Barbados is small, but man are we mighty. 166 square miles of pure sweetness - a pin prick on the map of the world. And we are filled with unique and fascinating things to experience, fuelled by warm and welcoming people… who most often greet you with a frosted glass of rum punch in hand! Who could be bad to that?
I recently met a young couple in the check-in queue at Heathrow Airport, London. He from London, she from Budapest, they were on their way to Budapest for a holiday. When I revealed that I was from Barbados they were curious, however immediately declared that they ‘just aren’t beach people’.
I was shocked, and for the next hour (it was a long queue!) entertained them with tales of the many impressive things Barbados has to offer, in addition to glorious, world-famous beaches. By the end of our time together I was confident I had shown them that our fair island was much more than just a beach, and encouraged them to book Barbados as their next must-visit holiday destination.
Now, as we mark a phenomenal 25 years of Sporting Barbados, I’d like to share 25 of my favourite faces of Barbados with you, in the hopes that you may experience them yourself, or share them with others… Grab one of those frosted glasses of rum punch (I’m partial to Mike’s!) and enjoy.
1. Coastal Exploration…
One of the most wonderful things about Barbados is that you can travel around each of the island’s coastal regions in just a day, along accessible and simple roads. From the bustling South Coast with its bouncy surf, to the calm and tranquil West Coast, up the rugged North Coast full of spectacular cliffs and crashing waves, to the wild and barren East Coast. It’s a joy to take in and a must-do for any visitor, either with help from a guide or your own hired car.
2. Sail the Seas…
The beaches are simply a catalyst for exploring the seas… A catamaran trip along the open waters is the epitome of relaxation, or take a ‘glass bottom boat’ (as it says on the tin!) and see under the water from above. Hire your own speed boat if you fancy, or explore on the back of a jet-ski, but one way or another, get out on the water and check out Barbados from the outside in.
3. Yo, ho, ho and a Bottle of Rum…
One of our most famous exports… rum. Enjoyed in a crisp rum punch, or neat on the rocks, it’s a firm favourite of locals and tourists alike. Pull up at one of our many rum shops (wooden ‘bars’ on the side of the road and easily spotted) like Lemon Arbour in St. John, Country View in St. George, Chris’ Place in St. James, Wendy’s on Mighty Grynner Highway… the list goes on. Or, formalise your rum education at the likes of the Mount Gay Visitor Centre or Four Square Rum Distillery and Heritage Park. A tour, a taste and ton of fun.
4. Foodie Heaven...
Bajans love their food, and the island is filled with culinary delights for any price point. If fine dining is your thing, then Sandy Lane, Champers, Primo, Tapas, Asian Spice in Holetown, Michael Hinds in Limegrove are all wonderful experiences. Be mindful that many luxury restaurants require booking well in advance. Or, if you prefer casual, local grub then check out the famous tropical outdoor experience of Oistins, where fresh fish and great music are on the menu in a bustling market setting. For a casual spot to watch the sport, nip into Bubbas or Jakes Island Grill. No matter what, you have to give Chefette a go - Barbados’ local ‘fast food’ establishment where rotis, chicken tenders, ‘wing dings’ and Frosteez ice cream are all beloved by Bajans. There are a staggering amount of food options on the island. One thing is for sure, you won’t leave hungry!
5. Hop on a ZR
If you haven’t heard, one of our local minibus services is called a ‘ZR’ and a journey in one of these vehicles is a cultural experience in itself! Frequently found zooming up and down the south or west coats, these carriers feature lively music, are jam-packed with travellers, and will stop for you wherever you wave them down. A cheap and quick way to venture across the island, just don’t be expecting too much leg room!
6. Take in a Dinner Show…
Fun for the whole family, the Harbour Lights dinner show is a brilliant mix of live entertainment and great food, housed in the famous ‘Harbour Lights’ nightclub found on the South Coast. With dancing green monkeys, steel pan music aplenty and even limbo dancing, this energetic show is well worth taking in - just be prepared to get up on your feet and dance the evening away!
7. Explore Art…
Barbados is home to many talented
artists who specialise in a variety of mediums from painting to sculpture, textiles to pottery. Many restaurants across the island feature an abundance of art for sale, so it’s well worth keeping an eye out for that, but if you prefer to explore galleries, check out Limegrove Art Gallery (found in Limegrove Lifestyle Centre) and the Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown..
8. Visit Earthworks…
What began as a small art studio blossomed into a phenomenal pottery empire, found in the St. Thomas parish of the island. Earthworks is famous for beautiful, functional pottery pieces in distinctive designs, with a range that spans dinnerware sets, vases, traditional wall art and beyond. Many pieces can be custom made to add that coveted personal touch. Venture to their headquarters to see all available pottery, or simply take a glimpse at the potters at work. Their skill is truly remarkable.
9. Find the Farmer’s Market…
Brighton Farmer’s Market is legendary
amongst locals. Taking place in St. George on a Saturday morning, arrive early
(approx. 6am!) to soak in the buzz of local craft, fresh food and crisp coffee, all set on the background of the lush countryside. Oh, and of course there’s an abundance of locally-grown fruit and vegetables too! My big tip? Bring a reusable bag - you’ll fill it in no time.
10. Walk on the Barbados Boardwalk…
Found on the South Coast, the mile-long stretch of Boardwalk is a great way to take in the beautiful island scenery while burning a few calories! Used by walkers, joggers, and strollers alike, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the ocean, foliage and sandy beaches - without having to step into the sand. Plus, there are a wide array of cafes and restaurants along the path for when you need to refuel from burning all those calories…
11. See the Racehorses on Carlisle Bay…
One of our most famous stretches of beach is Carlisle Bay on the South Coast, and if you pay a visit early on a morning (6am!), you may just witness some of Barbados’ finest racehorses having a glorious sea bath in the sunrise. It really is a spectacle to see these majestic creatures glide through the waves with the help of their trainers. A true Kodak moment!
12. Glorious Gardens…
Trek to Hunte’s Gardens in St. Joseph to take in the lush tropical gardens of creator Anthony Hunte. A small yet powerful landscape, the creator himself is usually on hand for any questions in the main house, alongside refreshments. Or head to the Andromeda Botanic Gardens,
the island’s oldest and largest gardens, designed by Iris Bannochie and found just minutes from the famous Bathsheba on the East Coast. It’s a National Trust property, and if you show your card you just might get discounted entry! Flower Forest is also not to be missed and close to the other two.
13. Try Oistins Fish Fry…
By day, it’s a bustling fish market filled
with the freshest sea fare for anyone to buy and enjoy. But by night it transforms into a hive of activity, with vendors selling delicious fish dishes (and more), live music, entertainment and even karaoke if you’re lucky! Park up on a bench and take your pick of the action, or simply watch the locals in action as they play their famous games of dominoes. More show than anything - Friday is the busiest night of the week.
14. Venture North to Speightstown…
Situated towards the top of the West Coast of the island is Speightstown, a town filled with history that in recent years has developed its own distinctly cosmopolitan vibe while maintaining its 100% Bajan roots. The emergence of a number of trendy cafes and restaurants has assisted this - Baia, Local & Co, Orange Street Grocer - as well as the recently reopened Archers Hall Design Centre, an interiors store full of treasures. At the very least, you must take a walk down the Speightstown Boardwalk - the tranquil, serene views of the sea are second to none.
15. Take a Swim with the Turtles…
It’s not everywhere that you can casually glide into the open seas and immediately find yourself swimming with turtles. Across the South and West Coasts there are many hotspots for swimming with the sea creatures - including the likes of Sandy Beach or Carlisle Bay on the South, or Port St. Charles on the West. Venture there yourself (googles in hand!) or take one of Barbados’ famous Catamaran cruises where the hosts will give you a guided tour.
16. Follow the National Trust…
Dotted across the island are various National Trust sites, each brimming
with Bajan historical significance. Gun Hill Signal Station, The Bridgetown Synagogue, Wildey House, Morgan Lewis Windmill… each telling a unique aspect of local history that is carefully preserved and celebrated by the Trust. Be aware that many of these sites charge a small admission fee, and some have cafe facilities too.
17. All Aboard the Train…
Yes, a train! And not just any train, a steam locomotive! Pay a visit to the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway in St. Lucy where you can take this historical train through plantation fields and woodland, all the way to the East Coast of the island. And while you’re there, enjoy all else that St. Nicholas Abbey has to offer, including tours of the Great House and it’s world-renowned rum.
18. Dabble in the Duty-Free…jewellery, clothing and much more. Head to the capital, Bridgetown, to check out the bling in Diamonds International, The Royal Shop or Columbian Emeralds. Or for something local to take home from your travels, Best of Barbados, Ganzee, or Bridgetown Duty-Free will sort you right out. And don’t think you have to just stick to Bridgetown, duty-free stores are dotted across the island. Just keep your eyes peeled.
19. Stroll around Limegrove…
Continuing on the retail therapy theme… no shopping enthusiast should miss the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre when on the island. Billed as ‘the’ premium retail experience on the island, Limegrove is packed with recognisable high-quality shops, including Longchamp, and Michael Kors, as well as local stores, plus renowned restaurants, an art gallery, and even a luxury cinema (table service, no less!). Plus, the centre benefits from pop-up markets on various gifting holiday occasions - the Christmas one is a personal favourite.
20. Check out the Chattel House Village…
Sick of shopping yet? Us neither! Just up the road from Limegrove is the Chattel House Village, a truly unique bevvy of small, colourful huts, each with its own retail offering and circling a lovely little restaurant, Cafe Bar Carizma. A delightful mix of duty-free and beyond, this quaint spot is just bursting with hidden gems across interiors, fashion, food, and art.
21. Dive into the Island’s History…
History is everywhere in Barbados. The island may have been discovered by the British, but it was settled well before this by the Arawak Indians. You can learn about this, and much more, in the Barbados Museum in the Historic Garrison area. Actually, the entire area around the Garrison is a UNESCO heritage site, with George Washington House, the Clock Tower, and the Military Graveyard all within walking distance of each other. Fascinating, and very interesting.
22. Sweet Bajan Sounds…
Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Dancehall… the vibrant, melodious tunes of Barbados have influenced music around the world. Even the sounds of the steel pan have infiltrated popular music culture! No visit to the island is complete without enjoying some live music, be it at the popular Oistins Fry Fish, in a local bar/restaurant, or at a dedicated concert. Bonus points if you plan a trip during our ‘Kadooment’ (Crop Over) festival in the summertime - the tunes never stop playing!
23. See the Traditional Churches…
Barbados is home to over 100 religious denominations and some say more than 300 churches. Whether religious or not, some of these said churches are magnificent architectural delights, with distinguished heritage and their own history. And some are found in the most unusual of locations like the St. John Parish Church, which offers extraordinary views of the East Coast.
24. Unwind in the Spa…
Tired of the sun, fun and rum? Need some relaxation? Then a day at the spa is just the ticket! Singita Wellness Spa, found opposite Mullins Beach on the West Coast, is a boutique wellness centre offering indulgent pampering sessions, wellness classes and much more. Plus, many of Barbados’ fabulous hotels offer in-house spa services well worth investigating, and you can even have a massage on the beach if you fancy it!
25. And Last But Not Least… SPORT!Did you think I would the forget one of the most fantastic things about Barbados, the very foundation on which this magazine was built?! Barbados is BURSTING with phenomenal sports, from cricket to golf, tennis to football, horse-racing to horse-riding, surfing, swimming, diving, and
so very much more. Just flip through the pages of Sporting Barbados to see what’s going on in sport on the island, and I can guarantee that if sport is your thing, you won’t be bored for a moment.
We’d love to hear your favourite things about Barbados… be them the beach or otherwise! Search for Sporting Barbados on Facebook or Instagram and send us a message with your top picks.