Barbados, the Caribbean’s easternmost island, juggles two diverse cultures to produce a distinct Bajan personality. Barbados is roughly triangular in shape, measuring about 20 miles northwest to southeast and about 15 miles east to west at its widest point. Barbados is a coral island that was pushed out of the sea by volcanic activity in the distant past. On the West Coast, exquisite white-sand beaches stretch along a blue-green sea. Coral reefs line the coast, making for excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. The strong and consistent trade winds blow a vigorous surf throughout the East Coast, and the waves pound against a rocky shore. The steady breeze of the trade winds keeps the island’s tropical climate temperate and pleasant. Bridgetown is the capital and largest town, as well as the primary harbor.
Bridgetown
Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, is a port city on the island’s southwest coast of the Caribbean Sea, rightfully renowned for its exquisite white sands and brilliant blue oceans. Bridgetown has a distinct English flavor with a laid-back West Indian vibe, with a 17th-century garrison and horseracing track, as well as the central National Heroes Square, which borders the Constitution River. Popular activities include perusing the duty-free stores on Broad Street, swimming in Carlisle Bay’s blue waters, snorkeling and sailing cruises with six shipwreck diving sites, and seeing the city’s museums. Visitors can take the bus, which is dependable and inexpensive, to several attractions in Bridgetown and the rest of the island.