From Underground Caves to Catamaran Cruises: Barbados Will Leave You Wanting More
Barbados is a stunning island destination that offers visitors various activities to explore and enjoy. From the natural wonders of Harrison’s Cave to the powdery sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a tropical getaway.
Whether you’re a history buff looking to explore the capital city of Bridgetown or a foodie eager to try fresh seafood at the weekly Oistins Fish Fry, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island.
In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of eight great things to do in Barbados and why each activity is an absolute must-try.
- Visit Harrison’s Cave: This natural wonder is an underground cave filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and waterfalls. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves exploring caves and natural formations.
- Go to the beaches: This isle is known for its stunning beaches, including Crane Beach and Bottom Bay. Visitors can relax on the soft sand, swim in the crystal clear water, or try water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding.
- Cruise on a catamaran: Catamaran cruises are popular. Visitors can enjoy sailing along the coast, swimming with sea turtles, and snorkeling in the clear water.
- Visit Oistins Fish Fry: Oistins Fish Fry is a Friday event where locals and visitors enjoy fresh seafood, music, and dancing.
- Attend the Crop Over Festival: This colorful festival is held every year from June to August and celebrates the end of the sugar cane harvest. It includes parades, music, dancing, and lots of delicious food.
- Explore Bridgetown: The capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture. Check out the historic buildings, museums, and local markets.
- Visit the Barbados Wildlife Reserve: This reserve is home to various animals, including green monkeys, peacocks, and tortoises. Visitors can walk through the park and see the animals up close.
- Try rum tasting: Since this island is famous for its spectacular rum, visitors can take a tour of the Mount Gay Rum Distillery to learn about the island’s rum-making history and sample some of the finest rums in the world.
Did you know?
Barbados is the birthplace of rum! The oldest known rum distillery in the world, Mount Gay Rum, is located in Barbados and has been in operation since 1703.
The island is home to rum production, and it is the spirit has become a part of the island’s cultural heritage. The island even has a festival called the Barbados Food and Rum Festival that celebrates the culinary and rum-making traditions of the island.
Crop Over Festival:
Barbados Crop Over Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration annually in Barbados, a Caribbean island nation. The festival is a fusion of African, European, and indigenous Bajan cultural traditions and features music, dance, food, and street parades.
Crop Over is a harvest festival that originated in the 17th century and was revived in the 20th century to celebrate the end of the sugarcane harvest season. The festival starts in June with the ceremonial delivery of the last cane harvest and culminates in early August with the Grand Kadooment parade.
During the festival, revelers adorn themselves in elaborate costumes, dance to soca music, and participate in competitions such as the calypso and steel pan contests. The festival celebrates the island’s rich culture and heritage and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
A little history:
Barbados was first settled by the Amerindian people around 4,000 BC. In 1625, the English arrived and claimed the island for King James I, and it became an important center for sugar cultivation and forced labor.
The island changed hands between the English and the Dutch several times before the English regained control in 1714.
In the 1800s, it became a center for the abolitionist movement, playing a vital role in emancipating enslaved people in the British Empire.
It is an independent country and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
