Visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and culture in Barbados. The local people are generally friendly and easy going, and have a love for good parties, music, dancing, and food. The unique history of the island, with influences from the Caribbean, Britain, and West Africa, has added great color and flare to this island country.

History

The early history of Barbados saw the Amerindians inhabiting the island in the 4th century, and artifacts of these people have been found in St. Charles. The Amerindians are thought to have paddled here on canoes from Venezuela. Around the 13th century, they were overrun by the Carib Indians, but it was the Portuguese who coined the name Barbados, stopping on the island on their way to Brazil. They named the island Los Barbados, probably in reference to the local fig trees that look like they have beards. In 1492, the Spanish conquered the island, enslaving the local Carib Indians.

The British arrived in 1625 and claimed the island as part of the British Empire for King James I. The British introduced games like polo, rugby and cricket, along with products like sugar cane, cotton, and tobacco, instituting plantation agriculture and using the locals as slaves. Slavery was abolished on the island in 1834, but Barbados remained under British rule until 1966, at which time it achieved independence.

Many British institutions still remain, with some having helped to bring prosperity to the island. Many of the colonial buildings in Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are still intact. The Parliament Building is one such example. A good place to trace the island’s history is the Barbados Museum (St. Ann’s Garrison, St. Michael).

Culture

Culture in Barbados has been greatly influenced by the island’s colorful history. Visitors will be able to experience the vibrant island vibe through the many festivals and shows. The annual Crop Over Festival is the best place to see the carnival-like atmosphere first hand with excellent dancing and music. The Holetown Festival commemorates the first settlers landing on the island, with street fairs and military demonstrations.

Song and dance are integral parts of the culture in Barbados. Because of this, live music can be heard in many bars and restaurants throughout the island. The music of Barbados mixes folk, calypso, religious music, and some western classical elements. The local calypso sound is known as Banja and is accompanied by a banjo or guitar with humorous lyrics. There are many musicals that showcase this local genre, such as Bajan Roots & Rhythms Dinner Show (St. Lawrence Main Road, Dover Beach) or Harbour Lights Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show (Lower Bay Street, Bridgetown).

Locals love their music, dance, and rum! Festivals play an important part of culture on the island, with many featuring colorful costumes and vibrant dancing. Many events highlight local cuisine and therefore make a good place to enjoy Caribbean fare. There also many sporting events held in Barbados every year, from surfing, running, and sailing to golf events.

Holetown Festival

The Holetown Festival celebrates the arrival of the first settlers in Barbados in 1627. The festival itself dates back to 1977 and showcases the island’s culture and history. It now includes a street fair, sporting events, music performances, and much more. The festival takes place in the town of Holetown, on the west coast of the island, for eight days in February.

Oistins Fish Festival

This popular event takes place in the town of Oistins, in the southern part of the island. Having started in 1977, this street fair celebrates the signing of the Charter of Barbados and honors fisherman. Visitors will be able sample a huge range of local delicacies, as well as enjoy music and dance performances. The highlight is the fish boning competition, to see who can de-bone fish the fastest and there are also crab and boat race. This festival is also a good place to pick up local arts and crafts. The Oistins Fish Festival takes place in March or April, during Easter week.

Crop Over Festival

This island-wide celebration is probably the biggest and most-loved on Barbados. The origins date back to the 1780s, when sugar cane harvest was celebrated. The highlight is the carnival and spectacular Kadooment Parade. The festival runs from the end of June until early August and includes many smaller events throughout that time period.

Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival

For four days in November, celebrity chefs and food and beverage experts from all over the world descend on Barbados to celebrate the best of Caribbean cuisine. There are tastings, BBQs, cook-offs, dinner cruises, distillery tours, and much more. Visitors will be able to sample the best rum on Barbados and learn about the history of Caribbean spices and seasonings at this fun foodie event.

Barbados Independence Surf Festival

The most important surfing competition on the island attracts world-class surfers from all over the world. Competing in two title events during the festival, the November Pro and Caribbean Junior Championships challenge the greats to ride the waves. Visitors can also experience surf demonstrations, a bikini contest, live music, and food on offer. The Barbados Independence Surf Festival takes place for three days in November.

Run Barbados

Run Barbados is the premier running event in the Caribbean. It takes place in December every year and consists of a 3K, 5K, 10K, half-marathon and full marathon. This event was first held in 1983 and has grown in popularity every year, with more and more runners signing up every year so register early if you plan to run. The best part about Run Barbados is the jump in the ocean after crossing the finish line!

Most visitors to Barbados are not required to apply for a visa; however, travelers are advised to check visa entry requirements for their nationality prior to arrival. US and EU citizens only require a valid passport to enter Barbados, and will receive a 28 day-stay stamp upon arrival. If planning to stay longer, make sure to get an extension, as overstaying is a serious offense and can accrue significant fines. The US state department travel page for Barbados can be found here: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cispatw/cis/cis_1022.html. No vaccinations are required for travel to Barbados.

Health and Safety

Barbados has a good reputation as a safe place to travel and has earned the accolade of being the safest of the Caribbean islands. Violent crime is relatively unheard of, with most reported incidents being petty theft. During the day, visitors can safely enjoy strolling around the island, but exercise caution at night, especially on desolate beaches. The police in Barbados are highly trained and professional should any problems arise.

Visitors should use the same degree of diligence as they would at home. Try to avoid walking alone on isolated streets or beaches at night. Do not wear ostentatious or flashy jewelry and keep cash on hand at a minimum. Make use of the safety deposit box at your hotel to protect valuables and travel documents.

The biggest health issues in Barbados are related to the sun and water. Make sure to avoid heat stroke by wearing a hat and drinking plenty of water. Avoid walking around during the hottest time of the day and always use sun block. Wearing a head covering and long sleeved clothing will go a long way towards avoiding sun burn and dehydration. The water on Barbados is clean and tap water is drinkable.

In plenty and in time of need
When this fair land was young
Our brave forefathers sowed the seed
From which our pride was sprung
A pride that makes no wanton boast
Of what it has withstood
That binds our hearts from coast to coast
The pride of nationhood

Chorus:
We loyal sons and daughters all
Do hereby make it known
These fields and hills beyond recall
Are now our very own
We write our names on history’s page
With expectations great
Strict guardians of our heritage
Firm craftsmen of our fate

The Lord has been the people’s guide
For past three hundred years.
With Him still on the people’s side
We have no doubts or fears.
Upward and onward we shall go,
Inspired, exulting, free,
And greater will our nation grow
In strength and unity.