7 Things You Must Do in Barbados

2:09 pm Caribbean Traveller 5 Comments
There is a multitude of fun activities and entertainment in Barbados that it would probably be impossible to do everything in one trip. 

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Barbados' most popular sport, cricket, being played on the beach

So, Caribbean Traveller has put together a few things you must do while in Barbados.

#1 Go to the Beach


 This is one is pretty much a "duh" but it must be said. In March 2015, the Crane beach on the south-east coast of Barbados was crowned the "best beach in the Caribbean" by USA Today readers. The island even landed the number 8 spot for its popular east coast picnic and surf location, Bathsheba beach.
With other great options such as Dover, Accra and Brighton beaches, you'd really be doing yourself a disservice not to experience it yourself.
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Visitors enjoying the white sand and surf on Crane Beach

#2. Try Coucou and Flying Fish


 It's the national dish of the island and is absolutely delicious when done right. Coucou is made by masterfully mixing corn meal and okra to produce a smooth, thick porridge-like consistency. The flying fish is traditionally steamed and served on top the coucou with tomato based gravy. The combination should be a harmony of flavor that goes down smooth and can keeps you full for a while.
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Traditional serving of Barbados' national dish Coucou and Steamed Flying Fish
If you get the chance, do indulge (and don't skimp on the gravy!)

#3. Have a Rum Punch


 Barbados has a strong bartending and mixology program. Most bars would have a resident expert who can concoct some of the best drink mixes you have ever tasted. Depending on the season, you may be treated to a cocktail made with local fruit and experience something that you may never get at home.
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Example of a Rum Punch cocktail
Any bartender worth his salt would be able to make you a killer rum punch but be careful. As one of the premier producers of rum, they take their rum mixes very seriously and every location has its signature blend. So if you call yourself a drinker and ask for a stiff one, you may get more than you bargained for.

#4. Watch the Sunrise on East Coast


 Ideal for the couple on a romantic getaway or a group of friends who'd like to do something different. No need for a lot of explanation here. Just pack a blanket or coat and choose a nice spot along Bathsheba, Bath or Cattlewash. 
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View of the sunrise from Bathsheba, Barbados
If you like to surf, you would be in prime location to catch any early waves.

#5. Swim with the Turtles


 There are quite a few water craft operators that facilitate activities such as swimming with the turtles, snorkeling and the like so you have no excuse. 
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Swimming with the turtles in the crystal clear waters of the West Coast
Experience a relaxing circumnavigation cruise along Barbados' beautiful West Coast, which faces the Caribbean Sea, and they will take you to the best turtle spots so you can get up close and personal. Seeing turtles may be seasonal so make sure to ask about it when making your booking.

#6. Eat somewhere different every day


 The island has literally hundreds of places to eat that are offering different kinds of cuisine. If you eat at the fine dining Accra Deck today then you can cheat on your diet and partake some Chefette tomorrow then nip over to a small cafe for some local cuisine the next. 
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Contemporary fine dining restaurant, Accra Deck
One thing for sure, is the Barbadian palate loves variety and we offer the same variety to our travel guests. Ask just about anyone and they would be able to direct you to the best eats around.

#7. Take a Drive or Ride around the island


 This is our top recommendation on getting to know the island. Feel free to drive around without fear of getting lost. The locals are friendly and would be willing to direct you if you need help but if push comes to shove do what any Barbadian would do if they get lost. Locate a bus stop and follow the ones designated "To City". 
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Exploring the East Coast of Barbados. photo via ellebelle.me
They will lead you right back into the central areas where you're bound to spot familiar landmarks to make navigation back to your lodgings much easier.

These few things would only 'wet your feet' to multitude of places to stay, things to do and dining options available in the small island of Barbados. You will surely need to return but no longer greeted as a 'tourist' but welcomed like an old friend.

For vacation listings in Barbados, visit CaribbeanTraveller.com

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5 comments:

  1. GrenadaIsParadiseSeptember 16, 2015 9:39 am

    And you definitely need to take a brake to the neighbouring island Grenada to see the REAL: beauty of the Caribbean, without the commercialism, but with authentic Caribbean spirit. I was always going to Barbados (my wife is born there), but one trip 10 years ago to Grenada and neither of us went back to this fake Caribbean spot called Barbados. It is violent, rude, dirty and one big piece of concrete. Don't get fooled in believing the article.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Caribbean TravellerSeptember 16, 2015 1:46 pm

      Every Caribbean country has its own special offering. If Barbados was too commercial, then Grenada would be great for you. We'd also recommend checking out Nevis if the more green and less urbanized vybe is what you'd prefer.

      As for the violence, rudeness and supposed dirtiness, we cannot agree but one must admit that everywhere on the planet has its own less-than-presentable side. Maybe you needed to be better informed on how to enjoy the highs and avoid the lows. Check out CaribbeanTraveller.com for available activities in Barbados or contact us directly for recommendations. Hopefully, you'll give the island another chance.

      #OneCaribbean

      Delete
  2. Hermits HutSeptember 30, 2015 1:40 pm

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    Replies
    1. Caribbean TravellerSeptember 30, 2015 1:52 pm

      Glad we could cheer you up! Some articles say that planning a vacation can be just as mood enhancing as taking one. Check out our website and plan yourself a trip. Hopefully we'll see #HermitHut gracing our #Caribbean shores soon!

      Delete
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