Why Barbados should be on your bucket list

Currency: Bajan Dollars & USD

Visa: No (U.S.)

Language: English

.50 Bajan Dollar = 1 usd

Visits: 1

Visit Again? Yes

The Caribbean has often been a hot spot for an easy getaway especially for people on the east coast. The only con is that as soon as you become immersed, it is unfortunately time to go back home, what a bummer!

Fortunately you can still have an incredible time in a short time. Most people only think of idyllic beaches and bottomless rum punch and Bad Gal Riri (musician Rihanna) when Barbados comes into topic. This country is rich in history and tradition that you would want to get reckoned while swaying to the beats of steel pans.

WHEN TO VISIT

Barbados is enjoyable all year round due to the warm weather that it boasts. It rarely ever drops below a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celcius). Peak season is during the winter months of November to March as patrons are trying to beat the frigid cold. During this time prices soar for just about everything on the island, especially for Christmas and New Year. The months of July and August are known as “rainy season” and even a threatened by natural disasters such a hurricanes. August is also during its annual infamous Crop over carnival celebrating their culture past and present.

SAFETY/GETTING AROUND

Barbados only has one airport, Grantley Adams International Airport. This airport is located in Bridgetown, Barbados and is the only airport you’ll be flying into. To get to other parts of the island you will have to use another form of transportation.You can walk around this island freely and crime is not high compared to their neighboring caribbean islands. Feel free to use their public forms of transportation, taxi’s or rent a car. Taxi’s are not metered so you should always negotiate PRIOR too and make sure it is clear whther it will be U.S. Dollars or Bajan dollars since both are used. I once was quoted 50 dollars for a taxi. I thought it was 50 Bajan dollars, since that would only be 25 U.S. Dollars but the driver quoted me in U.S. Dollars. Don’t make this same mistake, I actually recommend renting a car. It is always the best way to see through different parishes of the island.

Ways to Enjoy Barbados

When I visited to Barbados for just four days and enjoyed every moment. Here are a few reasons why you need to get to Barbados.

Crop Over Carnival

Happening every year this is one of the most anticipated time of year for the natives and visitors alike. Everyone dress up in colorful bedazzled costumes while having the time of their lives so the rhythmic sounds of the countries music

2. Beaches

What’s a warm getaway without hitting up at least one beach. Luckily Barbados boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and have many to choose from. The east coast, facing the Atlantic Ocean are known for their rough waves, a hit for surfers but is not the most common for safety reasons. The beaches in the south are more calm. Miami Beach, Cranes Beach, and Brown’s Beach are highly recommended by locals.

3. Swim with the turtles

Not too many places on this Earth such an incredible adventure. Barbados is one of the few places where you snorkel and even swim with these friendly comrades.

4. Eat Flying Fish & Dolphin

I mean, who doesn’t enjoy some local cuisine while traveling. The national dish of Barbados is flying fish and another staple is dolphin. Yes, the cute friendly dolphin that makes are feel all happy inside. Since both are in the fish family they are pretty tasty. I absolutely loved them both and encourage you try some. Be sure to add some macaroni pie to that equation.

5. Harbour lights

This is one of the most touristic things you can do in Barbados but totally worth it. With a staggering price tag of almost $100, you will be wowed by fire breathing acts, delicious dinner and open bar. The entertainment is in in full swing all night, making it a must do when you are in Barbados. You can book your tickets and check it out here.

6. Caves, Harrisons and Animal Flower

A crystalized limestone cave that will have you in awe. One of Barbados greatest wonders you can take a tour of nature’s beauty.

7. Oistins Bay & Saint Lawrence Gap

I’m sure once you’ve told someone you just got back from Barbados, they will ask did you go to Oistin’s in Christ’s Church. Particularly on Friday’s and Saturday’s, in this village you can find tasty dishes along with souvenirs and locals gathered around for a bite called Oistin’s Fish Fry.

8. Booze Cruise

With options from catamaran cruises to parties on big ole ships, it would be a pity to not partake in a wonderful booze cruise. I went with Jolly Pirates and for $70 I drank all I wanted, snorkeled, swam and partied all day.

9. Wild life and Gardens

Into wild life? Not a problem, you can visit Barbados Wildlife Reserve in the Parish of Saint Peter. You can see animals like monkey’s to rabbits and even crocodiles. For photoesque floral feels you can visit Barbados has Hunte’s Garden and Andromeda Botanic Garden.

10. Barbados Museum and Historical Society

An easy way to soak up the knowledge of a destination is to visit their local museum. Packed with facts that you most likely didn’t know. You will be sure to leave learning something new about Barbados.