The secret on how to properly live life can be found in the calypso rhythm and island time of Barbados. A place that mixes an air of British civility with equal parts quintessential Bajan style. Brightly painted rum shops neighbor lavish real estate developments. In the interior parishes, traditional chattel houses surround historic sugar plantations. A beach fish fry next door to a toney restaurant. Why not? To each their own – just as long as you’re not in a hurry. With this type of setting, there’s never really a reason. Rolling limestone hills, lush scenery and white-sandy beaches border the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea on the west, and the turbulent Atlantic Ocean on the east.
As for the secret – the 430 square kilometre life-lesson that is Barbados. It’s simple: avoid the rush. Enjoy the moment. And have a rum punch or two.
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History
Though given the name “Los Barbados” by Portuguese sailors in the 1500’s, Europeans were not the first to inhabit this easternmost island in the Lesser Antilles. This distinction goes to the Amerindians who arrived from Venezuela, followed by the Arawak Indians, who is turn were dismissed by the Carib Indians in the 13th century. But when the first English settlers arrived in 1627, they found an island that was largely uninhabited, and set about establishing a colony that would remain a part of the British Empire for 334 years. Relatively flat, with a favorable climate, Barbados offered ideal conditions in which to grow sugar cane. This gave rise to the establishment of sugar plantations, and with them, indentured servitude and slave labor. The success of the sugar, rum and molasses trade brought great wealth to the island in addition to thousands more African slaves. But in 1834, with abolitionist sentiments growing, Barbados became the first country in the world to abolish the slave trade. Finally, in 1966, Barbados won independence from the United Kingdom. And has since become the envy of the entire region.
Attractions
Quite possibly the most enjoyable way to master the art of fine living in Barbados is to take part in any of the unforgettable and exciting activities afforded by the island. And though diminutive in its 430 square kilometres, Barbados excels in providing visitors an overabundance of rewarding pursuits, attractions and things to do.
Shopping
Since the arrival of the English in 1627, Barbados has enjoyed a storied history as a noted trading centre in the Western Hemisphere. Today, Barbados continues in that tradition with its establishment as the tax-free haven for the Eastern Caribbean and one of the most coveted shopping and duty-free destinations in the entire region. With long-standing links to the world’s major business houses, retailers in Barbados deal in only the highest quality products across a range of categories that include leading designer fashions, fine jewelry, crystal, fragrances, electronics, leather goods and more. Additionally, talented island craftsmen have emerged to produce and sell exquisite collectables and fine art, with local works available at galleries, specialty markets and craft fairs throughout the year.
Nightlife
When the sun goes down in Barbados, the party is just beginning. Travel anywhere on the island and you’re certain to find a place to let loose long into the night. From beach, wine and sports bars to jazz, reggae and nightclubs, even live theatre and opera can be found. Whether it’s a night spent in St. Lawrence Gap, at Ostin’s Fish Fry or along the historic streets of Holetown, there’s something for everyone to enjoy beneath the light of the Barbadian moon.
Events
Music festivals; sporting events; culinary affairs; performing arts, – here the calendar is brimming with exciting opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a cricket match at the famed grounds of Kensington Oval or a Food & Wine festival in the heart of Bridgetown, every day brings something new to discover in Barbados.
