🇧🇧 Barbados

Discover Barbados

Barbados, the easternmost Caribbean island, is a sophisticated blend of British colonial heritage and vibrant West Indian culture. Known for world-class rum, stunning beaches, the exhilarating Crop Over Festival, and warm Bajan hospitality, this coral island offers a refined Caribbean experience.

From the calm turquoise waters of the west coast to the dramatic Atlantic-facing east coast, from historic Bridgetown (a UNESCO World Heritage site) to luxury resorts along the Platinum Coast, Barbados delivers natural beauty, cultural richness, and world-class amenities.

Award-Winning Excellence

Notable Award-Winning Properties & Services

• Barbados - Caribbean's Leading Wedding Destination 2025
• Sandy Lane - Barbados' Leading Boutique Resort 2025
• Fairmont Royal Pavilion - Barbados' Leading Resort 2025
• Cobblers Cove - Barbados' Leading Hotel 2025
• St. James Travel & Tours - Barbados' Leading Destination Management Company 2025
• SunTours Barbados - Barbados' Leading Tour Operator 2025
• Going Places Travel - Barbados' Leading Travel Agency 2025

Top Attractions & Things to Do

• Harrison's Cave - Stunning crystallized limestone cavern with underground streams and waterfalls, explored by tram
• Bridgetown & Garrison - UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial architecture, historic buildings, and the National Cannon Collection
• Carlisle Bay - Calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming, with six shipwrecks for snorkeling and diving
• Platinum Coast - West coast stretch featuring luxury resorts, calm beaches, and upscale dining from Holetown to Speightstown
• Oistins Fish Fry - Authentic Friday night beach party with fresh seafood, music, dancing, and local flavor
• Bathsheba Beach - Dramatic east coast beach with massive boulders and powerful Atlantic surf, perfect for photography
• Mount Gay Rum Distillery - World's oldest rum distillery (since 1703) offering tours and tastings
• St. Nicholas Abbey - 17th-century plantation house with rum distillery, heritage railway, and lush gardens
• Animal Flower Cave - Natural sea cave at the island's northern tip with natural pools and ocean views
• Crane Beach - Stunning pink-tinged sand beach on the southeast coast with powerful waves
• Hunte's Gardens - Hidden tropical garden sanctuary in a sinkhole with exotic plants and peaceful pathways
• Andromeda Botanic Gardens - Six-acre hillside garden with orchids, palms, and spectacular coastal views

Rum Heritage & Distilleries

Barbados is the birthplace of rum, with distilling traditions dating back to 1639. The island produces some of the world's finest rums, and visiting distilleries is a must-do experience.

Tour Mount Gay Rum Distillery (world's oldest commercial rum distillery), Foursquare Rum Distillery (craft rum excellence), and St. Nicholas Abbey (heritage steam-powered distillery). Sample world-class aged rums and learn about the island's 380-year rum-making legacy.

Crop Over Festival

Crop Over is Barbados' largest and most colorful festival, celebrating the end of the sugar cane harvest. Running from June to August, it features calypso competitions, street parties, elaborate costumes, and culminates in the spectacular Grand Kadooment parade.

Experience soca music, jump with masquerade bands, enjoy Bajan cuisine at street parties, and immerse yourself in authentic Caribbean culture during this high-energy celebration that rivals Trinidad's Carnival.

Perfect Wedding Destination

As the Caribbean's Leading Wedding Destination, Barbados offers stunning beachfront venues, luxury resorts with wedding packages, professional coordinators, and simple legal requirements. Couples can marry after just 3 days on the island, making destination weddings easy and stress-free. From intimate beach ceremonies to grand resort celebrations, Barbados creates unforgettable wedding experiences.

Travel Tips

• Entry Requirements: US/Canadian citizens need valid passport. No visa required for stays under 90 days
• Getting There: Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) with direct flights from major US cities
• Getting Around: Rental cars (drive on left), taxis, and public buses (cheap but crowded)
• Currency: Barbadian Dollar (BBD) pegged 2:1 with USD. US dollars widely accepted
• Best Time to Visit: December to April for ideal weather. Summer brings Crop Over Festival
• Coast Selection: West coast (calm, upscale). South coast (livelier, affordable). East coast (dramatic, surfing)
• Tipping: 10-15% standard. Some restaurants add automatic service charge
• What to Pack: Smart casual attire, reef-safe sunscreen, light jacket for air conditioning
• Safety: Very safe for tourists. Use normal precautions in Bridgetown at night
• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly away from beach. Greet locals with "Good morning/afternoon"