Barbados

This destination

The pear shaped coral island of Barbados is recognised around the world for its sheer natural beauty, rich culture and delightful climate. With the Caribbean Sea lapping its tranquil shimmering white beaches on the west coast, and the Atlantic waves creating a dramatic, windswept coastline dotted with huge boulders on the East Coast, we invite you to discover the diversity of this destination, often regarded as the "Little England" of the Caribbean.

Barbados offers an impressive range of historic sites, such as old plantation houses, superb botanical gardens at Andromeda, military forts and signal stations at Gun Hill and Grenade Hall. Away from the mostly gentle rolling landscape discover striking scenery in hidden caves, cliffs and gullies. Set on Carlisle Bay, Bridgetown - the capital is worthy of exploration. It's an architectural mishmash of colonial and modern, with side streets full of residences, gothic parliament buildings, an Anglican cathedral, rum shops and chattel houses. The west coast bestows brilliant white sandy beaches edged with palm trees- perfect for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing.

Capital

Bridgetown

Languages

The official language is English. A local Bajan dialect is also spoken.

Currency

Bajan Dollar

Passport and visa

British passport holders do not require a visa.

Flying time to destination

8¾ hours

Climate/season

Barbados enjoys a warm tropical climate with gentle trade winds blowing throughout the year. As with all tropical Caribbean climates rain may occur between June and October.

History

By the late seventeenth century, sugar-rich Barbados had become one of the most important of Britain's overseas possessions. Amid continual strife the British decided to make sure Barbados was heavily fortified against invasion. As Barbados developed it became the regional centre for the British West Indian troops, and more army buildings were constructed around the fort. This is now known as the Garrison area, and is one of Bridgetown's most evocative and attractive districts, choc full of superb Georgian architecture.

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