear waters and an unusually rough surf for the west shore, everything changed the next day and forever more for us on that island paradise.
During our last days on the island, without a rental, we walked and opted for their bus system. $1.50 Barbados, exact change needed. That's seventy-five cents US for a ride. We found there were two kinds of buses. First were regular full-sized buses that made regular stops and then there were these small white vans with red stripes that scooted about picking up fares for the same price. Their unique horns made all aware (or was that warned) that they were coming. We did both type buses and though sometimes jamb-packed they were reliable on the busy runs on the south shore where we were.
I do want to give the fearless drivers of those small buses kudos though. When I was driving my rented car, (they know it from the plates and markings) they were very respectful and helpful letting us get onto the roads and also allowing us to cross busy streets when on foot. They also flashed oncoming traffic to stop for us.
As slow as I was driving at times I didn't get impatient tailgaters with honking horns behind me.
Taxis are abundant in Barbados. Be VERY sure to note price before setting off and be sure you are talking the same dollar, Barbados or US! The two we met (to and from the airport $20 US each way) were pleasant, honest and good safe drivers.
For those who decide not to drive but want to see the islands highlights I can strongly recommend "Ted's Tours." You can get information at the Coconut Court Beach Hotel just a mile or so out of Bridgetown. After meeting Ted I can tell you you probably couldn't find a more humorous or knowledgeable guy who loves what he is doing. Ya gotta book early. His bus fills up quickly.
Coming To Our Rescue
For getting comfortable on the narrow, winding and sometimes hilly Barbados roads much was due to Bajans (an unknown word to me until our visit, that describes the Barbados people) who time after time came to our rescue giving specific direction when we were lost. (This is not unusual so be prepared if deciding to go out on your own). I had to laugh to myself when one gentleman had me repeat every turn and landmark he gave. Hey, he got us there!
More than once, and unsolicited, we were asked if we needed help when we were reading maps while driving or on the side of the road. One gal even offered her phone number to call if we were lost! Every person we did ask for help were equally involved and helpful. I was truly amazed at the concern and warmth of Bajan people whether in town or in tiny villages in the hills.
During our three days of car rental we discovered the natural wonders of the the Barbados east coast with incredible sandy white beaches with odd formation of stones, tall palm trees and pounding Atlantic surf as well as the calm side western side with upscale hotels and a couple of exciting snorkeling experiences.
We never did make it to the more secluded, less populated and much less visited northern shores of the island. We did however stay at and enjoy the islands southern shores that are quite cosmopolitan in culture and cuisine. It's the "happening" place to be on the island.
Trading In Rush Hour for Happy Hour
After our first few days of discovering the island we stayed mostly at our hotel the Coconut Court Beach Hotel, Hastings, Christ Church, Barbados, on the islands south shore. It was perfect for us in many ways including location, cleanliness, it's palm shaded beach, attitude and overall helpfulness in gaining information and insight of the rest of the island. Be sure to read my review of our stay below. We spent most of our last five days "liming." This is the Barbados word equal to "relaxing", "hanging" or "chillin" and with a touch of lime in every rum punch offered on the island I believe I understand its meaning.
Relaxing on a beach that has everything you need makes for the perfect place to "lime" and that's what we did with a mix of perhaps one bus trip or walk a day to see historic places or dine off-premises. Barbados is a country that one can spend a good amount of time exploring or just sitting back. Our choice of discovery the first few days and relaxing the rest was perfect for us. The Coconut Court Beach Hotel in the Hastings Christ Church area was the perfect launching point and "liming" point for us.
Outstanding Beaches
During our travels on our own we did find some fine beaches including Bottom Bay Beach that was one of the most picturesque in the Caribbean. It fits that description so well it was said it brings professional cameramen and beautiful models for photo shoots to grace the pages of glossy magazines of all types.
We spent a lazy afternoon on the splendid Bathsheba Beach after lunch at the Round House. This is a lovely beach with plenty of people walking its amazing shores.
Though we didn't make it down to their beach we did appreciate the views of Crane Beach from the well known Crane Hotels overlook points. A swim in their infinity pool was wonderful too.
We spent most of our time however on the lovely palm tree shaded beach of our resort, the Coconut Court Beach hotel, that many others from cruise ships and locals enjoy too.
Carlisle Bay Beach was a plain looking but expansive white sand, clean beach in Bridgetown. We found some wrecks there that I write more of later.
Dining On Barbados
Unknown to me before research I learned that Barbados has some of the very finest of restaurants and cuisine of the Caribbean islands and through their hype, the world. It can also be quite expensive. Dinner out with just a drink and entree-only easily makes it over the $120 US mark in the 'finer' restaurants. Some were somewhat worth the extra and another was not.
We happened to be on the south shore and just ten minutes from the "Gap" an inlet area with many fine restaurants and "happening" night life.
We were just fifteen minutes from Oistens. This is a fishing village that has an open house type fish fry every Friday and Saturday night. Many locals openly cook fresh fish and add many Bajan specialties to the plate for about $12US each. Get a Banks beer for $2US, (their local beer) and enjoy watching the people as they play music, dance and have fun shopping the local art and craft booths.
Tourist are there earlier filling the picnic tables and as the night goes on those crowds start to thin out and the locals start filling the dining areas, dance floors, and into and across the streets where many local clubs have their own music and drink. This is not a sleepy area where places shut down before 10 PM. The action goes on well into weekend nights.
Two places outside the south shore that were recommended and good finds were the Sunbury Plantation House and the Round House Inn Restaurant. The latter that overlooks the islands eastern beaches offered a Sunday afternoon that was heavenly in sights, sounds (live music), sensation, (cooling breezes) and aromas. The food was excellent too. It was of good portion, presentation and prepared as ordered. This tourist spot is of good value. Come back for links to my reviews of both in the near future.
Visiting Historic and Natural Sites
I like to visit a country's historic and natural areas. The beaches we visited as mentioned earlier were a delight. We were also privy to visit the Harrison Caves ( A review coming soon) on its first day of opening after being closed a year for a total new look (the entrance, visitors center, elevators and all...not the caves themselves.)
I was quite impressed and more-so my wife who along with me have visited some much grander caves in the US but were taken by the tour given in Barbados. The tram ride underground was amazing! This is worth a visit even though they priced it at I believe $15US a head.
My wife and I took a walk to the Barbados Museum in the Garrison area where our hotel was. Two forts are within easy walking distance. The Barbados Museum is a fine small museum now housed in a former military prison. I thought it a good stop also being on the former parade grounds that is now a race track. I enjoyed seeing the horses training early mornings.
One early morning I took a long walk into Bridgetown from my hotel. I wasn't especially impressed with the layout of this centuries old port. I suppose I like things neat and tidy and this port is sprawling with historic sites, public buildings, small shops and open markets in a haphazard disarray of new and old buildings and structures.
I did get to visit the Bridgetown Jewish Synagogue that is the site of the first Jewish worship in the 1660s. The current building 1831 still stands over cemeteries with stones marked in the 1600s. This is considered one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados" that included a few stops we made including "Cannon Galore" a collection of the 'oldest and most of' in the Caribbean. This was just a half mile from our hotel. We also drove to the Saint Nicholas Abbey another wonder, and the Harrison Caves as earlier noted.
In Bridgetown I also took photos of and in two cathdrals St. Michael's and St Patrick's. The Parliament building while being beautiful as well as imposing was ill-set being behind high fences in the middle of the city.
A brief visit to the Folkestone Marine Park in Barbados gave an understanding of how the Barbados people care about their marine resources. They had unusually heavy seas clouding the waters that day and we never snorkeled the famed marked underwater way. I do have to give applause to the good people of ourhotel who, one day, dug up almost two hundred turtle eggs and moved them inland because they were in danger of getting swept out to sea due to currents eating away at the beach high tide lines. Barbados is a nesting ground for a couple of rare turtles, Leather Back and Hawksbill, and the feeding and play ground of giant green turtles.
Snorkeling Barbados
My wife and I are avid snorkelers and look to the Caribbean Islands for their best experiences. Barbados has two pluses. An experience to "Swim with the Turtles" and to snorkel ship wrecks. We found the wrecks right off-shore ourselves. Five of them and let me tell ya, It's a very cool experience!
We did book a short, to the destination trip, with the Dive Barbados Blue, Hilton Hotel, snorkel and dive tours. I can recommend them for a two hour trip. The island also offers and recommends longer catamaran rides with a lazy feel or party atmosphere for many hours of the day. My wife and I wanted more time on our lovely beach so we went for the direct, no frills tour with Dive Barbados. A review of them will follow soon.
We have some excellent images of huge turtles up close to a point she could touch them. The clear waters that day made it an amazing adventure.
Closing Thoughts
My wife and I truly enjoyed this island and that affection grew each day we stayed. It was getting to know the people there that was one huge asset. The Bajan people were friendly and so very helpful when we were on the road. Every person gave us much time and patience. The people at our hotel, Kathy and Scott gave us points of interest to see and were intuitive of what sites would interest us. That made for tailor made excursions.
For those on a cruise there are a number or excursions available that can be booked on the island ahead of time. Feel free to email me if you want some suggestions or if you have questions. For those who like snorkeling and beaches only, feel free to email too. I think I can give direction on how to plan a perfect day for ya.
My wife and I enjoyed little bit of adventuring around the island the first few days on our own We also loved snorkeling over wrecks and swimming with the sea turtles. Best of all however was "liming" and enjoying the rum punches and local Banks beer. The island was an adventure for us and our beach was perfect for us and...
...Barbados was the complete package. We plan to return...but for more than just eight nights
Upon the end of my first day in Barbados I was wondering what happened to my wife's incredible skill of discovering the most perfect of pearls of the Caribbean from a pile of unmarked oysters. She has always had the knack of researching islands, hotels and destinations and separating the hype from fact. By the end of our second day on Barbados and those next seven to come, my faith in her discernment was more than restored. In fact I marvel even more at her keen insight and judgement in discovering life's wonders.
Barbados was much more than we expected!!
Barbados Basics
Barbados is the most easterly island of the Caribbean's West Indies islands with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea lapping gently on its westerly shores. The climate is a pleasant 84F-88F all year round with sunny skies and a constant cooling northeast trade wind. One is always comfortable in the shade.
It was British possession for hundreds of years with most residents still speaking the English language with a British/Bajan dialect. Barbaods boasts the highest literacy rate of all the Caribbean Islands.
I liked that the electicity is much like that of the USA so no converters were needed. I easily picked up a roaming signal and could use my cell phone to call the states anytime and everywhere on the island we visited. Though they have their own currency, the Barbados dollar, the US was accepted everywhere and at this time the US dollar is worth exactly double of the Barbados dollar so the math conversion is quite easy to determine. $1 US = $2 Barbados.
Barbados happens to be more populated per square mile than any other Caribbean Island. It's black and white population still hold onto much of the British, African and West Indies influence of their culture even after gaining their own independance in 1966. The people we met were by farthe most friendly and helpful we have ever met in the Caribbean. They seem to value tourist and you will also learn much about their leading export sugar. Many examples of the Bajan hospitality will be noted within this review.
Crime is not a major problem in Barbados as it is on some other Caribbean Islands we have visited. That said, taking caution as to knowing where you are and when there, should be part of your usual thoughts of safety.
It was in learning of the island and it's people that my wife and I quickly found out how to enjoy all this little West Indian destination, less than two hundred square miles, has to offer.
Getting Around Barbados
Because we were staying longer than a week our plan was to rent a car, drive around the island and visit the many historic and natural destinations it has to offer rather than paying take tours to them. We like the freedom to linger at some places and move on from others.
We did rent a car for a few days and, having already done so in England and the Virgin Islands, I was more than comfortable driving on the opposite side of the road with the steering wheel on the right. On our first day, however, we were not prepared for the traffic and we made the mistake of driving into and through Bridgetown, their main port, at the tail end of rush hour. Yes, Barbados does have a traffic problem that I have not experienced in other Caribbean Countries. The roads and signing were a bit of a challenge at first but after three days of travel we were quite comfortable getting our bearings. A strong suggestion about renting if aprehensive aboput driving. Although there may be a few destinations that could be closed, rent a car on a weekend. The roads are relatively clear those days and it's much easier getting around quicker and with less pressure.
Though that first day was tainted with heavy traffic and also ill-winds on the north-western part of the island causing less than clear waters and an unusually rough surf for the west shore, everything changed the next day and forever more for us on that island paradise.
During our last days on the island, without a rental, we walked and opted for their bus system. $1.50 Barbados, exact change needed. That's seventy-five cents US for a ride. We found there were two kinds of buses. First were regular full-sized buses that made regular stops and then there were these small white vans with red stripes that scooted about picking up fares for the same price. Their unique horns made all aware (or was that warned) that they were coming. We did both type buses and though sometimes jamb-packed they were reliable on the busy runs on the south shore where we were.
I do want to give the fearless drivers of those small buses kudos though. When I was driving my rented car, (they know it from the plates and markings) they were very respectful and helpful letting us get onto the roads and also allowing us to cross busy streets when on foot. They also flashed oncoming traffic to stop for us.
As slow as I was driving at times I didn't get impatient tailgaters with honking horns behind me.
Taxis are abundant in Barbados. Be VERY sure to note price before setting off and be sure you are talking the same dollar, Barbados or US! The two we met (to and from the airport $20 US each way) were pleasant, honest and good safe drivers.
For those who decide not to drive but want to see the islands highlights I can strongly recommend "Ted's Tours." You can get information at the Coconut Court Beach Hotel just a mile or so out of Bridgetown. After meeting Ted I can tell you you probably couldn't find a more humorous or knowledgeable guy who loves what he is doing. Ya gotta book early. His bus fills up quickly.
Coming To Our Rescue
For getting comfortable on the narrow, winding and sometimes hilly Barbados roads much was due to Bajans (an unknown word to me until our visit, that describes the Barbados people) who time after time came to our rescue giving specific direction when we were lost. (This is not unusual so be prepared if deciding to go out on your own). I had to laugh to myself when one gentleman had me repeat every turn and landmark he gave. Hey, he got us there!
More than once, and unsolicited, we were asked if we needed help when we were reading maps while driving or on the side of the road. One gal even offered her phone number to call if we were lost! Every person we did ask for help were equally involved and helpful. I was truly amazed at the concern and warmth of Bajan people whether in town or in tiny villages in the hills.
During our three days of car rental we discovered the natural wonders of the the Barbados east coast with incredible sandy white beaches with odd formation of stones, tall palm trees and pounding Atlantic surf as well as the calm side western side with upscale hotels and a couple of exciting snorkeling experiences.
We never did make it to the more secluded, less populated and much less visited northern shores of the island. We did however stay at and enjoy the islands southern shores that are quite cosmopolitan in culture and cuisine. It's the "happening" place to be on the island.
Trading In Rush Hour for Happy Hour
After our first few days of discovering the island we stayed mostly at our hotel the Coconut Court Beach Hotel, Hastings, Christ Church, Barbados, on the islands south shore. It was perfect for us in many ways including location, cleanliness, it's palm shaded beach, attitude and overall helpfulness in gaining information and insight of the rest of the island. Be sure to read my review of our stay below. We spent most of our last five days "liming." This is the Barbados word equal to "relaxing", "hanging" or "chillin" and with a touch of lime in every rum punch offered on the island I believe I understand its meaning.
Relaxing on a beach that has everything you need makes for the perfect place to "lime" and that's what we did with a mix of perhaps one bus trip or walk a day to see historic places or dine off-premises. Barbados is a country that one can spend a good amount of time exploring or just sitting back. Our choice of discovery the first few days and relaxing the rest was perfect for us. The Coconut Court Beach Hotel in the Hastings Christ Church area was the perfect launching point and "liming" point for us.
Outstanding Beaches
During our travels on our own we did find some fine beaches including Bottom Bay Beach that was one of the most picturesque in the Caribbean. It fits that description so well it was said it brings professional cameramen and beautiful models for photo shoots to grace the pages of glossy magazines of all types.
We spent a lazy afternoon on the splendid Bathsheba Beach after lunch at the Round House. This is a lovely beach with plenty of people walking its amazing shores.
Though we didn't make it down to their beach we did appreciate the views of Crane Beach from the well known Crane Hotels overlook points. A swim in their infinity pool was wonderful too.
We spent most of our time however on the lovely palm tree shaded beach of our resort, the Coconut Court Beach hotel, that many others from cruise ships and locals enjoy too.
Carlisle Bay Beach was a plain looking but expansive white sand, clean beach in Bridgetown. We found some wrecks there that I write more of later.
Dining On Barbados
Unknown to me before research I learned that Barbados has some of the very finest of restaurants and cuisine of the Caribbean islands and through their hype, the world. It can also be quite expensive. Dinner out with just a drink and entree-only easily makes it over the $120 US mark in the 'finer' restaurants. Some were somewhat worth the extra and another was not.
We happened to be on the south shore and just ten minutes from the "Gap" an inlet area with many fine restaurants and "happening" night life.
We were just fifteen minutes from Oistens. This is a fishing village that has an open house type fish fry every Friday and Saturday night. Many locals openly cook fresh fish and add many Bajan specialties to the plate for about $12US each. Get a Banks beer for $2US, (their local beer) and enjoy watching the people as they play music, dance and have fun shopping the local art and craft booths.
Tourist are there earlier filling the picnic tables and as the night goes on those crowds start to thin out and the locals start filling the dining areas, dance floors, and into and across the streets where many local clubs have their own music and drink. This is not a sleepy area where places shut down before 10 PM. The action goes on well into weekend nights.
Two places outside the south shore that were recommended and good finds were the Sunbury Plantation House and the Round House Inn Restaurant. The latter that overlooks the islands eastern beaches offered a Sunday afternoon that was heavenly in sights, sounds (live music), sensation, (cooling breezes) and aromas. The food was excellent too. It was of good portion, presentation and prepared as ordered. This tourist spot is of good value. Come back for links to my reviews of both in the near future.
Visiting Historic and Natural Sites
I like to visit a country's historic and natural areas. The beaches we visited as mentioned earlier were a delight. We were also privy to visit the Harrison Caves ( A review coming soon) on its first day of opening after being closed a year for a total new look (the entrance, visitors center, elevators and all...not the caves themselves.)
I was quite impressed and more-so my wife who along with me have visited some much grander caves in the US but were taken by the tour given in Barbados. The tram ride underground was amazing! This is worth a visit even though they priced it at I believe $15US a head.
My wife and I took a walk to the Barbados Museum in the Garrison area where our hotel was. Two forts are within easy walking distance. The Barbados Museum is a fine small museum now housed in a former military prison. I thought it a good stop also being on the former parade grounds that is now a race track. I enjoyed seeing the horses training early mornings.
One early morning I took a long walk into Bridgetown from my hotel. I wasn't especially impressed with the layout of this centuries old port. I suppose I like things neat and tidy and this port is sprawling with historic sites, public buildings, small shops and open markets in a haphazard disarray of new and old buildings and structures.
I did get to visit the Bridgetown Jewish Synagogue that is the site of the first Jewish worship in the 1660s. The current building 1831 still stands over cemeteries with stones marked in the 1600s. This is considered one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados" that included a few stops we made including "Cannon Galore" a collection of the 'oldest and most of' in the Caribbean. This was just a half mile from our hotel. We also drove to the Saint Nicholas Abbey another wonder, and the Harrison Caves as earlier noted.
In Bridgetown I also took photos of and in two cathdrals St. Michael's and St Patrick's. The Parliament building while being beautiful as well as imposing was ill-set being behind high fences in the middle of the city.
A brief visit to the Folkestone Marine Park in Barbados gave an understanding of how the Barbados people care about their marine resources. They had unusually heavy seas clouding the waters that day and we never snorkeled the famed marked underwater way. I do have to give applause to the good people of ourhotel who, one day, dug up almost two hundred turtle eggs and moved them inland because they were in danger of getting swept out to sea due to currents eating away at the beach high tide lines. Barbados is a nesting ground for a couple of rare turtles, Leather Back and Hawksbill, and the feeding and play ground of giant green turtles.
Snorkeling Barbados
My wife and I are avid snorkelers and look to the Caribbean Islands for their best experiences. Barbados has two pluses. An experience to "Swim with the Turtles" and to snorkel ship wrecks. We found the wrecks right off-shore ourselves. Five of them and let me tell ya, It's a very cool experience!
We did book a short, to the destination trip, with the Dive Barbados Blue, Hilton Hotel, snorkel and dive tours. I can recommend them for a two hour trip. The island also offers and recommends longer catamaran rides with a lazy feel or party atmosphere for many hours of the day. My wife and I wanted more time on our lovely beach so we went for the direct, no frills tour with Dive Barbados. A review of them will follow soon.
We have some excellent images of huge turtles up close to a point she could touch them. The clear waters that day made it an amazing adventure.
Closing Thoughts
My wife and I truly enjoyed this island and that affection grew each day we stayed. It was getting to know the people there that was one huge asset. The Bajan people were friendly and so very helpful when we were on the road. Every person gave us much time and patience. The people at our hotel, Kathy and Scott gave us points of interest to see and were intuitive of what sites would interest us. That made for tailor made excursions.
For those on a cruise there are a number or excursions available that can be booked on the island ahead of time. Feel free to email me if you want some suggestions or if you have questions. For those who like snorkeling and beaches only, feel free to email too. I think I can give direction on how to plan a perfect day for ya.
My wife and I enjoyed little bit of adventuring around the island the first few days on our own We also loved snorkeling over wrecks and swimming with the sea turtles. Best of all however was "liming" and enjoying the rum punches and local Banks beer. The island was an adventure for us and our beach was perfect for us and...
...Barbados was the complete package. We plan to return...but for more than just eight nights
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