Exploring Barbados: A Cultural Journey Through Its Rich History and Vibrant Vacation Spots

Spring is finally here and so you’re probably thinking about summer vacations. Have you considered Barbados? Vacationing in Barbados is like taking a breath of fresh air. You’ll convince yourself you’ve found Heaven on Earth.

Barbados has a rich and colorful history, beautiful beaches, and resorts that offer activities intended to soothe the soul. To make matters even better, you’ll be happy to learn that the island’s hidden gem is its people. Bajans are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. These are the qualities that help make Barbados a highly favored vacation destination for many.

Let’s briefly review the island’s history and familiarize ourselves with several interesting facts before we explore some of Barbados’s hottest vacation spots.

Brief History:

1. Tainos or Arawaks were the indigenous people) of the island. They arrived by canoe from what is now known as Venezuela circa 350 CE. Kalinago (Carib) migrants joined the Tainos during the thirteenth century. But, by the mid-sixteenth century, the Kalingo people had disappeared due to slave-raiding missions led by the Spanish Empire.

2. During the 1600s, the island became a key producer of sugar cane on behalf of the British Empire, compelling the arrival of enslaved Africans to work the fields.

3. After slavery was abolished on the island in 1834, major economic and social changes occurred due to the decline of the sugarcane industry. More than a century later, on November 30, 1966, independence from the British Empire was achieved, but the island remained a sovereign state. During this time, its economy improved via tourism and manufacturing, helping to strengthen the island’s economic development.

4. On the 55th anniversary of the island’s independence, November 30, 2021, Barbados transitioned from English rule to a republic and exited the British Commonwealth. Today, it is recognized for its vigorous educational system, high literacy, stable democracy, and popularity as a vacation hotspot.

Fun Facts

The Name: Before being colonized, the island was called Ichirouganaim. The name has several meanings when translated from the Arawakan language: “Red land with white teeth,” “Redstone Island,” or “teeth.” But when “discovered” during colonization, it was renamed “Os Barbados,” which translates to “bearded man,” due to all the bearded fig trees scattered about the island.

The Flag: During an open competition in 1966 for the flag’s design, the one created by Grantley Prescod was chosen from thousands of entries and is brimming with symbolism. The blue represents the ocean and sky, the golden yellow panels represent its sandy beaches, and the broken trident represents the country’s break from colonialism.

The Location: Barbados is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. It is often thought to be in the Caribbean Sea, but it is not. It is located just outside the hurricane “Strike Zone.”

Additionally, although the island is about 3,000 miles from West Africa, high quantities of dust from the Sahara Desert are possible. 

The People: Inhabitants of Barbados are officially known as Barbadians but are more commonly known as Bajans.

And now, vacation spots!

When planning a Bajan vacation, book your hotel stay at a full-service resort if you want the best experience, especially when traveling with your family. If traveling solo, you can still have a great stay! Discuss possible tour options with your hotel concierge or guest services department.

Hot Vacation Spots

The following are some popular vacation resorts in Barbados. All offer restaurants with a variety of cuisines, loads of activities, and special reservation packages throughout the year. 

Take advantage of them!

1. Sandy Lane

The Sandy Lane resort is in the St. James parish on the island’s western-central region. It opened in 1961 and is famous for its elegant, lavish suites, top-notch customer service, and immaculate surroundings. 

Guests enjoy exceptional amenities such as a private beach, three acclaimed golf courses, a spa lounge with fourteen specialty suites, family and couples’ activities, restaurants, retail stores, and a nursery brimming with fun things to entertain your young ones.

Visit the Body Scrub House & Spa, Best of Barbados Gift Shop, and St. James Parish Church. You won’t regret it!

2. The Crane Resort

The Crane Resort opened in 1887. It sits atop a cliff on the island’s southeastern coast in St. Philip Parish, overlooking Crane Beach, one of Barbados’ most picturesque beaches. Guests can ride a glass elevator from atop the cliff down to the beach or take the steps. Either way, you will be amazed by how small one is juxtaposed against the majesty of this beach’s beauty.

What makes this resort different from other just as beautiful resorts on the island is the Fractional Residential (short-term residence) Program that began in 2001. Private condo residences began selling in 2016.

Nearby attractions include Harrison’s Cave, Mount Gay Rum Tour, and the Harbour Lights Dinner Show.

3. Sugar Bay Barbados

This family-owned resort was established in 2015. It is located in Christ Church Parish, one of the largest Bajan parishes on the island’s southwest coast.

Sugar Bay Barbados Resort is known for its gourmet dining, friendly service, and bespoke vacation experiences.

Tourists enjoy The Barbados Museum, Cuz’s Fish Cutters, and Horse Racing at The Garrison Savannah.

Bonus: While in Christ Church, visit the small fishing town of Oistins on the parish’s coastline. The best time to go is on a Friday or Saturday night. Enjoy a Fish Fry and “lime” –a social gathering where you can choose from various stalls selling fried fish and arts and crafts created by the locals and dance to the music playing in the background.

4. St. Peter’s Bay Resort and Residences

St. Peter’s Bay Resort was built in 2013 and sits on a 500 ft. white sandy beach on the northwest coast of Barbados’ St. Peter’s Bay. It is known for its kid-approved activities, beautifully decorated accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences.

Popular areas near this resort include Speightstown, where the Arlington House Museum and the Gallery of Caribbean Art are located. Also, the highly-rated Fisherman’s Pub is not to be missed!

Barbados is relatively small, just 169 square miles; but it is full of exciting and engaging activities for people of all ages!