You’ll find plenty of places to eat, especially Mannie’s Suga Suga Beach Bar. Parking is provided across the street and beach chairs are available for rent. The beach bar is a great spot to grab a cold adult beverage, lunch during the day, or to drop by later on for a romantic sunset dinner or nightcap.

Mullins Beach is definitely a seductive place to lime all day long in a lounge chair under the umbrellas and shade of the palm trees. Take a dip in the waters of the Caribbean, or venture out on a jetski or boat! The area is great for holiday rentals, hotels and accommodation.

Mullins Beach Webcam, Barbados

The webcam refreshes every 5 seconds.

Why do we like Barbados? Is it because it’s the Rum Shop capital of the world? Is it because of beaches like Mullins Beach shown above? Is it because Barbados is the birth place of rum? I think my answer would have to be yes, all of the above.

Enjoy the glimpse of life on a Barbados beach Castaways. Let me know if you’ve been and what you thought.

Cheers,
RumShopRyan

The Port St. Charles marina is an affluent and upscale luxury marina development situated on the western coast of Barbados. The marina is in close proximity to the main area of Speightstown in Six Mens Bay. Port St. Charles is made up exclusive villas, condos and apartments, and a small inland lagoon area adorned with facilities for residents to berth their yachts close to their vacation homes.

The marina is host to a branch of the government’s customs and immigration bureau as well as a Coast Guard sub office, and is one of two officially-classified sea-based ports of entry in Barbados—the harbor in the capital city of Bridgetown being the second. Also found in the development are a “heliport” to transport guests to the Grantley Adams International Airport or the Bridgetown Heliport, a health spa, and just off the coast of the Marina lies the Tom Snooch Reef.

Barbados Webcam

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Cheers,

RumShopRyan

Today, August 16 particularly appeals to me because it’s National Rum Day. Just how this designation was born I haven’t been able to find one consistent story, but who cares? It’s an excuse to make a delicious rum cocktail which can take your mind to dreams of sandy beaches and palm trees.

Why National Rum Day and why August you ask? Some say the timing coincides with the end of the sugar cane harvest on the islands.

In Barbados, the legendary birthplace of rum, the harvest ends with a huge party — call it the mardi gras of rum.

Crop Over is a festival that is island wide with sights, smells and sounds that capture Bajan customs and tradition. Who could be a better teach the world on how to celebrate National Rum Day than the producers of Mount Gay Rum, the rum that invented rum?

So grab your cocktails or sipping glasses and give a small toast to today…National Rum Day. Cheers.

RumShopRyan

Zane goes to the birthplace of rum. He explores an island original known as Falernum, drinks “corn and oil,” and meets up with a local action sports celebrity who shows him local rum shops, and the Bajan culture.

Three Sheets Barbados

Love this show now!

Cheers…or should I say ACTION!

RumShopRyan

No I don’t have a liquor store and only sell rum. No I’m not a expert rum connoisseur and can tell you the everything there is to know about this tasty spirit. What I can tell you is that the name was inspired by the Barbados people and their love of rum shops.

I love the name because of what a rum shops is.  The social hub of the island, rum shops are the place to go to share a laugh, a story and some rum with friends and strangers alike. They’re an important part of the Bajan culture and has been for over 300 years.  Step up to the counter, order your rum punch and come lime with me.

Rum shops are a place for people to socialize and share.  My idea was to create a community, a place for people with an escapism passion to come together and hang out or “lime”.   What is your favorite beach? Do you have a Caribbean island that speaks to your sole?  If so, then I want to hear about it.  I share that same passion with you and know that thousands more do as well.

No I can’t take you to exotic ports of call or the beach side bars, but I can tell you about them.  I can share boat drink recipes, island webcams and must see attractions when you are on island. I can give you a glimpse of what it is like to live on the coast of somewhere beautiful.  To me southwest Florida is a tropical paradise.  It still puts a smile on this Kansas boy’s face as I drive down palm lined roads and take in post card sunsets every night.

I chose the name RumShopRyan because I wanted to share.  Share with all of you fellow RumRunners.

Here is the last of the article of the Bardados Naked series by Definitive Caribbean. Click on Part 1 and Part 2 to read the previous articles.  These stories were written awhile back so some of the shopping places might not be perfectly up-to-date, but will be close.  My Barbados friends usually leave comments and tell you the best places anyways!  Enjoy.

Things to do in Beautiful Barbados

BRIDGETOWN

Named after an Indian bridge that crossed the waterway now known as the Careenage, Bridgetown was founded by English settlers in 1628. For centuries it has been a busy harbor for cross-island vessels and the schooners at anchor in Carlisle Bay. Now the Bridgetown marina is visited mainly by yachts and pleasure boats as well as a fleet of lively colored fishing boats. The former warehouses along the waterfront have been brought back to life with duty free shops, department stores and shopping malls abound.

National Heroes Square

Places of interest in Bridgetown include:

National Heroes Square, with Nelson’s Statue, erected in 1813 pre-dating the London column and the Dolphin Fountain that commemorates the waterworks in Bridgetown. The Parliament Buildings date back to 1871 – Barbados has the third oldest parliament in the English speaking world. In 1786 St Michael’s Cathedral was completed on the site of an original church. The Central Bank Building houses the Frank Collymore Concert Hall.

Garrison Historic Area & The National Cannon Collection, St Michael

The former British Military Garrison in St Ann’s Fort dating back to 1704 and the Main Guard with handsome clock tower dated 1803. A military cemetery is located to the back of the fort, and there is a large collection of 17th Century cannons (largest in the world) which includes one of only two cannons with Cromwell’s Republican Arms on it.

George Washington House, Bush Hill, The Garrison, St Michael, t 228 5461

Barbados was the only country outside America that George Washington ever visited so it appears George Bush was in good company! At 19, Washington and his half brother Lawrence spent two months in Bush Hill House in late 1751. A former plantation house built in 1719, the house, now fully restored, was officially opened to the public in January 2007. A 15 minute film about the trip called ‘George Washington in Barbados’, is available for viewing. Opening hours 9am-4.30pm, Mon-Fri. Admission fee Bds$25 per adult and $12.50 per child. Annual closure in September for cleaning and refurbishment.

OUTSIDE BRIDGETOWN

Cotton Tower, St Joseph

One of a string of military signal stations that could send messages around the island in quick time to warn of danger, Cotton Tower was named after Lady Caroline Cotton, daughter of the then governor of Barbados.

Farley Hill National Park, St Peter

Officially opened by H M Queen Elizabeth II in 1966, Farley Hill has stunning views of the Coast and Scotland District. It is a popular picnic spot and the location for the annual Jazz Festival. The ruins of an opulent great house, thought to have been built in 1818 and finished some 50 years later by English planter, J L Briggs, stand at the centre of the park. In 1956 the house was partially restored for scenes in the Hollywood film, ‘Island in the Sun’, featuring Harry Belafonte. In 1965 fire destroyed Farley Hill, consuming everything apart from the walls.

Francia Plantation, St George, t 429 0474

A traditional family home built in 1913. Fine collection of antique maps, with earliest dating back to 1522.

Grenade Hall Forest and Signal Station, Farley Hill, St Peter, t 422 8826

A walk-through forest with explanations of the plants’ uses in medicine and other aspects of life. Post 1816 military signal station.

Gun Hill Signal Station, St George

Military signal station built in 1818. Any signal going from Cotton Tower to St Ann’s Fort in Bridgetown had to be relayed via Gun Hill. Another attraction is the lion, which was carved in 1868 by a British officer who was stationed at Gun Hill.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve, St Peter, t 422 8826

A zoo, with two areas – a walk-through area with deer, monkeys, caymans, otters and tortoises, and a closed aviary with parrots and toucans. Also a reptile house with iguanas and snakes and a fine collection of orchids. The zoo has a snackbar.

Harrison's cave

Harrisons‘ Cave, St Thomas, t 438 6640

Tram ride through natural limestone caverns with streams, waterfalls, pools, stalagmites and stalactites. Opening hours 8.30am to 4.30pm 7 days a week. Adults Bds$40 and children $20.

Aerial Trek Zipline Adventures, Jack-in-the-Box, St Thomas, t 431 0386 or 253 7232

A thrilling experience which takes you through the forest canopy of Jack-in-the Box gully, which lies to the south of Harrison’s Cave in St Thomas. Seven cables traverse the gully between eight platforms, with the first two runs from between 60-90ft long and the rest between 280-300ft. The heights vary from as little as 15ft above ground to 100ft when traveling above the gully. Age (16-80 years) and weight restrictions apply. Cost US$90 per person including transfers. Operating hours are currently 8am-2.30pm (first tour at 9am), five days a week, though the days sometimes vary, except Saturday when they are always open.

Harry Bayley Observatory, Clapham, Christ Church, Barbados Astronomy Society, t 426 1317 /424 5593

The observatory has a 14″ reflector telescope which is open on Fridays from 8.30pm to 11.30pm. A half hour video is shown before viewing starts. Bds$8 admission for adults.

Springvale Eco Heritage Museum, St Andrew, t 438 7011/437 9400

A former 200 acre sugar plantation converted into a folk museum. Also has a nature trail and snack bar.

St. George Parish Church

One of the oldest Anglican churches on the island, and home to a glorious altar painting by Benjamin West, and sculpture work by Richard Westmacott the creator of Nelson’s statue in Bridgetown.

Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill, St Andrew, t 422 7429

Dating from around 1727, it is the Caribbean’s largest and most complete working mill. Once a busy sugar harbor defended by a number of military forts – a number of cannons remain on the esplanade – Speightstown was named after William Speight, a local merchant with links to Bristol in England. It was also known as ‘Little Bristol’ due to the high level of trade between the two ports (in the 17th century Bristol was the second most important port in England after London).

St. James Parish Church, t 422 4117

The original structure was built in wood by the early English settlers in mid 1628, but was destroyed by hurricane in 1675. A stone structure was erected in the early 1690′s – the church bell was cast in 1669. In 1874 due to the decay of its 200 year old walls, the church was partially demolished and a larger structure was built.

St. Nicholas Abbey

St Nicholas Abbey, Cherry Tree Hill, St Peter, t 422 8725

A beautiful Jacobean house built around 1658, which is one of the only three surviving Jacobean mansions in the western hemisphere. The house and surrounding buildings, including an 1890 steam mill, have recently undergone extensive renovations by owner, architect Larry Warren, who purchased the property in 2006. In the stables is a display of sugar in all its aspects, fancy brown sugar, molasses and barrels in which the special blended St Nicholas Abbey rums are aged. Opening hours are 10am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday. For weekend opening hours and special events please call 422 5357. Admission fee $25 adults $15 children.

Cherry Tree Hill

Cherry Tree Hill, St Andrew

One of the island’s beauty spots with sweeping views across the sugar cane fields to the rugged Scotland District and Atlantic Ocean. The hill is around 850ft above sea level and sits along a popular scenic route, which passes through a delightful shady avenue of mature mahogany trees belonging to the historic St Nicholas Abbey (see above) and down past Morgan Lewis Mill towards the East Coast.

Sunbury Plantation House, St Phillip, t 423 6270

Listed great house dating back more than 300 years, with all rooms open for viewing and the Caribbean’s largest collection of horse drawn carriages. Available for weddings and private functions. Regular candlelit dinners at the 200 year old mahogany table, from Bds$150 per person exclusive of tax and service charge. Courtyard restaurant.

Ocean Park, Christ Church, t 420 7405

A marine-themed park aimed largely at children, with displays of southern sting rays, mangroves, coral reefs, freshwater fish and predators such as sharks. There is a classroom to explain the sea world and a touch pool with starfish, conchs and sea urchins. Also mini-golf, playground, shop and snack bar.

Tyrol Cot Heritage Village , Codgrinton Hill, St Michael, t 424 2074

The flagship property of the Barbados National Trust. Built in 1854 and the former home the first Premier of Barbados, Sir Grantley Adams and the birthplace of his son, J.M.G.M ‘Tom’ Adams, the second Prime Minister of an independent Barbados. The Village includes a replica of a slave hut, a working Blacksmith’s shop, a Chattel House Museum depicting life in the 1920′s, a rum shop and local art and craftwork. The Old Stables restaurant serves local and regional food.

TOURS OF BARBADOS

There are plenty of options if you would like a guided tour of Barbados or, if you are visiting on a cruise ship, there are several good Barbados shore excursions.

For an exclusive island tour or shore excursion contact St James Travel & Tours, who will tailor make a trip with one of their well-informed drivers, in the comfort of an air-conditioned private taxi or Mercedes. Prices from Bds$240 to $320 for 4 hours. Special rates apply for larger groups.

SPECIAL INTERESTS

With its broad base of activities, Barbados has plenty to offer travelers with special interests. It is excellent for Luxury villa holidays where you are free to seek your own activities.

MUSIC

Calypso Dancers

The island rhythm on Barbados is calypso, one that they share with, and over which they compete with, the Trinidadians. You will hear the calypsos on the radio, particularly in the run-up to carnival (both in Barbados in August and in Trinidad in February). There are also some more traditional styles of music, including string bands, which are known as tuk-tuk bands.

The Barbados Jazz Festival takes place in January and sees a variety of singers in a fairly broad interpretation of jazz. Unfeasibly for the Caribbean there is actually an opera season (and operetta too), the Holders Season, which is usually held in March. Gospelfest is a celebration of local church music and is held in May.

The island has five major recording studios, including Eddy Grant’s studio, Blue Wave, and several smaller ones. Artists that have recorded on the island include the Rolling Stones and Sting.

The music in Barbados is cosmopolitan. There are a number of clubs in which to see good local bands perform, but there is also a strong tradition of calypso on the island. This is at its most fertile in July, in the run-up to carnival (also in the run-up to Trinidad Carnival in January and February, because many Bajan calypsonians compete there too). As with many of the former British Caribbean island carnivals, it is generally possible to buy a costume at Crop Over and to join in the street parades.

SPORTS

Cricket is something of a religion in Barbados and it is well worth attending any match in either the local inter-island series or a test series, as much for the theater of the stadium as for the cricket. Barbados’s most famous cricket crowd impresario was King Dial, who would strut back and forth in his top hat and colorful coat. His heir apparent is Mac Fingall, a Physical Education teacher, comedian and occasional show compere. He entertains the crowd at Kensington Stand at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown with his quickfire commentary and antics.

Horse riding

Caribbean International Riding Center, t 422 7433

Novice rides: 1 ½ hours through Scotland District to Morgan Lewis Beach – bds$120, return transfer included. Intermediate/advanced : as above but longer ride, 2-2 ½ hrs, Bds$180.

Big C Stables, t 437 4056

Popular local riding school run by Di Clarke in Christ Church.

Congo Road Equestrian Center, t 423 8293

Specializes in dressage.

Snorkel Barbados

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is generally best on the West Coast (where the water is calmest), especially around Holetown by the Folkestone Marine Park, which has an underwater trail. Carlisle Bay, just south of Bridgetown, is another popular snorkeling spot, where there are a number of shipwrecks to view. Equipment is available through hotels and watersports shops.

All of the Day Sail cruises offer snorkeling and swimming with turtles as part of their tour, and carry their own equipment.

Folkstone Marine Reserve, Church Point, St James, t 422 2314

Protected snorkeling area with underwater trail, Marine Museum & Visitors Center, gift shop, locker rentals, snorkel equipment, lifeguard, shower and changing area.

Barbados Surfing

Surfing

Barbados boasts fairly consistent surf conditions, mainly on the east (Atlantic) coast, with the best time of the year for larger swells during October to March. The top surf spot is the Soup Bowl off Bathsheba, which is now recognized by the international surfing world. On the north West Coast, things can get very lively also, especially in the New Year when the area is affected by large swells. The waves are big enough in many part of the island (particularly the beaches in the southeast) for boogie-boarding and you will find boards for hire on these beaches.

Windsurfing/Kite-surfing

The best conditions for windsurfing and kite-surfing are on the south coast, with the season starting in November and running to early July and at its best between December and March. Instruction courses are available at Club Mistral on Maxwell Coast Road and, for advanced windsurfers, at Silver Sands, which is the home of windsurfing, and the most southerly point on the island. Over the last few years kite-surfing has emerged as a popular sport on the island. As with windsurfing, the best conditions are around the southern point of the island and so it takes place mostly at Silver Sands. Equipment can be rented from: Club Mistral, t 428 7277 clubmistralbarbados.com, which has locations in Oistins and Silver Sands.

Scuba diving

Barbados is not one of the Caribbean’s best known dive destinations, however it has its fans and some consider it a secret gem. The island offers over 20 dive sites to choose from. The majority are strung along the West Coast, with Maycocks Bay and Dottins amongst the most popular. The upper south coast is known for its drift diving, being closer to the Atlantic side of the island – the East Coast has very strong currents and diving is therefore limited.

Barbados has many wrecks. Carlisle Bay has at least eight of note, some over 100 years old. Wrecks include the Berwyn, which sank in 1919, Eilon, C-Trek, Fox and former party boat the Bajan Queen which was sunk in 2002. Just off Needham’s Point, the Old Fort drift dive has a reef strewn with antique bottles and cannon balls. Carlisle Bay also has an area called Bottle Ground where 18th & 19th century bottles are found. Probably one of the most interesting of all dives, and for the advanced diver only, is the S.S. Stravonikita, a 365ft Greek freighter which was purposely sunk in 1978 (off Fitts Village), and sits upright at a maximum depth of 137ft.

LAND-BASED SPORTS

Cycling

Highland Adventure Center, t 438 8069

Scenic bicycle tours using professional mountain bikes. Allow for 3.5 hours the round trip. The cycle tour itself is 90 minutes hours long and takes in views of the Atlantic Ocean as you descend to the East Coast. It’s an unusual way to experience rugged and untouched parts of Barbados. Suitable for all levels of fitness. Also try Flex Bicycle Tours and Rentals, Speightstown, t 419 BIKE or 231 1518 or the Dread or Dead surf shop in Hastings, t 228 4785, which also has bikes for hire at Bds$30 with a $100 deposit.

Horse-racing

The Barbados Turf Club has racing at the Garrison Savannah almost every Saturday during their three seasons across the year, which run from mid January to mid April, early May to mid August and then from mid October to Christmas. The main events in the Barbados racing calendar are the Sandy Lane Gold Cup, which is held on the first Saturday in March and is a huge social occasion on the island, and the Barbados Derby, which is held in early August. There is always a great atmosphere at these events. Facilities at the racetrack include bar, snack bar and restaurant and during big events, there are stalls and rumshops inside the racetrack itself.

Running

Always best in the early morning or evening in order to avoid the heat. Be careful if you are out after sundown because not all roads are well lit and there are few paths or pavements. Apart from the beaches, there is a jogging track at the Garrison Savannah, a popular spot to run in the late afternoons. Don’t ry and keep up with Usain Bolt should you see him!

Tennis

There are many keen tennis players on Barbados who compete regionally, and the island’s headquarters are at the Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex at Wildey, where the top competitions are held. The majority of large hotels and resorts have tennis facilities and there are a couple of private villas with courts also. Otherwise public courts are:

National Tennis Centre, Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, Wildey, St Michael, t 1246 427 5300

Barbados Lawn Tennis Association, t 427 5300/427 5298

Barbados Hiking

Hiking

Hiking has become a fairly mainstream activity on Barbados in recent years and there are a couple of options to choose from for the eco enthusiasts and those who are adventurous minded or want a less sedentary way to see the island. The Barbados National Trust, t 426 2421 or 436 9033 offers an excellent hiking option ‘Hike Barbados’, which meets at points of interest and beauty spots across the island on Sundays throughout the year. Morning hikes start at 6am, afternoon hikes at 3.30pm or a full moon hike at 5.30pm.

The morning outing is split into four different groups of varying speeds (slow/stop & stare, medium, medium fast and fast/grin & bear) whilst the afternoon/full moon is one group at ‘stop & stare’ speed. Reservations are not required, simply turn up (on time) at the designated meeting spot. The National Trust Sunday hikes are free and all guides work on a voluntary basis. The hikes are an excellent way to meet people from all walks of life and uncover the hidden secrets of Barbados. The Trust also runs the Arbib Nature & Heritage Trail in St Peter. Hikes are available by reservation only and can be booked for any day or time. Minimum of 2 persons on each hike at US$25 per person (or US$50). Group discounts are available. Peach and Quiets Walking Week is one of the most original activities in the Caribbean. A daily walk to a different area of the island is led by Adrian Loveridge, who introduces the area with a talk and then he gives a stream of information along the walk itself. The walking is not that strenuous, covering three to five miles each day over three hours or so.

Points of interest include nature and the different environments such as the coastlines, forests and mangroves, but also historical aspects of the island such as the story of sugar, the old Barbados railway and, incredibly, an early model of the Iraqi Supergun. Walks are only available as a part of the special Walking Week package. During the week Peach and Quiet will host dinners with interesting Barbadian personalities, say a politician, an educator or a museum curator, who will talk about life on the island. Recommended clothing: long pants/trousers, cool shirt, sturdy shoes, a hat and high factor sunscreen or sunblock. Take plenty of water to drink

Yoga/Holistic

There are very good opportunities for holistic activities on Barbados, but they are generally designed to serve the local and resident communities as opposed to visitors. Pilates, yoga, T’ai Chi are available at a few of the hotels – Sandy Lane being a notable example – and there are also a few complementary health practitioners who will come to your hotel or villa. We have found one yoga/pilates instructor that will visit if you are in villa accommodation. Yoga and Pilates centers include

The Pilates Studio, Morecambe House, Worthing, Christ Church, t 228 8426/232 7948 Will do private villa sessions by arrangement.

The Sanctuary, Chimborazo, t 433 1787

Set in a former plantation house, the Sanctuary offers regular open days, special workshops with visiting tutors, yoga days and private consultations. Classes include meditation, yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi. Private consultations on Past Life Regression, tarot reading, aromatherapy, Reiki healing, iridology, Shiatsu, Indian head massage, ear candling, reflexology and kinesiology available.

For private sessions contact:

Michelle MacKenzie, t 437 2082

Yoga, massage therapy and ancient (Thai) massage. Prices from $120-180 for one hour.

Janet Cools, t 422 4994

Massage and reflexology which generally also includes 15 minutes of Reiki. Prices from US$75-100 for one hour.

Some luxury villas make excellent retreats for holistic activities. You can create your own group and bring your practitioners with you for a week or two without work permit problems. Alternatively local practitioners and therapists can be booked to come to the villa. The best agency to use for villa retreats would be Bajan Services.

Flora and Fauna

Bajan gardens are some of the prettiest in the Caribbean. Crotons (brightly colored perennial leaves) and bougainvillea or hibiscus surround even the smallest home. And hotel gardens are often wonderful, particularly if you do not know tropical flora well. There are four public gardens in Barbados, of which the most interesting is Andromeda on the Atlantic coast, but the three others, the Flower Forest, Orchid World and Grenade Hall Forest, are certainly worth a look. Orchid World is particularly stunning if you are interested in this tropical beauty.

The best time of year for flowering is in the dry winter season, between January and March. The Barbados Horticultural Society has their flower show at Balls Plantation in Christchurch and a program of ‘Open Gardens’ that runs between January and March.

Andromeda Botanic Gardens, St Joseph, t 433 9384

A six acre garden started as a private plant collection around the home of Ms. Iris Bannochie in 1954. There are over six hundred different species of plants on view and although it is owned by the Barbados National Trust it is currently leased to Caribbean Horticultural Services

Flower Forest, St Joseph, t 433 8152

A fifty acre, lush, tropical garden with a nature trail and lovely views to the East Coast. Snack bar and gift shop.

Orchid World, St George, t 433 0306

A stunning six acre former pig & chicken farm with around 20,000 orchids on display. Well worth spending an afternoon strolling around the attractive grounds. Good country views. Snack bar and gift shop.

Welchman Hall Gully, St Thomas, t 438 6671

A jungle filled limestone ravine bursting with exotic trees and plants, and a good place for spotting the Barbados green monkey, early morning or late afternoon. Also a Barbados National Trust property.

Barbados Shopping

SHOPPING

Barbados has good shops for the Caribbean, so there is plenty on offer if you are seeking some duty-free retail therapy. Almost everything is imported so, with the exception of come locally made pottery and artwork, it is international. Shopping hours do vary but the main business hours are generally between 8.30-9am to 4.30-5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday. However you may find some stores open until 6pm or as late as 9pm on weekdays, and to 3.30pm Saturdays, with one or two open on Sundays. Duty free shopping is available in most of the main shopping centres and in some hotels, with items purchased (apart from tobacco and alcohol) allowed to be taken away on the spot. Note that you will need to present your immigration slip or passport and airline ticket when duty free shopping.

Caribbean Cigar Company Inc, #3 Pelican Industrial Park

Royal Barbados Cigars, handmade locally from Cuban tobacco.

Cheapside Market, Temple Yard

The city’s main market for fresh fruit and vegetables.

Colombian Emeralds, Broad Street

Flagship store, specializing in Emeralds. Watch boutique.

DaCosta’s Mall, Broad Street

A variety of products and services including duty free, a supermarket, island craft, souvenirs, beachwear, leather goods, designer glasses, jewelery, 1 hr photo lab, bookstore, health store, a food court and Tiffany & Co…

Diamonds International, Broad Street

For a selection of jewelery and loose diamonds with choices of mounts. Two locations on Broad Street and four further outlets on the island.

Harrisons, Broad Street

There are two stores on Broad Street offering luxury Duty Free items.

Pelican Craft Village, near the Deep Water Harbor

Over 25 art and craft shops, and artisan workshops. Local condiments, baked goods on sale. Two restaurants serving local food.

Little Switzerland, Broad Street

Two shops on Broad Street for Duty Free merchandise.

Verandah Art Gallery, Wharf Road

For original paintings and sculptures by local and Caribbean artists.

Zemicon Gallery, Hincks Street

Features work by leading local artists.

Shopping on the West Coast: Beth and Tracie, Speightstown, t 422 0401

Two independent designers who share a shop in Speightstown. Stylish beachwear, children’s wear, bags, belts and custom-designed jewelery.

Cave Shepherd Plaza, Sunset Crest

A second Cave Shepherd store, plus various services including a tour agency, boutique and a bank.

Chattel Village, Holetown/Sunset Crest

A collection of colorful wooden chattel houses selling souvenirs, beachwear, handicraft etc.

Earthworks Pottery, St Thomas

Distinctive hand-made locally pottery. Tree House Café for light snacks.

Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown

For the serious collector.

The Gallery St James, Holetown

Caribbean and international art, and antiquarian Caribbean maps.

Gatsby Boutiques

Exclusive designer wear. Located at the following hotels: Sandy Lane, Royal Pavilion, Colony Club, Tamarind Cove and Crystal Cove.

Gaye Boutique, Holetown

Has been running for almost 30 years and offers exclusive resort and evening wear.

Speightstown Mall A small selection of shops.

Shopping on the South Coast:

Chattel House Village, St Lawrence Gap

A collection of colorful wooden chattel houses selling souvenirs, beachwear, handicrafts, etc.

Quayside Centre, Rockley Boutiques, shops, food court, photo processing, and mini mart.

Sheraton Mall, Sargeants Village

Over 100 stores and restaurants, including supermarket, bank, dry cleaners, gym, pharmacy and a multiplex cinema.

Walkers World, St Lawrence Gap

Home accessories, furniture and decorative objects from around the world. Best of Barbados, shops located at Chattel Village, Holetown; Mall 34, Broad Street; Orchid World; Flower Forest; Quayside Center; Southern Palms Hotel; Cruise Terminal and Walker’s World, Dover. Set up in 1975 by artist Jill Walker and featuring locally crafted or designed gifts and souvenirs. The distinctive prints of local scenes and architecture are extremely popular, as are the colorful array of tea towels, floral table & drinks mats and traditional Bajan and international games.

Thanks for taking the time to reach the bottom of this article! Next week we are covering excursions. Here I will inform you about the various organized trips there on the island from Diving to dining all is thrown in! So if you are in a private villa you will have access to all the telephone numbers to ensure you miss out on nothing.

Article Source: www.definitivecaribbean.com

This is the second installment of Barbados Naked series.  Read Part 1 here.

Food and Cooking Barbados style

You can eat well on the island – some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean are along the West Coast but you really should venture out from the tourist areas if you want to really ‘taste’ Barbados.

Local food also has its own strong tradition in Barbados, and this can be interesting to experience. Most hotels have a weekly buffet of local food, which gives a taster. Barbadian food is quite hearty, with stews accompanied by rice ‘n’ peas or hefty vegetables such as plantain or sweet potato.

Being an island there are of course plenty of fish dishes, but a favorite is flying fish, which is served steamed in a tasty but light onion and tomato based sauce on coo-coo (not unlike polenta, made from cornmeal and okra) or the fish is seasoned with Bajan Seasoning (a blend of spring onions, thyme, marjoram, onions, garlic, black pepper, spices and salt, which you can buy in any local supermarket) and then dipped in egg and breadcrumbs and pan fried. A flying fish cutter (local saltbread roll with salad) is very popular, and is usually enhanced by a dash of the local yellow pepper sauce.Black pudding and souse, a local delicacy, is very much a special treat in Barbados.

The black pudding is a blood sausage with sweet potato and herbs and the accompanying souse is pickled pig’s head and trotters (thankfully, many places substitute this with more traditional cuts of pork) with cucumber and breadfruit. Such local fare is most often found at street festivals, rum shops, and on occasions even at fresh food counters at supermarkets. A well-loved late evening out is Baxter’s Road in Bridgetown, where you can get a fish or seasoned chicken fried on a brazier served with macaroni pie, grilled corn or other vegetables, such as coleslaw. Over recent years, the spot for local food has become the Fish Fry at Oistins, a fishing village on the South Coast, which sees a nice mix of locals and visitors and makes a fun and cheap early evening out. In fact there are a number of places with a Friday night fish fry. At Six Men’s Bay in the north of the island you can go along to the fish fry with a bottle of wine and cutlery provided by the Fish Pot Restaurant.

RESTAURANTS

True to form, the restaurants along the West Coast of Barbados are smart, quality and expensive. You can eat well there, putting paid to the Caribbean’s traditional image of ‘burger-tory’. The West Coast restaurants also have excellent settings, either on the cliffs or directly onto the sand and the ocean.  There are some good growers on the island, producing local salads and herbs as well as normal tropical produce.

Unfeasibly, chefs in Barbados can get fresh ingredients from the States and Europe, delivered on a weekly cargo plane. And the fishermen in Barbados actually carry mobile phones and phone back their catch, which enables the restaurateurs to plan their specials menus properly. The south coast also has some good places to eat, along with a whole string of less expensive bars where you can get a reasonable meal.

While VAT will be included in the price of your meal, restaurants have different policies about service charge. Sometime it is written on the menu, but you may want to check whether service has already been included in your bill.

WEST COAST

What follows is personal gastronomic trip. You can follow it or you can select your own places to visit, I know that selecting restaurants can be a personal issue but my recommendations are there for you to try.

Cafe Indigo, Holetown, t 432 0968

Located upstairs with traditional wooden floors and jalousie shutters. Relaxed atmosphere for breakfast or lunch.

Calabaza, Prospect, t 424 4557

Classic cliffside setting on the West Coast, top notch cuisine in an eclectic mix, run by the amiable Peter ‘Huggie’ Harris.

The Cliff

The Cliff, Derricks, t 432 1922

Ever-fashionable, exquisite setting on cliffs overlooking a tiny cove, consistently good, top quality cuisine, an excellent elegant evening out.

Cocomos, Holetown, t 432 0134

Popular beach front bistro and meeting place, simple fare, burgers, salads and fish platters. See a Review of visiting Cocomos with Children.

Daphne’s, PaynesBay, t 432 2731

Elegant wooden veranda looking over flaming torches to the beach, refined Italian cuisine adapted to the Caribbean.

The Fish Pot, Little GoodHarbour, t 439 2604

Charming setting in an old fort right and on a wooden deck right above the sand, excellent lunch or evening out, well worth the drive beyond Speightstown.

Fisherman’s Pub, Speightstown

Very local waterfront bar and restaurant in Speightstown, chicken and fish (it’s next to the fish market).

La Mer, Port St Charles, t 419 2000

Classic waterfront setting on the limpid waters of Port St Charles, elegant dining, refined continental cuisine, famous for its Sunday brunch in season.

Lone Star Restaurant, Mount Standfast, t 432 1099

Superb Caribbean setting, on a wooden deck just above the waves, tastes from around the world. See a Review of visiting the Lone Star with Children.

Mangos by the Sea

Intimate, atmospheric setting on a deck hung with palms above the beach. Good Caribbean and international fare of mostly fresh fish and seafood – their grilled lobster is a popular choice. Art gallery featuring the work of Michael Adams and Terence Piggot.

The Mews, Holetown, t 432 1122

Popular for dinner and for its bar, international menu with lots of fish. Live music every Friday.

Olives Bar & Bistro, Holetown, t 432 2112

Classic townhouse setting, bar upstairs, Mediterranean cuisine with spicy Caribbean flavors.

Patisserie Bistro Flindt, Holetown, t 432 2626

Excellent array of deserts and light fare for breakfast (full English breakfast Sat & Sun), lunch and dinner. Open for dinner Mon-Fri only.

Pizzaz, Holetown

For pizzas and simple meals, with kids play area. Will deliver. See a Review of visiting Pizzaz with Children.

Ragamuffins, Holetown, t 432 1295

Brightly painted local house, fun bar, trusty Caribbean fare.

Sassafras, Sugar Hill Resort, t 419 9100

Eclectic international fare, with great views from a gingerbread veranda with pool side setting.

The Tides, Holetown, t 432 8356

A recent success on the West Coast, superb setting right on the beach, high quality cuisine, Caribbean with an Asian touch. Art gallery.

It is also worth noting that most of the villas in Barbados have their own cooks and they are always delighted to introduce you to local food.

SOUTH COAST

Aqua Restaurant

Aqua Restaurant and Lounge, Hastings Main Road, ChristChurch t 420 2995 or 228 0891,

Stylish dining right on the south coast in a sleek-looking shorefront building of contemporary design. Upstairs is for pure dining, whilst downstairs the bar and lounge (open until late) is also a popular meeting spot where you can simply sit and enjoy a drink or a selection of starters. The service and food is top class, with an eclectic menu to cater to a variety of tastes which the chef calls “modern Caribbean food with International flavours”. Open for lunch (Sun-Fri) and dinner.

Bean n Bagel Internet Cafe, St Lawrence Gap

Popular for its all day breakfasts.

Bellini’s Trattoria, St Lawrence Gap, t 435 7246

Italian fare, fresh pasta made daily and a selection of seafood, overlooking the bay.

Brown Sugar, Aquatic Gap t 426 7684/436 7069

Traditional Bajan fare with popular lunch time buffet, famous for its pepperpot.

Bubba’s Sports Bar, Rockley, t 435 8731

Air-conditioned, serving American style food, at reasonable prices. Popular with families.

Cafe Sol, St Lawrence Gap, t 432 9531

Very lively early evening bar, then restaurant serving Mexican fare, burritos, taquitos with Latin music.

Champers Wine Bar & Restaurant, Skeetes Hill, Rockley, ChristChurch, t 434 3463.

An immensely popular restaurant, even more so in its new cliff-top setting with fabulous coastal views. The downstairs dining area extends out to open-air dining terraces and a large gazebo set along the seafront, whilst upstairs has covered dining gallery. International cuisine with Caribbean influence of a consistently good standard. Dedicated art gallery. WiFi available. Internet café. Open for lunch and dinner.

Carib Beach Bar

Carib Beach Bar, Worthing, t 435 8540

Simple but trusty fare, fritters, burgers and fish platters, on a deck right above the sand of Sandy Beach.

Josef’s, St Lawrence Gap, t 435 8245

Elegant dining in a former private home on the waterfront, tastes garnered from around the world.

Oistins Fish Market

Easy evening hangout for a fish platter, or fritters and a beer. See a Review of a visit to Oistins Fish Fry with Children.

Opa!, Hastings, t 435 1234

Traditional Greek cuisine in a relaxed ocean front setting.

Patisserie Bistro Flindt, Rockley, t 435 2600

Excellent array of deserts and light fare for breakfast (full English breakfast Tue-Fri), and lunch.

Pisces, St Lawrence Gap, t 435 6564

Ever-popular restaurant right on the waterfront in St Lawrence Gap, endless fish dishes.

Restaurant at Southsea, St Lawrence Gap, t 420 7423

Elegant dining on a veranda right above the sea, long, excellent menu.

BRIDGETOWN

Lobster Alive, Bay Street, t 435 0305

Fresh Grenadine spiny lobster and selection of seafood dishes. Beach front setting with umbrellas and lounges available.

Waterfront Cafe

The Waterfront Cafe, BridgetownMarina, t 427 0093

Popular café on the marina serving Caribbean cuisine. Live jazz every evening apart from Tues when it’s Steel Pan night.

Wispers on the Bay, Old Bayshore Complex, Bay Street, Bridgetown, t 435 9486.

A sophisticated beachfront restaurant overlooking a sweep of stunning white sand and Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown. There is an air-conditioned indoor dining area with walls of glass, white muslin drapes and table cloths, but you can also dine outside on the deck under canvas or one of their romantic cabanas tucked amongst the palms. First class international cuisine with some Caribbean influences, an a la carte menu for lunch and a fixed price menu for dinner. Open for lunch 11am-3pm and dinner 6pm-9.30pm. Reservations required.

EAST COAST

The Atlantis, St Joseph, t 433 9445

Opened in 1884, famous for its Sunday Bajan Buffet lunch.

So with that lot to keep you busy I’d expect you to come home a couple of pounds heavier! Well yo will be on holiday and if you can’t indulge while on holiday we might as well all give up now!

Article Source: www.definitivecaribbean.com

by Andy Parr and DefinitiveCaribbean.com

Welcome to my Barbados naked series. This series of articles provides you with details of things to see and do on the island and recommends restaurants, bars and excursions that I have either experienced myself or had guests tell me just how good they really are. I hope that you find the information useful for your trip to the island. Please enjoy reading the articles which I will be posting weekly. The series starts this week with an introduction to Barbados. Next week we will find out about restaurants and food on the island. I’ll be supplying details of the best restaurants in each town and district and giving you a flavour (if you’ll pardon the pun!) of what they offer. We also have a free report that you can download by going online to our website. Details at the bottom of this report.

Week two will bring ‘Activites’. There are lots of activities to get engaged in from relaxing on the beach to the more energetic pursuits such as diving, watersports and or course, golf.

Week three will be ‘Excursions’ with a guide on what to do and when. This guide gives you all you need to know to actually ‘do it yourself’, a full breakdown of the island with contact details for excursion providers.

You really can’t go all the way to Barbados and not sample the nightlife now can you!! Well click during week 5 of my Naked Barbados series to find out which are hot and which are not. From beach bars to the high life of the West Coast this instalment has it all. Barbados naked it most certainly is!!

Week six has an in-depth look at the best beaches. I’ll be reviewing nearly all of them on the island so you can feast your eyes on those that the tourists don’t know about.

And we finish in week eight. A whistle stop tour of all that is Naked Barbados!! I’ll round off my series with specialist trips to the island.

So with no time to waste here is my opening piece.

FLIGHTS/GETTING THERE

Barbados is well connected to Britain and North America, and currently has a limited service from Continental Europe. With so many incoming flights it acts as a hub to other islands within the South Eastern Caribbean. This makes the island an excellent island hopping base if you intend on visiting other islands. VIPvillas.com can organise separate stays in luxury villas on more than one Caribbean island for you. The following airlines serve Barbados:

UK: British Airways from Gatwick Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick and Manchester Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA) from Gatwick using British Airways codeshare BMI from Manchester.

Europe: Martinair from Amsterdam Condor from Frankfurt

USA: US Airways from Philadelphia American Airlines from New York & Miami Air Jamaica from New York (JFK) Delta Air Lines from Atlanta.

Canada: Air Canada from Toronto

ISLAND HOPPING

Map of Barbados

One very useful fact to know is that there are a number of flights from Barbados to the Grenadines, both as day tours and as transfers, that are known as ‘shared charters’. Practically speaking they run every day, but because they are run by charter airlines, rather than scheduled companies, they are not listed on the international computer systems. See below for the airlines that offer shared charter to the Grenadines.

REGIONAL AIRLINES

LIAT Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA) Air Jamaica SVG Air Mustique Airways Trans Island Air/TIA 2000

Day trips to other islands: Grenadines Discoveries Fly to Union Island and join a Catamaran for a day sail, with snorkelling and swimming stops in Mayreau, Tobago Keys and Palm Island. $640 including lunch and drinks.

THE AIRPORT

Grantley Adams International Airport (airport code BGI, after Bridgetown, the island’s capital) is located approximately 10 miles/16km south east of Bridgetown city centre.

PASSPORTS & VISAS

As a visitor to Barbados you will require a passport which is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry, along with a valid return airline ticket. This now applies to all American and Canadian citizens, whilst British citizens are required to hold a full 10-year passport. American, Canadian, British and EU citizens do not require a visa for short stays. Other nationalities please check with the Barbados High Commission or with your travel organiser for entry requirements

CAR HIRE

Hiring a car is an excellent addition to a visit to the Caribbean, but particularly so in Barbados because there is plenty to do and because the island is surprisingly good to explore. There are some delightful beaches cut into the cliffs of the south east, which make for an excellent day out and picnic, and the Atlantic coast is wonderfully dramatic. Finally, there are all the restaurants to visit in the evening. There are a staggering 1719 kms of paved road network on the island.

A local driving permit is required to drive in Barbados. This costs Bds$10 and can be obtained from the car hire company when you hire the car, or at any police station. If you are visiting during the winter season and know that you will want a car then it is advisable to book it well in advance otherwise, due to demand, it will be impossible to get hold of one. VIPvillas can secure excellent car hire rates for you; better than the main car hire companies. You must have held a licence for at least two years to hire a car in Barbados, and be at least 21 years of age and under 75 years of age.

TAXIS

Barbados Boardwalk

Taxis are widely available around Barbados (if you can’t find one just walk into the nearest hotel and they’ll find one for you), with taxi stands located at the airport, Bridgetown Harbour, and Bridgetown at Independence Square Lower, Broad Street and Heroes Square, South Coast at Accra Beach – Hastings Rocks, West Coast at Sunset Crest Shopping Centres 1 and 2.

Taxis are not metered. Instead the fares are fixed. However it is always a good idea to confirm the cost of your journey before setting off.

Rates by distance should not exceed Bds$2.50 per mile or Bds$1.50 per kilometre. The flat rate per hour is Bds$32, with waiting time Bds$7 per hour between 6am to 10pm, and Bds$8 per hour between 10pm and 6am.

MEDICAL

Check that your coverage for polio and tetanus is up to date. There is no malaria in Barbados, but there are very occasional outbreaks of dengue fever – another mosquito-borne disease which happens after considerable rain. You should take normal precautions against mosquito bites. If you are susceptible then make sure to use insect repellent during daylight hours and after sunset.

HOSPITALS

The medical facilities in Barbados are among the best in the Caribbean. There are eight polyclinics throughout the island and two hospitals.

VACCINATIONS

Vaccinations are not required for entry into Barbados, though you may with to check with your GP prior to travelling. There is one exception, for travellers who have come from areas infected with of Yellow Fever, where a vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one (1) year of age.

TELEPHONE

The international dialling code for Barbados is +1 246 followed by seven digits. Internet services are available at most hotels, and some villas, plus a number of internet cafes have now opened. Cellular phones can be rented or a roaming feature can be added to your own mobile

Overseas phone calls can be made from any phone booth around the island, payment for which is by credit card or a local pre-paid calling card.

TIME ZONE

Barbados is 4 hours behind GMT and so during the winter it is four hours behind Britain and five behind the rest of Europe, and an hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the States.

TOURIST INFORMATION

There are Barbados Tourism Authority information offices at the airport, between the arrivals hall before Immigration and the Departure Lounge, t 428 0937; at the Deep Water Harbour (where the cruise ships come in), t 426 1718; and at the BTA’s main office on Harbour Road, Bridgetown, t 427 2623.

DEPARTURE TAX & TAXES

Departure tax is no longer payable at the airline check-in desk as it should be included in the cost of your airline ticket – please check your ticket to confirm this. This tax (passenger service charge) is payable by all passengers leaving the island (exempt for stays under 24 hours) and over the age of 12 years. The amount increased to Bds$55/US$27.50 on 1st February 2007.

Hotel and luxury villa accommodation incurs a 7.5% government room tax and a service charge in Barbados, which is normally added to your bill (unless you are staying in an all-inclusive hotel). It can make quite a difference to the eventual price of your holiday, so if you are booking direct make sure you calculate it in when pricing up your trip.

WEATHER

Barbados boasts that it has 3000 hours of sunshine each year. Certainly even within the Caribbean it has an excellent climate. Temperatures vary by just a few degrees across the year and because it is surrounded by sea the island rarely gets too hot, except occasionally in summer, particularly if it is still. Generally though, there is a breeze to take the edge off the heat. The best time to visit is in the winter, when the northern hemisphere is at its coldest in February, though this is of course the high season and the most expensive time.

The rainiest time of year is over the late summer months between August and late October. Often the sun comes back out after a shower, but occasionally a blanket of cloud will spin off a weather system in the northern hemisphere and may cover the island with cloud for a few days.

Barbados lies just on the edge of the hurricane belt, but has not been seriously affected in recent years.

WATER

Barbados RumShop

Most of the water in Barbados is artesian water, rainwater that has soaked into the limestone structure of the land. Generally it is drinkable from the tap and tastes good, but in restaurants you will be offered a choice of bottled or local water. Piped water was introduced to Bridgetown in 1861, and to commemorate the event an ornamental fountain, made in Britain, was erected in 1865 in what is now Heroes Square.

CHILDREN

In general children are well received in Barbados, but some of the smarter hotels have an age restriction policy at certain times of year, especially during February and March. Others offer special children’s programmes. Most villas are well geared up for children too. It is easy to find babysitters and they cost approximately Bds$20 per hour, plus transport home.

Apart from frolicking in the sea and building sand castles, there are a number of child friendly activities available on island: the Barbados Museum has a dedicated children’s gallery with an exhibition called ‘yesterdays children’ in the Kidd Gallery, Folkstone Marine Park near Holetown is a recreational underwater park with a snorkelling trail, an interpretive centre and museum with marine displays and a saltwater aquarium, there is also a picnic area, tennis and basketball courts and a playground. The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is popular with children for the animals on view, as is Atlantis Submarine and Harrison’s Cave. The Barbados Golf Academy has an 18 hole mini course with special rates for 14yrs and under. There is a Drive-in Cinema near the Sheraton Centre, which also has an indoor cinema. Farley Hill National Park has a picnic and play area. See later instalments of Naked Barbados for further Child friendly activities in Barbados.

Adventure Beach at The Boatyard has kayaks, pedal boats, glass bottom boats, ocean trampolines, a floating rock climbing ice-berg, beach volley ball and snorkelling. Accra Beach in the Rockley area is another popular beach spot and is good for boogie boarding with boards for hire. Batts Rock on the West Coast (close to Calabaza Restaurant) has good swimming and snorkeling, plus a small children’s playground with slides, swings and see-saws. There is a parking area, picnic benches, shower and changing facilities, and drinks machine.

BANKS

International and local commercial banks operating in Barbados include the Bank of Nova Scotia/Scotia Bank, Barbados National Bank, First Caribbean Bank, Caribbean Commercial Bank, Royal Bank of Canada and The Mutual Bank. The Central Bank of Barbados has been in operation since 1973. The island also offers offshore banking and insurance services.

Bank opening hours are Mon-Thurs 8am to 3pm and Fri 8am to 5pm. Most banks are closed on the weekend, but the Mutual Bank has two branches that open until 7pm on Fridays and until 2pm on Saturdays, and the Caribbean Commercial Bank opens from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. ATMs are located across the island, including the airport, harbour, some petrol stations and shopping malls. Note that ATMs will only give out Barbados Dollars (not US Dollars) and some charge for overseas cash transactions.

Banks require customers to show their passports when cashing traveller’s cheques. You will need to show a transaction slip as well if you wish to convert Barbadian dollars back to your home currency.

CURRENCY/CREDIT CARDS

The currency of Barbados is the Barbados dollar (Bds), which is fixed to the US dollar at a rate of US$1.00 = Bds$1.98 (some street/beach vendors may do a straight 2 for 1). All prices on island are quoted in Barbados dollars, with the exception of hotel rates which are in US only, and duty free items where the local Bds$ price is shown alongside US dollar price. US dollars (notes only) are accepted throughout the island, however you will often find that the rate of exchange will not be as favourable in hotels, supermarkets and large stores as that in the bank.

CREDIT CARDS

Most of the major credit cards (including debit cards) are accepted anywhere that deals with tourists on a regular basis. It is worth noting that certain credit cards may attract an additional charge.

Next week I’m covering restaurants and food on the island so make sure you click through to read it. I will detail specific restaurants and include contact details for them so put that together with the taxi numbers and you’re on your way!!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Parr

With over 7,000 islands, islets, reefs and cays, the Caribbean is a very diverse region. There are many well known larger islands and numerous smaller islands that are less known. If you want to take Caribbean vacations, you should try to visit as many of the islands as you can. Although these islands are in the same general region, each island has its own distinct characteristics.

One of the larger islands in the Caribbean is Puerto Rico. This island is an unincorporated territory of the United States. From Crashboat Beach to Playa de Ponce, there are beautiful beaches that surround this awesome island. There is a Tropical Agriculture Research Station on the western side of the island. The Arecibo Observatory is located near the center of the island and is a great tourist attraction. If you feel like hitting a round of 18 holes, there is a golf resort on the eastern side. When it comes to nature Puerto Rico has plenty of offer. There is a National Forest and Nature Reserve both located on the eastern coast as well.

If you are looking for an island where you can get away from your all inclusive hotels and spend all of your time on sandy beaches, then Barbados is the island for you. Mullins Beach, Paradise Beach, Sandy Beach, Casuarina Beach and Silver Sand Beach are some of the better known beaches on the island. The beaches on this island are what draws thousands of visitors each year.

There are plenty of other smaller islands that you can also travel to. These islands include St. Eustatius, St. Kitts, Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, and St. Lucia just to name a few. There are also the British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands. The Bahamas also have their own cluster of islands that are also part of the Caribbean. Bermuda is another of the better known islands in the Caribbean. If you are looking for the perfect getaway for your romantic vacations, Bermuda is the island for you.

Whichever island you do decide to spend your vacation on, you are guaranteed to have a fabulous trip. The people in the Caribbean are extremely warm and welcoming. You will instantly feel at home. Whether you are looking to lounge on warm sandy beaches or to hike up a grandiose mountain, these islands are the diverse location that can provide each of these activities. After a week on one of these islands you will not want to leave. The Caribbean is definitely a part of the world that everyone should experience.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Lane