What do you think when you hear ‘Barbados’? Crystal clear blue water, white sparkly sand? It has both of those things in droves, but there is another side to Barbados that I was introduced to by their incredible tourist board team at a recent IceLolly.com event over lunch. One of culture, cuisine and sport… are you ready to explore?
Tourists revisit A LOT
People who come to Barbados are likely to revisit. Did you know that 33% of people who have visited Barbados have been back more than 10 times? I mean, with a sunset like that, how could you not? But people, whilst I am sure they come back for the beaches, tend to come back for the people. The Bajans like to talk and are seriously laid back. Enter a bar and get chatting, it is like you have a new family member by the end of the night! The perfect solo trip spot.
Barbados is home to the oldest rum in the world
Whilst there are 4 rum distilleries on the island, Mount Gay is the oldest and, maybe controversially, Mount Gay claim to be the oldest rum in the world. There is some serious weight behind the claim and a deed was found for the company dating back to 1703, which is the oldest of any commercial rum brand in the world to date.
Whilst a rum cocktail is always welcomed, give this gorgeous rum a try with a single cube of ice and sip it whilst soaking in the last of the day’s rays.
They keep their rum close to God
Barbados does not have rum shacks like you would expect, they have rum shops and there are over 1500 of them on the island! For such a small island, that is an incredible number and many of them are within close proximity to churches. I would hazard a guess that this is because there are so many churches rather than anything else, but they’re also fun to visit and soak up the culture looking at the intricate architecture.
Their capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Speaking of intricate architecture, the parliament buildings in their capital Bridgetown are simply stunning. Did you know that their parliament system is the 3rd oldest in the Commonwealth?
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for exploring or get some duty free shopping done in one of the malls. You will find some international brands to splash the cash in or head to the market to stock up on Bajan spices.
Go spelunking in Barbados’ caves
Spelunking is a different word for caving and, thanks to the coral reefs around Barbados, there are lots of caves to explore around the island. You will find impressive stalactites, stalagmites, waterfalls and pools within the caves that are not to be missed.
Whatever the reason you decide, Barbados is the perfect island and I can’t wait to visit for oodles of rum and friendly conversation. Is there anything you would add to the list?
You can now search for your dream Barbados break on IceLolly.com.
I was invited to the IceLolly.com event as a guest but was not asked to write this post.
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