Barbados is an island located in the Caribbean sea, southeast of the Lesser Antilles island arc among the Windward islands. It lies about 100 miles east of the island of Saint Vincent, 112 miles southeast of Martinique, and approximately 255 miles northeast of the coast of Venezuela.

Barbados is the easternmost island of the Antilles and was a regular stopover for sailing ships carried by the Trade Winds from Great Britain. Barbados is a relatively flat coral island with magnificent beaches along its west and south coasts and a more rugged landscape in its eastern region.

The island owes the origin of its name to the Portuguese word « barbados » or the Spanish equivalent « barbudos », meaning « bearded », likely referring to the bearded fig trees (Ficus citrifolia), a tree native to the island.

Before gaining independence in 1966, the island remained under British influence after settlers arrived in 1627. Today, Barbados has been a Republic since November 30, 2021.

The island still retains a strong British influence, particularly visible in the architecture of its towns and especially in the capital, Bridgetown.

Barbados beaches are mainly located along the west coast facing the Caribbean sea, sheltered from the Atlantic ocean swells driven by the Trade Winds.

Located on the southeast coast, Crane Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados, with its pristine white sand bordered by turquoise waters.

In Barbados, you will discover an incredibly eclectic cuisine born from a refined blend of European, Venezuelan, and Caribbean influences.

Before leaving, be sure to taste the national dish, flying fish with « cou cou », made with the famous flying fish and served with a very spicy sauce, as well as pepperpot, a delicious pork stew.

In Bridgetown, you will find the Mount Gay Distillery, the oldest rum distillery in the world, established in 1703. At that time, the distilled rum was called « Kill-Devil » by Barbadians.

Barbadian rum is reputed to be among the smoothest, finest, and most delicious in the Caribbean.

The island is accessible by boat or by air via « Sir Grantley Adams International Airport », located near the capital Bridgetown.

The flying fish is the emblematic fish of the island of Barbados. It appears on coins and passports. This fish forms the basis of the local diet but is becoming increasingly rare due to global warming, which is pushing flying fish to migrate toward cooler waters, along with recurring sargassum seaweed invasions along the coasts.