Barbados

Answer 1

Most visitors come to Barbados to enjoy the white sand beaches or to explore what is under the ocean by snorkeling or diving. Others sail along the coast or swim with turtles.

The West Coast, sometimes called the Platinum Coast, has most major beaches as the water is calmest here. All of the beaches are public but they can get quite crowded. Some of the best west coast beaches are in Fresh Water Bay.

Casual catamaran cruises take you along the coast, often stopping for snorkeling and providing rum punch on the ride back. Other catamaran cruises offer lunch, dinner or sunset cruises aboard luxury catamarans. You can take a submarine cruise for an under the ocean view or a helicopter ride to see the overview of the island.

For surfers the eastern coast of Barbados is less touristic but the waves are consistent and the vistas are photo worthy. This is surfer’s paradise in Barbados. Beach walkers will appreciate the uncrowded sands and a look at the famous Mushroom Rock. Also the Andromeda Botanic Gardens are here. The gardens overlook the craggy east coast. Topical hibiscus, ferns, palms and other flora and fauna are grown in abundance here. Small wildlife including monkeys and mongoose are sometimes seen in the gardens.

For hikers, the Barbados National Trust takes hikers on a Sunday morning hike that goes to a different area every week and visitors learn about the geography and history of the area. The Arbib Nature & Heritage Trail takes you through Speightstown. This small fishing town was once a busy sugar port but still has a charming waterfront and historic houses. The trail crosses plantations, Dover Fort and beaches.

The interior of Barbados has its own charm and attractions. Take a 4x4 Jeep tour and see the rum distilleries, tropical jungle or historical plantations. For nature lovers the Flower Forest, in the Scotland district is a former sugar plantation turned into a botanical garden. It also highlights the crafts of the locals and offers them for sale. Nearby is Harrison’s Caves. These limestone caves with their streams, deep cavern pools, stalagmites, stalagmites, and a 40-foot waterfall are popular with visitors.