The best of Barbados
Barbados is a beautiful island steeped in history and culture. There are many great cities on the island that have interesting things to see, do, and learn. The only way to really experience the island is to rent a car in Barbados.
Some of the best places to explore in Barbados are the cities and towns. These little island corners are what make the island a distinctively charming place to visit. They have beautiful historical buildings and extremely friendly people.
Bridgetown is the main commercial center of Barbados and the capital of the island. There are many duty-free shops that allow travelers to take the island’s treasures home with them. They sell fine jewelry, china, liquor, and more. There are also plenty of street vendors who can sell anything a traveler or resident would want.
The Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown are a great site to see. They were established in 1639 and it is the third oldest Parliament building in the entire Commonwealth. The city of Bridgetown and the nearby Garrison were included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Speightstown is at the northern end of the island. It was the first commercial center in Barbados and was neglected for many years. Now, it has been revived to its formal glory as a shopping mall.
The area has a unique look at Barbados’ architectural heritage. There are many shops, an art gallery and a spectacular restaurant facing the sea. Spending half a day in Speightstown will make your Barbados vacation one to remember.
Oistens is on the south coast of the island. Oistens has a rich history. The Article of Agreement was drawn up in Oistens by the Parliament of Barbados. The Oistens Fish Fry is one of the most popular tourist activities on the island.
The fried fish celebrates the contribution of the local fishing industry to the island. In the fish fry there is music, crafts, food and incredible entertainment for locals and visitors alike. Calypso and reggae music can be heard from the sidewalk stalls. There is dancing and traditional Baja food such as fish cakes, fried fish, pudding and souse.
Needham’s Point is one of the most exclusive areas on the island filled with historical treasures. It is in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the location of some of the best beaches on the island. Tourists traveling the island by rental car should not miss Needham’s Point.
St. Lawrence Gap is the ideal place for visitors who want to relax and have a party. There are tons of nightclubs and bars for every type of party animal. There are also amazing beachfront restaurants that give a great Barbadian feel.
Fitts Village is a small town on the west coast of the island. It offers excellent swimming and snorkeling almost all year round. It also has one of the best Italian restaurants on the island. Bathsheba is on the east coast of the island. It is a quiet hideaway popular with tourists and locals. There is stunning landscaping and naturally carved pools.
Holetown is in the heart of the tourist district, located on the west side of the island. Holetown has great historical resonance, but is also blended with modern development. Holetown is where the first settlement of Barbados was created.
The Holetown Monument commemorates this event: the first English landing on the island in 1625. The area has undergone many changes since the English first set foot on the island’s sands. It is now home to several excellent restaurants, shopping districts, hotels, residential areas, and exciting night spots.