Sunday Special – Bridgetown, Barbados

The Caribbean island of Barbados has sun and beaches to spare as most islands in the Caribbean Sea do. As much as I am looking forward to upcoming travels to warmer climes and would love to showcase that aspect of Barbados, I have chosen instead to take a look at the capital of this sun-soaked isle: Bridgetown.

This vibrant and colourful capital city is home to 110,000 people, lying on the southwest coast of the island. Often referred to as “The City” by locals, it is a wonderful mix of history, culture, and modernity. In 2011 UNESCO added Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison to their list of World Heritage Sites. This area of the city has retained much of its historic layout and architecture (including the serpentine layout of medieval roads) for centuries. The examples of colonial-era British architecture and St Ann’s Garrison show some of the roots of commerce, the port, and the military standings of its history.

These days it has a variety to offer those visiting here. The history of course is the backdrop as is the sea. Carlisle Bay, a natural harbour, is the place to go for fun water sports, sun-seekers, and taking in the local cuisine. Head to the Careenage, the waterfront of the city and stroll along the boardwalk to take you along various points of interest in the city. Once you have seen the sites you can shop to your heart’s content at local markets, cool malls and designer shops. As for you rum aficionados I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that Bridgetown is where this amber elixir was born. Bridgetown certainly seems to be a wonderful place to spend some time while on this warm island.