Exploring Barbados…One Day at a Time
If you were doing a survey and asked ten different people what they thought made a great holiday, you would probably get nine different answers. The only thing that this randomly selected test group would agree upon is the beach.
It is true. They would disagree on which Caribbean islands were the best and had the most activities to offer. There would be debates about the quality of rum that is produced in Barbados versus that which is distilled in Jamaica. Eager to split hairs, this group might even philosophize about the colour and softness of the sand on certain crests of shoreline, sounding more like experienced jewellers than island hoppers. In the end, you would discover that the person who did not think a trip to the beach made a great holiday is actually in favour of resort-styled swimming pools. Talk about splitting hairs. What does all of this say about human nature and holiday destinations? It is time to pack the suitcase, wash the Bermuda shorts, find the sunglasses and book a flight to Barbados.
Approach to sightseeing
Some people like to earmark their guidebooks when they take a holiday. Barbados is best explored by taking a freer and more fluid approach. The island is small. If you want to see everything it is has to offer, then it should not be a problem. You need to remember that this is the Caribbean and not the monument-stuffed streets of Rome. This is where you come to dig your feet in the pink and white sand, sip a potent rum runner and dine on fresh red snapper from a street vendor.
Southwest
The southwest coast of Barbados is lined with luxurious and vibrant resorts. A-list beaches abound in this area, and it is commonly referred to as the Gold Coast. From Payne’s Bay and Brighton Beach to Paradise Beach, this magnificent swath of coastline is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water recreation. While the southwest coast is low-lying, the southeast coast of Barbados is more elevated. There are cliff walks and scenic vistas and hidden alcoves to take in the full measure of the Caribbean sunset. The water is rougher on the east coast, so surfing is a revered activity.
Shopping
After indulging in too much sun, it is time to explore the other side of Barbados. Bridgetown has an array of quaint shops, artisan boutiques and locally made handicrafts. Shopping is duty-free in Bridgetown, so jewellery stores are continually vying for your attention. When you finish up your morning shopping, head over to the Flower Forest or the Andromeda Botanical Garden. After mercilessly haggling for that gold necklace, a quiet moment admiring the Barbadian flora and fauna is just what you need.
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