Things to Do While Visiting Barbados

Located in the southeast region of the Carribean Barbados is one of the main destinations of travelers to the Carribean. Although Barbados is only 431 square miles over 275 thousand people live there and thousands more come to visit each year. The capital city, Bridgetown, and other towns like Speightstown, Holetown, and Oistins feature a large array of activities and attractions for children and adults.

Sure, Bridgetown has what every other tourist town has: gift shops, malls and boutiques but in Barbados everything is duty-free. Expensive brands like Gucci or Giorgioi Armani can be purchased for about half of the cost in America. One of the largest department stores in Barbados is Cave Shepherd. The Pelican Craft Centre, near Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, is a modern-day craft mall with over 20 souvenir and craft shops as well as a quaint restaurant.

There are several companies on the island which offer catamaran cruises. There are snorkel tours, private cruises, sunset tours or dinner cruises. Cruises that don't feature lunch or dinner normally offer refreshments of some sort.

Among the eateries on Barbados are pizzerias, seafood shacks, casual restaurants, Chinese cuisine and even fast-food. Many restaurants offer mixed drinks or other alcoholic beverages but there is a nice choice of ones that cater more to children.

Among the interesting things in Barbados is Little Bay, where the sand looks different than any other areas of the island. In addition, blowholes cause seawater to spout into the air at any given time. The swimming is great and the view unbelievable. Also on the north side of Barbados is Cove Bay, St. Lucy. Although it's a little more difficult to arrive there it's worth the extra hassle.

Other popular destinations are White Hill, Cherry Street in St. Andrew, Farley Hill of St. Peter, Hackleton's Cliff, Bathsheba, and Three Houses Park. The areas offer the best of swimming, fishing, hiking, nature walks and sun-filled days.

If Culture more suits your interests go see the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, established in 1933. Formerly a military prison the museum now features galleries and exhibits that express the history and heritage of Barbados. There's even a children's gallery showing antique toys and dolls of all types. Fees are inexpensive and you'll enjoy an entire day of interesting pieces.

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve, located in St. Peter parish, is directly across the street from Farley Hill National Park. The reserve is full of animals, birds and reptiles in their natural habitats. Among them are deer, turtles, guinea pigs, monkeys, cockatiels and peacocks. Over 400 birds make their home here. There's also a serpentarium where snakes of all sorts are housed, including pythons and boa constrictors. The Grenade Hall Forest is another favorite spot for nature lovers. Trails wind through trees and plants while monkeys entertain you on the way.

Like mysteries? Visit the Chase vault which is surrounded by legend for many years. Supposedly the vault contained several heavy lead caskets which were somehow moved and out of place each time the vault was opened. The problem became so eerie that decisions were made to finally move the caskets out and place them in the open portion of the cemetery. Rumors of ghosts and demonic activity still surround the area to this day.

While in Barbados you have a wide selection of accommodations. Budget hotels, 5 star resorts, guesthouses, villas and beach apartments are among the choices. Booking accommodations before traveling is best since many, many tourists visit the area.