Many Germans likely have a souvenir from Barbados in their homes—a CD from the globally renowned pop singer Rihanna, who is among the most famous residents of the Caribbean island. But celebrities aren’t all that Barbados has to offer. TRAVELBOOK presents five good reasons to vacation on the island.
Barbados is a dream destination in the Caribbean. The home of the globally famous pop singer Rihanna attracts not only many Hollywood stars but also tourists from around the world. TRAVELBOOK shows what makes the island so attractive to vacationers.
Overview
1. Dream Beaches
The unique features of Barbados must be experienced in person. The beaches, for example, stretch over 180 kilometers and vary from snow-white Caribbean beaches on the Platinum Coast in the west, to wide beaches ideal for snorkeling and swimming in the south (particularly picturesque are Bottom Bay, Crane Beach, and Long Bay), surfer waves and pink sands in the southeast, and impressive rock formations on the north and east coasts. Tip: A special challenge for surfers is the “Soup Bowl” with its churning surf off Bathsheba in the east of the island.
2. Spectacular Nature
But the nature on Barbados is also spectacular. On the 430-square-kilometer coral island, which is less than half the size of Germany’s capital Berlin, about 700 tropical plant species grow, from the nutmeg tree to the macaw palm. In the Chancery Lane Swamp nature reserve, pelicans color the landscape pink—competing with blue herons and frigatebirds. Even green monkeys call Barbados home, and with some luck, you can spot them in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve.
However, it should not be forgotten that sugarcane cultivation on the easternmost island of the Lesser Antilles has destroyed a large part of the original rainforest. At least 18 hectares have been preserved.
3. Sights in Bridgetown
The many colonial influences are still visible today in Barbados in the architecture, customs, and even the cuisine. Tourists are particularly impressed by the colonial style, which is evident throughout the capital, Bridgetown. The houses from the 17th to 19th centuries are so impressive and well-preserved that the old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 29, 2011.
Bridgetown owes its name to the old Careenage Bridge, which was named after the mouth of the Constitution River. Attractions include the Nelson Monument from 1813 (which is even 30 years older than the monument of the same name on Trafalgar Square in London), the Parliament Buildings, Heroes Square with the lively Broad Street, the historic Barbados Mutual Building, St. Michael’s Cathedral, or St. Ann Garrison, which was a settlement area for the British West Indies Regiment during British colonial rule.
Historical military barracks still stand here, and the parade ground can also be found. Other city attractions include Sam Lord’s Castle, built in 1820 by the pirate Samuel Hall Lord, and the Barbados Museum, where you can learn about the island’s history.
4. Cuisine on Barbados
At least as impressive as the nature and architecture is the cuisine of Barbados. The so-called Bajan Cuisine combines elements from African, Caribbean, European, and West Indian cuisines. This includes fish specialties like flying fish as well as vegetables and fruits, all seasoned with Bajan Seasoning, a robust spice mix.
Martinique – The Most Beautiful Destinations and Best Tips
Vacations in the Dominican Republic – 4 top offers for your next trip
5. Dream Destination for Honeymooners
A Caribbean beauty like Barbados is made for honeymooners. They book rooms in beach hotels, resorts, or luxury villas—and some couples even plan their entire wedding on the island. A “yes” in paradise—who could say no to that?
Map: Location of Barbados
Current safety information for Barbados, updates on the COVID-19 situation, and entry requirements for German citizens can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.
(Text: Silke Böttcher)