Bridgetown Barbados as a Travel Destination

Bridgetown Barbados as a Travel Destination

by admin August 14, 2017
Unique Things to do in Barbados
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Discover Barbados | Places to Visit in Barbados

Last Updated September 5th,2020

Looking for offbeat places to do adventurous things is the order of the day. One of many such destinations is Bridgetown, the capital and largest city in Barbados. A major west indies tourist destination, Bridgetown is listed as a World Heritage Site of UNESCO for its breathtaking British colonial architecture.

A testimony to the widespread British colonial empire, the town is picturesquely dotted with historic buildings with a blend of modern amenities.

History

About Barbados

So what’s is it about this little island?

Barbados is the most eastern of the Caribbean islands it is located due east of the island of St Vincent and about 400 kilometers north-east of Trinidad and Tobago.

What is Barbados best known for?

 


Things to do in Barbados Now

 

Barbados has a long list of travel awards and is one of the most sought after vacation and tourism spot in the Caribbean. It is not just one of most beautiful Caribbean island which makes it ideal for vacations, weddings and honeymoon but not many people are aware that Barbados is also a global business and investment power house – Barbados is easily compared to likes of London, Paris and New York.

A modern day epitome of the British rule, Bridgetown was once the center of trade, science, culture, communication and administration. The town played a pivotal role in the development of the English colonies in the Atlantic World.

Originally named ‘The Indian Bridge’, the Barbadian capital derived its name from the bridge constructed by the early Indian settlers. Later during the English settlement around the 17th century the current name of Bridgetown was born.

 
Discover Barbados - Barbados as a destination is well-known among the travel enthusiasts. Offering a range of interesting to do's, the country intrigues all kind of travelers. From its quaint architectural beauty to the scenic beaches there is something in store for everyone.
 

What are the most popular things to do in Barbados with kids?

The city was a key hub for commerce and trade with its harbor packed with trading vessels. The city was also often the first port of call for African ships making the trans-Atlantic journey. Owing to the abundance and prosperity most of the colonial powers viz. England, France, Holland and Spain were at war over the Caribbean islands.

The fortification along with western coast of the country reflects the importance of protecting the colonies from invaders.

Tourism Today


Barbados as a destination is well-known among the travel enthusiasts. Offering a range of interesting to do’s, the country intrigues all kind of travelers. From its quaint architectural beauty to the scenic beaches there is something in store for everyone.

Why Barbados?

Whether уоu are looking for ѕоmе relaxing time аwау frоm home Barbados has so much to offer.

Is it worth going all inclusive in Barbados?

Boosting a list of some of the top all inclusive resorts, vacation rentals and holiday homes you are sure to find a quality pick from many luxurious rentals around this amazing island.

In thе world оf today, thе internet hаѕ mаdе іt easy fоr еvеrуоnе tо plan thеіr holidays carefully аnd the search engines wіll show уоu wonderful pictures оf thе beauty thаt Barbados has to offer.If thаt іѕ nоt еnоugh tо satisfy you, уоu саn read оthеr tourists reviews and various travel and leisure magazine about their stay and experience іn Barbados.

Give it a shot – you will be amazed.

 
Vacation to Barbados
 

Bridgetown in particular is a shopper’s haven, offering duty-free shopping at city shopping hubs as well as cruise ship terminals. For someone looking to ‘live it up’ on their trip, the town offers everything from yachting to a lively nightlife. Bridgetown is also known for its historically significant sites such as the Barbados Museum, National Heroes Square and more.


 

Unique Things to do in Barbados
 
It is also the seat for the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere. Furthermore Bridgetown is quite well-known amongst Americans as it was the only city that George Washington visited outside present day US.

The house he stayed in as well as the church he attended are popular tourist attractions.
 

Getting there

Well connected to the United States, Canada and United Kingdom many international carries run non-stop flights to Bridgetown. Tourists can access daily flights via the Sir Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) located on ABC Highway.

What is there to do in Barbados today?

New York, Miami, Texas, Toronto, Montreal, London, Manchester, Frankfurt are some of the cities that have non-stop flights to Barbados. The Barbados Tourism Authority has also tied up with a number of travel partners to make your travel simple – Travelocity, Expedia, American Airlines being some of them.

What are the top attractions to visit in Barbados?

Barbados enjoys sunny and warm weather most of the year. December to April is the busiest time of the year so unless you are ready to shell out extra money, this time of the year can be avoided. Mid April to June the weather is pleasant and the prices decent. Bridgetown is best enjoyed between July and November with prices dropping over 50%.
 

Stay

Depending on whether you are there to splurge or save, Bridgetown offers a number of options from the refined luxury of a resort to the comfortable and intimate guest-house.

Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados and Courtyard by Marriott Bridgetown are two of the many resorts options available at Bridgetown. With tourists looking for maximum freedom the city also offers a number of holiday rentals.

Check for reviews and ranking on travel websites before zeroing on one.


 
Unique Things to do in Barbados
 

Local transport

Getting around in Bridgetown is not a challenge. If you are ready to clock the miles the town can also be discovered on foot. Public transport options are aplenty with buses to taxicabs available easily.

Is it safe to travel in Barbados?

If you would like to explore all that the island offers then rent a car or ‘moke’ as called by the locals. Tourists cars have number plates starting with ‘H’ thus making it easily identifiable. Locals are helpful and accommodating of your requests for direction.

 


 

See & Do

Bridgetown has no dearth of sightseeing options with everything from historic sites to beaches to water activities. Typical of all Caribbean islands Bridgetown too boasts of pristine white beaches and plenty of sunny weather.

What are the best outdoor activities in Barbados?

Brighton Beach is a major attraction that is popular among tourists. The beach offers scuba diving opportunities alongside a beautiful coral reef.Other activities include water sports, jet skiing and more at The Carlisle Bay Marine Park.

Bridgetown contains a high concentration of memorials, statues and important monuments honoring moments in history. Step back in time and rediscover Barbados at the Tyrol Cot Heritage Village or be awe struck by the colonial architectural beauty that is the St. Michael’s Cathedral.

Visit The Emancipation Statue, Chamberlain Bridge, Independence Arch, National Heroes Square (formerly Trafalgar Square), Cenotaph War Memorial, the Fountain Gardens along with the law courts and parliament building.

Make sure to keep your camera handy and capture these moments in time.

The Barbados Museum need a special mention being the store house of colonial artifacts, information about the island’s emancipation and also displays relating to slavery and its eventual abolition.Also drop by at Wildey House, another museum-type attraction filled with antiquities.

Bridgetown is also the perfect base to stay, set out and explore the rest of the island.

 
Barbados
 
Other Things to do around the island of Barbados
 

What do people do for fun in Barbados?

Golf, Rum, horseback riding, water sports, fishing, cycling routes, hill walking to name but а few of the mоѕt popular leisure activities аvаіlаblе іn Barbados.

A combination of all the above along with glass of two of the local rum can be a lot of fun too.

There іѕ а large selection оf golf courses аnd links fоr thе golf enthusiast.
Barbados hаѕ mаnу tourist attractions. Thе beaches of Barbados аrе well knоwn world-wide fоr thеіr beauty as well as thе beauty оf thе surrounding areas.

While you’re exploring Barbados, уоu wіll соmе асrоѕѕ many familiar British nаmе inherit from its former colonial days.

Although Barbados іѕ basically а tourist based economy, you also will be amazed that Barbados has the highest standard of living in Caribbean with many international tax and investment protection treaties. It has a very stable democracy which makes and earns it the home of the some of the world’s wealthiest individuals and corporations.

What are the best day trips from Barbados?

Out оf аll the islands in the Caribbean, Barbados іѕ оnе of the mоѕt famous fоr іtѕ simple scenic beauty. If уоu wаnt tо mаkе Barbados уоur holiday destination, mаkе ѕurе уоu book іn advance demand is high.

Barbados offers wonderful holiday homes tо many tourists аt vеrу affordable rates. Booking in advance wіll give уоu thе choice оf choosing уоur vеrу оwn vacation home аt unbeatable weekly rates.

A Barbados Vacation іѕ ѕurе tо bе а memorable time for all members of your family.

 
Barbados
 

Shore Excursions In Barbados

Barbados is a delightful island and one of the Caribbean’s most popular tourist destinations. It is easy to see why as it has plenty to offer visitors, including those who arrive by cruise ship. Barbados was a British colony for around three hundred years and though it is now independent, it retains the British monarch as head of state.

As such, it has good relations with the UK and is very welcoming to visitors from across the world. There is a lot to do on the island, though the great weather and gorgeous landscapes are enough to satisfy many visitors.

Here is list of of some of top things to do on the Island of Barbados
 

 

What is the best month to visit Barbados?
    Where should I stay in Barbados for vacation?

    One of the main attractions of Barbados is its sweeping coastline and the beaches that can be found along it. From the main mooring spot for cruise ships a transfer will take you through historic Bridgetown, past the parliament buildings and out to Carlisle Bay one of the widest and longest beaches on the island.
    A refreshing drink and a deckchair are all included and you will be left to spend the day in peace, relaxing and enjoying all the delights offered by the classic combination of sun, sea and sand. As the day draws to a close, the transfer will be ready to return you to the ship for the evening.

    Caribbean Sunset
    What should I avoid in Barbados?

    After a busy day exploring all that Barbados to offer or a relaxing day on the beach, a sunset cruise at dusk is the perfect way to spend the evening. The yacht will cruise along the western coast, offering the spectacle of a tropical sunset combined with the beauty of the shimmering sea and the pleasure of a warm evening breeze.

    The crew are there to meet your every need and you will be able to sample traditional Caribbean hors d’oeuvres and sip Champagne as you sail to truly complete the sense of luxury on this excursion.

 
Barbados
 

    Discover Atlantis

    If an adventure on land or above the waves isn’t enough, why not try an excursion on the Atlantis submarine one of the Caribbean’s most popular attractions. A short boat trip takes you out to the submarine’s mooring spot and once you dive below sea level you will encounter a fascinating world of wildlife, all identified and explained by expert guides that form a part of your crew.

 
Holiday Phtos from Barbados Caribbean
 

    From your porthole, you will be able to see myriad species of brightly coloured fish, remarkable sponge gardens and spectacular coral formations, all part of this incredible aquarium in reverse. For your comfort, the interior of Atlantis is kept at sea-level pressure and air-conditioned temperature.
     

    Cool Runnings

    Cool Runnings offer catamaran trips around the coast of the island, stopping off to swim with turtles, go snorkelling around a ship wreck and sample the local specialty; flying fish. There are cruises every Wednesday; one in the morning and one in the afternoon allowing you to watch the sunset from the Caribbean Sea.

    Barbados has plenty to offer every visitor, especially those who arrive by cruise ship. Having moored up in and explored, historic Bridgetown, the rest of the island is your oyster, whether you choose to drive across it, sample the beaches or take to the sea.

    A Gentleman Farmer’s Life

    Have you ever wondered how your life could be if you had been a gentleman farmer during the times?

    By visiting the Francia Plantation House, a preserved house that dates back to when Barbados was part of the UK, well, satisfy your curiosity. It is filled with antique furniture and classic paintings.

    Last Windmill Standing

    If you’re on a trek to discover the history and culture of Barbados, you definitely cannot miss the Morgan Lewis Sugar Windmill. Of all of the windmills in Barbados, this was rated as the most amazing in the Caribbean and it’s still standing right now, and it’s become one of Barbados’ main tourist attractions.

    Commune with your Spiritual Side

    If you are curious about the life of the monks in the monasteries, visit St. Nicholas Abbey. It’s located above a pond and is 800 feet above sea level. Going there will also give you a view of the Atlantic that is guaranteed to make your journey up to the cliff perfectly worthwhile.

    Ride with the Wind

    If you are up for some extreme sports, then grab your swimsuit and head out to the shore for some windsurfing action. Make certain it is not summer time on the island, because during the summer months in Barbados the seas are usually perfectly calm and are not satisfactory for such activities.

    Explore the Underwater World

    If the winds are not picking up and the waves aren’t cooperating, do not worry, the Barbados beaches still have lots to give you. You could consider getting off your land legs and catch some snorkels and dive to the gorgeous deep blue sea to explore a completely different world entirely.

    Swim with the fishes and discover the coral reefs in the west and south coasts, or you could also visit with the Pamir shipwreck, a fascinating and mysterious experience.

    Tropical Foods and Fish

    Barbados offers some terrific cuisines for you to enjoy. The favorite is the Flying fish – this could be cooked in many different ways, fried, steamed, grilled – anything, either way, it’s a must-taste if you are visiting Barbados. You can also sample some of their fresh fruits and of course, their lobsters, but if you are going to visit a classy restaurant prepare as it will cost you.
     


    Things to do in Barbados

     

    A Calm Interlude

    In the midst of all the hustle bustle of your visit to the tropics, why don’t you take some time to relax and have a nice peaceful walk through Welchman Hall Gully, a path that is flanked by flowers, vegetation, and spice trees.
    If you are lucky, you might spot a monkey or two.
     
     
    Holiday Phtos from Barbados Caribbean
     

When Darkness Falls

You would think that everything will be quiet once night comes on the peaceful island of Barbados. However, you’d be horribly mistaken. In fact, St. Lawrence Gap, a 1-mile road in Barbados is famed for night clubs, jazz bars, and bars where you can dance until you drop.
A must visit for a night out.

A Pirate’s Haven

It doesn’t mean that you are going to have to stop your role playing as a swash buckling buccaneer just because you’re tired from the long days of discovering the island of Barbados. Ok I will quit the contrary.

You can however, always retire to Barbados’ Pirate Inn, an inn that specializes in providing lodging which has a life of a pirate theme.
 



 

Eat & Shop

Bajan cuisine is a unique blend of Caribbean, Africa, West Indian and European with fish being the mainstay. Seafood lovers ahoy, Bajan cuisine serves everything from dolphins to snapper to the national fish – flying fish on a platter. The local cuisine mainly uses cooking techniques like grilling, roasting and baking. Vegetarian options though sparse are available at established restaurants.
 


Things to do in Bridgetown Barbados

 
Barbados is considered the birthplace of Rum which you will find in abundance here. If you are curious about the origin then make sure you visit the Mount Gay or Malibu Rum distilleries else you can also pick some from the duty-free shops.

Bridgetown is a great shopping hub with variety of shops to choose from. Located in the heart of the city, Broad Street is home to number stores selling everything from emerald jewelry to handicraft items. The city offers shoppers a chance to buy hand-dyed fabrics, handcrafted jewelry, custom shoes and leather sandals and more.

The Barbados dollar is tied to the US dollar which is widely accepted in Bridgetown as well as other parts of the island. Hotels, restaurants and large stories also accept cards and traveler checks.

 
Barbados Travel Photos

 

Things to remember

  • Though Bajan is the local language English is widely spoken in Bridgetown
  • Most hotels provide convertors for European or Asian appliances. Tourist from North America will need to carry their own
  • Pack your bags for warm tropical weather – cotton clothes, shorts, sundresses and wraps.
  • Pack swimwear for the beach and dress casually for other activities such as shopping or dining
  • Normal business hours from Monday to Friday are 8.30 am to 4.30 pm and till 1 pm on Saturday. Most shops are closed on Sunday
  • Driving in Bridgetown is on the left side of the road with vehicles being “right hand drive”
  • The city as a modern communication infrastructure with phone, internet and e-mail services readily available

 

A getaway to Bridgetown is an experience that you’ll cherish forever so make the most of your holiday and enjoy everything the beautiful island paradise has to offer.

You can learn more about the top ten vacation spots in the Caribbean islands here:

 

Travel Tips and Stories

Overseas Travel Checklist

Months before departure

  • 1. New Passport It may take up to 4 weeks to get your passport if you do not already have one. A passport is necessary for all travel outside of the United States and Canada.

  • 2. Check Passport Expiration: If your passport expires in less than six month you must renew it before visiting some countries in Asia. And less than 3 months in most of Europe.

  • 3. Entry Visa Besides a passport, certain countries require a visa just to enter. Entry Visas are required for Ethiopia, Vietnam, China, India, Russia and more.

  • 4. Required Vaccinations – “The only vaccine required by International Health Regulations is yellow fever vaccination for travel to certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America.” – Center for Disease Control and Prevention

  • 5. Register with the State Department / Embassy : Registering with US State Department / Embassy when going overseas helps them keep track of you while abroad to warn you of any danger or your family if you are any danger.

  • 6. Find Appropriate Accommodations
    when traveling abroad, especially to a “third world” country, it is very important to find accommodations with great ratings and reviews by both guests and third parties. It’s a new experience and it’s important to be comfortable.

  • 7. Notify your Bank and Credit Card Companies – If you use your credit card suddenly overseas it sends up a lot of red flags and they make put your account on hold. So it is REALLY IMPORTANT that you let them know where you will be during what date and about how much you plan to spend. That way they will keep an eye out if you card starts running charges in Turkey and you went to Australia and contact you, etc. They also might offer services or discounts in the countries you are visiting.

  • 8. Unlock your cell phone: Will you be planning on using your cell phone overseas? Overseas roaming is pricey so we recommend you call your cell phone carrier and tell them you are traveling overseas and would like your cell phone unlocked and ask about their overseas pricing. You might be able to get an affordable prepaid SIM card in the country you arrive.

  • 9. Consider Travel Insurance – Have an amazing trip planned? Check your current medical insurance to see if you are covered in the countries your are currently traveling too. It might be worth your while to get travel insurance to cover medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage damage, medical evacuation, etc.

  • The week before departure

  • 1. Pack Clean – Lucky rabbit’s foot? Favorite elephant tusk? Maybe ever your little bottle of magic powder or oil? Or even magic rocks? Burned copies of your favorite music? This and many other things could potentially present problems in customs when traveling overseas. It’s best to pack only somewhat basic and regular items for your destination.

  • 2. Pack Light – Are you planning on catching up on reading and want to bring the whole home library? Or feel like bringing a full game set of croquet? Well maybe your spouse would like to bring one pair of every shoe color? Well dragging that suitcase all over Europe and never using any of the extra fun items have definitely happened to me. So please, pack, light.

  • The day before departure

  • 1. Exercise You will be sitting down for many hours on the plane. If you put in a good hour of cardio before the flight you will feel like a million bucks the whole way there.

  • 2. Relax Traveling overseas can be stressful. Sleeping on the plane is not always comfortable and jet lag can leave you weaker than usual. When you arrive in the new place you can be on your last nerve, especially when traveling with children. If you give yourself a day off of work before the trip to relax you’ll have the strength to enjoy the transition to the far off land you are headed too.

  • The day of departure

  • 1. Arrive Early To The Airport : Arriving really early to the airport allows you to stroll your way casually through traffic, security and the airport. Nothing is better than arriving early grabbing an expensive airport snack and relaxing knowing you’re making your flight.

  • 2. Enjoy the trip Traveling overseas can be stressful. But let’s make it fun. You’ve prepared for this trip and everything can go wonderfully for you and your traveling companions. I hope it does.

  •  

    Go on Vacation According to Your Style

    What type of trips do you prefer?

    You have a style unique to you, a style that you prefer to wear over everything else. This can vary according to seasonal preference, what body part you like to accentuate, favorite color, and where you stand on the girly-or-tomboy scale. When you go on vacation, it can be a pain to have to shop for things you only need to wear at your destination.

    How can I look stylish while traveling?

    If you live in a warm climate and prefer to wear sweet sundresses, going on a skiing trip can be a hassle: you have to buy coats and snow pants, skiing gear, and pants and sweaters.

    This year, when you’re picking a new (or old!) locale to explore, go somewhere that suits your style. You’ll stay cool, collected, and comfortable.
     
    If you wear: skirts, sundresses, light tops, crisp shorts
     
    This is easy: go somewhere tropical! If you’re strapped for cash, head to the beach closest to you. The Jersey shore is not all Guidos; you can visit Ocean City or Wildwood for a sunny time. South Carolina also offers some beautiful beaches, like Myrtle Beach, or North Carolina’s Sunset Beach. Then of course, there’s California. Go anywhere there, and feel right at home.

    If you want to splurge, head somewhere like Bora Bora, Barbados, or Aruba. Your wardrobe will provide exactly the clothes you need to feel comfortable in a tropical place.
     
    If you wear: linens, dresses, blouses, cardigans
     
    If you dress lightly, but more conservatively, you’d fare best in a European city, like London or Milan. In these cities, people tend to cover up more. The sun may get hot in the summertime, but it won’t be as scorching as a tropical location, so you can wear a little more fabric and feel more covered. Slip a cute cardigan over a sundress, or wear a light blouse with linen pants, and you’ll look perfect.

    What is the most popular vacation destination?

    In some cities, it is customary to cover your shoulders when visiting certain places. Make sure you know the etiquette when packing and dressing.
     
    If you wear: sweaters, patterns, hats, cool button downs
     
    So you have a cool, eclectic style. You pair loud scarves with patterned tights, and you love clothes with fun cutouts. Vacationing in a contemporary city like Amsterdam is perfect for you. You can experience the great bar scene, walk along the canals, and attend some great concerts. Paris is also a great city for the fashion-fearless. If you wear what you want, when you want, and work it, go somewhere that will appreciate and encourage that.

    Also, smile for any street fashion photographers! You may get noticed.
     

    Where should I travel based on my zodiac sign 2020?

    If you wear: sneakers, sports shorts, T shirts, hoodies
     
    If you take a lazier approach to style, go somewhere adventurous. Rock climb, white water raft, or hike anywhere in the world. The Grand Canyon, the Amazon in Brazil, Machu Picchu, and Belize beckon with plenty of activities for you. Your sporty clothing will serve you well at these amazing destinations. You can experience thrilling sea kayaking, mountain trekking, and nature photography in your own comfy clothes.

    Just make sure you bring bug spray!

    If you wear: sweaters, pants, scarves, long sleeves
     
    You prefer a more wintry selection of style, so the travel recommendation for you is somewhere cold. You can ski, have fun in a lodge, build snowmen, or simply go somewhere with crisp, cool weather. You’ll feel right at home in your thicker clothes, without having to buy anything. Head to Switzerland, Canada, Norway, or all the way to Antarctica to get your fix of cold weather.
    The important thing is to bring extra hats and mittens, to keep extra warm!

    Pick a vacation that allows you to be you, and bring your own, worn-in, familiar clothing. It’s guaranteed that you will feel more comfortable and at ease in any locale.

     
     


    Discover the Caribbean

     
     

     

     

     

    Post by Angella Grey, the marketing manager at The Vacation Rentals Experts – an online and offline digital marketing agency that creates marketing solutions for vacation rentals, holiday homes and brands.

    Joint us on twitter, Pinterest, follow our LinkedIn company page to learn more and get great tips on market strategy and solutions for your holiday properties.
     
    If you enjoy and find this post informative please like this story and share it with a friend!

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