Considering a Barbados holiday but not entirely convinced yet? Read through this article and let us give you 10 reasons why Barbados is a must-see Caribbean gem.
1. Barbados Is Basically The Birthplace Of Rum
Fancy a nice glass of rum? Then you’re heading to the right Caribbean island. Since 1703, Mount Gay Distilleries has been producing rum on the island and it is known that they produce the oldest rum in the world.
Over the years, more distilleries have opened as well, and if you’re interested in learning more about the history of rum, you should pay a visit to St. Nicholas Abbey. Not only is St. Nicholas Abbey a rum distillery, but it is also a plantation house and museum.
2. Home To The Icon, Rihanna
Hey Mr. DJ, pon the replay! If you’re a fan of pop icon Rihanna, there’s no need for us to tell you that Barbados is where Rihanna was born and raised.
Rihanna started off as a world-famous singer and has since expanded her horizons with acting, songwriting and even designing.
If you’d like to increase your chances of seeing Rihanna in the flesh, we’d recommend visiting Barbados during the yearly Crop Over Carnival Celebration. She frequently returns back to Barbados to celebrate the Crop Over Festival and has even participated in the parade herself!
3. The Famous Crop Over Festival
Speaking of Crop Over Festival, in case you have not heard of this before, it is a 6-week festival consisting of different events ranging from local markets, street fares, arts & crafts and amazing parades with elaborate costumes, calypso music and dancing.
If you’d love to experience all that is Bajan, end of July/early August is the time of the year to visit.
4. The Perfect Destination For Active Travellers
Barbados is an amazing island for those seeking an active holiday. Explore the shoreline by kayak, go deep sea fishing, windsurfing, diving or snorkeling. There’s so much to discover above and below the surface. Prefer to stay dry? There’s a wide array of activities you can experience. Try your hand at cricket, explore the rock formations at Harrison’s Cave or really get those muscles moving by exploring one of the many hiking trails, with breathtaking views as a reward
5. Crystal Clear, Tropical Beaches
If swaying palm trees, crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches are the first things that come to mind when you think of Barbados, we’re pleased to say that you’re not wrong! Barbados has beaches on the East, West and South side of the island and there’s most definitely a beach that perfectly fits your desires.
The beaches on the West Coast are known to have calmer waters, making it perfect for snorkelers or swimmers. If you’re a surf, enthusiast then the beaches on the East Coast are the ones for you. Want the best of both worlds? Then the beaches on the South Coast are a great option!
6. Excite Your Tastebuds With Local Cuisine
Ask any Barbadian (or you could use the local term ‘Bajan’ if you wish) what best describes their local cuisine and the answer will most probably always be: Flavor!
The national dish of Barbados is the popular Cou Cou & Fried Flying Fish and it is definitely something you must try if you really want to experience Caribbean flavor. When trying the local cuisine, you’ll be sure to taste the love and attention that goes into making each and every dish (aside from all the amazing locally sourced spices, of course). Some other great dishes you could try are Fish Cakes, Macaroni Pie and Pudding & Souse. To wash it all down, combine your dish with the famous Rum Punch cocktail made with local rum!
7. But Also Great For Those Who Wish To Relax And Unwind
If lounging around in your ocean view suite or relaxing on the beach with a cocktail in hand sounds more like it, not to worry!
Barbados has some of the best oceanfront hotels where you can relax your mind and be taken care of 24/7. You can have the best of both worlds when visiting Barbados.
8. Bring Home A Piece Of Barbados With You
Now we know that once you’ve experienced all the amazing things Barbados has to offer, it will be hard leaving all of it behind when it’s time to go back home.
Luckily, there are different ways you can take a piece of Barbados home with you! Number one would be Mount Gay Rum, followed by Bajan Seasoning Jars to spice up all your dishes back home.
If you love spicy food, take home a jar of locally made pepper sauce and maybe a six pack of Banks Beer to help cool down your taste buds after all that heat.