Barbados is a captivating Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy shores, and lush tropical landscapes, the island is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Barbados offers a unique blend of British colonial heritage and African influences, evident in its historic landmarks, charming architecture, and lively festivals. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed capital, Bridgetown, with its historic Garrison, enjoy the island’s famous rum distilleries, and indulge in delicious Bajan cuisine.
The Same
Both the DINKs and the Family had the opportunity to experience this beautiful island while on a Caribbean cruise, each with just a single day to explore. Despite the limited time, they made the most of their visit. Both groups indulged in the local cuisine and spent time relaxing on the beach, though they did so in their own unique ways. The DINKs took the opportunity to visit the renowned Mount Gay Distillery, while the Family opted for an escorted tour of popular sights in Bridgetown.
Bridgetown:
Bridgetown, the capital city of Barbados, is a vibrant and historic Caribbean destination renowned for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches. Situated on the southwest coast of the island, Bridgetown offers visitors a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and relaxation opportunities. This was one of our favorite stops. One of the highlights of Bridgetown is its UNESCO-listed Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a well-preserved colonial district featuring historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming squares.
For those seeking sun and sand, Bridgetown is surrounded by beautiful beaches, including Carlisle Bay, Browne’s Beach, and Pebbles Beach. These beaches offer soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
Local Cuisine
Barbados boasts a vibrant and flavorful culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage. As always, we made sure to try some local specialties during our visit.
- Flying Fish and Cou-Cou: This is the national dish of Barbados. Flying fish is typically steamed, fried, or grilled and served with cou-cou, a cornmeal and okra-based side dish similar to polenta.
- Macaroni Pie: A Bajan twist on macaroni and cheese, this baked dish includes cheddar cheese, spices, and sometimes vegetables or meats.
- Pepperpot: A hearty stew made with various meats, typically beef, pork, and lamb, slow-cooked in a spicy, dark brown sauce with cassareep, a sauce made from cassava root.
- Fish Cakes: These are deep-fried balls of seasoned, salted cod mixed with flour, herbs, and spices. They are a popular snack or appetizer.
- Conkies: A traditional sweet treat made from cornmeal, coconut, sweet potato, pumpkin, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
- Breadfruit: Often served roasted or fried, breadfruit is a starchy fruit that can be used in various dishes.
- Cutter Sandwiches: These are Bajan sandwiches made with a salt bread roll filled with various ingredients, such as fish, cheese, or ham. The “bread and two” is a famous cutter sandwich featuring two fish cakes.
- Pudding and Souse: This dish consists of pickled pork (souse) and steamed sweet potato pudding. It’s a popular Saturday meal in Barbados.
- Rum Punch: This iconic Bajan drink blends rum, lime juice, sugar, and nutmeg, often garnished with a cherry or slice of lime.
The Dinks
We spent most of the day relaxing on the beach but did a quick distillary tour & tasting before we departed.
The Mount Gay Distillery
The Mount Gay Distillery in Barbados is one of the oldest rum distilleries in the world, known for producing some of the finest rum in the Caribbean. Located in the parish of St. Michael, just outside Bridgetown, the distillery offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the history and craftsmanship behind Barbados’ most famous export. Founded in 1703, Mount Gay Distillery has a rich heritage that spans over three centuries. Visitors to the distillery can take guided tours that lead them through the production process, from the harvesting of sugarcane to the aging of the rum in oak barrels. Along the way, they’ll learn about the traditional methods and techniques that have been passed down through generations of master distillers. One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to sample Mount Gay’s award-winning rums. Visitors can taste a variety of different blends, from the smooth and mellow Eclipse to the rich and complex XO. Knowledgeable guides lead guests through the tasting process, explaining the unique characteristics of each rum and offering insights into the art of rum-making.
Rihanna’s childhood home
Rihanna, the internationally renowned singer, actress, and fashion icon. Rihanna’s childhood home is located on what is now known as Rihanna Drive, formerly Westbury New Road, in the parish of St. Michael, Barbados. This area has become a significant point of interest for fans and visitors who want to see where the international superstar grew up. ihanna’s childhood home is a modest, single-story house that reflects her humble beginnings before she became a global icon. The house is typical of the area, with colorful and simple architectural features. Our cab driver tooks us by it on the drive from the port to the Mount Gay Distillary.
Two popular beaches near Bridgetown are Brandon Beach and Brighton Beach, both a short cab or even walkable from the port.
Brandon Beach
Located just north of Bridgetown, Brandon Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Known for its calm, clear waters and soft, white sand, Brandon Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. The beach is relatively tranquil, making it an ideal location for families and those looking to relax without the hustle and bustle of busier tourist spots. Brandon Beach is also equipped with amenities such as beach chairs & umbrellas for rent, and nearby food vendors, ensuring a comfortable and convenient beach day. The gentle waves make it a suitable spot for paddleboarding and kayaking, adding a touch of adventure to the serene environment.
Brighton Beach
A little further north from Brandon Beach lies Brighton Beach, another gem on Barbados’ west coast. We walked from Brandon Beach to Brighton Beach. Brighton Beach is known for its expansive stretch of sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere compared to some of the more crowded beaches. This beach is perfect for those seeking a quieter spot to unwind, take leisurely walks along the shoreline, or enjoy a peaceful swim. The waters are calm and inviting, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for families with children. The beach also features a local fish market nearby, where visitors can experience the vibrant local culture and purchase fresh seafood.
The Family
Since we only had a day in Barbados we tried to squeeze in as much as possible doing a guided tour and the beach. After being picked up at the port in Bridgetown, we headed up the west coast of the island with our guide. This side of the island, the Caribbean side, is known as ‘the gold coast’ due to its concentration of upscale resorts and large homes, including native pop star Rihanna’s. Our first stop was in Holetown at St. James Parish Church, the oldest church on the island.
St. James Parish Church
The original wooden structure was established in 1628, making it a significant historical and architectural landmark. The church has undergone several reconstructions, with the current building dating back to 1874 after a hurricane destroyed the previous structure. This Anglican church is renowned for its beautiful Gothic architecture, featuring pointed arches, intricate stained glass windows, and a grand bell tower. The church grounds also house a number of old graves and tombstones, adding to its historical charm. St. James Parish Church is not just a place of worship but also a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s colonial past and religious heritage. Its serene environment and beautiful surroundings make it a peaceful spot for reflection and a notable stop on any tour of Barbados.
We toured the church, which dates back to 1628, with our guide before climbing back aboard our van and heading further up the coast to Cherry Tree Hill.
Cherry Tree Hill
Cherry Tree Hill offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Barbados. Located in the parish of St. Andrew, this lookout point sits at an elevation of approximately 850 feet above sea level. From Cherry Tree Hill, visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of the island’s lush landscape and the rugged Atlantic coast. The area is also lined with beautiful mahogany trees, adding to the scenic beauty. It’s a perfect spot for photography and taking in the natural splendor of Barbados.
From this elevation (850 feet/260 meters), we enjoyed panoramic views of the coast and the tropical island landscape of St. Andrew Parish.
We then drove to the Atlantic side of the island, stopping at Barclays Park. Opened in 1966 by Queen Elizabeth II, this 50-acre (20-hectare) park on a beachside hill was a relaxing spot to stop and have a drink. We had the choice of beer, fruit punch, or the local favorite, rum punch.
Next, we visited the picturesque fishing village of Bathsheba, popular with surfers. Afterward, we drove about 30 minutes through the sugar cane fields across the island and ended up at Carlisle Bay. drop-off.
Carlisle Bay
This crescent-shaped bay features crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches, and a wealth of underwater treasures, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The bay is named after the Earl of Carlisle and has a rich history, once serving as a hub for the island’s maritime activities. The calm, shallow waters of Carlisle Bay are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The bay is home to several shipwrecks, providing an exciting underwater adventure for snorkelers and divers who can explore the sunken vessels and the diverse marine life they attract, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and rays.
On the shore, visitors can relax on the pristine beaches, enjoy water sports, or indulge in local cuisine at nearby beachside bars and restaurants. With its picturesque scenery and array of activities, Carlisle Bay offers a quintessential Caribbean experience for all who visit.
Here, we had 2 hours of free time to swim, snorkel, or lounge on the beach. We also had the opportunity to purchase lunch or participate in any water activities at our own expense.
Sand Dunes Bar & Restaurant
Sand Dunes Bar & Restaurant is a popular dining spot located in the rural parish of St. Andrew on the east coast of Barbados. Known for its authentic Bajan cuisine, this local eatery offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features traditional Barbadian dishes such as flying fish, macaroni pie, and pudding and souse. With its casual setting and friendly service, Sand Dunes Bar & Restaurant is a favorite among both locals and tourists looking to experience the true flavors of Barbados. It’s also conveniently located near some of the island’s scenic attractions, making it a great stop during a day of exploring.
Finally, we climbed back in the vehicle and headed back to port.
Summary
In conclusion, both the DINKs and the Family managed to capture the essence of Barbados in their own unique ways during their brief visit. The DINKs enjoyed a more relaxed approach, sampling local cuisine, soaking up the sun on the beach, and savoring the rich flavors at the Mount Gay Distillery. On the other hand, the Family embraced a more structured experience with an escorted tour of Bridgetown’s popular sights, blending cultural exploration with beach relaxation. Both experiences highlight the diverse appeal of Barbados, showcasing that whether you prefer leisurely indulgence or guided adventures, this Caribbean paradise has something to offer everyone.
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