|
Barbados
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Barbados is the most
eastern island in the Caribbean, and is a tiny dot on most world maps with an
area of 430 square kilometers. Barbados has a population of about 260,000 -
which is quite high considering its size. With 97 kilometers of coastline,
Barbados has much to offer its visitors in terms of water sports and beach
activities: We expect you will be spending much of your day there. Barbados
remained under British rule from its first settlement in 1627 to its
Independence on November 30, 1966, profoundly affected the culture. Because of
this unbroken dominion, the stoic British influence courses through every day
life and the infrastructure of the island. More than 70 per cent of the island's
population are direct descendents from the forced mass Africa migration of the
late 1600s and 1700s-the slave trade. The island also has a peaceful blend of
European (primarily British) settler blood with the Afro descendents, as well as
small but vibrant Hindu (India), Arab (Lebanese and Syrian) and Jewish
communities.
|
|
|
|
African influence is
readily seen in the art, craft and literary works produced on the island, as
well as many of the foods and figures of speech. Bajans are a quick-witted,
fun-loving people and their gift for the double entendre or turn of phrase is
most visible through calypso and literature. Local festivals, particularly the
island's biggest national festival, Crop Over, reflect specific elements of
Bajan life. The primary driving force of the economy and lifestyle was the sugar
crop. It was the island's largest income-earner from the late 1600s until the
late 1980s, and remains a powerful influence in both the lifestyle and the
economy. Crop Over is a celebration of this agricultural mainstay. The other
prime economic influence is, of course, the fishing industry and festivals
hailing this trade are also held. The chattel house, a unique feature of
Barbados, is one such product of the cultural side of sugar. Of necessity,
plantation workers needed houses that were easily assembled and taken down so
they could move from plantation to plantation. |
|
This picturesque
island is rich in scenic beauty. Barbados sightseeing is a photographer's dream
come true with an abundance of natural wonders, breathtaking scenic views,
gorgeous gardens and miles of white, sandy beaches. There's so much to see and
many things to do, as you check out some of the places of interest on the
island. Full of historical appeal you'll love the impressive collection of
beautiful great houses, landmarks, old churches, and traditional chattel houses
some of which date back to the 16th century. Historic Bridgetown, the over 375
year old capital of Barbados, is located by the picturesque careenage with its
colorful fishing boats and splendid yachts. Nature lovers will find the
Botanical, as well as the dramatic landscapes of the tropical plants and
flowers, a welcome addition to their trip, nature trails, magnificent caves and
indigenous wildlife will make these tours both relaxing and intriguing. A guided
Island Tour is excellent value for money as well as informative, and varies from
scenic, fun-filled, historic tours to exciting safari tours. |
|
|
|
The
beaches of Barbados range from long, narrow strands of sand lapped by calm
waters to rockbound, cove-type beaches that are scenic but pounded by high
Atlantic surf. The following is a guide to some of the best beaches on the
island. All beaches on Barbados are open to the public, and public access ways
must be provided. Most hotels will charge beach goers to use their facilities,
which can range from dressing rooms, restaurants, bars, beach chairs, towels and
water sports concessions. Cuisine on the island is drawn mainly from African and
English influences but one can discover a great variety of establishments
featuring Italian, French, Spanish, North American, East Indian and Chinese
culinary treats. And while restaurants tend to be on the more pricey side of the
ledger you can also find economically priced fast food outlets and "local" hole
in the wall favorites. Barbados is a major duty free port and Americans can buy
up to $600.00 per person with a duty free allowance saving up to 50% below
retail prices. |
|
|
|
|
| |
Apartments
|
|
|
All Inclusive Hotels
|
Bed and Breakfast
|
|
|
|
|
Design by: Miller Fernandez
- Copyright © 1994 - 2008 latin-tours.com / All rights reserved.
|
|
|
