Ins & Outs of Barbados 2019 Edition by Miller Publishing Co Ltd

of Barbados

Bajan Life 2019 Edition

AT-A-GLANCE 31

CARTIER.COM

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CARTIER BOUTIQUE - LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTRE, HOLETOWN, ST. JAMES. TEL: 271-8233/34 DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL - LOWER BROAD STREET, BRIDGETOWN, ST. MICHAEL. TEL: 430-2412 SANDY LANE HOTEL - HOLETOWN, ST. JAMES. TEL: 246-432-0076

BREITLING BOUTIQUE LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTRE

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The Breitling Cinema Squad Charlize Theron Brad Pitt Adam Driver

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Articles in this edition ...

s o d a b Bar

Welcome to Dear Traveller,

BAJAN LIFE! 20 THE MARIA 28 How Sweet It Is! HOLDER Sarah Venable’s insights MEMORIAL TRUST into life on the rock.

A charity creating longevity

FEEESH, FEEESH, 68 NATURAL FLYING FEEESH! HISTORY A historical perspective by Karl Watson

Karl Watson enlightens us on the fauna of Barbados

@insandoutsofbarbados enjoy Ins

& Outs as an e-guide

InsandOutsBarbados.com

It is with great honour that I welcome you to Barbados. During your stay, we at the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. are confident that you will come to see Barbados is more than its powdery soft, white sand beaches and warm, crystal-clear turquoise sea. While we have a tremendous amount of new products and activities for you to experience such as: Rihanna Drive, international brand Nikki Beach, the newly renovated Sunbury Plantation House and so much more; what truly brings our visitors back repeatedly is the friendliness of our people. With our 166 square miles of adventure, the island also offers multiple opportunities to be engulfed in epicurean excellence. One of the fascinating things about Barbados is that we are a multi-cultural society and these cultures are represented throughout our restaurants, making us the ‘culinary capital of the Caribbean’. We hope you will spend time discovering our island’s rich and tasty heritage and wish that you enjoy and experience all there is to offer. We also hope you will continue to make destination Barbados your # I vacation spot. Warm regards,

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AN ONLINE TRAVEL GUIDE brought to you by Miller Publishing

uide

BARBADOS.com

6 WELCOME

William ‘Billy’ Griffith CEO, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

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BARBADOS

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ALEXANDRA DADDARIO, BREAKTHROUGH ACTRESS.

Tel: (246) 537-0146

170 74

Bajan Action

Sightseeing Article Reeds Bay, St. Peter Caption

30 Events Calendar 58 Sailing 64 Underwater 72 Island Hopping

80 Shopping 170 Sightseeing 214 Nightlife

Underwater

80 58

Shopping John Chandler Antiques and CafĂŠ Limegrove Lifestyle Centre

Sailing

Bridgetown The Exchange Museum

8 AT-A-GLANCE

Cool Runnings

Bring This Ad To Collect Your Free Gift At Any Of Our Locations Except The Airport And Harbour Stores. valid until December 31st 2019

Bajan Life

158 74 Article

Art and Craft

Caption

Heather-Dawn Scott

158 Art & Craft

100 Fashion 120 Property 150 Health & Spas 114 Interiors 146 Incentives and Meetings 222 Restaurants

100

Living Pretty Tiyi by Design

128

Villa Life

Windward, Sandy Lane Estate

Meet A Bajan 16 ‘Rihanna’

134 Sir Charles ‘COW’ Williams 160 Edison ‘Theo’ Williams 212 Jamilla Sealy 156 Avis Carrington 10 AT-A-GLANCE

Dinner Tonight? Cliff Beach Club

222

www.colombianemeralds.com

The official & exclusive in room guide of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Assoc. Miller Publishing is the recipient of the BHTA’s Lifetime Achievement Award. PUBLISHED BY Miller Publishing Co. Ltd. ADVERTISING SALES Sally Miller Christine Wilkie CONTRIBUTORS Keith Miller Sally Miller Sarah Venable Christine Wilkie Karl Watson

Cover Artist - Don Junior Small Don Junior Small is a 49 year old visual artist and teacher, who lives ARTWORK & LAYOUT in the beautiful district of Turners Sally Miller Hall in St. Andrew. He has been a Christine Wilkie full time visual arts teacher at the Tao Howard secondary level for eighteen years, Janelle Bryan Lyn Armstrong attached to the Fredrick Smith Erin Brewster Secondary for the past eight. He has PRE-PRESS CO-ORDINATOR also tutored briefly at the Barbados Janelle Bryan Community College (BCC) where he holds the distinction to be the MY GUIDE BARBADOS first graduate of the Fine Arts WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA CO-ORDINATORS programme, to have tutored in the Janelle Bryan same programme. Erin Brewster He is competent in painting miniatures to murals, specializing DESIGN Tao Howard in acrylic paints; carving in wood and stone and has exhibited DISTRIBUTION internationally and locally in group Lyn Armstrong Frank Collymore and solo exhibitions. Mr. Small is a prolific professional artist who has won numerous awards at NIFCA in painting and sculpture. In 2002 he won gold and the Karl Broodhagan award for excellence in sculpture for his coral stone piece ‘Self Portrait’. He was Miller Publishing Co. Ltd. commissioned to create a piece for Unit 4, Bldg. 2, Cane Garden, the National Hero’s Gallery. St. Thomas, Barbados Tel: (246) 421-6700 He is also a recognized muralist who info@millerpublishing.net was trained under the tutelage of millerpublishing.net world renowned muralist John Pugh insandoutsofbarbados.com in California 2010 and 2011. He has While every care has been taken in recently mounted a solo exhibition the compilation, information is subject at the Caribbean Gallery of Art to change without notice. titled “Is this Our Culture?” and a The publishers accept no responsibility for such changes. Mural at the Sharon Primary School. © 2019 MILLER PUBLISHING CO. LTD. He can be contacted at: All rights reserved. teardon69@yahoo.com

12 CREDITS

Restaurants At a Glance Pg. 229 Animal Flower Cave 245 Asian Spice 266 Café Sol 268 Carib Beach Bar 262 Champers 256 Cin Cin 254 Cliff, The 252 Cliff Beach Club, The 269 Cocktail Kitchen 241 Coral Reef Club Crane, The 228 D’Onofrio’s 226 L’Azure 227 Zen 250 Daphne’s 267 Dive, The 232 Dockside at 13/59 244 Fusion Rooftop 270 Garden Terrace, The 234 Hugo’s 236 Juma’s 247 La Cabane 258 Lobster Alive 238 Lone Star, The 230 Nikki Beach 242 Nishi 271 Ocean Two 233 Port St. Charles Y.C. 264 Primo 246 Relish Epicurea 240 Sandpiper, The Sandy Lane 248 Bajan Blue 249 L’Acajou Sweetfield Manor 260 Pavao 260 Bistro 259 Tapas 251 Tapestry 237 Top Deck, The

14 AT-A-GLANCE

439-8797 animalflowercave@outlook.com 432-1321 asianspice@allseasonsresort.bb 420-7655 info@cafesolbarbados.com 571-4694 caribbeachbar@gmail.com 434-3463 champers@champersinc.com 629-4557 dine@cincinbarbados.com 432-1922 info@thecliffbarbados.com 432-0797 reservations@thecliffbeachclub.com 622-3017 info@ckbarbados.com 422-2372 reception@coralreefbarbados.com 423-6220 dining@thecrane.com 423-6220 dining@thecrane.com 423-6220 dining@thecrane.com 432-2731 daphnes@eleganthotels.com 622-2025 www.thedivebarbados.com 272 1359 dine@docksidebarbados.com 271-1258 reservations@fusionrooftop.com 428-7171 info@southernpalms.net 624-4846 dine@hugosbarbados.com 432-0232 info@jumasrestaurant.com 256-2131 papajules@lacabanebarbados.com 435-0305 reservations@lobsteralive.net 629-0599 info@thelonestarhotel.com 436-4554 reservations.barbados@nikkibeach.com 432-8287 nishirestaurant@gmail.com 418-8000 guestinformation@oceanhotelsbarbados.com 419-1000 psc.yc@caribsurf.com 573-7777 dine@primobarbados.com 536-0077 alison@relishepicurea.com 422-2251 reception@sandpiperbarbados.com 444-2030 diningreservations@sandylane.com 444-2030 diningreservations@sandylane.com 429-8356 hello@sweetfieldmanor.com 429-8356 hello@sweetfieldmanor.com 228-0704 info@tapasbarbados.com 419-4200 tapestry@eleganthotels.com 622-2431 info@thetopdeckbarbados.com

Photo: Sandy Pitt

meet a Bajan

Rihanna

‘Home Sweet Home’ By Keith Miller

Even for a girl who has obliterated all the music industry records, amassed a multimillion-dollar business empire, starred in Hollywood movies, earned herself a Fashion Icon Lifetime Achievement Award and been universally acclaimed as one of the most influential people in the world today, there is still no place like home. Life in Barbados is so sweet that, whenever possible, Rihanna grasps any chance to jet back home to reconnect with her deep Barbadian roots that provided the solid foundation she needed to launch her career and build herself into a global phenomenon. Contrary to the popular image of celebrity megastars, Rihanna is regularly praised in the international media for being well-grounded and having remained loyal to her childhood friends and extended family. While she deserves full credit for that commendable character trait, Rihanna herself would probably point out that our easy-going island lifestyle, coupled with the Bajan mantra of ‘all o’ we is one’, definitely helps all of us to keep our feet firmly on the ground. The house where Rihanna grew up on Westbury New Road has been turned into a tourist attraction and the road renamed Rihanna Drive. But, whenever she goes back to the area, her former childhood neighbours still fondly call her Robyn. To the rest of the world she might be

16 MEET AT-A-GLANCE A BAJAN

Rihanna the superstar, and they are extremely proud of that, but to them she will always just be Robyn, the little girl who loved to sing. Rihanna has never lost track of where she came from, or those who helped her along the way, and in 2012, after establishing the Clara Lionel Foundation in memory of her grandmother, she donated $1.75 million to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown. Since then she has greatly expanded her philanthropic endeavours and been honoured by Harvard University wwith their Humanitarian of the Year Award in recognition of her work as Ambassador for the Global Partnership for Education. In September 2018, the Government of Barbados further recognized Rihanna by appointing her as an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, with specific responsibility for promoting education, tourism and investment for the island. Luxuriating in world-class exclusivity, wearing stellar brands and partying with A-List celebrities undoubtedly has its attractions, but so does slipping on a swimsuit, dipping your toes in the sand and ‘liming’ with old friends or making new ones. It’s often the simple things in life in Barbados that give us our greatest pleasures – watching the sunrise, swimming with turtles, seeing the green flash, dancing under the stars, whatever – and it is that kind of uncomplicated happiness that most soothes our soul. In Rihanna’s own words: “I love the way the place makes me feel. It’s beautiful and so relaxing. When I am in Barbados all is well with the world again.”

HANDCR AF T ED CHAIN & POWER ROCKS

Lower Broad Street, Bridgetown, St. Michael 246-430-2412 Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown, St. James 246-271-8230 Cruise Terminal, Bridgetown, St. Michael 246-431-9217

Service Clubs

International Women’s Clubs

Whether you’re here for just a while, to escape the winter elsewhere, or have decided to move to Barbados to live permanently, this beautiful island has a lot to offer you.

If you’re looking to make new friends, spend time with like-minded people, join in lots of fun social events and, at the same time, would like to help raise funds for local charitable causes, there are three long-established Women’s Clubs on the island that can help you do all of this. These are the American, British and Canadian Women’s Clubs. Each Club offers membership according to your nationality or, alternatively, by having a direct affiliation to that country (e.g. by marriage). The Clubs also offer a limited number of memberships to ‘non-nationals’ – i.e. if you do not fall into either of the above categories and are looking for a club to join. Each Club holds a general meeting of members once a month, usually with a guest ‘speaker’ on a topic of interest. This gives members an opportunity to come together to update on Club activities and enjoy time together in an informal, social setting. In addition to the monthly meeting, regular coffee mornings, lunches at local restaurants and outings to local places of interest are organized. The Clubs also hold various fundraising events to assist needy causes on the island.

18 SERVICE CLUBS

If you think any or all of the above appeals to you – do come along to one of our meetings as a guest and give us a try. Everyone is welcome! For full details of where and when each Club meets, please contact the following:American Women’s Club: awcofb@gmail.com British Women’s Club: bwcnews@gmail.com Canadian Women’s Club: cwcbarbados@yahoo.com

ajan Life - How sweet it is . . . Encounter almost any ordinary Bajan, talk a while about life, and chances are good that you’ll hear an exhortation to give thanks or praise God. Gratitude is part of our character, ingrained no doubt by wise elders and people of the church. Whether in casual conversation, the opening of events, the beginning of the school day or religious services, praising the One above comes from our culture and informs our attitudes.

By Sarah Venable

Coconuts in Bathsheba Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Sam Taylor riding the tube at Soup Bowl, Bathsheba Photo: Adrian deFreitas

John Moore’s Rum Shop, St. Peter Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Black Belly sheep in St. Lucy Photo: Sally Miller

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In truth, we’ve been blessed with much for which we can be thankful. We could start with the main elements: our infrastructure, stability, free education and healthcare, as well as our clean air and water. We could give thanks that our economy does not depend solely on one industry and that nobody starves here. But it’s not just our standard of living that lifts up our hearts. From the island’s natural features and flora to its quirks, culture and character, to its sights, sounds and smells, there is so much to know and to love. And we do. In this perilous economic climate, it’s good to be reminded that the best things in life are free. The moon belongs to everyone, drawing us to beach picnics by moonlight, cooling out and chatting, while the children chase crabs or fuss with a little fire to roast fish. That’s Bajan life.

Another freeness is the sea in shimmering hues of Barbados blue and always warm enough to swim in. With sand in subtle shades of white or pink, the beaches are all public. Each has its own character and favourite pursuits. Surfers, sunbathers, families, couples, solitude seekers, hotties, beach boys, lively locals and vacationing pensioners—all find a place and a pace to enjoy. Even without a beach, the shores are stunning. Ragged cliffs wreathed in sea spray confirm this. Watching the sun or moon rise over the east coast takes you right to the core of awe. Inland has its natural glories too, as the island rises in a series of slopes to the lush, fertile highlands. Get there through villages hugging a road, where the ‘fellas’ move their road tennis board so you can pass by. Go beside fields of sugar cane, with their feathery wintertime arrows waving in the tradewinds. Workers in hats and layers of colourful clothes, wield hoes in fields of lumpy rows. Find the plantation’s centre by spotting the clump of trees where the great house stands or stood. The sun blazes or mists roll up the hills. If it’s cane season, the scent of sugar wafts through the air. Peel a piece of cane (if you can) and suck it. Weed cleaners hack the overgrowth from roadsides with cutlasses. Churches dot the landscape. Chattel houses cling along a ridge, their curtains tied in a bunch or billowing, their galvanized palings that say “can’t see my backyard”, where fowls, a dog, pea trees, a kitchen garden or the laundry might be. Outlying residents await the regular vans or station wagons loaded with clothing, fish, vegetables and household items for sale. The man might give credit, so you can pay for that nice dress week by week.

School Boy Photo: Julie Chalbaud

Cricket in Carlisle Bay Photo: Amaris Harper

Independence Parade Photo courtesy BTMI

Tuk Band in Martin’s Bay Photo: Amaris Harper

Clement Armstrong Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Taking a load home Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

BAJAN LIFE 21

Cart tracks speak of Sunday hikes that depart at 6am come rain or shine. Pick wild guavas where you know they grow. Explore a limestone cavern— the spectacular, developed one, or the secret place known to the hikers. Anywhere, you could see green monkeys stealing farmer’s produce, grooming or scampering. These are things to seek here, at the back side of Bajan life. You are there in the dappled hush of deep gullies, looped with vines, centuriesold bridges, their stones mortared with dust and egg and molasses. Discover old waterworks there, and bats under cave-like ledges. Maybe a suck-well for drainage. That’s a Bajan thing. Millipedes munch debris down to dirt. Come across a nutmeg tree or coffee or palms sprouting prickles all over. See the way the light itself, in banana groves, is green. Ginger lilies taller than you are. Look into the heart of the tropics. Life pulses in these backgrounds. Little lizards lazing or leaping. Land crabs emerging at night in rainy season, raising their claws in alarm, clattering if they get into your cottage. Anthuriums thrust out of coconut hulls. Orchids clinging to fences and tree trunks. Old train tracks rusting in a rising Lizard, Barbados Green Monkey, Mongoose, Whistling Frog, and Green Throated Carib All photos: Richard Roach

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sea. Great boulders that rolled to a stop on the eastern shore. Hillsides made of clay. Breadfruit trees with their harsh historic meaning disguised in beauty. Trees that make medicine, blister your skin or erupt in blossoms. Fragrant frangipani and ylang-ylang. Natural Viagra waiting in shrubs. Aloe so prevalent that it was an early export. Bamboo’s peculiar knocking creak as the wind sways it. Cotton gone wild, its fibers drooping like hair after a wild night out. Secret streams where crayfish hide. Ghostly stone mill walls on windy hills. Mongoose darting across the road. Motionless, fleshy old ‘crapaud’ toads, looking ancient. All these await discovery. And the birds! Humming birds flitting, pea whittlers swooping and snapping up flying insects, swifts gliding on the sea breeze, glossy black grackles watching with beady eyes, flocks of egrets roosting in mahoganies, parrots screeching in suburban trees as the workday ends. Water birds glide around Graeme Hall swamp and frigates soar over the sea hoping to catch a flying fish. The way we live in all of this? So varied, from village to mansion with the heights in between, but food traditions transcend our differences. Who among us doesn’t like salt fish and coucou on a Friday, pudding and souse on Saturday, roast pork with crackling on Sunday? Or rice and peas with gravy (give us any

excuse for that savoury gravy) or macaroni pie so desirable that someone wrote a popular song about it? Or a roasted breadfruit, sugar cakes, tamarind balls or guava cheese? Water and jelly straight from the coconut, chopped open for you at the roadside. Pithy roots we call ground provisions: yam, dasheen, cassava, eddo, sweet potatoes. Jug-jug, ham, sorrel and great cake for Christmas; conkies in November, steamed in banana leaf. The scent of limes making lemonade. Dense coconut bread and denser lead pipes. Golden apples with their turpentine fragrance gifted from your neighbour’s tree, avocadoes still warm from the sun. Picking sea grapes and dunks. Bunches of ackees sold by the roadside, rolling the big seed in your mouth. Doubles sold on street corners and roti on the run, both curried delights appropriated from Trinidad. Taking the gleaming black seeds out of soursop, squeezing it for juice. Homemade ponche crema. Hot fried flying fish, served straight from the pan. Small entrepreneurs with their food vans, fish fries, barbecued chicken on weekends; and everything delicious, seasoned with our typical mix of fresh herbs. Banks beer, pepper sauce and rum all the time. It’s all so Bajan. There are times of the year and days of the week that modulate our moods. Thursdays mean bank lines, Fridays traffic. Saturday is market day, so

prepare to run into people you know and exchange a bit of gossip. Weekends mean rum shops resounding with slamming dominoes, churches with voices raised in song or oldie goldies on the radio. We have seasons for celebration: Easter for hats and dresses; Christmas for cleaning house and welcoming family, while poinsettia shrubs as tall as a house turn red. Festivals bring life to our year’s labours. The biggest is Crop Over, when the season’s calypsos deride our foibles, and people discard both cares and inhibitions in the euphoria of music and rum during Kadooment and Foreday morning. In November we honour Independence with a celebration of Bajan talent in a proud festival of creative arts (NIFCA), while parishes cultivate projects and pageantry. There’s the Food and Rum Festival in October to show off culinary skills; the festivals for jazz, gospel, reggae, soca and Celtic music; and the popular Holetown Festival in Tyron White’s Rum Shop in Speightstown Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Judall, Coconut Palms West, Reeds Bay Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Red Snapper in Paynes Bay Photo: Logan Thomas

Fisherman in Speightstown Bay Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Margaret Hercules’ banana bread, Cheapside Market Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

BAJAN LIFE 23

February. At some of these you’ll experience traditional tuk bands with their drums and penny whistles, accompanied by big-botsy Mother Sally, dancing shaggy bears, stilt-men and our very special acrobats disguised as green monkeys. In between these annual events, there are pageants of all sorts, from Mother and Daughter to Miss Bikini to Big and Beautiful. Everybody’s out there, doing a different thing in Bajan style. We’re peculiar in some ways. Life’s passages parade through the days, with people dressed to the nines at weddings and funerals. Whether in joy or mourning, both are occasions to see and be seen. (To see what heights this pompasetting reaches, go on Christmas morning to Queen’s Park). Advanced medicine is available here, but we still use herbal remedies, be it ‘bush tea’ or poultices. Doctors Stilt Walkers Photo courtesy Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

A Black Belly sheep invades a cricket match Photo: Nicholas Reid

Globe Drive-In Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Selling “Bush” for tea in Cheapside Photo: Logan Thomas

24 BAJAN LIFE

will advise you not to do things that give you “the bad feels.” And some folks still believe that duppies (ghosts) won’t follow you into your house if you walk in backwards. Or that if you throw rice outside, they’ll have to stop and count the grains. Our immoderate love of singing drives attendance in church and community choirs and the karaoke bars that dot the island; even small villages have them. It’s not that rare to catch shoppers singing along with the background music in supermarkets. Some of us take it much further. Rihanna springs to mind. Even ordinary days are rich in things on which to ruminate, like school children in uniform, freshly scrubbed; or the things we make, like chutney and pepper sauce, pottery and baskets, leather sandals and belts, dolls and old ladies’ things crocheted from yarn and thread; or clothes so often sewn for us by tailors and dressmakers; or fresh local juices and brews that are available in supermarkets. Masterful stone-cutters still work coral-stone into tables and sconces. And we still have drive-in movies and a Woolworth’s. All these lend a sense of identity and continuity to life in Barbados. As participants or fans, sport gets our hearts pumping. Cricket tops the list and somewhere there are always men in white on fields of green, especially on Saturday afternoons. School sports

boast their own segment on local TV news. Football, swimming, hockey, athletics, netball—go, kids, go! Do like Obadele Thompson and become our next medal winning Olympians! Adults, both young and older, surf their hearts out at the Soup Bowl and fly over waves on kite boards. De Action! Rally racing rules on obscure back roads. Horse racing gets the crowds cheering at the Garrison Savannah. Sailing gets us in the spirit for Spring challenges and year round for lazing. And while we’re out there in the sea, we like to snorkel the reefs, swim with the turtles or stand-up-paddle a surfboard. And then there are the rugged individuals who swim or SUP around the island, row across the wide Atlantic in small boats, go over to England to swim the channel or take their hiking challenge at Mt. Kilimanjaro in their middle age. No matter where we do it, stretching ourselves is a Bajan thing. Both individually and in groups, people make this place. We help each other. It may be the young boys at the supermarket, helping you load up your car. It may be the driver who signals you with a flicker of lights to come on out in the crowded road. Or if you’re standing on the bus laden with parcels, someone seated will offer to hold them for you. It may be a vendor whose kind words cheer you or a neighbour who gives your strip of road a swipe

with the weed-whacker. It may be that you don’t have to pump your own gas, carry your groceries to the car, or haul your baggage through the airport. True, these last three services are transactional but everyone benefits, not least from human contact bringing niceness to your day. Someone’s always setting sights a little higher. We support each other’s faith-based lives in groups like Men’s Fellowship and the Mothers’ Union. With raffles, sales and events, we rally round causes, to help provide for those who are ill or injured or suffering misfortune. We hold fairs to boost our schools, and maintain professional organisations to keep our standards up. And like the volunteers of the Barbados Horticultural Society, we sometimes go for the gold. Up against the best in the world at the Chelsea Flower Show, they won it 19 times. And through it all, in dialect or pompous prose, we talk. It’s customary to begin politely with a greeting that’s pegged to time of day. If you want to be welcome, it is almost mandatory to say good morning Biggie Irie with a masquerader at Kadooment Photo: Barbara Secher-Greenidge

Kadooment Photo: Barbara Secher-Greenidge

BHS Gold Medal Exhibit at RHS Chelsea Flower Show Photo: Sally Miller

BAJAN LIFE 25

Carlisle Bay Photo: Ronnie Carrington

(or afternoon/evening/night) when entering a space, even a shop or a bus. Formal speeches must begin with a long list of who is being addressed, in order of prominence. Conversations between drivers on the road may tie up traffic momentarily. We’re patient. We’re expressive. Even high officials lapse into dialect for emphasis. The newspaper has regular columns written in it. If something’s outrageous, we steupse—a juicy sound made by sucking teeth. We like to argue philosophical, religious and political issues, best done in a rum shop over a bottle with a plastic bowl of ice. Our vocabulary can be hilariously idiosyncratic while remaining apt: A person might be criticised for lack of “brought-upsy.” That thorny flowering shrub is “brokenvillea.” Some things are of the “upmost” importance. Don’t even get started on the difference between prayers, praise and saying a pray. All roads lead back to the beach. Stretching a powdery mile from the Hilton to Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay is among our best, and shows you a cross section of life. Early mornings find racehorses exercising in the water by the Radisson, while farther north a regular group of elderly locals swim out to the moorings and back. By late morning, busloads of cruise ship visitors will have been deposited on the sandy expanse of Carlisle Bay for a day of play or lounging. Afternoon sees training in progress: children with swimming instructors, sports teams doing calisthenics or running, or a group of beauty contestants getting fitter. Young boys cluster on the crumbling pier at the southern end of the bay, silhouetted in strange

26 BAJAN LIFE

shapes as they jump. Sometimes you see professional people walking homeward, briefcase in hand, wearing their suits, but barefoot in the sand. The air fills with the thuck-thuck of beach tennis, as a score of partners swat balls back and forth. Shouts ring from the seaside netball court. Children bunch and giggle at the pipes and showers, rinsing off the salt and sand. Parents wait with a drink at the Yacht Club for their children’s after school activities to finish. Closing their days with a workout, boxers practice sparring in the gazebo opposite Government Headquarters; earphoned joggers trot up and down the stretch; and goggled swimmers crawl from one end of the bay to the other. Wholesome, an adjective that became risible as the cynics’ influence rose in recent decades, is redefined here. Here, we become whole again. This is Bajan life. Just getting up in the morning is good. Maybe you do it when the sky is still tinged with pink and the birds announce the dawn. Maybe the sunlight filters through jalousie windows, while dew shines on the leaves before the heat sets in. Hear the doves coo, the cockerels crow and the breeze ruffling the palm fronds? Feel the warmth of the sun and the breeze caress your skin. Seek shade or water, a drink with a friend. And when it’s done, day’s waning brings other pleasures: flambouyant sunsets tinting the high clouds, the chorus of crickets and whistling frogs, the fragrance of night-blooming flowers. We stop to enjoy and give thanks. This is Bajan life.

THE PERFECT MATCH PANDORA SIGNATURE sterling silver jewelry

The Maria Holder Memorial Trust Christopher Holder (left) and Chesterfield Brewster

A Charity Creating Longevity Many enlightened people in the world today would identify family and love as the two most important elements in their life. That is certainly the case with the Holder and Brewster family, whose love for Barbados and each other inspired the establishment of The Maria Holder Memorial Trust, a charity creating longevity.

Education and Training • 7 state-of-the-art nursery schools • Parkinson Memorial Secondary School Industrial Arts Workshop • Training of 75 Early Childhood Educators with Wheelock College of Boston • Supreme Counselling for Personal Development • Caribbean Dyslexia Centre • Barbados Family Planning Association • Drug Treatment Court • Centre for Counselling Addiction Support Alternatives • ASPIRE Foundation (Barbados) • Barbados Association for Supported Employment • Caribbean Policy Development Centre • Barbados Museum and Historical Society Children’s Museum • Jabez House • Hope Foundation • More Than Words (Autism) Project • NGO Management Course • Parent Education for Development in Barbados (PAREDOS) • Sunshine Early Stimulation Centre • Special Needs Education Project Health • The Maria Holder Diabetes Centre for the Caribbean • Barbados Cancer Society • Marina House for Women • Paediatric and Cardiac equipment for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital • Heart and Stroke Foundation of Barbados • Cancer Support Services • HIV Education through LIVE UP: The Show • Geriatric Day Care Centre Culture and Arts • Operation Triple Threat • Pinelands Creative Workshop • Barbados Association of Drama Educators • St. Leonard’s Boys’ Choir Youth • dance4life • The Prince’s Trust • I am A Girl BARBADOS • Variety – The Children’s Charity • Youth in Agriculture • Chesterfield Brewster Youth Empowerment Centre at Silver Hill • Humane Organisation for the Relief of Suffering Equines/ Wynterbottm Stables Sport • Skatepark • 11 Play Parks • Variety – The Children’s Charity ‘Row for Charity’ • Special Olympics National Games Poverty Alleviation • Parkinson Resource Centre • Marina Brewster Centre at Farrs • Community Education Empowerment and Development • Salvation Army Multipurpose Centre Speightstown • Barbados Council for the Disabled • Barbados Vagrants and Homeless Society

Christopher Holder at the opening of Maria Holder Nursery School, Gall Hill

28 BAJAN LIFE

Special Projects • St. James Cemetery Refurbishment • Hope Sanctuary

St. Leonard’s Boys Choir with director Andrew Lokey at right

After being captivated by Barbados during her very first visit, Swiss-born Maria Holder adopted the island as her home from 1978. Working diligently behind the scenes, Maria was a silent philanthropist with a burning ambition to help Barbados further develop as a nation. In keeping with her personal mantra of ‘without education you have nothing’, she was particularly keen to give young Barbadians a greater opportunity to reach their full potential. After Maria’s sudden and untimely death in 2004, her son Christopher Holder and son-in-law Chesterfield Brewster co-founded The Maria Holder Memorial Trust in 2009 to ensure that the legacy of Maria’s vision would continue and flourish. Chesterfield Brewster, a Barbadian was married to Christopher’s late sister Marina. With Christopher and Chesterfield together at the helm, both fully committed and heavily involved at a very personal level, the Trust has evolved into the family’s mission in life. As such, unlike many charities, The Maria Holder Memorial Trust is not simply a source of financial support. It is a locally based, proactive, change agent that seeks to deliver social improvements where they are most needed. While Barbados is home, The Maria Holder Memorial Trust also implements projects in several other Islands. Today, The Maria Holder Memorial Trust is governed by a six-member board with day-to-day management by a Chief Project Manager, a Project Manager, a Project Assistant, an Administrative Secretary and a Consultant/ Advisor. Even with that strong team behind them, the Board of Trustees take great delight in personally involving themselves in the process of evaluating and selecting potential projects to be undertaken and supported. This hands-on approach can often prove to be an advantage for the more unconventional initiatives, particularly in the culture and arts arena, which is

perceived to be difficult when attracting mainstream funding. Fortunately for these charities, Christopher is keen to encourage the natural creativity embedded within our young people, so he is willing to take a calculated risk when appropriate. In recognition of his outstanding philanthropic contribution and charitable services to the people of Barbados, Christopher was presented with the Honorary Silver Crown of Merit Award in the 2017 Barbados Independence Honours. In addition to giving back to his homeland through The Maria Holder Memorial Trust, Chesterfield Brewster has an established coaching career in Vancouver where he now resides with his wife, Susan. His passion for coaching inspired him to establish The Brewster Trust in April 2010. The initial goal was to promote, develop and improve football in Barbados with the aim of creating opportunities at all levels, especially for the youth. Since then, The Brewster Trust has developed several other diverse programmes. Chesterfield is also an entrepreneur and his initiatives include the Valley Island Farm that promotes innovative farming techniques for growing food, as well as the Wynterbottm Stables that provide several opportunities for able and differently abled children through varied specialised programmes including learning how to ride and interact with horses. Like Maria Holder, both Chesterfield and Christopher believe that developing the youth of Barbados, particularly the vulnerable, is a key step towards further developing the nation as a whole. With poverty alleviation as the overarching common thread in all of its endeavours, The Maria Holder Memorial Trust focuses its philanthropic investments on: Education and Training, Health, Culture and the Arts, Poverty Alleviation, Conservation and the Environment and Disaster relief. www.themariaholdermemorialtrust.com

BAJAN LIFE 29

A Year in

our Life

New Zealand vs Barbados at the Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James Photo: Peter Marshall

In Season

Fruit: sorrel, lime, grapefruit, shaddock, tangerine, banana, orange, lemon, dunk and guava. Vegetables: pigeon peas, string beans, cauliflower and tomato. Fish: flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), lobster, congalee and turpit.

Tue 1 PUBLIC HOLIDAY New Year’s Day

January

Wed 2

Sat 5

ART EXHIBITION DIVERSITY 2 (GROUP SHOW) 2nd to 9th Featuring artists Jeena Chatrani, Catherine ForterChee-A-Tow, Sian Pampellonne & Lorna Wilson. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race day in January: 21st Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

Photo: André Williams

Sun 6

BARBADOS NATIONAL TRUST OPEN HOUSE 2:30-5:30pm. January: 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th Call the BNT at 426-2421 for venues. Dates subject to change. Updates posted on websites: FB@BarbadosNationalTrust barbadosnationaltrust.org Catherine Forter-Chee-A-Tow

Sun 13

Fri 11

BPC-BARBADOS CANCER SOCIETY CHARITY DAY AT POLO

3RD ANNUAL BARBADOS INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL 11th to 20th

Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James. barbadospoloclub@gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

barbadosfilmfest.org

ST. PETER’S PARISH CHURCH FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL 11th to 15th For further info call 432-9000 or 422-2181.

Karl Watson, and other local historians, give short entertaining lectures at the Barbados National Trust Open Houses

ART EXHIBITION - DECOHERENCE 13th to 31st Featuring artists Chris Welch & Russell Watson. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com

St. Peter Parish Church

32 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Mount Gay Round Barbados Race

Honey Jazz Festival 2018 Photo: A3KD Photography

Photo: Peter Marshall

Wed 16

Sat 19

Sun 20

POLO - BPC-MOUNT GAY REGATTA EXHIBITION Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James.

NANIKI BARBADOS MUSIC FESTIVAL 19th to 21st

MOUNT GAY ROUND BARBADOS RACE SERIES 16th to 24th

nanikicaribbeanjazzsafari.com

mountgayrumround barbadosrace.com

HONEY JAZZ FESTIVAL & GALA 19th to 26th Gala on 26th at Frank Collymore Hall.

barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

honeyjazzbarbados@gmail.com FB: @Honey-Jazz-Barbados-Festival

Naniki Barbados Music Festival

Mon 21

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Errol Barrow Day FULL MOON

Wed 23

Sat 26

1ST TEST WEST INDIES VS ENGLAND 23rd to 27th Kensington Oval, Bridgetown at 2pm.

BHS ANNUAL FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW 26th to 27th Balls Plantation, Ch. Ch., 10am to 6pm. Call 428-5889.

cricketwestindies.org

horticulturebarbados.com

MOUNT GAY ROUND BARBADOS RACE 7am at Carlisle Bay.

Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;DOS MUSEUM FLASHBACK MOVIE NIGHT Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201.

mountgayrumround barbadosrace.com

Photo: Nick Reid barbadosmuseum.org

Sun 27

POLO - BPC-THE VILLAGES/LADIES TOUR 27th - BPC, Holders, St. James. 29th - Apes Hill Club, St. James (TBC). 31st - BPC, Holders. barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Photo: Lisa Davis

Photo courtesy Barbados Association of Flower Arrangers

THE BARBADOS CALENDAR 33

In Season

Fruit: dunk, grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange, shaddock and sugar cane. Vegetables: pigeon peas, string beans, cauliflower and tomato. Fish: flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), congalee, turpit and lobster.

Fri 1

ART EXHIBITION DECOHERENCE 1st to 6th Featuring artists Chris Welch & Russell Watson. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com

February

Sat 2

Sun 3

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race day in February: 9th Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980.

BHS OPEN GARDEN ‘Fustic House’, St. Lucy, 2-6pm - home of Mr. & Mrs. Kit Braden. Tea and refreshments are available. Call the BHS at 428-5889.

POLO BPC-CANADA TOUR 5th - BPC, Holders, St. James (TBC). 7th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. horticulturebarbados.com 10th - BPC, Holders.

barbadosturfclub.org

ST. JAMES PARISH CHURCH HARVEST GARDEN PARTY Tea, plant stalls, local artists, police band and much more at 1:30pm. Call 422-4117

Wed 6

BARBADOS NATIONAL TRUST OPEN HOUSE 2:30-5:30pm. February: 13th, 20th 24th & 27th. Call the BNT at 426-2421 for venues. Dates subject to change. Updates posted on websites: FB@BarbadosNationalTrust barbadosnationaltrust.org

BPC-THE VILLAGES/ LADIES POLO TOUR Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James. Fustic House Gardens

barbadospoloclub@gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Sat 9

Photo: André Williams

Mon 11

HOLETOWN FESTIVAL 10th to 17th

28TH ANNUAL SUN, SEA & SLAMS INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE TOURNAMENT 11th to 17th Barbados Beach Club, Maxwell Coast Road, Christ Church.

holetownfestivalbarbados.org

BHS OPEN GARDENS #7 Gibbs Hill, St. Peter - home of Mr. & Mrs. Keith Simmons, 2-7pm and ‘The Anchorage’, Gibbs Hill, St. Peter - home of Mr. Charles Packer, 2-6pm. Tea and refreshments are available. Call the BHS at 428-5889. horticulturebarbados.com

ART EXHIBITION - HIDDEN EMOTIONS 10th to 6th Mar. Featuring Elizabeth Stewart & Maggie Bell. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com

barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

BECAUSE OF JENNA TRUST CHARITY BALL Mangrove, St. Philip A wonderful annual event of superb live entertainment, dancing and camaraderie to raise funds to ease the suffering of severely brain-injured children in Barbados. becauseofjenna.org

Sun 10

Tue 5

barbadosbridge.org

Holetown Festival Photo: Sandy Pitt

34 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

#BornToDare

BLACK BAY CHRONO

February Cont.

Waterman Festival Photo: Nick Reid

Tue 12

Sat 16

Sun 17

POLO - APES HILL MIXED LADIES TOURNAMENT 12th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 14th - BPC, Holders, St. James. 17th - Apes HIll Club.

WATERMAN FESTIVAL 16th to 17th Silver Sands, Christ Church. Call 428-2027.

BHS OPEN GARDEN ‘Hybay’, Dalkeith Ridge, St. Michael. 2-6pm - home of Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Ishmael. Tea and refreshments are available. Call the BHS at 428-5889.

briantalma.pro

horticulturebarbados. com

barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Tue 19

FULL MOON

Wed 20

1ST ODI WEST INDIES VS ENGLAND Kensington Oval, Bridgetown at 6pm.

cricketwestindies.org

Fri 22

2ND ODI WEST INDIES VS ENGLAND Kensington Oval, Bridgetown at 6pm. cricketwestindies.org

Sat 23

B’DOS MUSEUM FLASHBACK MOVIE NIGHT

Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201.

barbadosmuseum.org

Sun 24

POLO - BPC CHESHIRE TOUR 24th - BPC, Holders, St. James. 26th - Apes Hill Club, St. James 28th - BPC, Holders. barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

West Indies Cricket Team Photo: Nick Reid

36 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Barbados vs Cheshire Photo: Peter Marshall

In Season

Fruit: lime, grapefruit, shaddock, tangerine, orange, lemon, mammey apple, mango and sugar cane. Vegetables: yam, breadnut, string beans, cauliflower and tomato. Fish: flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), congalee, turpit and lobster.

Fri 1

AGROFEST (NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITION) 1st to 3rd Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park, Bridgetown. basonevoice.org

Sat 2 HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON SANDY LANE GOLD CUP DAY Other race days in March: 16th & 30th Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

March

Sun 3

BARBADOS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OPEN GARDEN Eden Crest, Lot 1, Kendal, St. John home of Professor Clive & Mrs. Julie Landis. From 10am to 6pm - tea and refreshments are available. For further details call the BHS at 428-5889. horticulturebarbados.com

POLO - BPC CHESHIRE TOUR Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James. barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Garden at Eden Crest, St. John

Wed 6

BARBADOS NATIONAL TRUST OPEN HOUSE 2:30-5:30pm. Also March: 10th Call BNT at 426-2421 for venues. Dates subject to change. Updates posted on websites:

Thu 7

POLO - BPC BUTTALS BARBADOS OPEN 7th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 10th - BPC, Holders, St. James. 12th - Apes Hill Club. 14th - TBA 17th - BPC, Holders.

FB@BarbadosNationalTrust barbadospoloclub@ barbadosnationaltrust.org gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com Photo: Sean Chandler/VT Caribbean

Sun 10

Fri 15

BARBADOS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OPEN GARDEN Crystal Heights, St. Philip from 2-6pm home of Mrs. Bettylyn Estwick. Tea and refreshments are available. Call the BHS at 428-5889.

BARBADOS OLD BRIGAND RUM REGATTA 15th to 17th sailbarbados@gmail.com sailbarbados.com

horticulturebarbados.com

ART EXHIBITION 10th to 31st Featuring artist Donna Grandin. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com

Photo: Peter Marshall

38 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Open Daily 8-4 Tel 433 8152 Richmond St Joseph Barbados Visit The Flower Power CafĂŠ

Peace & Tranquility

Visit us on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter

March Cont.

Photo: Sue Holder

Sun 17

Wed 20

POLO - BPC BUTTALS BARBADOS OPEN 7th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 10th - BPC, Holders, St. James. 12th - Apes Hill Club. 14th - TBA 17th - BPC, Holders.

FULL MOON

barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com Photo: Barbara Secher-Greenidge

Sun 24

BARBADOS KENNEL CLUB’S ALL BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW Waterford Plantation, St. Michael. Judge: Gavin Robertson (UK). Call 417-0607. bkc@caribsurf.com barbadoskennelclub.org

APES HILL - HICKSTEAD TOUR/DJ CATS 24th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 26th - BPC, Holders, St. James 28th & 31st - Apes Hill Club. barbadospoloclub@gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Fri 29

Sat 30

BARBADOS ORCHID SOCIETY 80TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW 29th to 31st Balls Plantation, Christ Church.

B’DOS MUSEUM FLASHBACK MOVIE NIGHT Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201.

barbadosorchidsociety. com FB: @ BarbadosOrchidSociety

40 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

barbadosmuseum.org

No Ordinary Pottery Edghill Heights 2, St Thomas, Barbados. T 246 425 0223 â&#x20AC;¢ F 246 425 3224 email: eworks@caribsurf.com Open Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 1 pm

www.earthworks-pottery.com

In Season

Fruit: red plum (Jamaican) and sugar cane. Vegetables: string beans, onion, tomato and yam. Fish: flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), congalee, turpit and lobster.

Mon 1 ART EXHIBITION 1st to 3rd Featuring artist Donna Grandin. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com

April

Tue 2

Wed 3

Thu 4

BARBADOS INTERNATIONAL FISHING TOURNAMENT 2nd to 6th The Careenage, Bridgetown.

VUJADAY MUSIC FESTIVAL 3rd to 7th A thoughtfully curated selection of musical and cultural experiences youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen or felt before.

CARIFTA GAMES WATER POLO COMPETITION 4th to 8th Barbados Aquatic Centre, Wildey, St. Michael.

barbadosgamefishing.com

POLO - APES HILL HICKSTEAD TOUR/DJ CATS 2nd - BPC, Holders, St. James. 4th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 7th - Apes Hill Club.

FB@ BarbadosWaterPoloClub

vujadaymusicfestival.com

barbadospoloclub@gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Sat 6 5TH ANNUAL BARBADOS CHOCOLATE, PASTRY & WINE FESTIVAL Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Two Mile Hill, St. MIchael. 11am to 7pm. visitbarbados.org

ART EXHIBITION 6th to 30th Featuring artist Don Small. Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St. Peter. Call 419-0858. artgallerycaribbean.com Chelsea Roett Photo: Kevin Culpepper

Photo: Nick Reid

Fri 12

Sat 13

Sun 14

ULTIMATE ELTON & THE ROCKET BAND TRIBUTE TO SIR ELTON JOHN DINNER SHOW In aid of The School House for Special Needs. Venue TBA. Contact Ron Davis at 230-4332.

ULTIMATE ELTON & THE ROCKET BAND TRIBUTE TO SIR ELTON JOHN CONCERT In aid of The School House for Special Needs. Venue TBA. Contact Ron Davis at 230-4332.

POLO - APES HILL EASTER TOUR 14th - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 16th - Apes Hill Club. 18th - BPC, Holders, St. James. 20th - Apes Hill Club.

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

42 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

Tue 16

WORLD SURF LEAGUE BARBADOS SURF PRO QS 3000 16th to 21st Soup Bowl, Bathsheba, St. Joseph or Drill Hall Beach, St. Michael. FB@ surfpromotionsbarbados

BRIDGETOWN

Royal Towers, #32 Broad Street, St. Michael. Tel: (246) 429-7072 • email: info@theroyalshopbarbados.com • www.theroyalshopbarbados.com

THE CRUISE TERMINAL

The Harbour, Bridgetown St. Michael. Tel: (246) 431-0296

ROCKLEY , CHRIST CHURCH

Accra Beach Hotel, Hastings, Christ Church Tel: (246) 537-0146

THE BARBADOS CALENDAR 43

April

Cont.

Green Monkey Golf Course, Sandy Lane

Fri 19

Sat 20

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Good Friday

OISTINS FISH FESTIVAL 20th to 22nd This festival celebrates the local fishing industry and takes place in the historic town of Oistins over the Easter weekend.

FULL MOON

Photo: Peter Marshall

Sun 21 EASTER

CAMTRI SPRINT TRIATHLON AMERICAN CUP AND CENTRAL AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN CHAMPIONSHIP Spring Garden Highway, St. Michael

Mon 22

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Easter Monday BARBADOS REGGAE FESTIVAL 22nd to 28th thebarbadosreggae festival.com

triathlonbarbados.com

Thu 25

Sat 27

SIR GARRY SOBERS FESTIVAL OF GOLF INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT 25th to 28th Played at four venues including Apes Hill, Barbados Golf Club, Royal Westmoreland and Sandy Lane. Call the Barbados Golf Club at 538-4653.

BARBADOS MUSEUM FLASHBACK MOVIE NIGHT Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201. barbadosmuseum.org

barbadosgolfclub.com

Sun 28

Mon 29

HEROES DAY

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Heroes Day (Observed) HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON GUINEAS DAY Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

Photo: Alwyn Kirk

44 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Tue 30

POLO - BPC - NEW ZEALAND TOUR Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James. barbadospoloclub@ gmail.com barbadospoloclub.com

VIRAT KOHLI. TISSOT chrono xl. A 45MM CASE.

BRIDGETOWN Royal Towers, #32 Broad Street, St. Michael. Tel: (246) 429-7072 BRIDGETOWN The Cruise Terminal, Harbour Road, St. Michael. Tel: (246) 431-0296 ROCKLEY, CHRIST CHURCH Accra Beach Hotel, Hastings, Christ Church Tel: (246) 537-0146 email: info@theroyalshopbarbados.com I www.theroyalshopbarbados.com

#ThisIsYourTime TISSOT, INNOVATORS BY TRADITION

In Season

May

Fruit: mango, red plum (Jamaican), soursop, sugar apple and sugar cane. Vegetables: string beans, onion, tomato and yam. Fish: flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), congalee, turpit and lobster.

Wed 1 PUBLIC HOLIDAY May Day

Thu 2

POLO - BPC NEW ZEALAND 2nd - Apes Hill Club, St. James. 5th - BPC, Holders, St. James.

barbadospoloclub@gmail. com

Sun 12

POLO - BPC PRESIDENTS/ KEARNS TROPHY Barbados Polo Club, Holders, St. James. Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

barbadospoloclub@gmail. com

Sat 4

BARBADOS BEACH WATER POLO MASTERS TOURNAMENT 4th to 5th Carlisle Bay, St. Michael. info@beachwaterpolobarbados.com beachwaterpolobarbados.com

Mon 13

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY WEEK OF ACTIVITIES 13th to 18th Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201. barbadosmuseum.org

SAIL FOR SIGHT Sun 26th.

Sat 11

Bill Tempro, a seasoned sailor who lost his sight while sailing, has volunteered to sail, single handed, around Barbados to raise funds for the Lions Eye Care Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. This 75 year old, legally blind sailing veteran, faces challenging wind and sea conditions along the east coast but still has enough sight and vast experience as a sailor to have an extremely good chance of completion. Starting from the Barbados Yacht Club at 6am, going south to be back before dark. The team working on Billâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sail for Sight have high hopes of raising BB$500,000 for the Lions Eye Care Centre. For more information or to make a donation please contact sailforsight@gmail.com

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race day in May: 25th Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

Sat 18

FULL MOON GOSPELFEST 18th to 26th barbadosgospelfest.com

Tue 21

BARBADOS CELTIC FESTIVAL

21st to 26th

Sat 25

Sun 26

SOL RALLY BARBADOS 25th - The Rally Show. 26th - Flow King of the Hill.

SAIL FOR SIGHT In aid of the Lions Eye Care Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

A music and food festival, celebrating the shared history of rallybarbados.net the Celtic countries of Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Nova Scotia with Barbados. SOL RALLY Visiting bagpipers, folk singers, dancers BARBADOS and fiddlers join rallybarbados.net with local musicians to celebrate our musical history.

Fri 31

barbadoscelticfestival.com

46 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Photo: Peter Marshall

June

In Season

Fruit: lime, mango, red plum (Jamaican) and Bajan cherry. Vegetables: string beans, onion, cauliflower and yam. Fish: flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), congalee and turpit.

Fri 7

Sat 1

BMEX 2019 7th to 10th Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Two Mile Hill, St. Michael. bmex.bb

SOL RALLY BARBADOS 1st to 2nd rallybarbados.net

Photo: Peter Marshall

Sat 8

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

Sun 9

Mon 10

CHEFETTE PUBLIC HOLIDAY RESTAURANTS Whit Monday FUN RUN Rockley to Fontabelle, Bridgetown. In aid of Auntie Olga’s Needy Children’s Fund. Call 429-9123.

Mon 17

BARBADOS INTERNATIONAL MASTERS FOOTBALL FESTIVAL 7th to 10th Wanderers Football Club, Dayrells Road, Christ Church. bimff.biz

Fans and players at the International Masters Football Festival

Sat 22

FULL MOON

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON - MIDSUMMER CLASSIC RACE DAY Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

Sun 23

VARIETY’S ANNUAL ROW FOR CHARITY Harbour Lights, Bay Street, St. Michael, 8am to 3pm. Call Variety, The Children’s Charity at 428-9258. varietybarbados.org

Photo: Kevin Culpepper

Wed 26

Photo: Peter Marshall

Sun 30

CENTRAL AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN (CCCAN) WATER POLO COMPETITION 26th to 30th Barbados Aquatic Centre, Wildey, St. Michael.

BARBADOS SPRINT TRIATHLON MacDonald Blenman Highway (Spring Garden) at 6am.

FB@BarbadosWaterPoloClub

triathlonbarbados.com

THE BARBADOS CALENDAR 47

In Season

July

Fruit: Bajan cherry, guava, lime, mango and sea grape. Vegetables: avocado, string beans, finger squash, onion and yam. Fish: red snapper.

Wed 3

DIVE FEST 3rd to 7th The Barbados Dive Operators Association (BDOA) hosts this event which aims to raise awareness of Barbados’ coral reefs and reef fish populations, as well as encourage locals to learn more about the precious ecosystems that surround Barbados. divefestbarbados.com

Sat 6

Sun 7

barbadosturfclub.org

visitbarbados.org

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race day in July: 20th Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980.

SIR GARFIELD SOBERS INT’L SCHOOLS CRICKET TOURNAMENT 7th to 22nd Call the BTMI at 535-3700. Photo: Rawle Culbard

Sat 13

Sun 14

CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Pan Fusion at Ilaro Court. Call the National Cultural Foundation at 417-6610.

CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Pan Pun de Sand. Call the National Cultural Foundation at 417-6610.

Tue 16

FULL MOON

barbadoscropoverfestival.com

Sun 21

Fri 19

CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Soca on De Hill. Call the Nat’l Cultural Foundation at 417-6610.

CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Pic-o-de-Crop Semi Finals. Call the Nat’l Cultural Foundation at 417-6610.

barbadoscropoverfestival.com

barbadoscropover festival.com

Sat 27 CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Junior Kadooment. Call the National Cultural Foundation at 417-6610. barbadoscropover festival.com

Gwenyth Squires Junior Kadooment Band Photo: Sandy Pitt

Sun 28 CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Soca Royale. Call the National Cultural Foundation at 417-6610. barbadoscropoverfestival.com Photo: Rawle Culbard

48 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

See your holiday from our perspective… The delightful Southern Palms Beach Club & Resort Hotel is set in gracious grounds spanning 1000 feet of sandy, white beach frontage with fresh breezes blowing gently through the property. Its architecture is a blend of traditional and Barbadian design with lush, attractive gardens to create the perfect setting for your visit. Catering to all needs, Southern Palms welcomes the young who want to do it all, the couple who just want to enjoy each other’s company or the family with children. Southern Palms has a relaxed atmosphere of luxurious comfort with personal service and attention to detail, ensuring that you have the perfect holiday.

Join us at: Southern Palms Beach Club, St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church +1 246 428 7171 ∙ info@southernpalms.net ∙ www.southernpalms.net

In Season

Fruit: lime, carambola, hog plum, Bajan ackee, chilli plum, guava, mango, sugar apple, Bajan cherry, passionfruit and sea grape. Vegetables: finger squash, avocado, breadfruit, onion and yam. Fish: red snapper.

Thu 1

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Emancipation Day HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON DERBY DAY Other race days in August: 10th, 24th Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

August

Fri 2

Mon 5

CROP OVER FESTIVAL: 2nd, 3rd & 4th Bridgetown Market. 2nd, 11pm - Foreday Morning Jam. 3rd - Pic-o-de-Crop Finals. Call the National Cultural Foundation at 417-6610.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Kadooment Day CROP OVER FESTIVAL: Grand Kadooment

barbadoscropover festival.com

Thu 15

FULL MOON BARBADOS OPEN INVITATIONAL WATER POLO FESTIVAL 15th to 19th Barbados Aquatic Centre, Wildey, St. Michael. FB@BarbadosWaterPoloClub

Photo: Barbara Secher-Greenidge

Sun 18 34TH ANNUAL BARBADOS INTERNATIONAL HOCKEY FESTIVAL 18th to 24th barbadoshockey.org

Sat 31

CARIBBEAN MOTOR RACING CHAMPIONSHIPS Bushy Park, St. Philip. bushyparkbarbados. com/cmrc

Crop Over Festival ‘Tipsy’ Party in Bridgetown Photo: Andrew Browne

50 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Photo: Peter Marshall

In Season

Fruit: lime, sea grape, carambola, hog plum, chilli plum, Bajan ackee, guava, mango, grapefruit, shaddock, tangerine, orange, sugar apple, Bajan cherry, passionfruit and golden apple. Vegetables: avocado, pigeon peas, onion and breadfruit. Fish: red snapper.

September & October Sat 7

Sun, Sep 1 CARIBBEAN MOTOR RACING CHAMPIONSHIPS Bushy Park, St. Philip. bushyparkbarbados.com/ cmrc

CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE CRICKET Dates to be announced Call the Barbados Cricket Association at 538-1325.

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race day in September: 21st Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980.

BARBADOS FESTIVAL OF CYCLING Dates to be announced Call the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. at 535-3700.

barbadosturfclub.org

visitbarbados.org

Sat 14 FULL MOON

cricketwestindies.org

Sat 28

BARBADOS BEACH WELLNESS FESTIVAL Dates to be announced Call the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. at 535-3700.

barbadosmuseum.org

visitbarbados.org

B’DOS MUSEUM FLASHBACK MOVIE NIGHT Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201. Photo: Nick Reid

Sun, Oct 6

BARBADOS KENNEL CLUB’S ALL BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW Waterford Plantation, St. Michael. Judge: Tom Mather (UK). Call 417-0607. bkc@caribsurf.com barbadoskennelclub.org

Photo: André Williams

Sun 13

Fri 25

29TH ANNUAL BARBADOS NATIONAL TRIATHLON Spring Garden, St. Michael.

barbadosmuseum.org

FULL MOON

BARBADOS MUSEUM TORCHLIGHT TOUR Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201.

triathlonbarbados.com Photo: Barbara Secher-Greenidge

Sat 26

BARBADOS MUSEUM FLASHBACK MOVIE NIGHT Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201. barbadosmuseum.org

FOOD AND RUM FESTIVAL Dates to be announced Barbados welcomes international chefs for this annual festival. Visitors and locals are treated to six days of the very best international cuisine and cooking demonstrations. visitbarbados.org

THE BARBADOS CALENDAR 51

In Season

Fruit: sorrel, lime, grapefruit, shaddock, tangerine, orange, lemon and golden apple. Vegetables: pigeon peas and finger squash. Fish: red snapper, flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi) and lobster. Meat: turkey.

Fri 1

INDEPENDENCE LIGHTING CEREMONY Heroes Square, Bridgetown at 5:30pm.

Sat 2

SUNSPLASH BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT 2nd to 3rd Brandons Beach, St. Michael. sizzlinsand@gmail.com

November

Tue 5

WSL LIVE LIKE ZANDER JR PRO & THOMO PRO QS 1000 5th to 10th Soup Bowl, Bathsheba, St. Joseph FB@surfpromotions barbados

Photo: Leisure Entertainment

Sat 9

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race day in November: 23rd Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980.

Barbados Open Water Fesitval Photo: Caribbean Aerial Photography

barbadosturfclub.org

Tue 12

Wed 6

FULL MOON

BARBADOS OPEN WATER FESTIVAL 6th to 10th Carlisle Bay, St. Michael. swimbarbadosvacations.com Photo courtesy Boosy’s Surf School Photo: Mark Harris

Sun 17

BARBADOS KENNEL CLUB’S ALL BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW Waterford Plantation, St. Michael. Judge: Keith Nathan (UK). Call 417-0607.

BARBADOS INDEPENDENCE SURF FESTIVAL Dates to be announced Soup Bowl, Bathsheba, St. Joseph.

bkc@caribsurf.com barbadoskennelclub.org

barbadossurfing association.org

Fri 29

Sat 30

BARBADOS MUSEUM TORCHLIGHT TOUR Call the Barbados Museum at 538-0201.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Independence Day

barbadosmuseum.org

53RD ANNIVERSARY INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE Historic Garrison Savannah, St. Michael.

52 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

FOPE.COM

29-30 Broad St , Bridgetown Barbados 246 - 429-2900 | www.ShopMilano.com

In Season

Fruit: lime, sorrel, grapefruit, shaddock, tangerine, passionfruit, orange and lemon. Vegetables: avocado, finger squash, string beans and pigeon peas. Fish: red snapper, flying fish, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), congalee, turpit and lobster. Meat: turkey.

December

Fri 6

RUN BARBADOS SERIES 6th to 8th This exciting series continues to be one of the most prestigious distance running events in the Caribbean. Call 437-2121 or 243-6902. runbarbados@gmail.com runbarbados.org

Rugby Barbados World 7s Barbados v Jamaica Photo: Peter Marshall

Sat 7

RUGBY BARBADOS WORLD 7S TOURNAMENT 7th to 8th Kensington Oval, Bridgetown. rugbybarbadosworld7s.com

HORSE RACING AT THE GARRISON Other race days in December: 14th & 26th (Boxing Day at the races) Call the Barbados Turf Club at 626-3980. barbadosturfclub.org

Wed 25

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Christmas Day THE ROYAL BARBADOS POLICE FORCE BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park, Bridgetown at 7am. Royal Commonwealth Society Barbados Branch Annual Christmas in the City Christmas Tree Display Photo: Andrew Browne

Thu 26

PUBLIC HOLIDAY Boxing Day

54 THE BARBADOS CALENDAR

Thu 12

FULL MOON

IGNITE SOMETHING O N LY T H E P E R F E C T C U T C A N U N L E A S H A DIAMONDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BRILLIANCE.

H E A R T S O N F I R E S T O R E S , A U T H O R I Z E D R E TA I L E R S , H E A R T S O N F I R E . C O M

Dia mond

gallery

29-30 Broad Street, Bridgetown, Barbados (246) 429-2900 | www.shopmilano.com

Natural History of a Small Island

The fauna of Barbados

Peregrine Falcon Photo: Jon Farmer

Hare Photo: Richard Roach

Green Turtle Photo: Sue Holder

Scarlet Tanager Photo: Richard Roach

Humpback Whale Photo: Mark Harris

By Karl Watson

There is a demonstrable relationship between land size and bio diversity. Small islands tend to have less land based bio diversity, especially if, as is the case with Barbados, they are distant from the other islands of their grouping. However, this lack of diverse native fauna is more than mitigated by two factors. The first is human intervention and the second is millennial old patterns of migration. Humans are known for their penchant for deliberately adding to existing native fauna and Barbados is no exception. If one excludes the eight bat species, the three larger mammals on the island, monkeys, mongoose and hares are all introduced, as are a number of bird species such as the Rose Ringed Parakeet. But these are haphazard events, dependent on the whims of humans. Migration patterns are far more interesting because they respond to the climatic cycles of our planet and faithfully follow a calendar imprinted in the minds of the living creatures which undertake these hazardous travels of necessity. As the north Atlantic waters start to get colder, hump backed whales and their calves migrate to the much warmer Caribbean. During the months of January to March, they can be seen spouting and frollicking off the northern most point of our island. The three species of turtle that nest on our beaches, the Hawksbill, Leatherback and Green all follow the rhythms of nature Their peak nesting season runs from June to October and the females who return to the specific beach of their birth are greatly influenced by lunar cycles. Migratory birds, especially shorebirds, also follow the seasons. After nesting in the Arctic regions of North America, like clockwork, the adults undertake their southward migration. By 24th July, the skies over Barbados are alive with the arrival of flocks or “parcels” of birds. Among the species one sees in greatest numbers at this time are Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs and the Pectoral Sandpiper. A month later, their young

undertake the hazardous flight across some three thousand miles of open ocean. They do this by themselves, with no adults to guide them. Birds are creatures of habit, returning to their favourite pond or beach year after year. They even have favourite roosts or perching branches. Every year, a pair of Peregrine Falcons return to Barbados in mid October and take up their winter residence in their favourite casurina tree along the South Coast boardwalk. In October, one can expect to see the arrival of the Belted Kingfisher. The arrival of this bird presages the migration of various species of ducks to the island and the local name for this bird is “Duck Pilot,” the assumption at folk level being that the Kingfisher flew ahead of the ducks to show them the way to Barbados. Though bird migration to Barbados is mainly from North America, there are two lesser known migratory paths. One is from Europe. Because Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, Eurasian birds tend to be seen here much more regularly than on the other islands. Among the species that are regular visitors to Barbados are the Ruff and the Grey Heron. From South America, one can expect to see the Fork tailed Flycatcher. April and May are good months to look out for this bird. Also tending to arrive at this time from the south is the very handsome Blacknecked Stilt. At this time of year as well, migration northward of those species that wintered in South America takes place. Among the species to look out for are the smaller passerines. The most colourful of these being the Scarlet Tanager.

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Golfers of all abilities are sure to have a challenging, yet enjoyable day out at this 18 hole, 6,705 yd, par 72 championship golf course. It features open fairways, a series of coral waste bunkers and an expansive triple green around the lake on the 18th hole. Our expert team extends a truly Barbadian welcome to all hope to see you on the green!

18-hole Championship Course • Pro Shop • Practice Chipping & Putting Green Driving Range • Clubhouse, Bar & Restaurant • Club and Shoe Rental Available Tournaments and Groups Welcome • Standard Golf Dress Code in Effect

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Arts & OF Crafts INS & OUTS BARBADOS 57

Life on No holiday in Barbados is complete without a day out on the water Photo courtesy Cool Runnings

the Sea Tem incta sunte con cusciat issinci litatin vellore, corumquCorio. Agnissi tibus, que plignient qui bla culloribus net aut pa soluptate voluptae venti aliquibus ducipsam aut explia Photo caption Photo credit

Team Baywatch Watersports

Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Water Taxi & Loads of Fun in the Sun!

Blue Skies Cruises Blue Skies Cruises’ Lantana is the only monohull yacht available for charter in Barbados. A beautiful 50’ Beneteau offering a “true yacht racing experience” at high speeds, or a gentle cruise along the west coast for some of the best snorkeling available. Either way, this day out on the sea has been highly acclaimed as the “perfect experience”. Owned and skippered by Barbadian born Geoffrey Evelyn − an experienced sailor and ex-commador of the Barbados Yacht Club who has been racing and sailing across the Caribbean all his life − the boat can be booked for shared lunch cruises, private and overnight charters and crewed charters to the Grenadines. Tel: Geoffrey Evelyn (246) 230-6888 Shallow Draught, Bridgetown BlueSkiesCruises@gmail.com www.blueskiescruisesbarbados.com

60 WATERSPORTS

An established owner run water-sports and taxi service operating from the west coast of Barbados. They specialize in traditional glass bottom boat cruises with drinks and two snorkeling stops at shipwrecks, coral reefs and the ever popular turtles. Private Charters available. They also offer water skiing, jet ski rentals, towables, water taxi services and live bait fishing. Capt. Mike has over 25 years experience with a friendly and helpful staff. Full safety equipment on board. Taxi services: airport transfers and trips to restaurants, supermarkets, beaches and Island Tours. Advance bookings appreciated.

Contact Max or Michael Tel: (246) 249-5115 / 232-8157 Trents, Holetown, St. James teambaywatch@hotmail.com www.teambaywatch.com

LUXURY YACHTING EXPERIENCES IN BARBADOS & BEYOND

Offering perfectly indulgent adventures on our luxury sailing catamarans and power boats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tailored especially for you. You choose your guests, let us take care of the rest.

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Cool Runnings IV SHARED LUXURY CRUISES • 5 Hour Sailing excursion - 11am to 4pm • Shared cruises limited to a maximum of 18 persons • Premium Open Bar • Gourmet Lunch by onboard Chef • Two Snorkel Stops - Sea Turtles and Ship Wreck • Complimentary West Coast Transportation • Complimentary WiFi onboard PRIVATE CHARTERS • Select your own time of charter • Hourly rates with Captain and Crew provided • Complimentary West Coast Beach pick up and drop off • Comfortable air-conditioned saloon with kitchen and dining table • Choose your own Lunch/Dinner Menu and preferred Beverage Package • Covered back deck with dining table • Spacious foredeck with seats, sun beds and lounge nets • Complimentary WiFi onboard Caption Photo Credit

Cool Runnings has taken it “up a notch” with the latest addition to their fleet of elegant catamarans For reservations call (246) 435-4589 IVLuxury@coolrunningsbarbados.com www.coolrunningsluxury.com

62 CRUISES

Experience

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COOL RUNNINGS IV LUXURY and relish the

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Cat & The Fiddle Luxury Catamaran Style, Comfort and Extraordinary Service

The sleek, stylish, spacious and eminently comfortable Cat & The Fiddle is a 62-foot luxury catamaran, built by Lagoon, the most prestigious catamaran manufacturer in the world. Introduced to the luxury catamaran market in 2017, Cat & The Fiddle has added an exciting new dimension to yacht chartering in Barbados. Designed to provide the ultimate in smooth sailing and sophisticated relaxation on the sea, every area of Cat & The Fiddle has been created to optimize the luxury cruise experience. The roomy cockpit, complete with a wet bar, offers a fabulous social space for any occasion. Guests can dine in the elegant air-conditioned interior, or al fresco in the shade. Expansive trampolines on the foredeck provide a haven for sun lovers. Above the main deck, the flybridge is perfect for enjoying the scenery

64 CRUISES

or indulging in cocktails. And the large aft transoms provide easy access into the sea to swim, snorkel or paddle board. Serving the finest quality food and drinks, the captain and crew of Cat & The Fiddle are committed to providing extraordinary on-board service on all of its sailings. Cat & The Fiddle offers Shared Charters and Exclusive Private Charters, which can be customized to suit the specific requirements of individual clients. For enquiries and reservations call (246) 434-3353 or 262-2755 | luxury@catandthefiddlebarbados.com www.catandthefiddlebarbados.com

Carlisle Bay

A National Treasure By Andre Miller

All Photos from Barbados A Coral Paradise Photos by Andrew Western and David Gill

66 UNDERWATER

This year we are celebrating “Life Underwater”, featuring those magnificent creatures that live on our coral reefs, as well as the geology that makes Barbados unique in the Southern Caribbean. To see Barbados’ marine ecosystems in full bloom one only has to put on a mask, and visit either the Carlisle Bay or the Folkestone Marine Parks. Collectively scientists have documented over 110 species of Reef Fish in these parks, and all of the most common corals can be seen in both areas. Actually, the marine parks are the only place on island (to date) where all three of the endangered Acropora coral species can be seen on one dive.

By preventing fishing, anchoring, and the pumping of bilges, both marine parks now showcase some of the healthiest and largest schools of- horse eye jacks, grunts, sergeant majors, and Bermuda chubs islandwide. Some guests even â&#x20AC;&#x153;complainâ&#x20AC;? that there are too many fish for them to take an unobstructed selfie while snorkeling, or scuba diving. Can you guess where we find seahorses almost daily? Can you guess where most turtle tours go? The Marine Parks! What often surprises experienced divers is that Carlisle Bay is only 1 mile away from the capital Bridgetown. However, most travelers assume that in order to see the highest marine diversity of Life Underwater they would have to sail for hours to the islandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most remote reefs. The fact that Carlisle Bay remains a National Treasure, and the #1 dive site in Barbados shows how effective our marine parks are.

At present both Marine Parks only make up 1% of our coastline, yet they are visited by most scuba divers and snorkelers on island, because of this explosion of Life Underwater in the Parks. Based on this phenomenon Government has recently acknowledged the need for larger marine parks, and by protecting significantly more coral reefs, this will allow more spawning females and fertilized eggs to survive and leave the parks to colonise other reefs. This “spill over” benefits both fishermen as it has been documented that fish catch actually increases well beyond the Parks when replenishment areas are established. Presently, the only place on island where females can grow big enough to reach their full potential as it relates to spawning is in our marine parks. Since being opened millions of visitors have left these parks in awe of the sheer beauty of healthy coral reefs, and being able to interact with thousands of “friendly” fish and turtles. While there is a global

decline in reef fish, Barbados is striving to reverse those trends. Just imagine what can be achieved after we expand and better manage our National Parks.

Fun Fact 1: Barbados is basically a relic coral reef that continues to slowly rise out of the Caribbean Sea (which is really part of the Atlantic). Fun Fact 2: Carlisle Bay is the only dive site on the planet where you can see a World War 1 shipwreck, a World War 2 shipwreck, and a 1990 era military vessel (the Trident) with her big guns, all on one shallow dive. Needless to say all of these wrecks are now surrounded with schools of reef fish, as we continue to protect our tiny parks. Fun Fact 3: It is said that ancient mariners were able to tell when they were approaching Los Babadoes as she was called, as the surface waters gradually shifted to a more vibrant blue. This Barbados Blue coloured water likely lead many a sailor safely home. There is therefore no surprise that as you drive around the island, the word “Blue” is so often incorporated into the names of fine dining establishments, water sports operations, hotels, guest houses, and Barbados now has a Ministry of the Blue Economy, the first in the region. This Blue Phenomenon has even gone global as: Chevrolet, Mount Blanc, Essie, all offer Barbados Blue as a colour in their products. This Blue is caused by the perfect combination of our white coral substrate and its perfect location along at 13 degrees N latitude. Fun Fact 4:

This book showcases the beauty of Barbados’ coral reefs and invites us to ponder the strong bonds between these organisms and our everyday lives. A very interesting and enlightening way to learn about coral.

68 UNDERWATER

The reason why Barbados’ artisanal /day boat fishing fleet have roofs, unlike the other fishing boats in the southern Caribbean that has low-lying exposed vessels, is also due to her origins as a low lying coral reef. So if you were a fisherman before GPS technology, from one of our neighboring islands you could travel very far from shore and see land. However, if you were a Barbadian fisher, you may have to climb on your boats’ roof to find your way home.

Barbados Blue With 365 days of warm water diving, daily Scuba Classes, over 30 dive sites, and after sinking the newest military ship wreck (MV Trident) in the Caribbean, it’s no wonder that PADI has honoured Barbados Blue Watersports at the Hilton, with the PADI Global Ambassador for Change Award. The Southern Caribbean’s first PADI Freediving and PADI Coral First Aid Centres are now also at Barbados’ premier scuba centre. We can change your life! As a PADI Freediver, you train with the best and become part of a global community of divers bound together by a shared passion for adventure, exploration and love for the underwater world. In just two days we can all start gliding quickly through the water with long blades to the depths and quietly interact with marine life, all without a scuba tank. The PADI First Aid Course teaches reef managers, concerned citizens, and budding scientists how to construct Coral Nurseries and how to use damaged corals and fragments to replenish large areas of damaged substrate. Basically, as Global Climate Change sends more powerful storms into the Caribbean our coral reefs may be impacted by several storms in just one season. However, divers can now act, rather than just watch helplessly as coral dies and algae takes over. Learn more at www.divebarbadosblue.com 3 Dives Daily & 30 dive sites (Beginners to Dive Masters). 2 covered dive boats and Scubapro & Cressi Dealers Located at the Hilton with a marine park & FIVE Wrecks!!! Scuba and Snorkel combos daily.

Tel (246) 434-5764 info@divebarbadosblue.com www.divebarbadosblue.com

UNDERWATER 69

“Feeesh, Feeesh, Flying Feeesh” By Dr. Karl Watson Flying Fish gliding through the air Photos: Courtesy Dr. Karl Watson

Drawings by A. Gascoigne Wildey, The Graphic 1897 Photos: Courtesy Round House

The flying fish is a Barbadian icon. Though other islands in the Caribbean consume this small fish, none do it in the quantities and gusto with which Barbadians eat what is an essential part of the national dish… flying fish and cou cou. There are a number of species of flying fish which are found in deep tropical waters around the globe. There are thirteen species of flying fish in Eastern Caribbean waters. The one most frequently caught is Hirundichtuys affinis which makes up approximately 90% of all flying fish landed. This fish schools in large numbers and is a migratory species moving throughout the Eastern Caribbean. The prime time for catching flying fish is between the months of November to July. Flying fish do not really fly but glide, propelling their body clear of the water in times of danger by beating their tails vigorously to clear the surface and spreading their fins which enables them to glide distances of about 180 metres. The archaeological record shows that the pre colonial Amerindian populations of Barbados consumed flying fish. Many flying fish skeletal remains have been

70 FLYING FISH

found in Arawak middens. However it was with the colonization of the island by England in the early seventeenth century that the flying fish industry started on a large scale. Barbados pioneered pelagic or deep water fishing in the Eastern Caribbean. A ship building industry started in the seventeenth century on the island which created vessels used not just for coastal shipping but for ocean voyages as well. Existing historical records attest to this. Barbadian fishermen went to Tobago, 200 miles south, to gather timber from tropical hardwoods which was in demand in Barbados and to fish. Their movements at sea often exposed the fishermen to the risk of being captured by European shipping. In the early years of the seventeenth century, the Dutch were especially active but by the end of the seventeenth century, the Dutch threat had been replaced by the growing French menace. The 1710 minutes of the Council of Barbados record a case where enslaved Barbadian fishermen were captured far at sea, when they overpowered their captors and sailed back to Barbados. They were handsomely rewarded by the Council for “their fidelity to their native country”. When schooling, a “wash” an oily mixture of offal was thrown over to attract the fish which came to the surface in such large numbers that they could be scooped up by hand held nets. Gill nets were also set from the boats to catch the fish or multiple baited hooks set on a single line. “When the take is good, the number of fish caught is simply limited by the capacity of the boat, and boats have been known to sink from overloading.”

In the eighteenth century, flying fish were so plentiful that they were called “Speights pigeons” and were sold very cheaply, providing a much needed source of protein for all. In times of glut, women would meet the incoming boats, buy flying fish in bulk and heap them on trays which would then be carried by head throughout coastal towns and villages with the high pitched, long drawn out cry of “Feesh, feeesh, flying fish” to attract the attention of householders. By the mid twentieth century, motorized ice boats had replaced the traditional sailing vessels which at peak had numbered close to 400. Centralized markets replaced the old method of individuals walking long distances selling fish and refrigeration enabled fish to be frozen and sold in times of seasonal scarcity. The Barbadian method of preparation of these fish is to clean and debone them. They are gutted and cut on either side of the spine. The head, spine and tail are then separated from the body of the fish in one swift movement, multiple side bones are then skilfully cut off and the resultant fillet is ready for cooking. The record for cleaning and boning ten fish is approx 3 minutes. The fish can be fried or steamed. When frying, the fish is liberally seasoned with a mix of finely chopped herbs, shallots and bonny pepper, dipped in egg, sprinkled with bread crumbs and put in a sizzling frying pan for a short time so as not to over cook. When being steamed, the fish is also seasoned, rolled and cooked in a butter sauce. The favourite accompaniment for steamed flying fish is cou cou, a sort of polenta cooked with okra. A related delicacy is the roe used widely in sushi and referred to as Tobiko. The developed roe, known locally as melts, is fried and served on the side.

FLYING FISH 71

Life the

Until fairly recently, many of the Grenadine islands were accessible only by sea, by way of inter-island schooners and ferries. Now, with the addition of small airports on the islands of Mustique, Canouan, Bequia and Union, these enchanting hideaways are within quick and easy reach of Barbados. Photo courtesy JT Pro Center, Union Is. www.kitesurfgrenadines.com

down Islands

Swimming with turtles in the Tobago Cays Photo: kitesurfgrenadines.com

When it comes to the breathtakingly beautiful islands of the Grenadines, with their intoxicating scenery, unblemished natural beauty and “feel good” tranquility, the question isn’t “why go?” but “must we leave?”

Union Island Photo: kitesurfgrenadines.com

Petit St. Vincent Photo courtesy PSV Resort

THE GRENADINES The 32 idyllic islands and deserted cays which make up the Grenadines extend 45 miles to the southwest of St. Vincent like a kite’s tail. These include Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, Union Island, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent. Located just a short boat ride from Union Island, the Tobago Cays are a cluster of five tiny, uninhabited islands, collectively sheltered from the open sea by the appropriately named Horseshoe Reef. The shallow water of the lagoon surrounding the Cays inspires an ever-changing kaleidoscope of blues, greens and seemingly limitless shades of aquamarine, creating a truly picture-perfect backdrop for the islands themselves – namely Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Jamesby and Petit Tabac. With their powdery white sand beaches, dazzling, palmstudded shorelines, rocky outcrops and greentopped hills, the Tobago Cays are the epitome of the classic, deserted tropical island; an opinion clearly

74 ISLAND ART & CRAFT HOPPING

endorsed by Disney and the producers of the hit movie ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ when they chose to film here. Barbados is the gateway to these islands and there are a number of options available to get you there. These range from private jet and exclusive yacht charters, to all-inclusive, one-day, or one-week packages offered by Chantours Caribbean, who specialize in island hopping adventures and exclusive yacht charters in the Grenadines and other Caribbean islands. A short 45 minute flight takes you from Barbados to Union Island where you can enjoy a day of sailing aboard a luxury catamaran – visiting many of the Grenadine islands, like Mustique, the Tobago Cays, Palm Island, Mayreau, Morpion and Petit St. Vincent – all in one glorious day (flights to/from the Grenadines included). Chantours is committed to the pursuit of excellence guaranteeing their customers exceptional service every step of the way.

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THERE’S LIFE, AND THEN THERE’S

Living

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Chantours are renowned as the specialists in Luxury Caribbean Escapes for over 20 years. Discover your own personal version of paradise, let Chantours arrange your ultimate bespoke escape, whether it’s a Luxury Yacht Charter in The Grenadines or Private Jet Charter, unforgetable Day Trips to neighbouring islands or a few glorious days at the exclusive Mandarin Oriental on Canouan Island ... the choice is yours.

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Palm Island

The Pearl of the Grenadines Palm Island Photo: kitesurfgrenadines.com

76 ISLAND ART & CRAFT HOPPING

Part of the Grenadines archipelago, located between St. Vincent and Grenada, Palm Island is 135-acres of pure paradise. The island boasts five white sand beaches, graceful palm groves and panoramic nature trails, as well as an intimate resort which has been harmoniously developed alongside an authentic nature reserve. Interesting bird life, indigenous iguanas and proximity to the world-famous Tobago Cays make it not only a paradise for nature lovers, but a rarely found, veritable sanctuary for regenerating a healthy body, mind and soul.

Palm Island is an 8-minute boat ride from Union Island Photo: Sally Miller

The main attraction on the private island is the all-inclusive whole-island resort for escapists in search of an elegant Caribbean retreat, all the exciting possibilities of an island archipelago right on the doorstep. Palm Island is not only a private all-inclusive resort but also a fascinating, charming and idyllic island literally at guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; disposal. After a 45-minute flight from Barbados to Union Island, followed by a smooth 8-minute boat trip, you will reach your dream destination. With five pristine white sand beaches, incredibly blue turquoise sea and truly perfect swimming conditions, Palm Island is very close to the world famous Tobago Cays, a place not to be missed by any nature or sea lover. Great care has been taken to ensure the resort is in harmony with its untouched natural surroundings, the public areas of thatch, bamboo and terracotta complemented by just 41 guest rooms that have also been designed with their island setting in mind. Over half of them sit right on the white sand beach, others set in the palm groves just steps from the Caribbean Sea. The resort also has a 2 luxury villas on the sea offering complete privacy and spectacular views. Lazy days revolve around the beaches and the ocean, boat trips, nature trails and water sports adding a dash of excitement. Elegant evenings begin with cocktails and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres in the alfresco bar and end with delicious candlelit dinners in the Royal Palm restaurant.

A privately owned 2 bedroom beach house on Palm Island with a remarkable oceanfront location on a superb beach with stunning views of the neighbouring islands. Surrounded by coconut palms and steps away from the sea, Palm Villa is a true beach house that has been furnished and equipped for a comfortable and enjoyable vacation that offers all the pleasures of tropical indoor-outdoor living. An ideal holiday for families, couples or anybody who just wants to get away from it all.

Palm Villa

Palm Island, St. Vincent & the Grenadines For further information: Tel: (246) 262-5874 or (246) 262-5875 e-mail: keith@millerpublishing.net

ARTHOPPING & CRAFT 77 ISLAND

Villa Almaviva

d n a l s I m Pal

Photo Kay Wilson

Long regarded as a sailors’ paradise, the islands of the Grenadines have recently gained increased popularity as a destination of choice for those discerning travellers who prefer to escape the crowds. Villa Almaviva, with its private hilltop location on Palm Island, provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy a level of peace and tranquility rarely found in the world today.

Villa Almaviva sits majestically on a hilltop

The concept for Villa Almaviva was developed by its owners who were already familiar with the positives and negatives of living on a small island like Palm, and they specifically chose an architect who could make the most of the wonderful location and maximise the benefits of tropical indoor-outdoor living. The end result is a beautifully designed property that can provide all the necessary ingredients for enjoying a relaxing and comfortable Caribbean lifestyle. Occupying approximately 1.5 acres of land and 10,000 sq. ft. of floorspace, Villa Almaviva comprises a spacious master-bedroom, four well-appointed guest apartments and a nursery/office, all of which are air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms and walk-in closets. Expansive covered terraces surround the main living/dining/sleeping areas, thus providing extra shade for the rooms and a variety of optional, cool and breezy, ‘al fresco’ sitting areas, including next to a freshwater swimming pool. For practical selfsufficiency, the house has been built with its own generator to provide electricity and a desalination plant for fresh water. Thanks to its dramatic location, perched on a hilltop at the south-western end of the island, Villa Almaviva benefits from magnificent panoramic vistas in every direction. On clear days it is possible to see as far as St. Vincent to the

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north and Grenada to the south, with all the islands in between, while each evening can provide a spectacular view of the sun setting behind the rugged profile of Union. Being situated on one of the highest points of the island also gives Villa Almaviva complete privacy. To help residents negotiate the hill, the house is equipped with a Club-Car and a Kawasaki (Mule), which can also be used for transporting goods, luggage and handicapped guests. The house also has its own boat, MV Almaviva II, a Bertram 31 with two Detroit Diesel engines, which is useful for shopping and day trips to neighbouring islands. Villa Almaviva Sales Package In addition to the main house, the Sales Package includes: (i) Rum Corner, which is a 1,750 sq. ft., 3-bedroom house on the beach directly below Villa Almaviva, with a large terrace looking out to sea. (ii) A small house that is currently used as staff quarters, but could be converted to guest accommodation. (iii) A 1-acre lot of undeveloped beachfront land on the nearby island of Mayreau, which offers great potential for future development. All in all, the combined Villa Almaviva Sales Package at US$4,500,000 represents a rare opportunity for an astute investor.

Villa Almaviva, Palm Island

Sale Price US$4,500,000

Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Luxuries

John Chandler Antiques and CafĂŠ, Limegrove Lifestyle Centre Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

TaxFree

& VAT Free

Photo: Courtesy Limegrove Lifestyle Centre

With both tax and VAT being exempt for visitors to Barbados, the island presents a wonderful opportunity to indulge yourself in some retail therapy.

Always Summer at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre

Bridgetown is the grand dame of shopping in Barbados and the Cave Shepherd department store was included in the top 50 department stores in the world by “Insider Trends” in 2017. This UNESCO World Heritage city is laid out like a medieval market town, riddled with narrow alleys, but it is Broad Street where you will be most tempted with duty free shopping at Diamonds International, Royal Shop, Little Switzerland and Milano Diamond Gallery, to name a few. We suggest the slightly extravagant idea of hiring a speedboat to take you there, followed by a lobster lunch at Lobster Alive in the stunning Carlisle Bay. Our capital city also has one of the best beaches on the island. There is a budget Bridgetown shuttle that offers a round trip to visitors staying on the south and west coasts. Call 629-4401 for details.

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Out of Bridgetown, Sheraton Mall, with over 120 stores and services in one convenient location provides duty free shopping, a multiplex and VIP cinema, doctor, taxi services and so much more! The south coast also has shopping at Quayside Centre and Coconut Walk in Rockley, Lanterns Mall in Hastings and Cave Shepherd’s branch at The Vista in Worthing. Holetown has always been the most worthwhile destination for a shopping expedition outside of Bridgetown with the Sunset Mall, Chattel Village and the Indigo Courtyard. With the addition of Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, the overall area has become a major shopping destination in Barbados. Holetown is actually much more than a shopping destination, with the fabulous cinemas in Limegrove, along with a number of notable restaurants throughout this fashionable west coast district.

Altman Real Estate Always Summer Atera Beauty Spa Bourgeois Breitling Bruna Konnections Bvlgari Capers Juice & Health Food Bar Cartier Boutique Barbados Chopard Crown of Light Damiani Diamonds International Ela Eye Q Stylist Opticians Fusion Rooftop Restaurant Gatsby Boutiques The Green Monkey Chocolatier Grove Gallery Gucci Hastings Flower Mart House of Jaipur Hublot Icare Auto Detailing IWC Schaffhausen Jaeger-LeCoultre John Chandler Antiques & CafĂŠ Lemongrass Limegrove Cinemas Longchamp Michael Kors Monkey Puzzle Montblanc

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Limegrove

e r t n e C e l y t Lifes

Experience Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, home to the very best in fashion, film, food, art and entertainment in the Caribbean. Featuring more than 100,000 square feet of leading retail brands, specialty stores and gourmet eateries.

Mozaic M·A·C Nature’s Discount Nina Thomas Nordic Wellness Orign Pastry Box Pepenero Pure Source Ralph Lauren Relish Epicurea Safi Kilima Salt & City Sea Reinas Singapura SmartStore Sun Collection Designer Eyewear TAG Heuer The Jewellers by Colombian Emeralds International Theo Fennell The Rum Stop Limegrove is one of the ‘must visit’ destinations in Barbados. The welcoming open-air design creates the perfect backdrop for shopping at some of the world’s leading boutiques, including Breitling, Cartier, Longchamp, Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren. Discover fun, specialty stores and local favourites like The Green Monkey Chocolatier, Orign and Salt and City. Art aficionados will enjoy a stroll through the art gallery showcasing exciting local and regional pieces, and the award winning boutique cinemas provide a treat for the entire family. In need of a break from shopping? Retreat to the spa and salon for a bit of pampering. Limegrove is also a venue for interesting events throughout the year. From local craft fairs and live performances to wedding and garden expos, there is always something exciting on the calendar. For more information and to find out what’s on at Limegrove, visit limegrove.com or follow them at facebook.com/Limegrove.

Un Dimanche à Paris Vilebrequin West Bar & Restaurant POP-UPS FOR WINTER SEASON: Heidi Klein Chip Chop A Street Food Eatery

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OUR

BOUTIQUE

WE ARE

INSPIRED

WE EXPRESS

OURSELVES

SLEEVES WE ARE SENSITIVE WE ROLL UP OUR

WE CREATE

WE IMPROVISE

WE DRESS TO KILL FASHION ADDICTS WE ARE COLOURFUL WE ARE

WE SEARCH FOR THE BEST FROM THE CLASSIC TO THE ECLECTIC FROM THE ICONS OF YESTERDAY TO THE INNOVATORS OF TODAY

WE ARE

Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, St. James +1246 271 8205

ISABEL MARANT, ZADIG & VOLTAIRE, IRO, FORTE_FORTE, BA&SH, SWILDENS, DIEGA, SŒUR, LEON & HARPER, ESSENTIEL, FALIERO SARTI, K.JACQUES, GOLDEN GOOSE DELUXE BRAND, JÉRÔME DREYFUSS, GAS BIJOUX, ASTIER DE VILLATTE, JARDINS D’ÉCRIVAINS AND MANY MORE...

“Reminiscent of childhood memories, luxury, sweetness and sensuality, chocolate is more than just a food—it is therapy.” Christelle Le Ru, Passion Chocolat

The Green Monkey Chocolatier Authentically Caribbean with a unique French twist, The Green Monkey Chocolatier brings a touch of luxury to the everyday—and a flavour of the island you’ll remember wherever your journeys take you. From the light, crisp sweetness of their renowned macarons to the Versailles-inspired designs of their boutiques and gift boxes, the chocolatiers bring their wealth of European training to everything they create. But it’s their rich local knowledge and passion for the freshest ingredients that transform the fine French chocolate into a distinctly Caribbean delight. Take the sumptuous Rum Collection. The smooth, silky liqueur blend originates from the last family-owned distillery in Barbados for a flavour you won’t find anywhere else. Or for a zesty start to your morning, try spreading one of their delicious jams or marmalades on your toast or pastries. The seasonal, locally-sourced fruits and spices will instantly whisk your taste buds to warm beaches and happy times. Whether you’re taking a bite of a decadent salted caramel truffle or a delicate crème brûlée macaron that simply melts in your mouth, you’ll taste the care and attention that goes into each handcrafted morsel. The Green Monkey Chocolatier’s signature collections are all created in their local factory for ultimate

freshness. The artisanal macarons can even be crafted into custom displays for your wedding or special event. For a farther-flung flavour, try the Sugar Monkey Candy Collection, curated from some of the finest confectioners around the globe. Packaged in elegant cubes that can be mixed and matched to suit a sweet tooth, they make for a perfectly customisable gift—or a special treat for yourself! If you’re in the neighbourhood, why not swing by one of the two island locations to sample the Flavour of the Month? Stay for a while and savour a sip of the sublime with velvety sipping chocolate, gourmet teas, and more, available at the Limegrove Boutique and Café. Or cool off after a day in the sun with a refreshing prosecco pop, containing a full glass of bubbles in each popsicle. The chocolatiers are whipping up fresh creations every day, so there’s always a surprise in store—like the new range of shortbread cookies in tropical flavours. And with a third location opening at the Grantley Adams International Airport in Winter 2019, there’ll soon be even more sweetness to savour. Make your day that bit more luxurious. Enjoy a taste you’ll remember forever at The Green Monkey Chocolatier.

Like them on Facebook and Instagram @thegreenmonkeychocolatier South Coast Boutique, Quayside Centre, Rockley, Christ Church | Tel: (246) 435-5567 West Coast Boutique, Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown, St. James | Tel: (246) 427-5567

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Crusty Charms By Sarah Venable

This former port is a faded beauty, a salty old dame who may be missing a few teeth, but still flashes a friendly smile. In her heyday, schooners plied an active trade with other islands and whalers set out on dangerous hunts. One by one, these endeavours died off and left the town to eke a modest living as a place supplying food, furnishings and hardware to the northern parishes. Speightstown has more unvarnished character per square metre than any place on this island. Maybe it’s a century of being ignored that left whole sections of it relatively intact, with smatterings of colonial buildings harkening back to yesteryear. Old stone warehouses have been repurposed, a classic Barbadian “single house” is now an interactive museum, and overhanging balconies of merchant homes still shade sections of the streets. True, it’s hodge-podge, but the vibe’s so nice that one can overlook the more intrusive 20th century additions. This vibe comes largely from

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peightstown

Speightstown’s

Photos: Andrew Hulsmeier & Sally Miller

the people, who are believed to be even nicer than in the rest of the island. For a pleasant and varied day trip, here are some options: Enjoy a swim or stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) in the tranquil bay and some lazing on a lounger. Bring your snorkel gear to explore the reefs or arrange a dive. Visit the Gallery of Caribbean Art, the island’s largest and most varied. Explore the history of trade at Arlington House Museum. Hike through the quiet back street called Round de Town to get a feel for classic Bajan neighbourhoods and then into the peaceful shade of Whim Gully. Find local designer jewellery and clothing in Town Square Mall. On the waterside street whose name changes as you progress, visit the old fashioned bakery, learn from the hucksters what those strange tropical fruits and roots are, and choose from several restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The Gourmet Shop Full Provisioning Service Since Sarah and Leo opened their multiple awardwinning Gourmet Shop and wholesale business 28 years ago, they have been doing a great job supplying the best quality of just about everything at reasonable prices, with a full provisioning and delivery service. This is the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Go Toâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; place for housekeepers, butlers and chefs, or anyone who needs their villa or apartment stocked up. Along with their assistants, Rosemary and Helen, they can be called on to source your fresh local fish and lobster, premium meats, cheeses, Asian ingredients, fresh local and imported fruit and vegetables, and all epicurean delights (including truffles and fine chocolates). Recently Sarah has been building up the selection of specialty needs foods, such as grass fed and kosher meats, and gluten free products. They also carry an impressive selection of competitively priced champagnes, wines, liquor and beer. You will enjoy a visit to their shop in the Chattel Village in Holetown. Gourmet Shop also offer the service of preparing and delivering speciality gift baskets. Just specify your budget and they will do the rest.

Farmers Markets The various farmers markets held throughout the island are as much social as they are functional. The biggest, Cheapside, is in Bridgetown. Bursting with produce on Saturday but open everday except Sunday. There is the distinct advantage of having butchers, wholesale and retail importers with everything from asparagus to frozen shrimp and the Bridgetown Fish Market across the road. But it is Brighton, Artsplash and Holders that win hands down for the nicities of freshly brewed coffee, organic produce, artisan bread, hot breakfasts of all kinds and plenty of seating to relax al fresco and socialize. They are all great places to meet people and all three include local art and craft in their offerings which finishes the package to guarantee that a good time is had by all. Brighton is at an old plantation in the St. George Valley, 10 minutes from Bussa on the ABC Highway. Artsplash is on the south coast, opposite the Hastings Rocks and beautiful boardwalk. Holders is next to the Barbados Polo Club on Holders Hill, 100 yards up the hill from Paynes Bay on the west coast road. If its just fresh local supplies you are after, then Speightstown and Oistins have plenty of roadside vendors and of course, a fish market. Further inland, Six Roads has a growing number of vendors.

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Bridgetown’s

Shopping Experience

By the 1690’s, Bridgetown was one of the two largest English port cities in the Americas. This once bustling hub of sea trade is now a picturesque careenage and bay, filled with pleasure boats. Bridgetown’s retention of a 17th century English medieval street serpentine layout is unique in the Americas. The tropical architecture is still very evident throughout the city. Bearing testament to the old adage that change is the only constant, Bridgetown’s fortunes have waxed and waned over the past 400 years but its long life has left a legacy of character and charm. One constant has been the quality of shopping on Broad Street. Cave Shepherd, going strong since 1906 has recently been voted as one of the top 50 department stores in the world by Insider Trends. Broad Street is well known for quality duty free jewellery. This is where you come to buy Rolex at the family run Royal Shop in the heart of Bridgetown. The highly rated service department is a very convenient option for servicing your Rolex. Colombian Emeralds International have three locations here, their flagship and two more in Cave Shepherd and Nicholas House nearby. Diamonds International have an excellent store in Lower Broad Street where they offer a very good loose diamond and other gems mounting service with several jewellers on staff. Bridgetown is also home to hundreds of small owner run shops with a vast selection of merchandise. These small proprietorships have populated Swan Street, High Street and Lucas Street and the little alleys in between for time immemorial. The street vendors, rum shops and odd specialty stores offer culturally rewarding experiences. Woolworths, still going strong here, Laurie Dash, the island’s most outstanding hobby shop, and Collins, a pharmacy that’s stocks a fine array of life’s necessities, all have the charm and appeal of long standing family run firms.

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Buying good quality local produce is another great reason to come to Bridgetown. Cheapside Market, open Monday to Saturday is overflowing with beautiful fruit and vegetables on Saturday morning. The butchers and fish market also have excellent quality produce. Quite close by is the Pelican Craft Village with people at work and shops selling locally made art and crafts. There are plenty of cool places to grab a bite on a Bridgetown shopping expedition: Hunter’s Bar in Lucas Street serves their famous pudding and souse and Bajan cutters with fish, ham and cheese; Mustors sells hot lunches of delicious local specialities like breadfruit cou cou and stewed pork chops or salt fish and cou cou; the new café at Nidhe Israel Synagogue complex, Josephine’s Cafe & Bistro is getting great reviews; Waterfront Café overlooking the careenage can always be relied upon for tasty local dishes of all kinds; and further along, Lobster Alive serves up a tasty lunch right on the stunning beach. Both the Waterfront and Lobster Alive are renowned for their live jazz entertainment.

Clockwise from top: Karl Watson at St. Lucian stall, Tommyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fish cakes, coconut vendor in High Street, touring sign in Bridgetown, Karl Watson leading a tour in Jubilee Gardens, Bridgetown.

Tours

Walking Tours

UNESCO World Heritage Bridgetown, and Speightstown Bespoke Walking Tours of Speightstown and Bridgetown

These tours cover aspects of social history, architecture, archaeology and natural history and are led by Karl Watson, retired professor of history and archaeology at the University of the West Indies and Emeritus President of the Barbados National Trust. For bookings call (246) 427-4509 or 241-1554. email: watson_karl@yahoo.com Cost: BB$30 per person.

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Lickrish Food Tours

The original Bajan Walking Food Tour Sample traditional Barbadian goodies at spots best known to locals, while your tour guide introduces you to the culture and culinary heritage of Barbados. 11am-2pm. Transportation options available. For bookings call (246) 622-1886. email: lickrishfoodtours.com

C.H.A.T.

Historic Audio Tours Wonderful walking tours to world heritage sites and places of historic interest enhanced by the use of Orpheo brand audio equipment. Check Chattel House Audio Tours for info on personalized and self guided tours in various languages. For bookings call (246) 232-7531. email: bookings@chatbarbados.com chatbarbados.com

Housed within a beautifully restored 18th century building, the Exchange Museum is Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; largest interactive centre located in the UNESCO World Heritage Property, Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison. Fascinating displays explore commerce in the city over four centuries, introducing visitors to the history of the Central Bank of Barbados, the development of currency and the establishment of business and trade. The centre also explores the exchange of ideas which brought Free Masonry to Barbados and invites visitors to delve into the mysteries of that fraternal organization. Scheduled Tours are at 10:30 am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm and 4:30pm.

EXCHANGE a place of mystery & discovery Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm Spry Street, Bridgetown Tel: (246) 227-8153

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Careenage Photo: Logan Thomas

Distinguished by an outstanding degree of preservation, Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison offer a rare and fascinating insight into the rich fabric of Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; history.

U RI N

GETO

Exchange Museum Explore commerce in Bridgetown over 400 years ago and the development of central banking. The centre explores the exchange of ideas which brought Free Masonry to Barbados. Open Tue-Sun 10am-6pm. BB$20 Adults/BB$10 Kids. Tel: 538-0201.

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Museum of Parliament and National Heroes Gallery

Entrance to this state of the art museum and gallery includes a tour of both Houses of Parliament. Open Mon, Wed-Sat 9am-4pm. BB$10 Adults/Kids. Tel: 310-5400

Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum

The earliest synagogue still in use in the Americas. A wonderful Mikvah, state of the art museum and fascinating graveyard. Open Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. BB$25 Adults/BB$12.50 Kids 5-12yrs. Tel: 436-6869.

Mount Gay Visitor Centre

The Mount Gay Visitor Experience on the outskirts of Historic Bridgetown welcomes you to discover the secrets behind Barbados’ finest and most celebrated spirit. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Sat 10am-4:30pm (Nov-Apr). Ent: Refer to MountGayRum.com Tel: 227-8862.

Cricket Legends Museum and Kensington Oval Memorabilia and cleverly curated information about West Indies cricket over the past century. It is easy to visit Kensington Oval across the road. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm & Sat 10am-3pm (Dec-Apr). BB$20 Adults/BB$10 Kids 16 and under. Tel: 227-2651.

St. Michael’s & All Angels Cathedral Built in 1664 and rebuilt several times, Barbados’ Anglican cathedral has a wide array of interesting funerary plaques and graves dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. Open daily 7:30am-5pm. Tel: 427-0790.

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spend some time up north to discover the legacy of mount Gay Rum The Mount Gay Legacy Museum Tour chronicles the advent of global rum history by recounting the story of the world’s oldest and finest rum – Mount Gay Rum of Barbados. It is an absolutely fascinating story of how this plantation in Barbados’ northern parish of St. Lucy can today boast of a rich 300-year history of rum production. This new and unique distillery tour takes you back to the year 1703, just after the time when sugar was first brought to the island. You will learn about and explore the original Gilboa plantation, which later became Mount Gay, and the copper pot stills, aging vats, and sun-driven fermentation processes involved in the making of rum. The story of Mount Gay is captivatingly told by a knowledgeable guide and through presentations, artefacts, archival photo galleries and datelines. The tour ends with tastings of our rums, each blend perfected over 300 years. Discover the complex notes coaxed from St. Lucy’s extraordinary terroir, inspired by the input of many generations of master blenders, distillers and the evolving palates of rum shop patrons.

For additional information or to book a tour, see mountgayrum.com, contact us at 246-227-8864 or mountgaytours@remy-cointreau.com.

The Best Things in Life Take Time spend some time down south and choose your mount gay experience The Mount Gay Visitor Experience on the outskirts of Historic Bridgetown welcomes you to discover the secrets behind Barbados’ finest and most celebrated spirit. With five fun experiences to choose from, our Signature Rum Tasting, our Full Signature Rum Tasting, the interactive Cocktail Tasting, the Rum & Food Pairing Experience, and our Lunch Experience featuring our Bottomless Rum Punch Station, you will experience the history of Mount Gay Rum as we take you on a journey of our rich heritage and the time proven craftsmanship of the world’s oldest rum. All tours culminate with tastings and include a visit to the bottling area that prepares thousands of bottles of Mount Gay Rum each day. Visit the centre’s well-stocked gift shop for Mount Gay apparel, postcards, rum cakes, and many other souvenirs, and, of course, the widest range of Mount Gay Rum. The Mount Gay Visitor Experience is deservedly one of the island’s most popular attractions.

Living Pretty Credited with re-introducing high fashion into the swimwear world, the Melissa Odabash line of swimwear is now available exclusively at Beth & Tracie Boutique

Island Style Barbados has no shortage of boutiques, catering as much to local fashionistas as to visitors looking for unique additions to their wardrobes.

Clockwise from top left: Kellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kloset, House of Jaipur, Butterfly Boutique

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Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something effortlessly cool about Barbadian style. While trends and fashions change with the seasons around the world, it is forever summer in Barbados, so we tend to stay true to the sun, sand and the sea. Our laid back, island lifestyle calls for swimwear, cover-ups and sandals, cool, colourful natural fabrics and casual, tropical chic. The following pages will take you to the latest styles featured in some of our favourite stores and boutiques.

Embrace your individuality

Coral Sands Complex, Worthing, Christ Church â&#x20AC;˘ Tel: (246) 622-2327 â&#x20AC;˘ kellysklosetbim@gmail.com kellyskloset246

Kellys Kloset

islandgance ele House of Jaipur celebrating the genius of the indian design

Photos: Logan Thomas

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A slice of heaven, located upstairs the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, House of Jaipur embraces the fusion of eastern and western cultures. The exquisite selection of clothing, jewellery, and home accessories makes a visit to this boutique an absolute pleasure. This year Dhisha is introducing the absolutely divine natural skin and hair care line of Kama Ayurveda from India. Discover the extraordinary selection of ethnic-inspired resort wear and out-of-the-ordinary dĂŠcor which fuses comfortably with our island lifestyle.

Limegrove Lifestyle Centre Barbados

BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUE Sunset Boulevard, Holetown, St. James Tel. 246-256 5045

Fashions by Salam For 30 years visitors to the island have been enjoying the custom designs made to order by Salam at his busy workshop in the Crane, St. Philip. He specializes in tie dye and handpainting but offers a custom designing and tailoring service as well. He works predominantly with natural fabrics such as linen, cotton and silk, for both ladies and gents. His scarfs, wraps, handbags and beachwear are very popular with visitors. He makes all sizes but his plus sizes are his biggest seller. He also does aprons, African prints and handmade African jewellery. Located in a small annex of his house just across from The Crane Resort.

Tel (246) 423 3344 or (246) 245-0923 bayhouse@live.com fb: @fashionsbySalam

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Tiyi

by design

Art Jewellery Studio

Open Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-2pm. Store #12, Upstairs at Town Square Mall, Speightstown, St. Peter | Tel: (246) 422-6816 or 252-0184 queen7metal@gmail.com | www.tiyibydesign.com

Exclusive Cottons of the Caribbean From the Fields of barbados to the world’s Best Cotton! West Indian Sea Island Cotton (WISIC), a unique variety of the species Gossypium Barbadense, is an internationally certified fibre, considered to be among the finest, most brilliant cottons in the world, comparable to both silk and cashmere. It is also the most rare of cottons, comprising only a fraction of 1% of the world’s supply and commands the highest price. It is carefully hand harvested in Barbados, put through a special ginnery, Barbadian and shipped abroad to be converted into cotton is spun fabric by industry experts. Its resulting in Europe, woven into luxurious textile has been called “The fabrics and sold around the Cloth of Kings!” It’s hard not to feel like world. A small quantity comes royalty when wrapped in a supple robe, back here and is made into a caressed by a fine garment, or reclining selection of finished clothing on satiny white bedding made of West that can be purchased at Indian Sea Island Cotton. The cotton ginnery at Groves in St. their headquarters in George offers guided tours Monday to St. George. Friday hourly between 10am and 2pm. Calling ahead is recommended. At the Visitor Centre there is a display room where WISIC articles can be purchased or ordered, including but not limited to ladies’ and gentlemen’s attire, linens, interior decor and novelty items. These can be further personalised with hand-painting or embroidery. The team at Exclusive Cottons looks forward to sharing more with you about Barbados’ remarkable and regal cotton. To arrange an exclusive tour of the Exclusive Cottons of the Caribbean’s Ginnery & Visitor Centre, please call (246) 433-3108 www.eccicotton.bb.com Groves, St. George

112 LOOK GOOD, FEEL GOOD

Living

Spaces Al Fresco Living Room by Coral Island Interiors

Local experts share their design secrets

Photo compliments Coral Island Interiors

work the room

A Stylish Sanctuary By Lindsey Archer and Sarah Williams of Coral Island Interiors The famous Leonardo da Vinci quote, ‘Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication’, epitomises one of our favourite design philosophies at Coral Island Interiors: the guiding rule of ‘Less is More’. This enlightened approach, which can be applied in numerous situations, is particularly relevant in interior design. At Coral Island Interiors, when working on projects for or with our clients, we always try to start with a simple design style, which often turns out to be something that we or they really love - perhaps a painting, an heirloom, a fabric or just an idea - and then build on that. It can sometimes be the simplest things in a home that say the most about the owners, so we pay full attention to even the smallest details to ensure that the completed design will truly reflect the style and personality of our client. Furnishing a home in Barbados is ultimately influenced by natural external elements, such as the variable weather conditions, the intense light, the colours of the ocean, the sky and the tropical foliage, making it essential to correctly choose the optimum materials, fabrics and colours. As Barbadian designers, we call upon our indepth local knowledge and professional experience to offer expert guidance to our clients, to help them make all the right choices in order to enjoy the very best of our casual yet sophisticated style of indoor-outdoor island living. This aspect of ‘getting it right first time’, can be particularly beneficial for those clients with properties in the rental market, as in the long run it will save significant expenditure on upkeep and maintenance costs. The Coral Island Interiors philosophy of keeping the design process simple yet sophisticated is the best way to achieve the right end result with minimum fuss. We deal with the challenges before they happen, so that our clients can relax and savour a wonderfully simple and slow-paced island lifestyle.

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INTERIOR DESIGN HOME FURNISHINGS PROJECT MANAGEMENT & INSTALLATION DESIGNER FABRICS

coralislandinteriors.com

LINDSEY ARCHER 246.826.5609 • SARAH WILLIAMS 246.826.5610 • SHOWROOM 246.537.0296 #1B, VAUXHALL, ST. JAMES, BARBADOS

design@coralislandinteriors.com

Earthworks Pottery No Ordinary Pottery Founded by Goldie Spieler as a project designed to revive the tradition of potterymaking in Barbados, evolving into a co-operative during the 80s when several independent potters shared costs in the small studio, then growing into its present form. Today, David Spieler and his staff passionately continue to create functional works of art that will be the perfect complement to your home’s decor! By special order Earthworks can help you add personal touches to your purchase that will make them uniquely yours, whether it’s a bespoke pattern, the addition of a loved one’s name, a special message, or an uncustomary arrangement of dishes. Earthworks will package your pottery for easy carrying and can ship to any destination. For information Call (246) 425-0223 eworks@caribsurf.com www.earthworks-pottery.com

118 INTERIORS

Herradura Fine Furniture also specializes in Doors, Windows, Decking and Gazebos and Pergolas.

Herradura Fine Furniture Owner-operated by the husband and wife team of Zach and Leah Evelyn, Herradura Fine Furniture specializes in custom-designed furniture that is purpose built to the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own tastes and specifications. As such, Herradura only works on a private commission basis. Having first developed an interest in woodwork during his school days, Zach was further inspired in 2010 when he spent his gap year in La Herradura, Spain, where he made his first Flamenco Guitar and a ukulele. That was the catalyst that encouraged him to pursue an intensive furniture making course at the Chippendale International School of Furniture in Scotland. Suitably qualified, Zach came home to Barbados and opened his own business making hand-crafted furniture, with Leah lending a helping hand and also training in the field of furniture making. Today, Herraduraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services have expanded to include Cabinetry and high-quality finishes such as Lacquers, Stains, French Polishing and Automotive Finishes.

For reservations call (246) 830-6579 Info@herradurafinefurniture.com www.herradurafinefurniture.com

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Good

Life The Crane Resort & Residences

Good Time to Invest

s o d a b r a in B

When the people of Barbados swept the current Government into power in 2018 under the leadership of our Prime Minster, the Hon. Mia Mottley, they simultaneously released a flood of positive intent and genuine belief in a prosperous future for this country. Following the consequent boost in investor confidence, we can anticipate increased activity in the real estate market and welcome opportunities for purchasers, particularly in view of the levellingoff and reduction of property prices in recent years. Owning a beautiful home in Barbados, or spending a vacation in a luxury villa or apartment, is made all the more enjoyable by easy access to the plethora of recreational activities and leisure facilities that make this island one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. And getting here has never been easier.

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Several major airlines operate daily flights between Barbados, the UK, USA and Canada, with connections to major international hubs, while top tier travellers can enjoy the world-class IAM Jet Centre, a purposedesigned facility for private jets. In an era when many people are re-evaluating what they want out of life and focusing on the fundamentals of health, safety and contentment, Barbados has real capacity to provide an appropriately balanced lifestyle. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no coincidence that we have one of the highest numbers of centenarians per capita in the world. Barbados is good for you. Now could be an opportune moment to invest in property in Barbados. Calmaro House Photo courtesy Realtors Limited

Meet the Hammertons Why they chose Barbados 124 PROPERTY

English-born Mark and Lisa Hammerton fell in love with each other first and then fell in love with Barbados. And, after visiting the island together on numerous occasions, they eventually sealed the deal in 2007 by getting married here. From that day forward, their love for Barbados flourished and grew even stronger. The more time the Hammertons spent on the island, the more they began to appreciate and value the relaxed pace of life, the friendliness of the people and the healthy outdoor lifestyle.

Some five years later, suitably impressed by the overall quality of their first-hand experience of Bajan life, Mark and Lisa felt sufficiently motivated to invest in their own â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;home away from homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at Beacon Hill, just opposite Mullins Beach. Their decision to purchase a property in Barbados was a major endorsement of the island for many reasons, not least of which was that having spent a lifetime working in the travel industry, they could have literally chosen anywhere in the world. Taking what they considered to be a natural next step, at a time when they felt increasingly drawn towards spending a greater portion of their life in Barbados, Mark and Lisa launched their own business specializing in bespoke villa and apartment holidays. They were confident that by combining their many years of experience as travel professionals with their love for Barbados and personal knowledge of the best that the island has to offer, they could provide a unique new service to clients. Barbados is home to a remarkable collection of extremely attractive holiday homes, most of which are managed and operated by highly qualified and well trained in-house staff, and the vast array of choice can sometimes prove to be daunting for prospective renters. That is why the Hammertons chose to build

Facing page: Mark and Lisa Hammerton at Stanford House, Polo Ridge, Holders, with their friend Dave who played steel pan at their wedding, as seen in the inset. This page: Moondance, Sandy Lane

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Villa and apartment holidays are a wonderful way to live amongst Bajans and truly experience the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enviable lifestyle

Schooner Bay, St. Peter

their business on a solid foundation of personal discretion and integrity. By working closely with the leading Barbadian rental agencies, Hammerton Barbados can supply impartial accurate advice concerning an unusually wide range of handpicked villas and apartments, thereby catering to all levels of budget and individual requirements. Mark and Lisa are well acquainted with all the top attractions, world-class leisure facilities and excellent restaurants to be found in Barbados, but it was the warmth and friendliness of the people that really convinced them to decide to live and work here. And that is why they are keen to promote villa and apartment holidays, because it is a wonderful way to live amongst Bajans and truly experience the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enviable lifestyle.

Emerald Beach, St. Peter

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Bluff House, Sandy Lane Photo courtesy Altman Real Estate

uxury Villa Experience in Barbados A villa vacation offers both the relaxed privacy of a home and the attentive service of a top resort. Residents have the liberty to do what they want when they want, without any need to consider the sensibilities of strangers around them, and yet still be able to enjoy the benefit of dedicated helpers whose aim is to make sure their guests relax and enjoy themselves.

This wonderful best-of-both-worlds scenario can be advantageous for anybody, but especially for family groups in search of spending quality time together. The vast majority of rental properties in Barbados are overseen by highly accomplished management companies, operated by dedicated professionals who benefit from many years’ experience of taking good care of both the houses and the guests who stay in them. This means that owners and visitors alike can just leave all their worries behind, totally unwind and forget about any sense of responsibility. Villas in Barbados are generally well-maintained and kept in immaculate condition by carefully trained in-house staff, usually comprising butler, cook, housemaids, gardener and security watchman. Barbadians working in villas tend to be amiable, efficient and loyal. It is not unusual for villa renters to develop a mutually respectful and endearing

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relationship with the staff of a particular house, which often results in repeat visits. The overall quality of the staff has improved considerably in recent years, especially in the kitchens. Nowadays there is not only a good supply of Bajan cooks who can expertly produce a variety of delicious local dishes, there also exists a sizeable cadre of gifted, fully trained chefs who are well capable of producing cuisine of an international standard. In fact, many villa residents are quite content to ‘eat in’ and save their trips to our many excellent local restaurants for special occasions. Your villa staff can also help you book house-call appointments for an extensive range of approved specialty services, such as hairdressers, beauticians, massage therapists, personal exercise trainers, yoga and Pilates instructors. Enjoying leisure time relaxing in a beautiful villa in Barbados, be it as an owner or a visiting guest, is definitely one of life’s finer luxuries.

Port St. Charles

uying Property in Barbados It is often quipped that the best things in life come in small packages and Barbados, with a portfolio of positive attributes that are quite disproportionate to its limited physical dimensions, certainly fits that description.

Despite its compact size, Barbados can provide potential property purchasers with an extensive variety of homes, ranging from modest apartments to palatial luxury villas to historic Plantation Great Houses; as well as beautiful natural surroundings, a highly desirable lifestyle, requisite levels of privacy and personal security, first world communications and easy access to and from major cities around the world. Investors are also able to draw confidence from the existence of well-regulated legal and financial frameworks, and healthy potential for investment growth. Barbados is a family-oriented society and Barbadians are well-educated and helpful people who are happy to welcome visitors into their life, so living in this country can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Furthermore, thanks to its

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delightful climate and the popularity of keeping fit and healthy, sports and outdoors activities are a natural way of life. The relatively high number of successful international entrepreneurs who have chosen to invest in a property in Barbados can be regarded as a reliable indicator of the appeal that the island offers as a second-home destination for high networth individuals. That vote of confidence suggests that they can enjoy a lifestyle in Barbados that is at least as comfortable as in their homeland. Or possibly even more so, due to the intangible but invaluable attributes of enjoying a more relaxed frame of mind and improved health and wellbeing. In essence, Barbados works and living here can be good for you.

Sir Charles ‘Cow’ Williams Living Legend By Keith Miller

meet a Bajan

Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000 for his outstanding contribution to Barbados’ development in agriculture, construction, tourism and sports, but still universally known by his schoolboy nickname of ‘Cow’, Sir Charles Othniel Williams has devoted his entire life to a relentless pursuit of success in a remarkable range of business interests and leisure activities. Born on the 24th November 1932 at Ashford Plantation in St John, where his father Elliott was employed as a manager, Charles Othniel did not have to live long to discover how tough life can be. When Elliott Williams was dismissed through no fault of his own, the family was evicted from the manager’s quarters and put out onto the street penniless. Largely dependent on charitable goodwill, Elliott took any kind of menial work that came his way, until he eventually got a job as manager at Edgehill Plantation. That early introduction to genuine hardship made an indelible impression on Charles Othniel’s young mind and set the tone for his family’s industrious approach to life in the years that followed. Long days of hard work were routine, growing food to survive was the norm, making a few dollars on the side was essential. If the nine Williams children wanted anything, they had to earn their own money to pay for it. By the time Charles Othniel turned twelve, in addition to milking cows, raising chickens, pigs, goats and calves, breeding rabbits and keeping bees, he was already working as a leader boy on a team of mules, doing the work of a grown man, as well as diving up and preparing sea urchin roe to sell. And he enjoyed it all. “Believe me when I tell you, when you’ve seen your mother cry because she couldn’t buy you a pair of shoes you will never forget it. That’s why I willingly did all my chores as a boy. Hard work never scared me and I was always happy

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to make an extra buck. That work ethic has followed me throughout my life.” Charles Othniel Williams became forever known as ‘Cow’ after being labelled that by a teacher on his first day at Lodge School. When he left Lodge at eighteen, Cow went to work in the agriculture sector while continuing to expand his extra money-making activities, including running commercial fishing boats and sexing chickens for the poultry industry, both of which generated significant income. Thanks to his willingness to “work from before the sun came up until long after it went down”, Cow did well enough within the first nine years to earn himself the right to lease Forster Hall Plantation in St Joseph. Around that same time, 1960, in what turned out to be a pivotal moment in his life, desperately needing a tractor to carry out agricultural work on the farm, Cow invested in a second-hand Caterpillar D6. He knew that acquiring the D6 would not only save him money, but also make money by doing work on other farms. But, as enterprising and determined as ever, rather than stopping there, he pushed harder and used the tractor to do earth moving jobs in the construction sector. Just ten years later, after acquiring an impressive list of international clients like Costains, Johnson, Mitchell and McAlpines, Cow established C.O. Williams Construction. Today, C.O. Williams Construction is one of the top companies in the Caribbean, having successfully undertaken numerous major projects in Barbados, St Lucia, St Vincent, Antigua and the Bahamas, ranging from harbours to airports, hydro-electric power plants and golf courses. However, the most iconic success for both the company and Cow himself was building the multi-million-dollar Hess Oil Terminal in St Lucia. Always willing to

take a calculated risk and back himself as a winner, Cow accepted that hugely challenging job, “Even though at the time I didn’t know how to put up a storage tank, never mind a whole transhipment facility with a big harbour for oil tankers!” As a construction man who invested heavily in land, Cow Williams transitioned very successfully into development, being the first person to develop the area known today as the Warrens commercial centre. He also built Millennium Heights and played a leading role in the creation of the island’s first residential marina at Port St Charles, as well as delivering Apes Hill Club, an upmarket residential community developed around a magnificent golf course and polo centre. During his journey to becoming one of the Caribbean’s most prominent businessmen and landowners, Cow still found enough time to passionately pursue his favourite hobbies of polo, sportfishing and horse racing. And he excelled in them all! In 2009, his Apes Hill Club polo team won the prestigious Queens Cup in England. In 2015, aged eighty-two, Sir Charles Williams entered the Guinness Book of Records as the World’s Oldest Active Polo Player. And in 2017 he was the recipient of the Hurlingham Polo Association’s Lifetime Achievement

Award, quite remarkably for his contribution to the development of polo in England. Cow’s love of horses also naturally led him into racing, where he has produced generations of top-class horses, regularly winning the Barbados Champion Breeder of the Year. As an accomplished fisherman, Cow’s boats have won a number of international fishing competitions over the years, while he has personally registered several record catches along the way. But perhaps the highlight of his career was participating in the 2018 Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica, at the sprightly age of eighty-five. Very few people have experienced a life that is as multi-faceted and deeply textured as that of Cow Williams. He is a living legend from a period when life was much more rugged and people much less sensitive, a man who has been equally at ease rubbing shoulders with workers, tycoons and royalty. As such, it is impossible to encapsulate his story in a short article like this, particularly because the greatest interest value can be found in the gritty details of the dramatic real-world adventures behind his many achievements. To read more about the life of Sir Charles ‘Cow’ Williams, look out for his autobiography, COW, due for release in 2019. Contact: keith@millerpublishing.net

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Welcome to

g n i v i L e n a L Sandy

Introducing the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the prestigious Sandy Lane lifestyle! Your estate address awaits at “Aurora”, where luxury meets Caribbean style. Sandy Lane Estate is the Eden of West Coast luxury homes in Barbados. While the Sandy Lane Hotel remains the most iconic landmark and talking point of the estate, nestled within its verdant grounds and tropical trees, you will find several properties that feature an architecture that is quintessentially European, but married with hints of colonial elements in their design. Terra Luxury

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offers several properties for sale and rent within the Sandy Lane Estate, all bearing their own character and statement pieces. Our luxury real estate agent Anna Lee Warren is impressed with this exclusive property, saying: “Aurora occupies one of the best Sandy Lane locations on High Ridge Road – this is a truly special property.”

Buying Property in Barbados contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Barbados can justifiably claim to have the Caribbeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and finest collection of signature properties. Above: Saramanda, Sandy Lane Right: Caprice Photos courtesy Luxe Caribbean

Barbados can justifiably claim to have the Caribbeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and finest collection of signature properties. This is no accident, nor is it a recent phenomenon. Barbados has long enjoyed a distinguished history of fine architecture, engineering and craftsmanship, a national trait that still thrives and manifests itself today in the eclectic variety of modern signature properties available on the beach, on coastal ridges or inland, either secluded in private grounds or tucked away in an exclusive residential community. While signature properties at the peak of the market continued to sell after the global economic slump, including several houses listed or sold for figures in excess of US$50 million, general prices in Barbados have receded by about 20%. This was mainly due to a significant decrease in interest from overseas buyers due to external economic forces, combined with an overstock of inventory, notably on the west coast where significant construction continued despite the lull in sales activity. In the opinion of most realtors, this 20% drop in prices was in effect a correction of the values. However, general consensus is that after a steady decline, the market has bottomed out and prices will not go lower. Given that there is a substantial amount of completed inventory still available for sale, with attractive pricing, it is fair to assume that there will be greater potential for appreciation as this existing stock continues to sell and diminish.

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Foreign purchasers can apply for residency status. Prospective buyers should further note that Barbados does not have any capital gains tax, inheritance tax, estate tax or wealth tax.

In addition to favourable pricing, there are several other factors that make purchasing a home in Barbados even more appealing than ever for international investors. Positive indicators for Barbados include a general increase in tourism arrivals, with the island recording its highest ever figures in 2017 and 2018 looking to do even better. There has also been a further increase in bookings for villa rentals, which creates greater capacity to achieve a return on investment for homeowners who include their property in a rental programme. However, perhaps the most significant benefit for foreign purchasers is that they are now eligible to apply for a Special Entry and Reside Permit (SERP), which enables residency status in Barbados for qualifying non-national investors plus their spouses and children, but does not include eligibility for a Barbadian passport. The entry level qualification

for a SERP is an investment of US$2 million or more in a home on the island. And, as Barbados offers tax residency status through investment, this means that qualifying homeowners have the opportunity to take advantage of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive international double taxation treaty network. Prospective buyers should further note that Barbados does not have any capital gains tax, inheritance tax, estate tax or wealth tax. Given the importance and potential complexities of the property purchase process, and the imperative to do it right first time, it is essential to conduct transactions with appropriate professional guidance. To facilitate this, the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preeminent residential developments and leading real estate companies have established close working relationships with trusted, highly qualified, experienced professionals.

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Overlooking Rockley Golf Course - Five 3 storey buildings & central pool facility Prices starting at US$400,000 - Excellent Investment Potential

27 2-bedroom units at 1300 sq ft

12 3-bedroom units at 1800 sq ft

Contact the team at Luxe Caribbean 1 (246) 832-4604 info@luxecaribbeanproperties.com luxecaribbeanproperties.com

property altamira Gibbs Hill, St. Peter • Stunning 5 bed, 5 bath, 4,800 sq. ft. home on 1.1 acres • Built on a west coast ridge with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea • Swimming pool, cascading jacuzzi, 2 poolside dining gazebos US $1,100,000

Belle View Halcyon Heights, St. james • Enchanting colonial style villa with magnificent views over the turquoise sea • Spacious 5 bed, 6 bath, 4,480 sq. ft. home sitting on 31,022 sq. ft. • Secluded pool and deck, 2 patios US $1,200,000

Grand View Cliffs The Mount, St. George • Executive 4 bed, 3 1/2 bath, 5,482 sq. ft. home with self-contained 1 bed apartment • Swimming pool, jacuzzi and gazebo overlooking gully • Situated on 1 acre of landscaped gardens, country and some sea views US $1,750,000

Ca Limbo Sandy Lane Estate, St. James • Beautiful 6,348 sq. ft. furnished villa with 4 bed, 4 bath in main house • Self-contained 2 bed cottage with its own pool and patio • Home encircles large central pool on 38,210 sq. ft. of landscaped gardens • Access to Sandy Lane Property Owners beach US $3,500,000

Luxe Caribbean Properties (246) 832-4604 | www.luxecaribbeanproperties.com E: info@luxecaribbeanproperties.com

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for sale... Grendon House Sandy Lane Estate, St. James • Exquisite 7,066 sq. ft., 5 bed, 7 bath furnished villa • Large swimming pool and dining gazebo • Nestled on 1.5 acres of tropical gardens • Access to Sandy Lane Property Owners beach US $4,100,000

Saramanda Sandy Lane Estate, St. James • Elegant, furnished villa designed around an airy atrium • 5 en-suite a/c bedrooms, large patio, pool and media room • 2 master suites upstairs with private balconies overlooking the gardens • Access to Sandy Lane Property Owners beach US $5,800,000

Caprice Reeds Bay, St. James • Furnished beachfront villa with 4 en-suite a/c bedrooms • Large deck with pool for entertaining and watching the sunset • Master has a private balcony looking over the Caribbean Sea US $6,500,000

Windward Sandy Lane Estate, St. James • Luxurious furnished villa, 5 en-suite a/c bedrooms • 1.5 acres of landscaped tropical gardens with secret sitting areas to relax • Large coral stone deck and pool. Dining gazebo, gym and media room • Access to Sandy Lane Property Owners beach US $8,950,000

Luxe Caribbean Properties (246) 832-4604 | www.luxecaribbeanproperties.com E: info@luxecaribbeanproperties.com

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property Beach View Suites & Villas

Paynes Bay, St. James • Exclusive new development of 19 suites and villas • 3 bedroom villas and 2 & 3 bedroom suites • Set amongst five acres of lushly landscaped gardens • Spacious terraces and private patios • Amenities include concierge, restaurant, gym, salon and spa • Ideal investment opportunity through Beach View rental pool programme • Utilities, condo fees, land tax and other expenses met out of rental pool From US $575,000

Emerald Beach 3 Gibbs, St. Peter • Two Storey beachfront townhouse • 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms • Private patios enjoying spectacular sea views • Excellent beach and swimming facilities • Large freshwater swimming pool only accessible to Emerald Beach residents US $2,650,000

Cane End

Sugar Hill Resort, St. James • Elegant villa set among lush private gardens • 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms • 1 bedroom fully contained cottage • Dining gazebo with bar set across from the pool • Expansive negative edge pool • Land Area: 34,041 sq. ft. US $2,950,000

Drake House Polo Ridge, St. James • Newly renovated luxury villa with a modern French flair • 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms • Ridge-front location offering unobstructed sea views • Modern fully-equipped kitchen • Expansive landscaped gardens • Large swimming pool with bar area • Land Area: 1.07 acres US $3,750,000

Altman Real Estate (246) 537-0840 | www.altmanbarbados.com “Rosebank”, Derricks, St. James, Barbados | E: realestate@altmanbarbados.com | F: (246) 432-2147

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for sale...

Mill Wall

Moncrieffe, St. Philip • This beautiful lot houses the original historic mill wall structure, a great conversation piece when entertaining • Comprised of 3 lots of prime countryside land totalling over 57,000 sq. ft., the elevated lot offers strong winds throughout the year and panoramic country and ocean views • Located minutes away from all the amenities of Six Roads; gas stations, supermarket, shopping centre and restaurants US $400,000

Coco 13 Mullins Bay, Mullins, St. Peter • 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom townhouse tastefully furnished by London based designers Jenny Blanc • Located across the road from the world famous Mullins Beach • Finished to the highest standard with coral stone features, air conditioning throughout, marble floors and vanities in the bathrooms and fully equipped Miele kitchen • Features 24 hour security and private pools for each cluster of townhouses US $995,000

Wheelton Sandy Lane Estate, St. James • Exquisite 6 bedroom, 6 bathroom home located on the prestigious Sandy Lane Estate • Large salt water pool, poolside gazebo with a builtin bar and plenty of seating perfect for lounging • Access to Sandy Lane Property Owners Beach Facility, along with onsite golf course and tennis court which can be booked through the hotel • Extensive storage, two car garage, a separate shower room and garden storage US $4,000,000

Sugarlands

Sandy Lane Estate, St. James • Brand new 9,050 sq. ft. villa adjoining the Old Nine golf course • Main house consists of 4 bedrooms, media room and office. A standalone cottage houses the remaining 2 guest suites • Residents enjoy use of the newly-renovated private beach facility at famous Sandy Lane beach. Services include changing rooms, beach chair service and café and bar • Entire property is 56,628 sq. ft. with beautiful tropical landscaping, large pool and covered terrace US $5,850,000

Realtors Limited (246) 537-6930 | www.realtorslimited.com Holetown, St. James, Barbados | E: sales@realtorslimited.com | F: (246) 432-6919

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Meetings & Incentives

When Barbados is the reward

in• cen• tive trav• el in’sen(t)iv/ ‘travəl/ • To motivate or encourage one to excel in performance, with the promise of a journey as the key reward • A trip to an exotic destination as a reward to stimulate greater output or investment • An incentive or loyalty program, a business tool designed to motivate Team and positively affect all aspects of Company performance and profitability Incentive travel comes in many shapes and forms. Some are centered around a product launch or annual meeting while others are designed as a short respite from the daily monotony of work and life. Some ooze total and complete indulgence with ‘opulence’ around every corner, leaving guests breathless for more.

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Barbados “ticks all of the boxes” and expertly packages all of the elements necessary to provide a truly unique incentive and reward, into a neat, 166 square mile paradise. Easily accessible through its International gateways including Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Atlanta, Charlotte, New York, Montreal, Toronto, London, Manchester and Panama, Barbados is a prime location. The devil is in the detail as they say and it’s all of the little extras that Barbados has to offer which make it an extraordinary Incentive destination, including an amazing selection of Incentive-caliber resorts, world class restaurants, dynamic water and land activities, Historic sights, cultural events, stable infrastructure and a collection of truly amazing locations that serve as the perfect backdrop for any event. Incentive programs play a critical role in drawing attention to organizational values. Companies that invest in incentives credit it as the force that drives positive behaviors, fostering loyalty, commitment and encouraging participation. As Richard Branson said, “If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients.” It is this positive recognition which has been proven time and again as one of the most effective ways to reinforce desired behaviors and sustain long-term commitment. After all – we are known to repeat the behaviors that we believe will be rewarded. It is with this philosophy that Barbados marries Incentive Travel & Corporate events. With the deep seeded understanding that the success of any program drives a Corporate Team which ultimately hinges on the complete package that the destination offers. Tangible recognition, like travel, provides a way not only to thank major contributors dramatically, but also to send a message throughout the organization that outstanding performance is highly valued.

It’s all of the little extras that Barbados has to offer which make it an extraordinary Incentive destination

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And so, let us take your hand and show you the vibrant culture, passionate spirit and joy of life that is this little island paradise. A place where refined luxury, exceptional culinary expertise and cutting edge technology fuse with rich heritage, lush tropical gardens, translucent blue waters and warm golden sunlight and a people invested in creating and executing the most amazing itineraries and events . . . come with us to Barbados. Want a truly unforgettable way to impact the local community? Barbados offers rewarding team building and CSR activities, allowing you to exercise your corporate social responsibility while partnering with Sunlinc to bring sustainable upgrades to a local community center or school. Your guests supply the manpower to make real and sustainable changes far outlasting your guests’ departure. As the twinkling stars begin to light a crisp Caribbean evening, be transported to Holders Polo Club for a private polo match under gigantic mahogany trees beautifully lit. As you are greeted by gracious hosts and a refreshing welcome cocktail, you can be sure that this will be an evening like no other. As the match begins it becomes obvious that with polo there is more to attending a match than just watching the game as you are invited onto the field for a traditional ‘divot stomping’, a unique and interactive experience enjoyed by even the most experienced polo fan. Stroll along, savoring the fare of the specially created menu, be mesmerized by the Cocktail Pouring Aerialist and join in a fun conga line to sweet Island tunes before the evening culminates to a spectacular firework display… it is the experience of a lifetime. Considered one of the culinary capitals of the Caribbean, no visit to Barbados would be complete without savoring the sophisticated cuisine carefully crafted by the best local and international chefs at one of the Island’s many five star restaurants, most located just at the water’s edge, with breathtaking vistas of the sun as it dips below the horizon.

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So the next time you think “stunning” just remember… a contortionist defying gravity in a human bubble while skillfully floating on water… hundreds of wish lanterns set free in the velvet night sky, illuminating the ocean below with their spectacular reflection… a hilltop private dinner with sweeping views of the island around you. Think “Barbados” and the Sunlinc Team and rest easy knowing that combined, the possibilities are endless and your every whim is taken care of. Barbados… Incentive Travel… Redefined, Simply Breathtaking... Memories to last a lifetime for any Team!

Team Sunlinc

Team Sunlinc is your premiere choice as your local partner specializing in extraordinary experiences in Barbados and the Caribbean region. Our paradise islands are famed for their magnificent scenery, excellent infrastructure, and Caribbean joie de vivre. When combined, these factors make your choice of Barbados and our destinations an easy one. Entrust your next event to us and let us show you why our professionalism, creative approach and unmatched local expertise guarantee you complete peace of mind. With meticulous attention to detail, you are our number one priority and our Team’s passion for your success shines through. Tel (246) 436-1710 www.sunlinc.net sales@sunlinc.net

Five Star Fast Track

Goddard Catering Group Events

Want to feel like a Super Star? Count on our Concierge Five Star Fast Track Team to eliminate the frustration of your arrival experience. Our personal VIP assistance Team will meet you immediately as you enter the Arrivals Hall. All guests are met and whisked through dedicated Immigration and Customs lines, escorted to the baggage claim and then out to their waiting transportation. This is a great service not only for the more seasoned traveler but also ideal for families travelling with children, who want to enjoy a smooth arrival experience. For more information or to make a reservation, contact us at:

A commitment to excellence, superior service, and unparalleled culinary skill — that’s what defines GCG Events. A subsidiary of GCG Group and a member of the Goddard Enterprises Group of Companies, GCG Events is a full-service catering company with nine locations in the Caribbean and Latin America. Our clients value our creativity, reliability, excellent service and above all, our outstanding food. Whether you are feeding 30,000 sports fans, flawlessly executing a black-tie affair for 500, or an intimate dinner for 2, GCG Events has proven to be the perfect Catering & Event Management partner.

Tel (246) 421-6777 After Hours 280-0240 fivestarfasttrack.com reservations@fivestarfasttrack.com

Tel 246.428.7117 www.gcggroup.com bgi.events@gcggroup.com

“DJ dusty absolutely made our wedding!! He was very accommodating with all our requests and we can’t recommend him enough!!!” David & Danielle Sleight July 2018

DJ Dusty Payne Sought after for his efficiency and professionalism, goodhumour and easy-going manner, DJ DustyPayne will keep your guests on the dance floor, guaranteed. From the best of the Golden Oldies to the latest hits, he knows his music and is great at reading his audience. DJ DustyPayne can provide Disco Lighting effects and PA system rental and is the preferred DJ of The Cliff Restaurant. Bookings: Adrian Payne (246) 239-2972 fb:/Adrian.Payne.355 | djdustyitm@gmail.com More reviews at: https://www.myguidebarbados.com /weddings/dj-dustypayne

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Alive & Barbados has always had a reputation as a place of healing due to its salubrious climate, fresh and invigorating sea breezes and clean water. Photo: Animal Flower Cave, courtesy BTMI

Well

HealingHolidays

Photo courtesy The Spa at Coral Reef Club

If holidays are for rest, recreation and renewal, then just think of the added boost that a bit of healing therapy can provide.

Well-being. Such an elemental and essential thing it is - a healthy body, mind and spirit, working holistically in harmonious balance. In bygone days it was mainly the invigorating freshair, sea breezes and peaceful coastal locations that attracted people to Barbados. A 1911 advertisement for The Crane Hotel claimed: “The Crane Hotel is a Seaside Resort for families, invalids and pleasure seekers. The fresh and invigorating air of the Atlantic restores health without the aid of medicine...” Today, thankfully, we still have those lovely fresh breezes and welcoming coastlines, but we can now also offer the exceedingly enticing combination of some of the world’s finest and most luxurious spa facilities and an astounding array of complementary therapies and practices, all accompanied by the Bajan charm and tropical ambiance of a premier vacation destination. Here are some you might like to try: Yoga’s benefits are well-known - health, fitness, destressing, pain relief, etc., but it is perhaps the postclass experience that accounts for yoga’s increasing

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global popularity. People leave feeling energized, uplifted and more likely to move through the day with joy. Barbados has several highly qualified yoga teachers. Why not join a class or book a private session at your hotel or villa? “Meditation” and “mindfulness” are buzzwords these days, and for good reason. Yogis have been practicing dhyana (meditation) for millennia. When you begin to unwind, relax and slow down, you’ll feel the heaviness of working all the time give way to a feeling of lightness. Meditation has been shown to ease stress and worry, so you can be more present right now. While you’re here, why not try some of the different styles of meditation on offer: seated, visualizations, guided and even floating! This is but a fraction of what’s offered on this magical island. Add massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, Reiki, acupuncture, Ayurveda, herbalists, energy workers and more, and you could even construct a healingthemed holiday that sends you home both glowing and with experiences to dine out on for months.

The Spa at Sweetfield Manor Nestled within tranquil gardens of Sweetfield Manor, you will find their treatment spa. Relax, close your eyes, listen to the birds and the gentle rustling of banana leaves in the wind, whilst enjoying the benefits of a relaxing deep tissue massage. Whichever treatments you choose, you can add to the experience by ordering a light snack from their delicious Spa Menu. Their chefs create a range of tasty, healthy options. Sneak away and pamper yourself, or go with a friend or partner and treat yourself to a relaxing couple of hours – you deserve it! Tel (246) 429-8356 hello@sweetfieldmanor.com | www.sweetfieldmanor.com Brittons New Road, St. Michael

Sunshine Kula Yoga

Bright and Energising, Cooling and Calming... the balance that you need to live with vitality for life and to bring you to the essence of yourself. Live in more wellness and joy with Pamela and fellow teachers at the airy and spacious Holetown studio. Delight in classes for all levels from relaxing to dynamic practices all taught mindfully to bring out the best in you. With over 18 years experience Pamela offers inspiring classes in Anusara®️Yoga and Integrative Yoga Therapy. She enthusiastically shares precise alignment, wise sequencing and therapeutics all with purposeful awareness. You’ll find variety with Vinyasa, core yoga, and special focus classes such as yoga for back care, golf, and restorative. Private sessions available. Tel (246) 231-4468 or (246) 432-8509 www.sunshinekula.com | pamela@sunshinekula.com Highbury House, Sandy Lane, Holetown, St. James

Serenity Spa at The Crane With a holistic approach to Wellness, the Serenity Spa experience is all-encompassing spa care, in a serene, comfortable and welcoming environment. The tranquil and intimate ambiance created by the well-trained, genuine and friendly spa professionals allows you to relax, refresh and renew. Located at The Crane Resort, the Spa features a variety of Caribbean influenced massages, facials, body treatments, manicures and pedicures. Attentive service and professional staff ensure that clients’ exercise, nutrition, relaxation and self-awareness goals are accomplished. Tel (246) 423-6220 www.thecrane.com | reservations@thecrane.com The Crane Resort, Crane, St. Philip

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Mullins Bay, Saint James

meet a Bajan

The visit by the Governor General of Barbados, Dame Sandra Mason on the occasion of Avis Carrington’s 100th birthday, with her son Ronnie behind Her Excellency.

Avis Carrington Centenarian Par Excellence By Sarah Venable

When her seamstress mother and train conductor father christened her Avisene Caesaretta Inniss, did they have any inkling that their daughter would fulfill the aspirations that must have helped form the unusual name? Still elegant, articulate and emphatic at the age of 100, Mrs. Avis Carrington celebrated that milestone in September, 2018, only ten years after retiring as principal of the Merrivale Preparatory School. Colleagues, offspring and former pupils described her as kind, intelligent, formidable, patient, and an effective communicator. Prime Minister Mia Mottley is among them, remembering her former principal as “first class,” full of love and warmth. “She is one of the giants of Barbados, and we owe her a significant debt,” she said. But it has never been the most promising who gave Avis Carrington the most satisfaction. “My greatest achievement was to help slower learners achieve their potential,” she said. “The bright ones get all the glory and those who are not academic are regarded as failures. It does them a lot of damage.” When she began teaching at St. Giles Boys’

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School in 1937, children were expected to stay in their seats, be seen but not heard, and get lashes for lateness or not learning. Even Erdiston Teacher’s College, where she enrolled in 1951, seemed to encourage rote and rigidity. Mrs. Carrington wanted a different atmosphere, where learning could be fun and more active. So in 1955 she started her own primary school at home. Each week, the living and dining room furniture was moved to accommodate pupils, and every Friday afternoon, they’d help put it back. She started with an enrolment of six, but word of mouth soon drew an influx of children. Her husband skipped the family’s summer holidays one year to supervise the building of classrooms in the garden. The school could then serve 250. Even then it remained homelike, a feature that alumni remember fondly. Mrs. Carrington is sister of Constance L. Inniss, a centenarian featured on a Barbados postage stamp, the widow of Vere, a former permanent secretary, and the mother of three adult children, including the well-known photographer, Ronnie Carrington. She was awarded Barbados’ Silver Crown of Merit in 1999.

Life

The Meaning of Barbados Style

Life: The dictionary defines LIFE as the space between birth and death. But is that all it really is? There is a lot more to that definition when it comes to infertility. At Barbados Fertility Centre (BFC), we see LIFE in all its forms. Every day we see the excitement and the trepidation that accompanies our patients when they make the life changing decision to create a family. We see the very real longing to create a new life, a new legacy, and a new generation. If you look into the LIFE of the operations of Barbados Fertility Centre, you will see a perfectly orchestrated combination of medicine, science and holistic therapy. Added to this organized trio, is the advancements of IVF. These cutting edge treatments are the same ones that 1 in 6 couples worldwide who struggle with infertility will rely on to help create the very form of life itself. The quality of this space called LIFE is something that is unique to us all. If you are in a place where you are struggling to conceive, reach out to the experts with a proven success approach. At BFC, we can help change the space you are in to create a LIFE with the family you desire.

To speak with a fertility specialist call Tel: (246) 435 7467 | USA toll free: 1 866 246 8616 contact@barbadosivf.com | www.barbadosivf.com

Art Imitates Life

Hunteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gardens By Tracey Williams Acrylic on canvas

meet a Bajan

Edison T. “Theo” Williams By Sarah Venable Theo Williams worked his way up to become a director of the island’s largest hotel group, but these days he’s finding fame as a writer. No wonder; he’s a natural storyteller! Visitors from the 80’s may remember him as the genial manager of luxury west coast hotels…or from later, when he opened and ran restaurants, and operated the Atlantis Hotel just before it was sold and upgraded. Williams is the author of the Bathshebabased short story collection, Facing North, and the murder mystery, Prickett’s Well: Who the Body Is? Their characters, locales, behavior, and even their names, are colourful and distinctly Bajan. “I chose to use my first name, Edison, for writing after I discovered via Google that there were more than 6,000 Theo Williamses in the United States. There was also the bonus that if people didn’t like the book, no one would know who Edison T. Williams was,” he explained with a chuckle. It turned out not to be a problem, as feedback has been so positive. The ten stories in Facing North illuminate the hidden dramas of a small community and reveal the sometimes-unexpected ways in which villagers’ lives can be impacted by transient residents. The tales are told with the same humour, perception and warmth that you’d anticipate once you’ve met the man himself. “We’re a nation of Afro-Saxons who face Europe and think of Africa,” he has observed, and you can see this ironic outlook at play in some of his tales. Prickett’s Well features a mismatched duo of detectives whose differences lend an entertaining layer of friction to a well-

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constructed murder mystery. They’ve proved so popular that a sequel is now in the plotting and research phase. The book’s sharp and often amusing sociological explanations make it an excellent choice for people who haven’t grown up here. The title’s first part is taken from an obscure Bajan expression: to be in Prickett’s well means to be in a dire situation. The second part, “Who the body is?” is local idiom for “Who is it?” You might hear it when phoning a grass roots household. Theo was born into a humble family and a colourful community life in the village of Endeavour, St. James, just below Apes Hill. His father left school at the age of 14 to apprentice himself to a carpenter. Ambition and inherent intelligence led him to learn architectural drafting from books and become a building contractor. His mother was a quintessential homemaker and bore eight children. Theo was the mischievous seventh. Theo’s marriage is another work of art with a storybook quality. He met Margaret when both twenty-somethings were living in England in the sizzling 70s, as Theo was beginning his career in hospitality. Margaret was a teacher of music, theatre and dance, who was deeply engaged in bringing Caribbean culture to curricula and to the public. They found that they shared similar concerns and enjoyed many of the same things, married in 1978 and moved home to Barbados. They have two adult children: Alex, who is a civil engineer in Canada, and Zahra, who is an architect in Baltimore. Both were born in England and raised here. Theo’s stories involve local places he knows well and draw on the many characters he has met in his very social career. Beside the charmingly converted old sugar boiling house where he and Margaret live, is a well. Theo said, “I used to stare at that and rather morbidly wonder if there had ever been bodies thrown in there. That’s what happened in the folktale and song, Millie Gone to Brazil. Her husband tried to explain her disappearance that way, at a time when there were in fact a lot of Barbadians going there to work. In reality he had thrown her into a well. So right here is where the idea for Prickett’s Well started to emerge.” Theo’s books are available at Andromeda, the Barbados Museum, De Bajan Bookshop (a pop-up), Cloister Books, Days, the Barbados National Trust’s Open Houses, and at the Coffee Barbados Café at George Washington House. Writing is solitary work, but he remains sociable. If you go to the farmers’ markets at Holders or ArtSplash in Hastings during the high season, you’re likely to find him there selling books and eager for a chat. Don’t miss the chance!

Susan Mains Jeena Chatrani

Catherine Forter-Chee-A-Tow

Colin Bootman Tracey Williams

Shane Eastmond

Don Small

Heather-Dawn Scott

Speightstown, St. Peter (246) 419 0858 . Mon - Fri 10am – 4pm; Sat 10am – 2pm . artgallerycaribbean.com . facebook.com/artgallerycaribbean . artgallerycaribbean@caribsurf.com

Catherine Forter Chee-A-Tow The art of Catherine Forter Chee-A-Tow is very decorative, Caribbean in its essence, vibrant in its colours and movement. Characters depicted are bubbly, rich in Caribbean antics and apparels. Keenly sought after, Catherine’s art may be seen at Tapas Restaurant on the Hastings Boardwalk, Tides Restaurant in Holetown, Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown and by appointment at her charming home studio in the Garrison historic district. “The Garden” Acrylic on canvas 30” x 30”

Tel (246) 262-6241 or (246) 427-7859 c.forter.cheeatow@gmail.com Facebook: Catherine Forter Chee-a-Tow

“Ixora” Acrylic on canvas 35” x 19”

Janice Sylvia Brock The vibrant hues, the sense of movement, the free style and the sometimes offbeat treatment of subjects, imbue Janice Sylvia Brock’s paintings with joie de vivre. Brock’s vibrant paintings are keenly sought after by discerning collectors worldwide. Many of her paintings, recently completed or still in progress, are displayed in her St. James studio, with over 500 square feet of exhibition space overlooking the ocean. Janice’s fascinating autobiography, My Life on Canvas, can be ordered directly from the artist by email (or in the UK call 01625585744 or 07940744684). Viewing by appointment - Tel (246) 432-6061 or (246) 237-7670 Brocklands Gallery, Halcyon Heights, St. James www.brock-gallery.com | janice@brock-gallery.com

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Vanita Gopwani Comissiong Born in 1962, Vanita Comissiong first began painting in the early 1990s. Inspired by Haitian artists in the use of bold colours and busy canvases she endeavors to capture the sights and characters of her native Barbados. The owner and curator of the On The Wall art galleries at Champers, Limegrove (The Grove Gallery) and Earthworks, she has branded herself in the production of the sought after Very Vanita range of gift products. She continues to evolve and experiment with new themes and techniques, intricately weaving the ideals of love and spirituality in her flora series unveiled at the Parallax show in Chelsea, London in 2018. On The Wall Art Gallery Tel (246) 234-9145 www.onthewallartgallery.com | www.veryvanita.com

Jean Blades

The Carrington Collection

Growing up in Atlantic Canada, Jean developed a love of sea, sky and wilderness early while accompanying her father on his lengthy fishing trips, often by canoe. She brought these past memories with her to her second home, Barbados, where she has lived for over thirty years. These past and present experiences are depicted in her colourful, often emotional paintings of real places here in Barbados. She uses only palette knife with acrylic paint to simply express her world through her eyes. Represented by a number of local galleries, Jean also welcomes visitors to her home studio by appointment.

Presenting The Carrington Collection by Ronnie Carrington â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a gallery of Barbadian images, chronicling the folk life and landscape of a unique island. They are happy to accommodate your viewing by appointment and they can be reached on (246) 230-9170.

Tel (246) 428-7150 â&#x20AC;˘ bladespaxamor@gmail.com

They also offer private or group photo-adventure outings and workshops for varying skill levels. Tel (246) 230-9170 Clapham Close, Wildey, St Michael info@ronniecarrington.com | www.ronniecarrington.com

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The Studio

Visit our retail store, La Cuevita Souvenir Shop, at Animal Flower Cave and take a picture with Miss Lucy. All major credit cards accepted.

· One-of-a-kind handmade & hand-painted products inspired by everyday life in Barbados · Featuring the island’s beautiful people, architecture and fauna · Highest quality in design and construction with an emphasis on detail and authenticity

Connell Town, St. Lucy Tel: (246) 439 9318 earthandfireworkshop@yahoo.com

www.earthandfire-workshop.com

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Professional photographer Mike Toy grew up surrounded by beauty in the Cotswolds, UK. He then worked in Banff in Alberta, Canada where he developed his love for photography. Now residing in Barbados, he specializes in architecture and interiors and has photographed over five hundred of the Caribbean’s most prestigious hotels, resorts and private residences. He also shoots lifestyle, fashion, food and underwater and contributes regularly to a number of international publications. Mike has photographed 9 books and has an extensive selection of stock photography for sale online at www.miketoy.com In 2013, he opened “the studio” retail outlet in the Chattel Village, Holetown, offering custom-order prints and a wide range of photographic products incorporating his work. It’s a good shout for some classy souvenirs and gifts with everything from t-shirts and playing cards to clocks and posters. The Letterboards shown above are just a few of the hundreds he has on sale and any word or name can be made.

Tel (246) 432-6765 #3 Chattel Village, Holetown, St. James miketoy@caribsurf.com | www.miketoy.com

Andrea (Andy) Cozier Peirce

Heather-Dawn Scott

Born here in 1943, Andy grew up in Trinidad, St. Lucia and Barbados. She has a B. Ed in early childhood education specializing in art. Married with 3 children and 6 grandchildren, retired from teaching and widowed, she took up art seriously. Her watercolours of Barbadian life are very popular. Her use of bright colours draws people to her work. She currently lives in a chattel-like styled wooden cottage, where she has her studio. She also loves her garden and enjoys sewing most of her clothes.

A Barbarian artist who has transitioned through sculpture to watercolours and is now best known for large acrylic canvases. Often unpredictable in approach, the work can vary from closely observed studies of flora and fauna to loosely evoked, colourful pieces depicting historical Barbados. Most recently, the works have explored the possibilities of a restricted palate, unconventionally these may be built up from a canvas primed in very dark colours, encouraging a fresh and simple way of conveying the shapes and patterns that make up the composition. “This beautiful island constantly throws ideas my way.”

Tel (246) 429-2413 or (246) 230-4925 papeirce14@gmail.com

Tel (246) 828-0655 kinrarasutherland@gmail.com

Gina Foster

Tracey Williams

Barbadian artist, Gina Foster, uses vivid colour, bold strokes and texture to depict movement and mood. She paints in acrylics, capturing the vitality of life on the island. A variety of Gina’s art can be found at Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown and On the Wall Gallery locations including the art gallery at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre. Or you can contact her directly. Her selection of reproduction prints and notepads are sold island wide.

Tracey Williams is a Barbadian artist whose florals and landscapes are vibrant, colourful and diverse. Painting from her imagination she works in acrylics, oils & mixed media. With three successful solo exhibitions under her belt she has also won the Governor of the Central Bank Award twice. Tracey followed her dreams and now is the co-owner of a retail store called the Art Hub Barbados, Inc. Her works can be found in galleries. Studio appointments are welcome.

Tel (246) 430-0338 or (246) 233-0999 gina@caribsurf.com

Tel (246) 435-0736 or (246) 436-2950 #5 Grove Terrace, St. George arthub.barbados@gmail.com | traceywilliamsart.com

ART ART & & CRAFT CRAFT 165 165

From legendary artist Jill Walker comes a beautiful and nostalgic new coffee table book and film combo. The book, ‘Up the Islands’, written with her daughter Sue Trew, takes us on a journey through the happy days of a young couple as they fell in love with the West Indies in the 1950s. It is filled with a remarkable collection of rare paintings of the islands, photographs and descriptive letters home. The film, ‘Jill Walker: An Artistic Life’, is an award winning documentary available for the first time on a neat flash drive. It was filmed in Jill’s 90th year at her historic home in Barbados and is a wonderful insight into the life of this very private person.

Bring Barbados home... with our sunny range of quality merchandise created by many talented Barbadians. A family run business featuring three generations of art!

Shop for

Sunshine

Shop in store or at best-of-barbados.com Airport Departure Lounge â&#x20AC;˘ Cruise Terminal, Bridgetown The Chattel Village, Holetown â&#x20AC;˘ Quayside Centre, Rockley Southern Palms Hotel, St. Lawrence Gap

rtful Artful A

Hendy’s Hendy’s Instruction Instruction

Henderson Reece is well-known among art lovers for his fresh, vibrant and cheery batik creations, and excels at capturing familiar local scenes and iconic elements in this globally-treasured medium. Mainly self-taught, Henderson’s work can be found in collections in Europe, America and the Caribbean. Inspired by his passion and craftsmanship, so many people asked Henderson about the possibility of learning to make batik themselves, that he began offering workshops. A day under his tutelage is BB$400 (US$200) per person, including all materials, and lunch. His protégés-for-a-day leave with a batik of their own design, which they often mount and frame for their homes. Henderson and his stunning portfolio can be found at HP Batik Studio - a breezy, hillside house with a great view, at Earthworks Pottery Complex. Learn more about his artistic journey, the workshop and batik as an art form, on his website. HP BATIK STUDIO Tel (246) 424-0391 or (246) 240-4861 www.batikartbarbados.com henderson@batikartbarbados.com fb: @BarbadosBatik Earthworks Pottery Complex, Edgehill St. Thomas Above > Leah is guided by Above > Leah is guided by Henderson, who shows his work below

Henderson, who shows his work below

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“I’ve never been an artist, but he’s a great teacher. I’m back today for my second workshop!”

Leah Reeves, Oxford For more participant reviews, search HP Batik Studio on TripAdvisor.com

Neville Legall is taking you

s r o o d t u O

During his tenure as lead tutor for the National Cultural Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plein Air Painting Workshop, Neville Legall was impressed by the number of people expressing an interest in taking up painting as a hobby, including many of retirement age who are keen to channel their energies into something meaningful. So, having spent over 35-years occasionally tutoring locals and visitors at picturesque locations all around the island, he decided to start giving outdoor painting lessons on a regular basis. Using oils, acrylic and watercolour, each session lasts 3-hours, all materials are provided and transportation can be arranged if required. Neville has created a Plein Air Barbados Facebook page to show and promote the activities of plein air art enthusiasts to a worldwide audience, as a way to encourage more artists to visit Barbados, where our benign climate and wonderful light make this beautiful island an ideal destination for outdoor painting. Tel (246) 425-2126 or (246) 829-8841 www.nevillelegall.com | nevillelegall@gmail.com fb: @PleinAirBarbados

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Island

Life

Bathsheba and Cattlewash with the Scotland District in the background Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Sightseeing Something around every corner View of the north coast from the Animal Flower Cave with contrasting sea conditions Photo: Barbara Secher-Greenidge

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Touring Barbados is filled with a suprising degree of both interest and pleasure. The islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich and textured history over the past 400 years has left an extraordinary architectural heritage. Both man and nature have bequeathed a stunning natural heritage; the coastal scenery is as beautiful as it is varied with the dramatic Atlantic Ocean and serene Caribbean sea while the central highlands are covered in a superb variety of lush flora. And, the Bajans you meet along the way are generally exceptionally friendly and helpful.

Barbados has around 40 attractions to visit and countless others that might be anything from a humble rum shop to a picturesque fishing spot. The fun of touring is just that, getting out and having a really good look around. In many respects the best way to tour Barbados is not to try and do too much. Do one area at a time and take your time. Each parish has so much thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth exploring. If you decide to do a rum shop tour, choose 3 and really enjoy them, relax, play dominoes and have the luxury of time to engage in conversations. If you stop at an old parish church, check out the graveyard and the funerary plaques on the church wall - they have so many stories to tell or simply imagine. Bring a change of clothes because a swim is often on the cards. It might even be a sunset swim, or a swim in a cave. There are numerous places to stop for refreshments from small rum shops to relatively sophisticated dining establishments. Several of the attractions themselves have cafĂŠs and restaurants most notably, Animal Flower Cave, St. Nicholas Abbey and the Flower Forest.

Codrington College is the oldest theological college in the western hemisphere

Above, Cherry Tree Hill, The Balcony on Chalky Mount Photo: Franz Phillips

Codrington College in 1850 and to the left, still a beautiful building but with many more trees. It is open to the public. Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

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There are lots of spots to explore off the beaten track in Barbados. Many are a bit hard to find but Scott Davis of Williams Tours will take groups of 6 or more. Walks are best in the early morning.

O FF

E BE H T

Spring Bay, St. Philip Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

RACK

HARP Gun

Project HARP, short for High Altitude Research Project, was a joint project of the US Department of Defense and Canada’s Department of National Defence created with the goal of studying ballistics of re-entry vehicles using a gun rather than a rocket. The 41m long gun was abandoned in the late 1960s and left to rust on its original launch site, close to the Grantley Adams International Airport. Good coastal walks from there.

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Deebles Point

South of Ragged Point Lighthouse is a sign to Frank and Karlene Cossey’s Deebles Point Art Gallery and Café. Their family also have an impressive array of exotic fish aquariums and an orchid collection. From there you can easily explore Deebles Point which has steps cut into the cliff with a lovely view of Ragged Point Lighthouse and Spring Bay. There is a spectacular coastal walk from there to Bottom Bay and Harrismith beaches.

Culpepper Island For a bit of wild adventure you can explore Culpepper Island at low tide (reef shoes advised), or swim at high tide providing the sea isn’t too rough. A fresh water stream runs into the bay from the coastal forest along the shoreline. From here, there is a 2 hour coastal trail through Skeete’s Bay and along the undeveloped rugged cliffs to Consett Bay with spectacular views of the eastern coastline.

Ngozi Farm & Cultural Sanctuary Best known for her unique baskets made with local materials, Ireka, Prince Pine and family work an organic farm in the picturesque highlands of St. Andrew. They sell a wide variety of fruit, vegetables and culinary herbs. Visitors can tour the farm and Turners Hall woods, the only virgin forest left in Barbados. Tel: 271-2491 or 245-4016

Braddies

If you fancy a bit of crispy fried chicken, fish or pork served with potato wedges, breadfruit, sweet potatoes and a beastly cold beer or two, then a great atmosphere awaits you at Braddies in Six Men’s fishing village on the west coast of St. Peter. Cards and dominoes are the order of the night under flourescent lighting in a shed that sits right on the edge of the Caribbean sea.

Bathsheba Hike and Cave Pool

Bathsheba is a must see spot for sightseers but it is also a very rewarding place to linger. In the centre of the bay there is a hidden pool beneath the massive boulders where many “in the know” enjoy a leisurely soak. Heading south out of Bathsheba there is a coastal trail that runs all the way to Bath (approx. a 2-hr walk), with a welcome refreshment stop at Bay Tavern in Martins Bay.

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Rum Shops

Barbados is widely acknowledged as the birthplace of rum, with commercial production having started here as early as 1640. The name ‘rum’ was probably first coined in the taverns of Bridgetown, from where visiting seafarers carried the ‘hellish liquor’ back to ports in England and around the world. The Public Records of the Colony of Connecticut of 1654 make specific mention of “Berbados Liquors, commonly called Rum, Kill Deuill, or the like”. With that extraordinary depth of background history, it is no surprise that while other iconic symbols of Bajan heritage have gradually slipped by the wayside, rum and the ubiquitous Rum Shop have continued to thrive as integral elements of everyday life in Barbados. The Rum Shop was originally born out of a need to overcome a lack of nearby retail outlets, by selling everyday needs such as food items and household goods in addition to serving alcohol, which is what most distinguishes a traditional Rum Shop from a typical pub. Over the years, that dual role of functioning as both a store and a full-time bar resulted in thousands of Rum Shops popping up all over the island, serving as the social crossroads

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Photos: Andrew Hulsmeier

Rum Shops for the residents of every village and community. If it is true that variety is the spice of life, then Rum Shop life can certainly offer a lot of spice – ranging from a Granny quietly shopping for a tin of corn beef, to men lustily playing dominoes, to an intense intellectual discussion about foreign affairs, to a loud and passionate argument about whether Rihanna’s latest outfit was too skimpy. While many Rum Shops have wandered away from their original concept, perhaps by not selling goods or by abandoning their no-frills environment in favour of becoming more of a sit-down eatery, there are more than enough authentic locations still in existence to make it worth planning a visit during your vacation. And most of them serve good drinks and tasty food at very reasonable prices. You can casually drop into any Rum Shop that catches your eye while driving around or you can set out on an island-wide Rum Shop Tour. We suggest picking about three or four, to best enjoy the merits of each one without having to rush from place to place. If you prefer to be in the hands of an expert, Scott Davis of Williams Tours will happily take you on a private tour that best matches your personal tastes and preferences.

Animal Flower Cave

Located on the craggy cliff tops at the northernmost point of the island with spectacular ocean views. Large sea cave with several chambers filled with pools. Open daily 9am-5pm. Entrance fee for cave BB$20 Adults/BB$10 Kids 6-12yrs. Reservations recommended for restaurant. Tel: 439-8797. *No wheelchair access in cave

St. Nicholas Abbey & Heritage Railway One of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top attractions, and one of only 3 remaining Jacobean houses in the western hemisphere. Their brand new Heritage Railway which opens in January 2019 is an added bonus! Open 10am-3:30pm Sunday to Friday. BB$46 Adults/ BB$20 Kids 12 and under. Tel: 422-8725.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

Lush Mahogany grove where you can mingle with free roaming monkeys, turtles, deer, maras and other animals. A walk-in bird and iguana sanctuary. Grenade Hall Signal Station next door houses interesting artifacts. Feeding time is 2pm. Open daily 10am-5pm, last admission 4pm. BB$30 Adults/ BB$15 Kids 3-12yrs. Tel: 422-8826.

Mount Gay Legacy Museum

The Mount Gay Legacy Museum Tour chronicles the advent of global rum history by recounting the story of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and finest rum, Mount Gay Rum of Barbados. A fascinating story of how this plantation can today boast of a rich 300-year history of rum production. Tel: 227-8864 / mountgayrum.com

Morgan Lewis Windmill

The largest and only complete sugar windmill surviving in the Caribbean. The wind-driven machinery that ground sugar cane in the 18th & 19th centuries is still intact. Call the Barbados National Trust at 426-2421 for tours and information.

U RI N

Cove Bay is studded with coconut palms and edged with wispy casuarina trees and was once home to fishermen in the days when sails were used. This image shows a great view of Pico Teneriffe.

Cove Bay, St. Lucy

Little Bay

Barren and windy with rough terrain and a striking vista up the coast to the north. The land here is composed of bits of finger coral in a loose cement of sedimentary rock pushed up by tectonic plates. If the sea is very calm you can occasionally climb through a hole in the cliff to a safe swimming spot.

E N OR Photo: Jana Krenova

St. Nicholas Abbey - History Brought back to Life

St. Nicholas Abbey

Canefield to Cask - History Brought back to Life

he majestic St Nicholas Abbey is believed to be one of the oldest buildings in Barbados and one of only three existing Jacobean houses in the Western Hemisphere. St Nicholas Abbey was built by Lieutenant Benjamin Berringer in circa 1658, soon after British settlement of the island, and who was one of the early sugar plantation owners. The impressive three storey plantation house, which is readily identifiable by its striking curvilinear gables, is surrounded by sugar cane fields, lush vegetation, mahogany groves, magnificent cabbage palms and formal gardens - and now boasts a working 1914 restored steam railway. Inside the house there is a fascinating collection of period furniture that include a four-poster bed, reputed to have been owned by Napoleon's second wife, Empress Marie Louise, and a grandfather clock that was built by James Thwaites of London in 1759, just to mention a few. The dining room table and chairs are thought to be Barbadian, made around about 1840 or possibly earlier. In the old factory, a 19th century steam driven mill has been refurbished and now grinds the sugar cane between January and June, as it would have done over a 150 years ago. Canes are still laboriously hand cut in the fields, fed by hand into the mill, and the cane juice is now used for distillation of their award winning single cask rums. St Nicholas Abbey, including the well documented and absorbing stories of its long line of British owners, including the now famous Cumberbatch lineage of Benedict Cumberbatch, has an extraordinary rich heritage, and there is no doubt that this

Above: Three generations of Warrens - Simon, Camilla, Charlotte, Shae, Anna & Larry, with grandchildren Arthur, George, Henry & Quinn.

outstanding house is an integral part of the history of Barbados. However, what is just as compelling is the story of what is happening at the Abbey today. The current owners, Barbadian architect, Larry Warren, his wife Anna and sons, Simon and Shae, have not only restored and preserved St Nicholas as a heritage tourism site and museum, but have also given it new life as a working plantation, once again growing its own sugar cane, and now distilling premium, boutique single cask rums that are making their name on the world markets. They have also established a cottage industry in gourmet sugar and related products, including St Nicholas Abbey branded brown sugar, syrup, blackstrap molasses, jams, jellies, rum cakes, liqueurs, Rum Barrel coﬀee and much more. The Abbey is 400 acres with 210 arable acres, so the vision was to produce premium aged rum, distilled from the cane juice pressed in the restored steam mill (circa 1890). St Nicholas Abbey is now very proud to produce their own rums, which have been grown on the plantation, harvested, pressed in the old steam mill, fermented, distilled, aged and bottled by hand from the barrel at the property. Each bottle is numbered and dated at the time of bottling, and visitors can have their bottles personalized with a hand engraved message. Thanks to their determination for authenticity and to produce rum in an artisanal style, founded upon quality and tradition, the Warren family enjoyed early success when they were awarded the Distillery of the Year in 2012 in London, as well as Best White Rum with their debuting alcohol. Since then they have gone on to win numerous accolades and awards for their rums worldwide, including this year Gold and Silver Outstanding in international competition.

Top & Above right: St. Nicholas Abbey sells a range of gourmet products including their own liqueurs, rum punch. Above left: The 5 Year Old Rum

St. Nicholas Abbey - History Brought back to Life

St Nicholas Abbey rum is only sold at the Abbey in Barbados, and is exported to many parts of the globe as far afield as Hong Kong. Even though this is a boutique operation it is now regarded as an important brand worldwide. This is a rarity in the modern world as the entire production process, from nurturing of the canes to hand bottling of the finished product is conducted on location with caring love and attention. Mr Warren's attention to detail as an architect is reflected in the restoration, down to the detailing of the rum bottles and mahogany stoppers, and the fine tuning of the distillation. The Abbey is open to tours of the Great House, gardens, museum, factory and distillery, a 'not to be missed' short movie (circa 1930) of life on the plantation narrated by the late Colonel Stephen Cave, and rum tasting, from Sunday to Friday between the hours of 10.00 a.m. with the last tour at 3.30 pm.. The steam mill is operational and grinding a few days during the week between January and June, when the canes are ripe for harvesting. The Abbey also hosts weddings, functions and dinners in their unique magical setting. Ever popular are the Moonlight Dinners and Jazz Evenings overlooking the gulley during the Winter Season. The family have worked arduously to make the property sustainable, and the latest exciting project opening in 2019 is the St Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway. This is a narrow gauge steam railway, similar to the Barbados Railway of the last century, that traverses the plantation fields, with exciting vistas through the

Top: St. Nicholas Abbey can also be booked for weddings and events.

St. Nicholas Abbey’s 5, 12, 18 and White Rums mahogany woods, dramatic limestone quarry with 40 foot faces and the historic view of the wild Atlantic coast line from Cherry Tree Hill. This 1914 steam locomotive, The Tjepper No. 5, spent the majority of its working life in the sugar cane ﬁelds in central Java, before being purchased in 2006 and restored in the U.K. The railway operates tours at four scheduled times per day Sunday through Friday and bookings are by prior reservation at www.snahr.com. Over the course of the last thirteen years, the Warren family have remained faithful to the authenticity of this restoration, and converted St Nicholas Abbey into a viable heritage project thereby ensuring sustainability of this unique legacy for future generations in Barbados. They attained recognition of excellence by being awarded the Business Excellence Tourism Attraction BHTA Award 2018.

Above: Arthur and Henry on Badger!

Top: Tjepper No. 5 - The train is coming! Above: Rum tasting with Simon!

Barbados Wildlife Reserve & Grenade Hall Signal Station These mahogany forests are home to a large troop of Barbadian Green Monkeys and a reserved natural habitat for a number of other wildlife—Brocket Deer and Mara, Tortoises, Caiman, an endangered species of Cuban Iguanas, colourful Peacocks and their hens. Visitors are asked to respect their space and keep a safe distance while appreciating them. The nature trail in Grenade Hall Signal Station has easy-to-follow signboards displaying entertaining questions and answers revealed by lifting the flap – a wonderful opportunity to learn about Barbados’ natural environment. Some identify plants used by slaves as ‘cures’ and how the same are now used in modern medicine. The historic 19th century Grenade Hall tower, erected to relay intelligence and other messages from Bridgetown to the north of the island in a matter of minutes, has been restored with a series of interesting exhibits, artefacts and audio tapes that explain the signal system. Open daily 10am-5pm. Last admission at 4pm. Refreshment Bar open daily. Snack Café open Mon-Fri. Tel: (246) 422-8826 www.barbadoswildlifereserve.com Farley Hill, St. Peter

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Feeding time at the Wildlife Reserve is 2pm everyday and the new â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;forageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; feeding at Grenade Hall Forest is 11am. Monkeys may attempt to interact with their audience but do not be tempted by their inquisitive ways - keep a safe distance.

Arlington Museum

Located in the heart of the northern town of Speightstown and housed in a restored 18th century classic Barbadian single house, this museum offers a glimpse of Speightstownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history with interactive displays which are both educational and engaging. Open 8:30am-4:30pm Mon-Fri & 8:30am-3pm Sat. BB$25 Adults/BB$10 Kids 12 and under. Tel: 422-4064.

St. James Parish Church

This beautiful coral-stone structure is located on one of the oldest parcels of consecrated land on the island. Many original settlers and noted Barbadians were laid to rest within the Church and its tranquil yard. Three glorious stained glass windows and an original 17th century bell. Open 7am-6pm daily. Tel: 422-4117.

Earthworks Pottery

A spectacular working pottery where 14 Barbadian master potters and painters create quality ware in amazing colourful designs that are durable, foodsafe and made to be used. Visitors return time and time again to add new pieces to their collection. Open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri & 9am-1pm Sat. Free admission. Tel: 425-0223.

Folkestone Marine Park

The Garden

A glorious stretch of beach between Fairmont Royal Pavilion and just beyond the Lone Star restaurant, with several public paths for access. Some good areas for snorkeling and there are usually lots of turtles around. Lone Star is an excellent choice for lunch and rum sours, or try JuJu’s which is a more casual beach bar nearby.

Located about a half-mile north of Holetown, this marine reserve stretches from Coral Reef Hotel to Sandy Lane. There is a nearshore snorkeling trail with a sunken barge and the visitor centre offers equipment rental. There is also a marine life information centre and museum, and picnic tables for relaxing in the shade.

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Reeds Bay, St. James Photo: Caribbean Aerial Photography

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Reeds Bay in Lower Carlton is a long, wide arc of golden sand with superb swimming conditions, easy access and parking. Halfway along the beach, Judall’s Coconut Palms West offers chairs, umbrellas, drinks and food, he also offers sunset suppers.

Batts Rock

Located at the southern end of the west coast, Batts Rock has an excellent access road, good parking, lovely swimming, and public beach facilities. The recently opened La Cabane, is a chic, St. Tropez-style beach bar serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The snorkeling is good and it’s a lovely walk along the beach all the way to Mount Gay Visitor Centre and Kensington Oval on the outskirts of Bridgetown.

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Earthworks Pottery One location, 3 quality art studios and a café. What more can you ask for? At Earthworks you will enjoy being treated to a working studio pottery. For many visitors, Earthworks becomes one of the unique and wonderful memories of a Barbados holiday. Visit the studio (admission is free) to see 14 Barbadian master potters and painters, creating quality ware in fantastic designs that are durable, foodsafe and made to be used. In addition to the vast selection of handmade pottery for sale on the full-to-the-brim shelves, Earthworks specialises in custom orders for all kinds of everything from a commemorative plate/mug, to a house sign, a bathroom face basin, tile back splashes, a monogrammed dinnerware set or pieces for the table, or perhaps even a mural. Everything is food safe and made to be used and goes very well in the dishwasher. Everything is efficiently packed for travel, or they arrange shipping at special rates. At The Batik Studio you can watch the master Batik maker creating beautiful garments and paintings or sign up for a one day batik course with Henderson Reece. His classes are ‘al fresco’ and he supplies all the materials. The On The Wall Gallery carries a wide assortment of work by talented Bajan artists and craftspersons, from jewellery to wood-work to fine art paintings with work by Vanita Comissiong, Heather-Dawn Scott, Ann Dodson and many other leading artists. The Art House Café specializes in the tastiest gourmet sandwiches around as well as great salads and pastas and cold A visit to tropical drinks. Earthworks is a one

of a kind Caribbean experience that everyone enjoys and should not be missed. Visit the pottery 5 mins off the ABC Highway

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For information Call (246) 425-0223 eworks@caribsurf.com www.earthworks-pottery.com

Edghill Heights 2, St Thomas, Barbados. T 246 425 0223 â&#x20AC;¢ F 246 425 3224 email: eworks@caribsurf.com Open Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 1 pm

www.earthworks-pottery.com

No Ordinary Pottery

Cattlewash

Stunningly beautiful with a good coastal road and easy access. For a long walk on the wild side, put on your hat, fill your water bottle and trek the deserted stretch to Morgan Lewis. Though the sea may look inviting, swimming here is very dangerous due to strong and unpredictable undercurrents. Go for lunch or just pop in and chill out at the new Chill ‘N Breeze restaurant across the road from Barclays Park.

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Chalky Mount Potteries

An ancient pottery village where a number of traditional potteries work with the district’s naturally occurring clay. They make traditional Barbadian designs such as monkey jugs for holding and keeping water cool, candle shades, mugs, plant pots and ‘conaree’ pots, ideal for cooking and serving stews. Highland Pottery is open daily 8am-5:30pm. Call: 422-9818.

Andromeda Botanic Gardens

An enchanting seaside landscape created by multiaward winning horticulturalist Iris Bannochie who planted an unparalleled variety of plants collected from around the world. Today it is a magical organic garden both for pleasure and science, fostering conservation, research and education. Open daily 9am-4:30pm. BB$30. Tel: 433-9384.

Take a dip at low tide in the rock pools in Bathsheba, where there is also a picnic spot and several places that serve refreshments. Also famous for international surfing competitions at Soup Bowl.

Hunte’s Gardens

These magical gardens, featured on the BBC’s Gardeners’ World, are truly spectacular and are set amongst the sugar factory ruins in the historic Castle Grant plantation, circa 1643. Roam and stay as long as you like while enjoying the subtle sound of classical music. Rum punch, lemonade and afternoon tea are served in the old stable which is now the owner’s home. Open daily 9am-5pm. BB$30 Adults/ BB$15 Kids 12 and under. Tel: 433-3333.

Flower Forest

Located within a 53-acre nature reserve 750 ft. above sea level in the scenic Scotland District, this botanical garden offers visitors a golden opportunity to enjoy a close-up view of rare and exotic tropical blooms and foliage, while also admiring spectacular panoramic vistas of the east coast. Stroll through peaceful gardens and a mature forest of majestic palms. Open daily 8am4pm. BB$30 Adults/BB$15 Kids 5-12yrs. Tel: 433-8152.

Bathsheba

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Coco Hill Forest

Opened to the public for the first time in 2018, this beautiful 53-acre tropical forest is home to thousands of fruit trees, surrounded by vegetables, herbs and spices. With traditional vertical forest planting they grow coconut, banana, mango, avocado, paw paw, guava, coffee, cocoa, pineapple, ginger, turmeric, lettuce and basil to name a few. Guided hikes and tours are offered. BB$25 tours/BB$50 hikes. Call Mahmood 235-4926.

*Wheelchair access on one level only

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Hunte’s Gardens “The most enchanting place on earth” You might hear this garden before you see it; its delightfully eccentric owner, Anthony Hunte, BCH, plays classical music throughout the garden. This is the working end of old Castle Grant plantation, where sugar cane was once processed into syrup. Step through the gate and you’ll soon tread on the old weigh bridge, where loads of cane were tallied. Just past the old stone outbuildings, where statues lurk among exotic plants, you’ll find yourself on the lip of a great, hemispherical sinkhole in the limestone substrate.

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Steps lead down and paths branch out through an exquisite profusion of flowering plants, with towering trees around the edges. He has added hundreds of flowers recently. Both here and farther along the top are a series of small secret gardens, where you can sit to absorb the serenity and enjoy a picnic. Be sure to climb the upper level steps to Mr. Hunte’s house, a transformation of the old stables. He’ll invite you for refreshments—including his legendary rum punch or freshly made ginger-lemonade. In fact, you also have the opportuntiy to sample Hunte’s own 10 Year Old Reserve Fine Barbados Rum. It’s an exceptional cask selection only available at Hunte’s Gardens. If you’re driving, follow the red and white signs that read Hunte’s Gardens, from all over the island. Or, come by taxi. If you take the local bus from the Fairchild Street Bus Stand in Bridgetown, it’s #5 Sugar Hill Bus – BB$2 each way.

Rum Punch and Fresh Lemonade served in the verandah. Bring a picnic, there’s plenty of seating! Open daily 9am to 5pm Rated Caribbean’s #1 on

Tel: (246) 433-3333 or 233-4060 huntesgardens@gmail.com huntesgardens.com Castle Grant, St. Joseph

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Microlight Aerial Tours Want to fly over the beautiful island of Barbados and enjoy spectacular views of the East coast? Then why not experience the exhilaration of an openair cockpit and enjoy amazing 360 degree views with a thrilling microlight flight! Flight departures from the Barbados Light Aeroplane Club on the south ramp of Grantley Adams International Airport are early mornings and evenings, lasting 25 or 45 minutes.

Microlight

Aerial Tours

Please note there is a maximum passenger weight of 105 Kg (230 lbs) and a minimum age of 14.

No previous experience is necessary!

For a whole new view of Barbados Come fly with us!

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For further information: Call Paul on cell (246) 261-1676 or landline (246) 624-3433 Email: airsportsbarbados@gmail.com Visit facebook.com/airsportsbarbados

The relaxed café serves Angela’s delicious Bajan fish cakes, superb freshly prepared flying fish, salads, sandwiches, ice-cream and drinks

Flower Forest

Find your tranquility Flower Forest offers a relatively easy walk through the tropical forest with sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline. This lush and peaceful place is a garden of towering trees garnished with vibrant flowers. It is truly a place to gather your thoughts. Owner David Spieler has been planting many specialist tropical hybrid flowers throughtout the forest, which he generously shares with the Barbados Horticultural Society for their gold medal exhibits at the Chelsea Flower Show in London. This year a spectacular array of bromilliads are flowering throughout the garden. The 53 acre property, located 750ft. above sea level, is reserved for green botanical ventures, never to be developed. There is a spacious central facility serving light lunches including Angela’s delicious fish cakes, superb freshly prepared flying fish, salads, sandwiches, ice-cream and drinks. She also makes lovely lemon grass or bay leaf teas. The garden gazebo is a wonderful venue for weddings.

Tel: (246) 433-8152 info@flowerforestbarbados.com flowerforestbarbados.com

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Rugged and picturesque, Chalky Mount rises to a height of 550 feet in the parish of St. Andrew in the heart of the Scotland District.

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Chalky Mount Photo: Above Barbados

Bottom Bay

Everyone’s dream of the perfect tropical beach - cliffs, coconut palms, a cave, soft white sand, brisk breezes and aquamarine sea. A first class picnic venue with chairs for rent, fresh coconuts and drinks on sale. Nearby Harrismith has less beach but does have a shallow lagoon for a dip - no chairs, etc. Both beaches have a steep flight of steps for access.

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Codrington College

When Christopher Codrington, planter, scholar, soldier and philanthropist, died in 1710 he left his estates to an institution for higher education. 300 years later this college is one of the oldest Anglican theological colleges in the world. Open daily 9am-6pm. Entrance fees vary between BB$5-BB$20. Self guided historic, architectural or natural heritage tours available. Tel: 423-1170.

Bath

Protected by a large off shore reef, the sea here is very calm. There’s plenty of shade, a pleasant breeze, a small playground, picnic tables, a car park and public facilities. No chairs, umbrellas or refreshments. A picturesque coastal footpath runs from Bath to Martin’s Bay. It takes approximately an hour and a half to walk there and back.

St. John’s Church

First built in 1660, St. John’s Church was destroyed by fire and several hurricanes during its long history. The present church building (the fifth) was built in 1836. The wooden pulpit contains six varieties of hardwood. Today’s structure commands panoramic views of the island’s eastern coastine. In the churchyard are the moss-covered sepulchres of many ancient families, including Ferdinando Paleologus, a descendant of the last Greek Emperor. Open daily 6am-6pm. Tel: 433-5599.

PEG Farm & Nature Reserve

At PEG, they are practicing a new style of agriculture biodynamics, free range animal husbandry, permaculture and holistic management. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides take you on walking eco-tours which explore every aspect of the farm. Learn about their cutting edge farming principles and traditional uses of native Barbadian plants in their medicinal garden. Open daily 7:30am-4:30pm. Tel: 433-9806.

Clifton Hall Great House

This great house once belonged to Prince Ferdinando Paleologus, a descendant of the last Greek Emperor, circa 1656. He named it after his birthplace in Cornwall, England. This is an historic tour with a modern twist, including a taste of Clifton Hall’s 12 year old rum. Open daily 10am-3:30pm. Tours by appointment. BB$40. Tel: 240-5198 or info@clliftonhallgreathouse.com

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Gun Hill Signal Station

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St. George and St. Thomas are the only parishes not bordered by the sea. Beautiful sprawling vistas of sugar cane fields, old sugar factories and plantation great houses make up the scenery of these countryside parishes.

The St. George Valley Photo: Niall Thomas, Be Social

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This cotton ginnery in St. George produces West Indian Sea Island Cotton. Boasting a rich heritage and distinguished reputation this cotton is likened to silk and cashmere and is among the best cottons available in the world. Visit them to purchase their products or book a Cotton Experience Tour. Open Mon-Fri 10am-2pm. BB$12 Adult/BB$10 Kids 12 and under. Tel: 433-3108.

Built in 1818, the finest of a chain of six stations used to signal the approach of ships to the island. Strategically placed in the highlands of St. George, it commands a magnificent view from east through south to the west. Restored by the National Trust in 1982 and opened to the public. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. BB$12 Adults/BB$10 Kids 12 and under. Tel: 429-1358.

Exclusive Cottons of the Caribbean

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Welchman Hall Gully

Take a stroll through one of Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; true tropical treasures. Located in the heart of the island, this gully is a unique and peaceful forest. Formed centuries ago when the roofs of caves collapsed, it is now filled with an abundance of flourishing, exotic tropical plants and trees and troops of green monkeys. Open daily from 9am, last tour at 3pm. BB$24 Adults/BB$12 Kids 6-13yrs. Tel: 438-6671.

Harrison’s Cave

Located in the central highlands of the island this breathtakingly beautiful limestone cavern is a testament to nature’s mastery. Filled with streams, waterfalls, crystal clear pools and towering columns filled with crystallized flowstone and thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. There are several tours to choose from, call for details. Open daily 8:30am-4:30pm. Tel: 417-3700.

Orchid World & Tropical Flower Garden

Located in St. George, this garden has a stunning collection of over 5,000 orchids from around the world. The tour consists of a pleasant stroll through various landscaped features with an interesting collection of tropical plants and three orchid houses. Open daily 9am-4pm. BB$25 Adults/BB$12 Kids 5-12 yrs. Tel: 433-0306.

St. George’s Church

The first St. George parish church was destroyed in the hurricane of 1780. A new church was built in 1784 and this survives to today, making it the oldest ecclesiastical building in the island. Its magnificent altar painting, ‘The Resurrection’, is almost certainly the most important painting on the island, by the American born artist Benjamin West (1776). Open daily 6am-6pm. Tel: 429-0371.

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Loving the Outdoors

Barbados National Trust Hikes

The Barbados Hash House Harriers

The Barbadian terrain lends itself to hiking, and many groups enjoy regular hikes across the countryside. The most popular are the Barbados National Trust Sunday hikes, which comprise several walks at different grades – known as the ‘Stop ‘n Stare’ (6 miles), ‘Medium & Fast Medium’ (9 miles) and ‘Grin ‘n Bear’ (12 miles). They start at 6 a.m. at different locations every Sunday, and again at 3:30 in the afternoon (9 miles). There are also moonlight hikes and hikes on special days such as the Errol Barrow Day Hike, Heroes Day Hike and the Colin Hudson Great Train Hike, named after the first coleader of the hikes, which were started by Richard Goddard, a Duke of Edinburgh Award leader. For the full hike schedule with locations, directions and maps contact the Barbados National Trust: Tel: (246) 426-2421 Email natrust@caribsurf.com.

The Barbados Hash House Harriers are a group primarily focused on running and walking events. Boasting over 100 regulars, they meet every Saturday and bank holidays at different locations throughout the island. Runners and walkers, young and old, all are welcome to join. No need to pre-register, call or email - just show up at the posted location. For further details visit:www.barbadoshash.com

PEG Farm and Nature Reserve PEG Farm and Nature Reserve offer a variety of guided nature tours. For the nimble, there’s a challenging trail right down the cliff through Joes River Forest but they also give daily tours that are a gentle stroll along the top of Hackleton’s Cliff with spectacular views of the Scotland District. At the end, refreshing local juices and beastly cold beers are sold in their central facility. Nature tours are conducted daily in the morning and afternoon. Telephone (246) 433-9806 for more information.

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Coco Hill Forest This fledgling agro-forestry enterprise offers guided hikes by appointment over 53 acres of lush and hilly terraine featuring a wide variety of local fruit trees. Hiking trails fan out in leafy arteries to a series of visual vignettes. To arrange a visit, call: (246) 235-4926.

Exclusive Cottons

From the fields to the world’s best cotton West Indian Sea Island Cotton (WISIC), a unique variety of the species Gossypium Barbadense, is an internationally certified fibre, considered to be among the finest cottons in the world and it commands the highest price. Hand harvested in Barbados, the luxurious textile has been called “The Cloth of Kings!” It’s hard not to feel like royalty when wrapped in a supple robe, caressed by a fine garment, or reclining on satiny white bedding made of West Indian Sea Island Cotton. The cotton ginnery at Groves in St. George offers guided tours Monday to Friday hourly between 10am and 2pm. Calling ahead is recommended. At the Visitor Centre there is a display room where WISIC articles can be purchased or ordered, including but not limited to ladies’ and gentlemen’s attire, linens, their new line of ladies’ scarves, and novelty items. The team at Exclusive Cottons looks forward to sharing more with you about Barbados’ remarkable and regal cotton. To arrange an exclusive tour of the Exclusive Cottons of the Caribbean’s Ginnery and Visitor Centre, please call (246) 433-3108 www.eccicotton.bb

Orchid World & Tropical Flower Garden Perched on the side of the picturesque St. John valley, Orchid World and Tropical Flower Garden has a stunning collection of over 5,000 orchids from around the world. The tour consists of a pleasant stroll through various landscaped features with an interesting collection of tropical plants and three orchid houses. Unlike most gardens here, the path is wheelchair accessible. Bird feeders throughout encourage birdlife. Drinks and snacks are served in a comfortable patio beside the well-stocked gift shop. Tel: (246) 433-0306 | cince@foster-ince.com Groves, St. George Open Daily 9am-4pm (Closed on Mondays in the summer from 1st May to 31st October).

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Mallalieu Motor Museum

This is the only ‘old car’ museum in Barbados and many of the vehicles are in perfect working condition. Cars include: Rover 75, 1955, Allard P1, Bentley Drophead Coupe 1947, Citroen Big 15, Triumph TR4, Volvo 122S, 1963, Chevrolet Master 6 and more... Open during normal working hours BB$20. Tel: 426-4640

Sunbury Plantation House Set in the heart of the St. Philip countryside and built over 300 years ago, Sunbury is a superb example of a Barbadian sugar plantation house. Magnificently furnished, it contains one of the country’s superior collections of antiques, china, silver and fascinating memorabilia. Open daily 9am-4pm. BB$25 Adults/ BB$12.50 Kids. Tel: 423-6270.

Foul Bay

A long, wide, open expanse of beach and trees with no development. Care should be taken when swimming here - the best swimming is at the eastern or left side of the beach. There are large shady areas suitable for picnics. No chair rentals - Refreshments can be purchased nearby at Cutters of Barbados.

South Coast Boardwalk

The Richard Haynes boardwalk blends in with the natural beauty of the area and stretches for 1.6km from Rockley to Hastings. Great for rock pooling at low tide in some areas with several small beaches along the way for swimming. Very popular in the early mornings and evenings for exercising, strolling, yoga or just sitting and enjoying the amazing views. Many good restaurants and bars along the way.

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A truly stunning beach on the south east coast. Excellent body surfing conditions. Refreshments nearby at Cutters of Barbados or at the beach bar of the Crane Resort. Boogie boards, chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Crane Beach Photo: Andrew Hulsmeier

Sandy beach is lovely & wide with very calm, shallow sea - ideal for young children. Beach chairs, umbrellas and snorkeling gear rentals from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Spockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Food and drinks from Carib Beach Bar. Accra is a very popular beach with parking, good swimming and trees for shade. Great for body surfing. Lifeguards on duty. Boogie boards, chairs & umbrellas for rent. Tasty local eats from Chicken George Beach Bar.

Two very popular beaches. Miami beach is shallow and calm on one side and deep with small waves on the other. Plenty of shade. Picnic tables, parking, chairs, umbrellas, refreshments and public facilities. Silver Sands is a beautiful, breezy beach with excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. DeAction Beach Shop rents equipment and offers lessons. Public facilities available.

Sandy Beach/ Accra Beach

Miami Beach/ Silver Sands

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Sunbury Plantation House After six months of painstaking restoration, improvement and polishing, Sunbury Plantation House was re-opened in November 2018 by new owners, Martin and Claire Ince.

Sunbury has the most stunning array of antiques on the island

Photos: Andrew Hulsmeier

Set in 6.5 acres of beautiful grounds, Sunbury had for many years been occupied by sisters Helen and Francis Cameron, two spinsters who inherited the property from their father, who had previously purchased it from his employer. When the two elderly ladies both passed away, in 1980 and 1981 respectively, the house they left behind was a veritable time-capsule, with its contents offering a tangible insight into life in a Barbadian sugar plantation house during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. At that time, Keith and Angela Melville bought the property, added even more collectibles and turned it into one of Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most popular visitor attractions, until a devastating fire struck the house in 1995. But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Sunbury was re-opened after the Melvilles invested in the extensive Inniss and Bowen antique collections, as well as special pieces from the Ocean View Hotel and the Bridgetown Club, which were both closing down at that time. Now that the stewardship of this magnificent and historically important national treasure has passed into the caring hands of the Ince family, Sunbury Plantation House has once again opened its doors to enable visitors and locals alike to physically experience the rich heritage of Barbados.

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In the opinion of Nicholas Forde, the foremost Barbadian expert on Caribbean antique furniture, Sunbury has the most stunning array of antiques on the island. There are far too many items of interest to mention here, but a pair of chairs from Queen Victoria’s Coronation stand out, as does the 300year old mahogany dining table, which seats 26 comfortably, that resided at the Bridgetown Club for over a hundred years. The large cellar, once used as a cool environment to store provisions, is now a treasure chest of artefacts from a bygone era, including the most extensive collection of horse drawn carriages in the Caribbean. Other extraordinary displays include old kitchen utensils and storage containers, fascinating memorabilia from the long defunct Barbados railway service, tools used for coral limestone quarrying, and a very old collection of optical machinery and sighttesting equipment. Visitors can learn a lot about Barbados from the well-trained Sunbury guides who conduct informative and entertaining tours, as well as by enjoying an unhurried stroll around the house, stopping at

whatever most captures your interest: perhaps admiring the collection of prints from nineteenth century Barbados or browsing through a 1905 edition of Vanity Fair. With a tranquil location in the heart of the St Philip countryside, and the Sunbury Café & Bar opens every day for lunch, Sunbury Plantation House is an attractive option to enjoy something to eat and drink. In addition to raising the quality of the gastronomic offerings to an exciting new level, Chef Peter has introduced a Sunday Brunch that is ideal for families and groups. While preserving Sunbury for the ongoing education and enjoyment of future generations, Martin and Claire also want to put some real life back into the property, they want it to be used by people. As such, Sunbury Plantation House is available for hosting events, ranging from ‘al fresco’ music concerts to weddings for up to 300 guests. And, steeped in history and blessed with a 300year old mahogany wood which makes a stunningly dramatic backdrop when lit at night, it is a truly spectacular venue.

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Garrison Day Tours

This 3 hour, walk and coach tour describes the attempted invasion of Barbados and the role of Barbados in the American War of Independence. It takes in George Washington House, the mysterious Garrison Tunnels, Charles Fort in Carlisle Bay, the Officers Mess for a drink and a tour of St. Annâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fort and the National Armoury Museum. The tour concludes at the Main Guard. Tel: 233-2601 or 233-1648. barbadosgarrison. org *Advance notice required for wheelchairs

Garrison Night Tours

Every Friday night from 6:45pm until 8:45pm. An entertaining night tour through the Historic Garrison, dramatising crime, punishment, murder and execution. BB$20-30. Reservations are preferred. Tel: 233-2601 or 233-1648. barbadosgarrison.org

*Advance notice required for wheelchairs

Dinner With George

Every Monday 7-10pm, a unique dining and theatrical experience. The 1st US President, George Washington, regales dinner guests with entertaining vignettes of his lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story. Warm candlelight and live baroque music transports one to the year 1751. A 5-course dinner with fine wines in the very dining room of the house that George spent 7 weeks of his life, when just 19 years old. Tel: 233-2601 or 233-1648. barbadosgarrison.org

National Armory and Cannon Museum

Every Thursday at 12 noon. This takes place in front of the 1804 Main Guard (Clock Tower) at the Historic Garrison. An authentic staging of an activity that would have been performed numerous times a day in the 19th century. It is presented by the ‘Sentries & Corp of Drums of Barbados’ (retired or current servicemen). The Sentries dress in the distinctive Zouave uniform; originally selected for the famous West India Regiments by Queen Victoria in 1856.

Paul Wilton offers personalised tours for 1 to 12 people of this splendid 17th century fort, museum and 17th century English iron cannon collection at the Historic Garrison. BB$10 per person. By appointment only. Mon-Fri 10am-12pm. A day’s notice is appreciated. Tel: 829-1146.

*Advance notice required for wheelchairs

Bridgetown’s spectacular Carlisle Bay beach is over a mile long. The pier to pier swim of 1.2 km is popular with open water swimmers. Many establishments provide chairs, umbrellas, parking and refreshments. Superb snorkeling over several wrecks. Public facilities.

Photo: Niall Thomas, Be Social

RIN G

The very place where America’s first president, George Washington spent 7 weeks in 1751 at the age of 19. Experience a high definition film and a guided tour of the restored house. Learn about and experience the mysterious Garrison Tunnels, built around 1820. Open Mon-Fri 9am4:30pm. BB$30. Tel: 228-5461. barbadosgarrison.org

Changing of the Sentry

George Washington Attraction

GARR

Mallalieu Motor Museum Bill Mallalieu, owner of this charming motor museum, bemoans the fact that his newest car (the one that’s done the fewest miles) gives the most trouble. Although his love affair with cars goes back to the 1930’s when he was a child in Barbados’ Scotland District, he says that 99% of the fun at his Motor Museum is the wonderful and interesting visitors that he interacts with. Well, a large percentage of the fun that visitors have at his Motor Museum is meeting and chatting with Mr. Mallalieu. His passion for beautifully made motor cars is infectious and he shares his endless knowledge in an eloquent and entertaining manner. Along with his knowledge of the classics - “the older the cars, the better they work” - his knowledge of the global car industry today is extensive and he enjoys a discussion on the subject. Each year he has a couple of additions and some more items of interest to share with his visitors. This year is a Metropolitan 1959 in immaculate condition. It’s rare and peculiar with an Austin A30 chassie and a larger body. Love cars? Drop by one morning when Mr. Mallalieu is there. • This is the only ‘old car’ museum in Barbados, many are in perfect working condition. • Cars on display include: Rover 75, 1955, Allard P1, Bentley Drophead Coupe 1947, Citroen Big 15, Triumph TR4, Volvo 122S, 1963, Chevrolet Master 6 and more...

Open during normal working hours Admission BB$20 Tel: (246) 426-4640 Pavilion Court, Hastings, Christ Church billmallalieu@caribsurf.com

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A two hour wander through the museum will give you a superb overview of 10,000 years of Barbados’ history. The museum has the best heritage shop on the island with an excellent selection of books.

Barbados Museum & Historical Society Research Your Barbadian History & Lineage Barbados’ history is interwoven in many ways with the histories of other countries. Discover these connections and much more in the Museum’s Shilstone Memorial Library. Need help with family research? Contact the Museum’s Librarian at E-mail: library@ barbmuse.org.bb. Delve into rare West Indian documentation, archival documents, genealogical records, photographs, maps and books. The Shilstone memorial Library is open Monday to Friday 9:00am – 1:00pm. Educational programmes for school children are conducted regularly and a range of talks and public programmes are also offered. In order to offer these programmes and educational activities, the Museum welcomes members and volunteers. Check the website for further information on current and upcoming programmes and opportunities to be involved.

Special Events & Walled Garden Theatre There are always a host of activities taking place at the Museum. Especially in its new Walled Garden Theatre which hosts plays, movies, live bands and dance shows. The museum also regularly offers special exhibitions, parties, weddings, graduations and photo shoots in its lush gardens and cobblestone courtyard.

The Home of Barbadian Culture & Heritage The best way to learn about the people of Barbados is through a visit to the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, located in the island’s sole UNESCO World Heritage property. Learn about a rich history, from the earliest inhabitants to folk life. There’s something for everyone – natural history, Barbadian social history, archaeology, decorative arts, military history, African artefacts and prints and paintings all within the Museum’s collection serve as mementos of your visit and can be purchased in the Gift Shop. The wide range of books on historical topics and merchandise reflecting the island’s heritage make great keepsakes and gifts.

Tel (246) 538-0201 or 537-1956 info@barbmuse.org.bb www.barbadosmuseum.org

SIGHTSEEING 209

Having Fun with Heritage History, hiking—and even howling—are vital parts of the Barbados National Trust

Beyond education, heritage preservation, and developing fine attractions out of historic sites, the Barbados National Trust contributes unique social events to the island experience.

History and Howling

Above: Barbados National Trust’s Morgan Lewis Windmill, St. Andrew Photo: Courtesy BTMI

Opposite: Hiking through Turners Hall Woods Photo: Ronnie Carrington

One of these events can get… well, a little loony. Held on the Saturday closest to the full moon during the high season, Gun Hill by Moonlight offers high times in more ways than one. Here you can join locals and visitors in a cocktail party at an early 19th century signal station with a hill top view of the island. At sunset, Zouaves in full regalia ceremonially lower the flag, complete with bugle and drum. Then the panorama changes from a landscape bathed in golden light to a darkened expanse under twinkling stars. So does the mood. When the moon rises over the treetops, it’s your opportunity to let out a howl with the crowd—a very liberating moment that few, if any, national trusts encourage. But what an ice-breaker it is! These events are best enjoyed with a designated driver.

Hiking through our Natural Heritage

For active, outdoor enthusiasts, Sunday Hikes are offered in conjunction with the Barbados Hiking Association (BHA.). Though donations are appreciated, they’re free! Starting at a different location each week, they often go through fields, villages and gullies you’d never imagine, let alone find, otherwise. The morning hike is divided into Stop & Stare, which includes occasional pauses for your guide’s commentary; 1 Medium and Fast Medium; and for those who relish a challenge, Grin & Bear. The afternoon hike is one large group. Check the Trust’s website or pick up their annual booklet for specifics.

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With an anticipated starting date in mid-year, the Trust’s occasional Open Site hikes will take you to a place whose uniqueness takes a naturalist or biologist to explain, and at least one will be on hand to do so. Then there’s the Great Train Hike. This exuberant, annual, 24-mile trek from Bridgetown to Belleplaine, St. Andrew, follows the route of the old railway and ends with a barbecue. Hikers can also choose their segment by joining in or dropping out at the sites of old stations along the way. The BHA also conducts other special hikes.

Come Over & See Where We Live

Open House is a winter tradition. The Trust’s longest-running fundraiser, the programme allows you to visit private homes that are outstanding for their history and/or architecture. These opportunities sometimes include public buildings with a chance to “go backstage.” The Lively Lecture is perhaps the highlight, giving you the back-story of the special place where you’ve gathered. Much more than just a tour, these revealing afternoons almost always feature a garden party and bazaar on the grounds. You can take some tea or let a rum punch sneak up on you, strike up a conversation, browse for crafts and sample something tasty, all with live local music wafting through the air. These events are staffed by dozens of volunteers, some of whom are so devoted that they plan not only their week but their winter holidays around Open House. You, dear reader, are welcome to join in.

New Activity! New to the summer calendar is the plein air painting series, Painting Heritage, which takes place at each of the Trust’s sites. You may find yourself at a historic home, in a botanic garden, in a quaint seaside town or seated in the shadow of an impressive sugar windmill. Instruction and materials are provided.

Upgraded to Five Stars!

Morgan Lewis Windmill, the only fully restored sugar windmill in the Caribbean, has been revitalised to rave reviews. Barbados once had nearly 500 mills like this to crush cane. Along with slaves, they powered the sugar economy that made this island rich. Their decapitated stone hulls now dot our landscapes. Situated in rustic St. Andrew a short drive down from St. Nicholas Abbey and Cherry Tree Hill, this structure is an impressive feat of engineering and restoration, as well as a haunting reminder of history. Whether you make it a destination in itself or a stop during a jaunt, you’ll find tasty snacks and fresh local beverages, and free wi-fi at its excellent café. Activities are posted on their Facebook page. Joining gives you reduced or free admission to their built and natural heritage sites, as well as to those of reciprocating trusts in the Commonwealth.

For more information on the Barbados National Trust, call 426-2421 or visit barbadosnationaltrust.org.

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meet a Bajan

Jamilla Sealy An Environmental Advocate Fit for a Queen By Keith Miller

Inspired by the trees and plants surrounding her family home in the rural Parish of St. John, and heavily influenced from a young age by her mother’s persistent mantra about respecting and conserving the natural world, Jamilla Sealy was born to be an environmentalist. Throughout every stage of her education, Jamilla’s two favourite subjects were Geography and Biology. So, when she passed both of them at Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination level, along with Environmental Science, all with flying colours, it seemed inevitable that her next step would be to follow that same path at university. “My heart was set on studying Environmental Management but my Mum was not in favour at all. Like many Bajans in her generation, she believed that it made much more sense to go a more traditional route. It was a real dilemma for me. I have so much respect for my mother that

212 MEET A BAJAN

it felt really wrong to go against her wishes, but I did. I chose to follow my passion.” Three years later, after successfully graduating from the University of the West Indies (UWI) with a B.Sc. Degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Management with Biology, it seemed that Jamilla’s decision had backfired on her as she couldn’t find a job. Then destiny opened another door for her when she was unexpectedly offered a temporary post as a Geography teacher at The St. Michael School. Aged just 21, Jamilla was very reluctant to teach because she thought she was too young, too small and too gentle to control a classroom full of teenagers. Plus, she was terrified that her childhood stammer might resurface and embarrass her. But the harsh reality was that she needed to start earning money to repay her student loans, so she had to overcome her fears and get on with it.

“As soon as I started teaching the bug just bit me. I found that I really enjoyed interacting with young people, passing on my knowledge, sharing my passion for the environment, helping them to better understand and appreciate the world around them.” After completing a second stint of teaching, this time at Ellerslie School, and more convinced than ever that she was destined to pursue a career in environmental advocacy, Jamilla gained a Masters in Natural Resources Management (Climate Change) from the prestigious UWI Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies. It was during this period, while meeting lots of likeminded young people from all around the region, that Jamilla joined the Barbados Chapter of Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN). Within less than a year, she was elected by her peers as Regional Chairperson of CYEN. In that role, she has travelled to far-off places in the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia, often on her own, to actively participate in events such as the United Nations Climate Change and Biodiversity Conferences and recently the One Young World Conference, where she received the 2018 Scholarship to represent Barbados. “Sometimes I’m the only person from the Caribbean and I’m like, ‘Wow, little me from little Barbados’. I never think of myself as a leader but other people do. I occasionally get invited to speak at a conference and whenever that happens I always give thanks to the St. John Toastmasters Club where I learned how to improve my public speaking skills.” The biggest moment in Jamilla’s life happened during an event at Kensington Oval to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Barbados Independence, when Prince Harry announced that she had been chosen as a recipient of the Queens Young Leader Award for 2017. “It felt totally surreal walking onto the stage to join the Prince, listening to thousands of Bajans clapping and cheering for me. When I put out my hand to shake his, he ignored it and gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. He was such a nice person, so down to earth. Rihanna was also on the stage and it really shocked people that we had already met. We went to school together at Combermere. The Queen’s Awards people were more excited about that than they were about me meeting Prince Harry. Later on, backstage in the VIP area, Rihanna told me that she was proud of my achievements and I told her the same. It was so unreal! Queen Elizabeth presented me with the award six months later at Buckingham Palace. As I was walking towards Her Majesty, Prince Harry made me laugh by waving and saying hi, as if I’d just arrived for a picnic. It was an amazing experience but I still think of myself as an ordinary person. I’ve just been fortunate to do some extraordinary things.

I have battled sickle cell disease my whole life and I know from personal experience that there is too much ignorance about this debilitating condition, so I plan to become an advocate for education about its widespread effects. Although I am currently employed as an Assistant Project Coordinator at the Ministry of Environment and National Beautification, and happy to be there at a time when Barbados is seeking to develop its Blue and Green Economies, I more see my future as a speaker at international conferences, talking about my scientific work. I want to inspire our youth, young females in particular, to show them how ordinary people from a small island can still do great things in a big world.”

Rihanna was also on the stage and it really shocked people that we had already met. We went to school together at Combermere. Rihanna told me that she was proud of my achievements and I told her the same. It was so unreal! MEET A BAJAN 213

Life of As the sun sets and the air cools, the island’s nightlife starts to heat up! Photo courtesy McBride’s Music Pub & Nightclub

the Party

Where to “Lime” in Barbados Liming” is an important part of our culture. In fact, it’s not uncommon to hear Bajans say something like, “where de lime at tonight?” meaning, “where’s the party tonight?” or “where will you be hanging out tonight?” Some of the more popular spots to lime include rum shops, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, street corners and even the beach. Generally, a lime is considered successful if it includes lots of drinks, good music, some dancing and usually a late night! There is always a good lime to be had in our lime līm/ local rum shops, there are around 2,000 scattered all over the island! You can’t Verb (Slang) Cocktail Kitchen has a casual, bubbly beat the ambience. Everyone is made to hanging around, atmosphere, amazing cocktail concoctions feel welcome and a wonderful spirit of and an award winning chef usually in a public conviviality prevails. Interestingly, just 25 place with friends, years after the settlement of Barbados in 1627, there were already over 100 drinking enjoying the houses in Bridgetown alone. scene. Today, there is a profusion of ‘watering holes’ to be found around the island, approximately 12 per square mile. Many of the bars feature daily Happy Hours, usually around sunset – a fine time to sip on a cocktail and await the elusive ‘green flash’! The nightclub scene varies from one club to another and from one night to another. Live bands and DJs belt out the latest tunes until the wee hours, from calypso and reggae to jazz and contemporary. Most clubs open their doors around 9:30pm, although they don’t actually start sizzling much before 11pm. Barbados boasts some of the very best nightlife in the entire Caribbean. No matter what time of the year you There’s always a fun atmosphere and a come, you will have a great time liming on this little lively crowd at island of ours. McBride’s

Little Bristol is a wonderful seaside spot for a drink or a casual meal in Speightstown. Live entertainment on Wednesdays and Fridays draws a fun crowd. The perfect spot to spend a day relaxing on the beach, have lunch, then stay on for sundowners and the mesmerizing sunsets.

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LIMIN’ ~ BAJAN STYLE

The dynamic duo, Jason and Rory (formerly of Mullins Beach Bar), are now on the south coast at the famous Carib Beach Bar where you’ll find great food, great fun and live music on Fridays and Sundays.

Harbour Lights

Unrivalled entertainment at an unbeatable price!

Harbour Lights, the renowned open air, beachfront club located on the stunning Carlisle Bay, is the favourite spot for visitors and locals alike. Liven up your Monday and Wednesday evenings at the Beach Extravaganza and Dinner Show and discover the island’s rich Afro-Caribbean heritage, traced through the melodious sounds of three Caribbean bands and a full cast of performers. Immerse yourself in Bajan scenes and social past-times re-enacted by symbolic cultural characters. Follow the non-stop action as The Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show is loads of fun for all ages (7-10:30pm) towering stiltwalkers, once known as the ‘guardians of the village’, showcase their acrobatic skills. The excitement heats up with the flaming limbo dancer and iconic fire eater, Cassius Clay. Experience electrifying rhythms and be mesmerized by Carnival beauties and “Mudda Sally’s movementations”. Complementing the entertainment package, is a delicious spice-infused BBQ dinner straight from the grill and free-flowing drinks throughout the evening. Harbour Lights goes until late with a fully-fledged nightclub experience after the dinner show that’s not to be missed. What’s Included: Transfers, Dinner, Drinks & Show | Show Dates: Monday & Wednesday (All ages welcome 7-10:30pm) Nightclub Nights: Wednesday 9pm - 2am; Friday 9:30pm - 3am. Tel (246) 436-7225 Marine Villa, Bay Street, St. Michael www.harbourlightsbarbados.com | bookings@harbourlightsbarbados.com | #harbourlights

NIGHTLIFE 217

meet a visitor

The former police detective is now a bon vivant and man about town—or island!

Two of Dick’s favourite places on the island, Fisherman’s Pub and Champers Restaurant

Richard “Dick” Gardiner By Sarah Venable

How it happened Over 40 years ago, Dick Gardiner was a young man from the UK midlands who had just left parachute division of the RAF and decided to join the police force. “I thought the career would be similar, but without jumping out of airplanes,” he explained with a grin. He aimed for the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), and during his training course befriended a trainee from Barbados who was having a hard time fitting in. “I took him home to meet the wife and family, and to the Police Social Club,” said Dick. Afterwards, the man, an assistant police commissioner, insisted that his new-found friend and colleague come to the island for a visit. In 1983, he finally did, was met at the airport by a squad car, and proceeded to have a wonderful holiday. One of his memorable moments was meeting the then-Prime Minister Tom Adams, and numerous other dignitaries. He continued to visit, and as of June, 2018, the 79-year-old was on his 102nd visit to our fair isle and his third for the year. Surprisingly, Mr. Gardiner does not hold the record. That belongs to a retired BOAC pilot who started coming in 1963 and has been here 107 times. Our tourism officials have clubs for those whose returns have racked up to 25, 50, 75 and 100 visits. The lower bracket numbers over 500 people! All are shown appreciation with goodies and/or a reception with the Prime Minister. It’s the people! Dick is a highly social person, so it’s no surprise that what keeps him coming back (aside from

218 MEET A VISITOR

the fish he eats every day) is the people of this island. “Their true warmth is phenomenal. I’m always overwhelmed,” he said. His circle includes such well-known figures as Clement Armstrong of Fisherman’s Pub; Father Clement Paul, the Roman Catholic priest who has been known to pen and sing calypsos; and Bishop John Holder, then Archbishop of the West Indies. A natural storyteller, he has also been known to frequent rum shops and strike up conversations. He advises everyone to do so, and of course to try our rums. After retiring from the CID, he took up farming and other pursuits. With family at home to keep an eye on them—although his wife, children and grands sometimes come to Barbados too—he still gets away frequently. Accompanied or not, he has stayed at the Butterfly Beach Hotel for the past ten years or so. “It’s like coming home,” he said. “The manager and staff know exactly what I like and always make an effort to cater for me.” Recommendations After all these visits, Dick can rattle off his favourite places. He goes to Crystal Waters on a Sunday, for their barbecue lunch and live music. He also recommends the Round House in Bathsheba, Sand Dunes on the east coast, the Oistins fish fry, and Fisherman’s Pub in Speightstown. For fancier dining, and particularly for entertaining, he always goes back to The Fishpot in St. Lucy (and well worth the drive), Tapas and Champers in Christ Church, and The Cliff in St. James. With so much on the menu, it’s no surprise that on his 102nd visit, he was already looking forward to the next.

McBride’s Music Pub & Nightclub McBride’s has returned to St. Lawrence Gap! Reopened in February 2018, McBride’s has brought Live Music, DJ Nights and Non-stop Partying back to The Gap! • Live Bands • Top DJs * Headphone Parties • Promotions by Top Bajan Entertainers • Drinks Specials • Hotter than ever Happy Hours See Facebook for details of Nightly Events and Happenings!

St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church TEL: (246) 420-7646 info@mcbridesbarbados.com www.mcbridesbarbados.com

Good Food

Good Life Photo caption Photo credit

Hugo’s Restaurant on Speightstown’s waterfront

Photo courtesy: Ocean 2 Coral Reef Club

breakfast

Bajan Blue (Sandy Lane Hotel) 248 Coral Reef Club 241 Garden Terrace, The 270 Juma’s 236 La Cabane Beach Bar and Rest 247 L’Azure (The Crane) 226 Lone Star (Winter mths only) 238 Relish Epicurea 246 Sandpiper, The 240 Tapestry 251

sunday lunch ideas

West Coast Bajan Blue (Sandy Lane Hotel) 248 Cin Cin 256 Coral Reef Club 241 Dockside at 13°/59° 232 Hugo’s 234 La Cabane Beach Bar and Rest 247 Lone Star, The 238 Nikki Beach 230 Port St. Charles Yacht Club 233 East Coast L’Azure (The Crane) 226 South Coast Bistro at Sweetfield Manor 260 Champers 225, 262 Garden Terrace, The 270 Lobster Alive & All That Jazz 258 North Coast: Animal Flower Cave (The Rest.) 229

eclectic

Bajan Blue (Sandy Lane Hotel) 248 Champers 225, 262 Cin Cin 256 Cliff, The 254 Cliff Beach Club, The 252 Coral Reef Club 241 Daphne’s 250 Dockside at 13°/59° 232 Fusion Rooftop 244 Garden Terrace, The 270 Hugo’s 234

224 RESTAURANTS

dine by e n i s i u C L’Acajou (Sandy Lane Hotel) 249 L’Azure (The Crane) 226 Lone Star, The 238 Nikki Beach 230 Pavao at Sweetfield Manor 260 Primo 264 Sandpiper, The 240 Tapas 259 Tapestry 251 Top Deck, The 237 Zen (The Crane) 227

bistros

Animal Flower Cave (The Rest.) 229 Bistro at Sweetfield Manor 260 Carib Beach Bar 268 Café Sol 266 Champers 225, 262 Daphne’s 250 Dockside at 13°/59° 232 D’Onofrios 228 Juma’s 236 La Cabane Beach Bar and Rest 247 Lobster Alive & All That Jazz 258 Nishi 242 Ocean 2 Resort and Residences 271 Port St. Charles Yacht Club 233 Primo 264 Relish Epicurea 246 The Dive 267

indian

Asian Spice

asian

Asian Spice Cin Cin Fusion Rooftop Zen (The Crane)

245

245 256 244 227

bajan

Animal Flower Cave (The Rest.) 229 Coral Reef Club (Weekly Buffet) 241 Sandpiper, The 240

french

Cliff, The Cliff Beach Club, The Coral Reef Club Dockside at 13°/59° L’Acajou (Sandy Lane Hotel) La Cabane Beach Bar and Rest

japanese / sushi Fusion Rooftop Nishi Zen (The Crane)

caribbean

254 252 241 232 249 247

244 242 227

Animal Flower Cave (The Rest.) 229 Bajan Blue (Sandy Lane Hotel) 248 Carib Beach Bar 268 Champers 225, 262 Cin Cin 256 Champers 225, 262 Coral Reef Club 241 Cin Cin 256 Garden Terrace, The 270 Cocktail Kitchen 269 Juma’s 236 Daphne’s 250 La Cabane Beach Bar and Rest 247 258 La Cabane Beach Bar and Rest 247 Lobster Alive & All That Jazz Relish Epicurea 246 Ocean 2 Resort and Residences 271 233 Tapas 259 Port St. Charles Yacht Club Primo 264 Relish Epicurea 246 Sandpiper, The 240 Daphne’s 250 D’Onofrios 228 Tapestry 251 267 Tapas 259 The Dive

mediterranean

italian

L’Azure

Reservations

(246) 423-6220

dining@thecrane.com

www.lazurebarbados.com The Crane, St. Philip Famous for its fresh seafood and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Crane Beach, L’Azure Restaurant serves up a tempting range of classic international and Caribbean delicacies. From soup to seafood and mouth-watering desserts, L’Azure maintains its long-held reputation for elegant dining. The atmosphere offers elegance and beauty to patrons sitting inside or on the balcony.

sample menu Blue Swimmer Crab Cake With cucumber relish & chilli mayonnaise Yellow Fin Sushi Tuna Tartare With tamarind coulis Vegetarian Curry Madras style with vegetables and poppadoms L’Azure Bouillabaise Classic seafood stew with lobster, scallops & shrimp First Choice New York Strip 8 oz Maitre D’Hotel Beef steak Served with your choice of two sides Four Hour Braised Short Ribs Spicy bajan cherry & red wine sauce Served with your choice of two sides Passionfruit Parfait Toasted coconut, almond biscotti, coconut ice cream ‘Milky Way’ Bread Pudding Hot chocolate sauce

Open daily · 7:30am-9pm Starters · BB$24-56 Mains · BB$55-116 Desserts · BB$18-24

“A well-established tradition, Sundays at The Crane are extraspecial, offering a Sunday Gospel * Opening times, menu items Breakfast with live performances and prices are subject to and a steel-pan accompanied change Bajan buffet lunch.”

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Zen

Reservations (Essential)

(246) 423-6220

dining@thecrane.com

www.zenbarbados.com The Crane, St. Philip

Zagat rated Barbados’ No. 1 for Food, Zen offers authentic Japanese and Thai delicacies in a magnificent setting on Barbados’ southeast coast. Zen’s sophisticated, Asianinspired architecture and interior decor complement its dramatic setting, complete with an all-glass frontage offering spectacular views of Crane Beach. Private booths, designed in traditional Japanese style, and a large Tatami room with a recessed floor, provide an option for parties up to 16 to dine in privacy.

sample menu Thai - Fried Prawns in Rice Paper Spicy tiger prawns delicately wrapped in rice paper, deep-fried and served with sesame soy sauce Japanese - Maguro Poke Ahi tuna, pineapple, green onions, sesame seeds, wonton crisps, soy sesame dressing Thai - Phad Khing Delicious morsels of snapper delicately flavoured with ginger, garlic & shiitake mushrooms together in a mixture of fresh vegetables Japanese - California Cucumber, avocado, crabmeat Japanese - Samurai Prawn tempura, tuna, hamachi, avocado, spicy mayo, eel sauce, wasabi tobiko, spring onions Khao Niew Mamuang Sweet rice flavoured with coconut milk, served with slices of ripe mango and dusted with roasted sesame seeds Tempura Cheesecake Creamy baked cheese cake coated with tempura batter, quick fried to a golden brown crisp and topped with chocolate sauce

“For a celebration, book for up to 16 in the private Tatami Room. For a light and relaxed dinner simply have sushi with ice cold Petit Chablis seated at the sushi bar.”

Open for Dinner · 6-9pm Closed Tuesdays Starters · BB$12-45 Mains · BB$20-88 Wine · BB$14-25 * Opening times, menu items and prices are subject to change

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D’Onofrio’s Reservations

(246) 423-6220

dining@thecrane.com

www.donofriosbarbados.com The Crane, St. Philip Nestled at the heart of the charming Crane Village, D’Onofrio’s serves up the finest authentic Southern Italian fare in a casual atmosphere. Classic dishes are inspired by the simple flavours and Old World traditions of Italy, but done to modern standards of taste and excellence. With a wide choice of pizzas and pastas, D’Onofrio’s is perfect for a casual dinner for couples and families alike.

sample menu Bruschetta Oven toasted bread, fresh mozzarella, basil, tomato Stagioni Local mixed greens, apples, blue cheese toasted walnuts, Honey balsamic vinaigrette Linguine alla Pescatore Shrimp, mussels, clams, salmon, calamari, cherry tomatoes, chili flakes, fresh basil, tomato sauce or garlic white wine sauce Risotto ai Funghi Mixed mushrooms, fresh herbs, truffle oil Salmone Scottato Pan seared salmon, Parmesan and herb polenta cake, asparagus, tomato sauce Bistecca Alla Fiorentina Grilled 6oz ribeye, asparagus, lemon wedges, rosemary herb potatoes Toscana Pizza Ham, Italian sausage, pepperoni, mozzarella Tomato sauce Tiramisu Coffee and liqueur soaked lady fingers, mascarpone cream lightly dusted with cocoa powder Open daily · 7:30am-9pm Starters · BB$24-46 Mains · BB$30-70 Desserts · BB$22-24 * Opening times, menu items and prices are subject to change

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“Be sure to request dining on the wrap-around verandah of D’Onofrio’s for an authentic Italian dining experience”

The Restaurant at the Animal Flower Cave Reservations

(246) 439-8797

animalflowercave@outlook.com www.animalflowercave.com North Point, St. Lucy

Something wonderfully different on the dining scene! Just 15 minutes from Speightstown and 25 minutes from Holetown and well worth the drive! Owners, husband and wife team, Mannie & Sue Ward have re-invented the Animal Flower Cave. Located right out on the most northerly point of Barbados, the ocean views are stunning - it feels almost like dining at sea! Tasty local dishes using farmers produce and fresh local fish and seafood. Lovely childrens area. Sun Deck and Bar for enjoying drinks. Visit & swim in the cave.

sample menu Breadfruit Tacos Bajan Fish Cakes Pickled Conch & SeaCat (name for local octopus) Cave Cutters (Sandwiches) Rotis Salads West Indian Chicken Curry Cave’s Catch of the Day Organic Homegrown Black Belly Lamb Stew Jerk Chicken On Sundays the Chef prepares a variety of Specials including traditional Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding, in addition to the regular menu.

“Tasty local dishes and stunning ocean views! Sun Deck and Bar for enjoying drinks.”

Lunch · Everyday 12pm-3pm Closed: Kadooment Day & Christmas Day plus 3 weeks in September/ October (call to check). Menu · from BB$18-75 Vegetarian & Gluten Free options available.

RESTAURANTS 229

Nikki Beach Reservations

(246) 436-4554

reservations.barbados@nikkibeach.com www.nikkibeach.com Port Ferdinand, Six Mens Bay, St. Peter

Nikki Beach Barbados features a restaurant, pool and beach club with oceanfront seating for up to 200 guests. Enjoy their world famous Mojitos at the swim-up octagon wet bar, relaxing in the oversized luxury pool beds or in their VIP cabanas. Dine on globally-inspired cuisine featuring fresh local produce and seafood. Whether it’s Sunday lunch or sundowners, Nikki Beach can be relied upon for excellence and a lot of fun!

sample menu Sexy Salad Shrimp, crab meat, kanikama, avocado, local farm mango, cucumbers, tobiko, spicy mayo Koh Samui Vegetarian Roll Purple organic rice, agedashi tofu, carrots, cucumbers, asparagus tempura, roasted pistachios, kale leaves, carrot ginger sauce Nikki Beach’s Famous Sushi & Ceviche Boat Saint Tropez roll, Marbella spicy tuna roll, koh samui vegetarian roll, Saint Barth salmon roll, 12 nigiri, 12 sashimi, tropical seafood ceviche, tuna and salmon tartare, wakame salad, steamed edamame, pickled ginger, wasabi, light soy sauce Truffle Pizza Black truffles, white truffle oil, mozzarella cheese, rocket salad, chives Spaghetti With Gamberetti Shrimp Extra virgin olive oil, garlic, butter, parsley, cherry tomatoes Key West Famous Key Lime Pie Tangy lime mousse, crunchy biscuit base, lime zest, broken meringue Lunch · Noon - 5pm Dinner · 7:30-9:30pm Starters · BB$25-65 Mains · BB$50-150 Desserts · BB$35 Valet Service Showers and changing rooms

230 RESTAURANTS

Flourless Chocolate Lava Cake Gluten-free chocolate cake, chocolate ganache, Madagascar vanilla ice cream

Dance to the beat of Nikki Beach’s resident DJs, in-house saxophonist, percussionist and violinist.

Nikki Beach

Dockside at 13°/59° Reservations

(246) 272-1359

dine@docksidebarbados.com www.docksidebarbados.com Port Ferdinand, St. Peter

Bistronomy is best described as taking the finest quality ingredients to create contemporary comfort food using highly disciplined classical techniques. It is this term that aptly describes the latest hit by husband and wife duo, Larry & Michelle Rogers who are responsible for some of Barbados’ most iconic restaurants, including, Olives, La Terra, Primo and Cin Cin. Dockside embodies the quintessential essence of bistronomy. Set in a stunning marina, its organic uber-modern chic blends seamlessly with the relaxed edge of water feel, while still retaining an elusive air of cosmopolitan sophistication.

sample menu Small plates Burrata Mozzarella Fresh fig compote, spiced tomato fondue, nutty basil pesto, toasted crostini Offal Good! Pan fried veal sweetbreads, exotic mushrooms, grilled asparagus, roasted shallots, Madeira glaze Large Plates Pan Seared Scallops On a leek, roast garlic potato puree with curried lentil cassoulet, wilted leaves Rabbit Ballotine With sage & onion stuffing, prosciutto, drunken prunes, sauteed spinach, sherry glaze, Parisienne potatoes Short Rib Slowly braised on creamy leek, pumpkin & potato ragout, steamed greens, sticky jus

Lunch · Sun-Fri 11am-3pm Lunch Off season: Sun only Dinner · Everynight 6pm-10pm Dinner Off season: Mon-Sat Starters · BB$32-49 Mains · BB$68-110 Desserts · BB$32-38

232 RESTAURANTS

Sweet Plates Caramelized Apple Bread & Butter Pudding With rum toffee sauce & ice cream. Pavlova Whipped cream, stewed guava & summer fruits

“The latest hit by husband and wife duo, Larry & Michelle Rogers who are responsible for some of Barbados’ most iconic restaurants.”

Port St. Charles Yacht Club Reservations

(246) 419-1000 Ext #2284 psc.yc@caribsurf.com

www.portstcharles.com Port St. Charles, St. Peter Full service bar and restaurant. A wide range of international cuisine prepared by their world class chef. Open for lunch, dinner and bar service in an open air setting with friendly service. Panoramic views along the West Coast. Deck loungers are provided for sunning and a staircase into the sea complements the pool for swimming.

sample menu Blackened Chicken or Shrimp Quesadilla Mozzarella cheese, chives, sour cream, guacamole Seared Ahi Tuna, Thai Dressings Sesame seeds, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, seaweed, Rice noodles, horse radish cream 6oz Caribbean Lobster Burger Grilled sweet bun, vegetable slaw & fries 8oz Certified Angus Beef Rib Eye Steak Mixed salad & hand cut steak fries Catch of the Day (Grilled, Blackened or Pan-Fried) Steam vegetables & pineapple salsa. With your choice of: mashed potato, roasted vegetable quinoa, basmati rice or fries

“Sunday - Roast Beef and yorkshire pudding with live steelpan music. Buffet in season, a la carte in summer. Live music for dancing on Friday nights!”

Bar Service (in season) · Tues-Sat 10am-10pm; Lunch (everyday) · 12-4pm Dinner · 6:30-9:30pm (Tues-Sat in season. Thurs-Sat in Summer) Starters · BB$25-34 Mains · BB$40-75

RESTAURANTS 233

Hugo’s Barbados Reservations

(246) 624-4846

dine@hugosbarbados.com www.hugosbarbados.com Speightstown, St. Peter

Hugo’s Restaurant, located on Speightstown’s beachfront is one of Barbados’ new and exciting culinary experiences. Housing historic items from the Ivy restaurant in London and the late Lord Glenconner’s home in Mustique, the restaurant takes its name from Hugo, the grandson of Judy and Andy Stewart. Serving up fresh Caribbean cuisine with an international flair in a magnificent setting.

sample menu Seared Atlantic Scallops Green sweet pea panna cotta, crispy prosciutto, coconut foam Shrimp & Avocado Salad Grilled shrimp, avocado, mango, cucumber and onion Pan Seared Local Snapper Crushed marinated yam, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, champagne butter sauce Duo of Lamb Lamb cutlet, braised lamb shoulder, potato mille-feuille, rosemary jus Chicken Masala Diced chicken breast, tikka spices, coconut milk, saffron basmati, papadums, cucumber raita & mango chutney Strawberries Crème Brûlée Fresh & crisp strawberries, meringue, vanilla set cream Warm Homemade Bread Pudding Mount Gay rum & condensed milk sauce and rum & raisin ice cream

Lunch · Fri-Sun 11am-4pm Dinner · Tue-Sun 6pm-9.30pm Starters · BB$43-69 Mains · BB$72-145 Desserts · BB$24-35

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“A stunning location for an early dinner beginning with sundowners!”

Hugoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Barbados

Juma’s

Reservations

(246) 432-0232 or 234-7286 info@jumasrestaurant.com www.jumasrestaurant.com Speightstown, St. Peter

Juma’s is located on the beach with all tables overlooking the beautiful and unspoilt Speightstown bay. The restaurant is owner run by Mark and his chef wife, Jules, whose menu is highly eclectic and features Daily Catch of the day - fresh from Speightstown Market, Thai, Bajan and French dishes. Lovely Thai curries, homemade desserts and cocktails are among the delightful offerings. Subs, salads and burgers are available at lunchtime; and there is an extensive wine list. Complimentary transport to and from the restaurant from anywhere on the west coast is provided, as well as beach loungers and umbrellas. Free Wi-Fi. Juma’s received the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017.

sample menu Curried Pumpkin, Sweet Potato & Coconut Soup With root ginger, garlic, coriander and cumin Mango and Ginger Infused Spare Ribs Pan Seared Scallops With a citrus salad Baked 16oz Lobster Tail Marinated in teriyaki, ginger & garlic Bajan Spiced Rack of Lamb With macaroni pie and grilled vegetables Seafood Thermidor Scallops, marlin and shrimps in a classic thermidor sauce Banana Four Ways Warmed banana cake, banana cheesecake, caramelised bananas & an alcoholic banana smoothie Gran’s Coconut Cake Jules’ family recipe - simple but beautiful White Chocolate Crème Brûlée Apple Crumble Breakfast · 9am-5pm Lunch · 11am-5pm Dinner · 5pm-9:30pm Starters · from BB$15-50 Mains · from BB$40-150

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“Right on Speightstown Bay. Open everyday for Breakfast, Lunch, Tea and Dinner. Superb facilities with services to the beach. Perfect for sunset dining.”

The Top Deck by Jason Howard

Reservations

(246) 422-0359

info@thetopdeckbarbados.com www.thetopdeckbarbados.com The Garden, St. Peter

Top Deck’s beachside location and laid-back elegance are enough to justify a trip to the newest modern Caribbean restaurant in Barbados, but the big attraction is the excellent food. Barbadian Chef Jason Howard first hit the spotlight as a UK Master Chef Professional 2015 semi-finalist, preparing what the judges called ‘the best-ever presented and tasting Caribbean food on the show in its 8 seasons’. Having honed his skills overseas, Jason has returned home with a passion to elevate Caribbean cuisine to a fine dining experience, subtly using Bajan herbs and spices to bring out the very best in fresh local produce.

sample menu Seared Scallops Eddo and ginger puree, garlic & tomato salsa Pickle Prawns Pickle prawns, tapioca crisp & dill oil 36hr Pork Belly 36hr seared pork belly, plantain & vanilla mash, pickle mustard seeds & Caribbean Jus Grilled Chicken Breast Seared chicken supreme, roasted sweet potato puree, potato rosti, chicken demi-glaze & confit carrots 6hrs Roasted Sweet Potato Grilled veg and black-eyed peas coconut stew, scotch bonnet oil Chocolate Torte Candy orange, cinnamon crumble & honey comb Marinated Fruit Coconut cream, Malibu lime

“Cocktails at The Top Deck are always a good idea - Sundowners anyone?”

Lunch · 12-3pm Dinner · 6pm-10pm Starters · from BB$25 Mains · from BB$60 Desserts · from $25

RESTAURANTS 237

Lone Star Reservations

Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

(246) 629-0599

info@thelonestar.com

www.thelonestar.com Mount Standfast, St. James The Lone Star Restaurant and Hotel located on the famed platinum coast is renowned for its idyllic setting, celebrity clientele and buzzy yet laid back atmosphere. The menu is a fusion of European fare with Caribbean influences and their much loved timeless Lone Star Classics. The beach and the pizzas from the woodstone fire oven are sure to be a favourite with the younger customers.

sample menu Lunch Woodstone Fire Oven Pizza Margarita, Diavolo, Rucola, Funghi, Shrimp Boston Lump Crab Pink Grapefruit, Mint, Coriander, Cucumber, Baby Gem Salad Fresh Market Fish Grilled Vegetables, Tropical Fruit Salsa Dinner Herb Crusted Rack & Braised Shoulder of Lamb Parmesan & Cream Cheese Polenta, French Beans, Madeira Jus Black Angus FIlet Mignon Sautéed Potatoes, Mushrooms, Asparagus Grilled Mahi Mahi Herb Crushed New Potatoes, Wilted Greens, Papaya & Orange Relish Mirin & Soy Glazed Barracuda Sautéed Potatoes, Sesame Ginger Sauce Dessert Banana Donuts Coconut Ice Cream, Crushed Pistachios, Rum Caramel

Breakfast · 8:30-10:30am Lunch · 11:30am-3pm Dinner · 6-11pm Starters · BB$21-70 Mains · BB$36-125 Wine · BB$62-998

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“Sunday lunch is still a must at the Lone Star . . . Some things never change! Enjoy a rum sour at sunset or an after dinner glass of champagne in the cocktail lounge.”

Lone Star

The Sandpiper Reservations

(246) 422-2251

reception@sandpiperbarbados.com www.sandpiperbarbados.com St. James Beach, St. James

Owner managed with great attention to detail. Elegant and comfortable surroundings. Highly rated for serving consistently excellent cuisine. Chef Christophe Poupardin creates a variety of popular dishes. Sumptuous buffet on Wednesdays. Barbecue on Sundays with live steel pan music. Top notch service!

sample menu Caribbean Shrimp Tempura Smoked salmon, avocado cream cheese mousse Seared Scallops, Curried Plantain Pickled coconut, salt n’ pepper wild rice Seared Mahi Mahi, Butternut Squash Broccolini, hazelnut pesto, caperberries Satay Styled Caribbean Shrimp Peanut & chilli glaze, sesame and hoi sin noodles “Wagyu” Beef Cheeks, Herb Mashed Potato Smoked & braised for 12 hours with roast carrots & confit onions Sticky Toffee & Date Pudding Almond praline ice cream Mixed Berry Eton Mess Crisp meringue, chantilly cream

Breakfast · 7:30-10:30am Lunch · 12-2:30pm Dinner · 7-9:30pm Starters · BB$30-45 Mains · BB$82-95 Desserts · BB$28-35

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“Enjoy cocktails or champagne at Harold’s Bar and stay on for a delicious dinner with live entertainment every night in season.”

Coral Reef Club Reservations

(246) 422-2372

reception.mail@coralreefbarbados.com www.coralreefbarbados.com St. James Beach, St. James

A reliably enjoyable dining experience. A team of accomplished and experienced chefs. A new a la carte menu each day. Bajan Buffet on Mondays. BBQ Night on Thursdays with a floorshow & steelpan. Fresh seafood, prime meats & vegetarian dishes. Coral Reef is an impeccable family owned hotel.

sample menu Citrus Shrimp and Cucumber Roll Avocado, grapefruit, shiso sprouts, mango coulis Roasted Pumpkin Tortellini Pumpkin purée, toasted pine nuts, pea shoots, sage beurre noisette Cajun Spiced Barracuda Cauliflower cous cous, spiced cauliflower, crisp kale, avocado salsa Grilled Pork Rib Chop Confit sweet potatoes, wilted bok choy, glazed plums, baby carrots, five spice jus Fillet Mignon Roasted butternut squash, spinach, roasted tomatoes, chimichurri sauce Mango and Ginger Panna Cotta Chilled coconut - mint soup, crystallized ginger Warm chocolate and Scotch Bonnet Pepper Infused Fondant Bay leaf ice-cream

“The spacious and elegant lounge bar at Coral Reef is a superb start to an evening. Thursday night’s BBQ buffet with a floorshow and steelpan is a wonderful Caribbean experience.”

Breakfast · 7:30-10:30am Lunch · 1-2:30pm Dinner · 7:30-9:30pm Starters · BB$30-45 Mains · BB$80-95 Desserts · BB$20-35

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Nishi Restaurant Reservations

(246) 432-8287 or 432-2112 nishirestaurant@gmail.com

www.nishi-restaurant.com 2nd Street, Holetown, St. James Nishi is a chic, elegantly casual bistro, ownerrun by hosts Stephen Prebble & Christopher Maskery. Their award-winning restaurant presents the best of British, Caribbean and Japanese cuisines - traditional specialties like English pies and lovely puddings, regional dishes as well as highly popular sushi. Nishi’s sushi chefs, born and trained in the Far East, have earned a solid reputation for preparing both traditional sushi and the latest trends in Japanese cuisine. Dine under the stars in the lit courtyard or in air-conditioned comfort. Families are welcome! Sushi specials are available during the week and Nishi’s bar serves a brilliant range of cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.

sample menu Dim Sum Assortment of 5 Dim Sum Wild Mushroom Crepe Wafer thin pancakes, au gratin sauce, parmesan cheese, mushrooms and julienne of carrot Lobster Maki Served with lobster tempura Volcano California roll topped with baked hot seafood, shrimp, crabmeat, tobiko and mayo Godzilla Spicy tuna, asparagus, tobiko and Premium crab sticks fried in crispy panko with spicy mayo and eel sauce

Open every night in season. Closed Mondays in Summer. Dinner · 6-10pm Starters · BB$27-48 Mains · BB$57-111 Sushi · BB$48-99

Spicy Cottage Pie, Seafood Pie and Aberdeen Angus Steak & Mushroom Pie All with garden peas and mash or fat chips Coconut And Ginger Chicken With coconut milk, garlic and coriander with basmati rice and julienne vegetables Thai Prawn Green Curry With basmati rice, julienne of carrots and leeks Bramley Apple Crumble Coconut Bread Pudding Mango Cheesecake

“Sushi and pies, are they mad?!”

242 RESTAURANTS

Nishi Restaurant

Fusion Rooftop Reservations

(246) 271-1258

reservations@fusionrooftop.com www.fusionrooftop.com Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown, St. James

Located on the top floor of the vibrant Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Fusion Rooftop perfectly crowns the new ‘heart of the west coast’ of Barbados. With a spacious, visually stunning design, this ‘alfresco’ restaurant combines seamlessly with an extensive contemporary lounge and dramatic full service bar. With a philosophy of authentically sophisticated cuisine, the menu is comprehensive and alluring. Sweeping floor to ceiling views of the west coast create a visual backdrop, but the true ‘coupe de resistance’ is the chance to dine beneath the stars. As the state-of-the-art retractable roof is pulled back, the night sky creates an atmosphere of romance and drama that is unmatched in the Caribbean.

sample menu Grilled Piri Piri Shrimp Served with avocado mousse, spicy pickled radishes & oven roasted cherry tomatoes Duck Liver Paté Crostinis & local cherry wine gel Homemade Pork Gyoza Scallions, ginger ponzu sauce Cocoa & Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin Crispy bacon & sweet potato hash, corn & yoghurt sauce Smoked Shrimp Pappardelle Handmade pasta & asparagus tossed in white wine cream & drizzled with sundried tomato pesto Panko Chicken Supreme Breaded with panko, filled with button mushrooms & cheddar cheese, served with butter wilted market vegetables Crazy Spicy Salmon Salmon, siracha, asparagus & cucumber

Dinner · Mon-Sat 6:3010:30pm (Open Sundays in high season only) Starters · BB$17-40 Mains · BB$60-115 Sushi/Sashimi · BB$22-90 Desserts · BB$18-38

244 RESTAURANTS

Dark Chocolate & Peanut Butter Rooftop Surprise Chocolate & peanut butter cremeux, chocolate mousse & chocolate soil Coconut Panna Cotta with Spiced Pineapple Roasted pineapple,coconut crumble & isomalt tuiles

“Authentically sophisticated cuisine with an epic choice of sushi and pan-Asian specialties. Fusion delivers on all fronts! Book early to avoid disappointment.”

Asian Spice Indian Restaurant Reservations

(246) 432-1321

asianspice@allseasonsresort.bb

www.allseasonsresort.bb Sunset Crest, St. James

Indian Restaurant

Airy dining room in a relaxed poolside setting. Indian chefs create dishes ranging from traditional Tandoori favourites and delectable kebabs that melt in your mouth, to rich, creamy Kormas and superb vegetarian selections, all invigorated with authentic spices to create a truly palate-pleasing dining experience. Take away available for lunch and dinner.

sample menu Chicken Tikka Cubes of boneless chicken marinated in yogurt, red chili paste Dhal Makhani Black gram lentil & kidney beans cooked overnight in a clay tandoor Chicken Tikka Masala Chicken Tikka in a creamy onion & tomato gravy. Lamb Vindaloo Boneless pieces of lamb cooked with potatoes, onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, vinegar and spices Chicken Madras Curry Chicken sautéed in onions, tomatoes & flavoured with an array of finely ground herbs and spices Goan Fish Curry Catch of the day blended with freshspices and coconut milk Kulfi Rich creamy homemade ice-cream, available in exotic flavours Gulab Jamun Delicious Indian version of donuts soaked in a roseflavoured sugar syrup

Lunch · From 11:30am Dinner · From 6pm Starters · BB$14-60 Mains · BB$22-59

“Their Kebabs are a healthy alternative, seasoned and flame kissed in their tandoor… worth the wait for the flavour!”

RESTAURANTS 245

Relish

Reservations

(246) 537-0077

alison@relishepicurea.com

• Relish Epicurea at Limegrove, Holetown, St. James • Refuel by Relish at Massy Supermarket, Holetown, St. James Relish’s menu is anchored on world flavours with lots of healthy options and an emphasis on cleverly created dishes using island inspired ingredients... it’s the kind of food that makes you say, “Wow, that was good!” The team of young, internationally trained chefs deliver unique, creative and unexpected flavours in every dish. Be sure to check out Capers, their new Fresh Organic Juice & Raw Food Bar and Chip Chop Street Food Eatery, a Fry & Grill Bar featuring local fish and BIG burgers in Limegrove’s Water Courtyard. Private Chef Dinners, Speciality Event Catering & Management Services also offered.

sample menu All Day Breakfast Flying Fish Benedicts Prosciutto Brioche & Soft Eggs Waffles with Crispy Chicken & Eggs Healthy Platters, Vegan & Gluten Free Choices Relish Taster Plates Crab Back & Crix Curry Ital & Chutney Ackee & Salt Fish Barbados Food & Rum Festival D’lish Dishes Beach Lime Coconut Ceviche Breadfruit Cou Cou Biscuits Flying Fish Tacos Minted Mahi Mahi Fresh Salads Crispy Snapper & Power Greens Rib Eye Steak & Tuscan Salad Toss Nicoise & Sweet Potato Sweet Potato & Kale Chef Hot Plates Seared Duck with Wild Berry Reduction Roasted Salmon with Cracked Pepper & Lemon Drizzle Rack of Lamb with Pesto Mon-Sat 9am-7pm (9am-5pm May-Nov) Sunday 9am-3pm Breakfast BB$6-45 Café Menu BB$18-75

246 RESTAURANTS

“Relish’s innovative Food & Rum Festival Menu introduces “RumTalk Food & Folklore Cocktails”... an Epicurious combo of Food & Rum presented by Epicureans!

La Cabane Reservations

(246) 256-2131

papajules@lacabanebarbados.com

www.lacabanebarbadoscom Batts Rock Beach, St. Michael

Jules and Clement, along with chef Ryan, have added a dash of authentic French ‘joie de vivre’ to the west coast with their casual-chic, St. Tropez style beach bar and restaurant, serving a Mediterranean-influenced menu of locally sourced fresh produce. Open from breakfast to dinner and offering a relaxed beach vibe that ranges from early morning yoga, to lunchtime swim, to crafted cocktails, excellent wine list, great music and dinner under the stars, La Cabane is an ideal chillaxing spot for friends and families alike.

sample menu Fish Ceviche Fish Brochette Mixed Leaves, Mango, Parmesan Pecan Nut Prosciutto, Rocket, Parmesan, Olive Oil Rocket, Parmesan, Tomato Mixed Leaves, Radish, Crasain, Carrot and Egg Half Free Range Chicken Hanging Tenderloin Whole Lobster Fish Fillet Hand Cut Potato Chips Jacket Potato Grilled Veg Banana Flambé Mixed Tropical Fruit

Toes in the sand, sipping a rum cocktail, Jules’ superb music – day or night – Bajan life doesn’t get much better than this.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner Starters · BB$26-30 Mains · BB$26-70 Desserts · BB$24-27

RESTAURANTS 247

Bajan Blue Reservations

(246) 444-2030

diningreservations@sandylane.com www.sandylane.com Sandy Lane Hotel, St. James

Sandy Lane’s informal restaurant offering all day dining. European, Caribbean & Asian influenced cuisine. Sunday Brunch is a must, as are the fantastic themed buffet evenings. Modern wine bar, sushi-station and state-of-the-art grill. Breathtaking waterside setting.

sample menu Weeping Tiger Salad New York striploin, crisp salad, chilli dressing Fritto Misto Crab Deep fried softshell crab, shaved fennel, lemon mayo Angus Beef Bourguignon Creamed potato, bacon and confit shallot Chocolate Mango Madagascar chocolate mousse, mango compote, caramelized arlette Marbled Blueberry Cheesecake Blueberry filling, vanilla ice cream * Menu items and prices are subject to change. Vegetarian and gluten free selections available.

Breakfast · 7-10:30am Lunch · 12:30-3pm Dinner · 7-10pm Starters · BB$41-98 Mains · BB$62-175

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“For a truly delightful experience, try Afternoon Tea on the Lower Terrace.”

L’Acajou

Reservations

(246) 444-2030

diningreservations@sandylane.com

www.sandylane.com Sandy Lane Hotel, St. James

Overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Sandy Lane’s signature restaurant. Specializes in light, gourmet cuisine. Impressive range of Old and New World wines. Stunning, open-air, beach-front restaurant.

sample menu Salad of Heirloom Beets Beet purée, walnuts, goat’s cheese fondue, heirloom tomatoes Crab and Avocado “Cannelloni” Lemon crème fraîche, marinated fennel, dehydrated grapefruit Pan Seared Lemongrass Marinated Tiger Prawns Bell pepper and sun dried tomato tabbouleh, cauliflower and turmeric mousseline, sautéed spring vegetables Roasted Local Free Range Chicken Fricassée of mushrooms and foie gras, asparagus spears, mushroom emulsion Herb Crusted Loin of Colorado Lamb Herb mustard crust, Provençal vegetables, fennel crumble, fondant potato, lamb jus Chocolate Soufflé Caramelized nuts, frangelico sauce, praline ice cream Poached Green Apple Meringue Mint cream, apple sauce, green apple sorbet * Menu items and prices are subject to change. Vegetarian menu and gluten free options available.

Dinner · 6:30-10pm Starters · BB$62-82 Mains · BB$144-220

“Set the tone for a wonderful evening by starting with canapés and cocktails in the L’Acajou Bar.”

RESTAURANTS 249

Daphne’s Reservations

(246) 432-2731

daphnes@eleganthotels.com www.daphnesbarbados.com Paynes Bay, St. James

One of the top restaurants in Barbados and sister restaurant to those of the Caprice Holdings Group, London: The Ivy, J. Sheekey, Le Caprice, Daphne’s, Scott’s, 34 and Sexy Fish. Elegant beachside location. Al Fresco and covered dining in a friendly atmosphere. Extensive wine list - Italian, Classical French & New World. Half price sunset cocktails on the waterfront deck and in the bar lounge from 5:00pm-7:00pm

sample menu Tuscan Green Pea & Asparagus Soup With red snapper, sautéed scallop, rosemary & garlic oil Marsala-marinated Duck Foie Gras Salami With raisins, walnuts, red onion & orange confits Linguini with Caribbean Lobster And fresh tomato, rocket, basil, chili Yellow Fin Tuna With garlic & chili sautéed spinach, sesame seed tuile, carrot & orange sauce, ginger confit Angus Beef Tenderloin With gratinated goat’s cheese, creamy truffle mash, spinach, red wine sauce The Daphne’s Mignon Milk chocolate-dipped cookie sandwich with white chocolate mousse, amaretto, crushed cocoa nibs Passionfruit-filled Pineapple Ravioli With exotic fruit salad, vanilla ice cream Open for lunch and dinner daily November-Apri Closed on Mondays and for lunch May-October Starters • BB$35-60 Mains • BB$65-140 Desserts • BB$25-35

250 RESTAURANTS

“True Italian home-made pasta and fresh, locally-sourced fish are the added features of this idyllic romantic setting.”

Tapestry Restaurant Reservations

(246) 419-4200

tapestry@eleganthotels.com

www.eleganthotels.com Treasure Beach Hotel, Paynes Bay, St. James

A wonderful new dining experience in the heart of the west coast, Tapestry Restaurant features the cooking of the young and dynamic prize winning chef, Javon Cummins. The stylish renovations include a lovely private dining “wine cellar”. Feature nights include Around the World Tapas with live entertainment by Two Guitars every Thursday night, BBQ and Buffet with live steelpan on Wednesday night, Chef’s Palette with live band on Tuesday night and a popular Sunday Lunch with live jazz. Experience the appeal of Tapestry Restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Chef Javon is well known for creating his own snazzy spin on tasty local specialties like his Chilled Sous Vide Pork, a modern interpretation of classic Bajan Pudding and Souse.

sample menu Yellow Fin Tartare Pomegranate seeds, smoked radish, chili pepper, coriander, sesame, chive, soy sauce, lemon avocado cream Chilled Sous Vide Pork Beetroot sweet potato pudding, pickled gelée, mango scotch bonnet gel, parsley foam Smoked Duck with sautéed greens, pickled carrots, corn Purée, Bajan sorrel and syrah reduction Tapestry Seafood Stew Aromatic tomato bisque, shrimp, clams, mussels, fish, crab claws & garlic crostini Herb Crusted Lamb Loin Parmesan risotto, spiced carrot purée, sautéed bok choy, rosemary reduction Deconstructed Tiramisu Mascarpone ice cream, espresso gel, espresso sponge, toasted coco nibs, brandy shot Yuzu Lemon Tart Meringue and lemon caviar and raspberry gel

“Embark on a culinary journey at Tapestry Restaurant!”

Breakfast (Daily) • 7:30-10am Lunch (Mon-Sat) • 12:30-2:30pm Sunday Lunch • 12:30-2:30pm Dinner (Nightly) • 7-9:30pm Bar • 11 am-midnight Starters • BB$26-36 Mains • BB$52-93 Desserts • BB$25-31

RESTAURANTS 251

The Cliff Beach Club Reservations

(246) 432-0797

reservations@thecliffbeachclub.com www.thecliffbeachclub.com Derricks, St. James

Located next door to its world renowned sister restaurant, The Cliff, the new Cliff Beach Club offers an exciting alternative for anybody who wants to enjoy an eclectic menu of top class food in a chic but relaxed environment. With an open plan design that maximizes the wonderful oceanside setting, this is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner, or simply to enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the island’s best ‘bar with a view’.

sample menu Deep Fried Camembert Crispy Parma ham, poached pears, walnuts, organic leaves Octopus Carpaccio Shallot vinegar, fresh herbs, citrus dressing, passionfruit pearls Burrata Mozzarella Parma ham, tomato carpaccio, aged parmesan, pine nuts, green pesto, basil oil Beach Club Burger Garlic mayonnaise, bacon, onions, lettuce, tomato, cheddar, cornichons, french fries Slow Cooked Short Rib Crushed new potatoes, grilled asparagus, sweet molasses jus Grilled Market Fish Venere wild black rice, sauce vierge, beurre blanc sauce, pistachio oil Spicy Lobster Risotto Aged parmesan, tomato, scotch bonnet pepper, lemon oil, white wine Dark Chocolate Lava Cake Mount Gay Rum and Fruit Cake Cherry & Almond French Tart Lunch · Tue-Sun 12-2:30pm Dinner · Tue-Sat 6:30-9pm Starters · BB$25-60 Mains · BB$55-105

252 RESTAURANTS

“Superb for sunset cocktails. You can easily come by boat! Live band at Sunday lunch

The Cliff Beach Club

The Cliff Reservations

(246) 432-1922

info@thecliffbarbados.com www.thecliffbarbados.com Derricks, St. James

The Cliff is the first choice of many people for any special celebration. The cliff top oceanfront setting is truly magical but it is the food which makes The Cliff so special. Chef Paul Owens and his team remain committed to improving upon their performance and use only the finest fresh ingredients. Excellent waiters and knowledgeable wine stewards. Available for private functions.

sample menu Warm Alaskan King Crab Leg Saffron~caper sauce, wilted baby spinach, tomato~basil coulis Scallops Indian spiced tomato fondue, madras curry mayonnaise, coriander vinaigrette Foie Gras & Chicken Liver Parfait Apple & raisin chutney, port glaze Lightly Smoked Pan Seared Salmon Fillet Lemon risotto, horseradish cream, sugar snap peas Grilled Red Snapper Lemon cream sauce, grilled new potatoes, spinach, heritage carrots Mignon of Veal Tenderloin Pickled savoy cabbage, tarragon cream sauce, truffle parmesan fries Melting Mercury White chocolate sphere, vanilla ice cream, raspberries, pistachio crunch, hot raspberry sauce Mille~Feuille Layers of crispy filo pastry, fresh strawberries & raspberries, crème brulee custard, vanilla & raspberry sauce The Cliff Rum Baba Dinner · Mon-Sat 6:30-9pm Set price menu. Please call for current pricing.

254 RESTAURANTS

“With the spectacular view and setting, The Cliff is a superb place to drop in for cocktails.”

The Cliff Restaurant

Cin Cin

Reservations

(246) 629-4557

dine@cincinbarbados.com www.cincinbythesea.com Prospect, St. James

As the name suggests, Cin Cin (pronounced Chin Chin) is chic and stylish! This fashionable and swanky spot has paved the way for contemporary island elegance married with innovative cuisine. Cin Cin proffers creative Mediterranean style dishes with a Caribbean twist, using the freshest of ingredients. Their distinctive style and standard of “no compromise on quality” has garnered Cin Cin a loyal following. With its exquisite décor and refined ambiance, Cin Cin is perfect for ‘al fresco’ waterside dining on the terrace under the stars, while the airconditioned interior provides a cool sanctuary, with sweeping uninterrupted views of the ocean. The trendy bar lounge area is ideal for sipping cocktails or simply enjoying a light bite served by friendly, knowledgeable and efficient staff.

sample menu Oxtail & Porcini Risotto With seared bay scallop & white truffle oil Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes With a spiced remoulade sauce & pickled mango Beef Carpaccio With tomato caper salsa, rocket leaves, olive oil, & shaved parmesan Caribbean Bouillabaisse Aromatic tomato fish broth with lobster, shrimp, mussels, seasonal fish, okra & aioli toast Spice Seared Yellow Fin Tuna (rare) Grilled Mediterranean vegetables, lemon caper brown butter & soft polenta Braised Short Rib On a roasted garlic, leek & potato purée with spinach, caramelized onions & sticky jus Executive Chef Larry Rogers and Head Chef Jeremy Decle

Lunch (Mon-Fri) · 11:30am-3pm Dinner (Nightly) · 6-11pm Starters · BB$32-45 Mains · BB$60-125 Desserts · BB$29-38

256 RESTAURANTS

Chocolate Fondant With coffee créme anglaise and vanilla ice cream Bread & Butter Pudding With caramelized banana toffee rum sauce

“A cool hot spot not to be missed! On Friday evenings live music adds a chilled and relaxed vibe to the trendy bar and lounge.”

Cin Cin by The Sea

Lobster Alive & All that Jazz Reservations recommended

(246) 435-0305

reservations@lobsteralive.net www.lobsteralive.net On the beach in Carlisle Bay, close to Bridgetown

On the beach in Carlisle Bay close to Bridgetown, this popular ‘shabby chic’ restaurant is THE place to eat lobster. Owner/ manager Art Taylor pilots his own aircraft to the Grenadines to fly in live lobsters to stock the restaurant’s large tank. Enjoy Trotty’s jazz steel pan at lunchtime or go for nostalgic jazz standards with quality jazz groups most nights and Sunday Lunch. Good wine list. Wheel chair and Kids Friendly. Great restaurant to reach by boat. Beach umbrellas and facilities. Enquire about “Takeaways” - live or cooked.

sample menu Art’s Sea Soups Lobster bisque Conch & callaloo chowder Lobster live from the tank - pick your own Parboiled in fresh sea water 1 1/4 lbs to 2 1/2lbs Finished on the Barbeque with Garlic Butter, Lobster Thermidor, Lobster Salad, Lobster Pasta Minor variations at your request 5-8lb big lobster - central platter for 3 or more Good economy for the adventurers - crab pickers know! Daily Down Island Special 10oz US Rib Eye Steak Bridgetown Fish Market Daily Catch Garden or Greek Salads Rum Cake Brownies & Ice-Cream Open everyday (Closed Sunday & Monday nights) Lunch · 12-4pm Dinner · 6-9pm Reduced jazz sessions & openings in summer

258 RESTAURANTS

“Freshest lobster, in a beachfront setting with live jazz!”

Tapas

Reservations

(246) 228-0704

info@tapasbarbados.com

www.tapasbarbados.com Hastings Main Road, Hastings, Christ Church A trendy restaurant, beautifully positioned along the south coast boardwalk with exceptional service and delicious cuisine. Tapas offers a wide variety of tapas dishes as well as an a la carte menu. Tapas is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Come and enjoy the casual, bubbly atmosphere at the bar just a few feet from the water’s edge.

sample menu Tuna Tartare Raw tuna with lemon zest and grapefruit citronette Duck Ravioli Parcel of pulled duck in parmesan crust & truffle essence Jumbo Shrimp With seafood risotto and tomato bisque Grilled Seafood Catch of the day, jumbo shrimp, mussels and cuttlefish on mix leaves New Zealand Rack of Lamb With pesto crushed new potatoes, sweet pepper salad & charred red pepper emulsion Pork Chop Rosemary crusted with roasted potatoes and grilled vegetables Chocolate Lava Cake With whisky sauce and vanilla ice cream Tiramisu Mascarpone cream nestled with coffee lady finger biscuit

“Seating anywhere is lovely but reserve early if you wish a waterside table.”

Open everyday: Lunch · 11:30am-3pm Dinner · 6-10:30pm Tapas all Day. Starters · BB$14-28 Mains · BB$40-90 Wine · BB$13-18

RESTAURANTS 259

Restaurants at Sweetfield Manor Boutique Hotel Reservations

(246) 428-8356

hello@sweetfieldmanor.com

www.sweetfieldmanor.com Sweetfield Manor, Brittons Hill, St. Michael Looking for something distinctly different? Perched on the Southern ridge of the island, with spectacular views of both the UNESCO Historic Garrison Savannah and the entire South Coast lies a veritable oasis, Sweetfield Manor Boutique Hotel, ranked #5 by The Times UK among the Top 30 Cool Caribbean Destinations. Home to the largest free-range peacock pride in the Eastern Caribbean, guests can enjoy the splendid Bistro lunch menu within the historic Manor or in the lush tropical outdoors. At night, Pavao comes alive! This experience features a fusion of Caribbean and International cuisines expertly delivered by award-winning Head Chef Trevon Stoute. If you have a sweettooth, the extensive dessert menu promises to captivate your taste buds.

sample menu for Pavao Cured Kingfish Carpaccio Pomegranate vinaigrette, sweet pickled beets & orange segments Indonesian Mango & Coconut Salad Quinoa, freshly grated coconut, citrus, mango & bean sprouts Warm Thai Beef Salad Rice noodles, rice wine vinegar & sake reduction “Seacat” Linguine In arrabiata sauce, lemon juice, tomatoes & chopped basil Rosemary & Ginger Wet Aged Pork Chop Port jus, apple & raisin chutney, textures of sweet potato Red Veg Thai Curry Coriander basmati rice, poppadum Deep Fried Chocolate Truffles Coconut, passion fruit crème anglaise Apple Tart Trifle Granola crumble, spiced mauby cream, sweet potato shortcrust Pistachio and Mint Cheese Cake Citrus marshmallow whip, oreo crust, mojito shot Pavao · Dinner TuesdaySunday 6:30-9:30pm Bistro · Lunch Tuesday to Friday 11:30am-3pm; Sundays 11am-2:30pm.

260 RESTAURANTS

“Discover the difference! With flavour at its finest and service at its best, experience why the new Pavao Courtyard Restaurant is the place to dine in Barbados, your table awaits…”

Pavao

Champers Reservations

(246) 434-3463 or 435-6644 champers@champersinc.com

www.champersbarbados.com Skeete’s Hill, Rockley, Christ Church Champers’ solid reputation for consistently good food and value for money has made it one of the leading restaurants on the South Coast. Set away from the main road, right at the water’s edge, this elegant cliff-top eatery ‘bubbles’ with atmosphere and has well earned its fiercely loyal clientele of locals and visitors. Champers is owner-run by much admired restaurateur Chiryl Newman, who ensures the highest quality, locally grown produce and Barbados-caught fish and seafood are served. The restaurant boasts a dedicated gallery of original Caribbean art and several perfect options for weddings and corporate functions.

sample menu Camembert Baked in puff pastry with spiced apples Crab Crepe Aux gratin Lobster Risotto Fresh parmesan, truffle oil & micro greens Oven Roasted Lion Fish Green banana mash, yellow Thai & coriander cream Roasted Duck Leg Set on a nest of oriental salad, complimented by sweet pepper confetti & a teriyaki glaze Parmesan Crusted Barracuda Served with mash, seasonal vegetables, wholegrain mustard sauce Champers Coconut Pie Served with coconut ice-cream Double Chocolate Brownie (Gluten Free) With pecans served with vanilla cream sauce & ice-cream Lunch (Sunday to Friday) · 11:30am-3pm Dinner (7 days a week) · 6-9:30pm Starters · BB$20-40 Mains · BB$55-99

262 RESTAURANTS

“Champers spectacular seaside location makes it perfect for sunset drinks and an early dinner.”

Champers

Primo

Reservations

(246) 573-7777

dine@primobarbados.com

www.primobarandbistro.com St. Lawrence Gap, Worthing, Christ Church Idyllically located on the edge of St. Lawrence Bay, Primo offers rustic sophistication with stunning views. This younger, more informal sister restaurant to the highly successful Cin Cin by the Sea has quickly started a buzz on the south coast food scene. An eclectic menu with a subtle West Indian influence, including an extensive selection of seafood, meat and pasta dishes that accentuate freshness and flavour. The open-plan bar with new Pizza Kitchen, located just off the boardwalk, is an ideal spot for more casual dining or just a light bite, sipping on Primo’s signature sundowner cocktails. Eat, drink and relax in a unique ocean chic setting, Primo is where West Coast style meets South Coast charm.

sample menu Primo Steamed Buns Pork, shrimp, beef or portobello Pickled Octopus & Breadfruit With soused cucumber & tomato chili fondue Mussels Marinere Simply steamed in white wine, garlic & lemon parsley butter Jerk Pork Tenderloin Served with scorched onions, fried plantain, Seasonal vegetables & sweet potato mash Sesame Seared Yellowfin Tuna Served “rare”, with green curry coconut milk sauce, sticky rice, wilted greens & mango, tomato salsa Spicy Primo Jambalaya With seasonal vegetables, shrimp, chicken & pork

Dinner (Daily) · from 6pm Starters · BB$23-54 Mains · BB$27-115 Desserts · BB$22-30 Dress code in effect

264 RESTAURANTS

Death by Chocolate Flourless chocolate cake, tower of chocolate mousse, triple chocolate ice cream & a chocolate meringue

“A great team and wonderful location have earned Primo well deserved popularity.”

Primo Bar & Bistro

Café Sol

Reservations

(246) 420-7655

info@cafesolbarbados.com

www.cafesolbarbados.com St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church The island’s original Mexican restaurant. Menu boasts a wide variety of Mexican favourites, from Cheese Nachos to Sirloin Steak and Shrimp fajitas. A “Gringo” menu features non-Mexican fare such as Striploin Steaks, Mojito Chicken, Buffalo Wings and much more. Margaritas are a specialty with 15 fruity flavours on offer! Enjoy 2 happy hours nightly: 5-7pm & 10-12pm.

sample menu Cheese Nachos Crisp tortilla chips topped with zesty 3-cheese sauce & spicy salsa Mini Taquitos 2 corn tortillas wrapped tight around your choice of chicken or beef filling, deep fried and served with sour cream and guacámole Flat-Iron Fajita Sizzlers Sizzlin’ steak, shrimp or chicken fajitas, flour tortillas & all the fixings Fish Tacos Locally caught catch of the day either grilled or beer battered, served in soft flour tortilla topped with fresh pico de gallo and a creamy, spicy Mexi-slaw Mojito Chicken Juicy, boneless chicken breast marinated in our special Mojito seasoning, grilled & finished with a Cockspur Rum glaze Chimichanga Large flour tortilla wrapped tight around your choice of marinated chicken or pork carnitas with a rice, bean & olive filling, then deep fried and topped with a piquant avocado mix, sour cream & cheese, served with Spanish rice and refried beans Dinner • 7 nights a week Lunch • Tues-Sun from 11:30am BB$ Starters • 14-18 Mains • 30-44 Desserts • 10-16

266 RESTAURANTS

“A lively, fun spot located at the entrance to St. Lawrence Gap with a fabulous ocean view. Great starting point for a fun night out in The Gap!”

The Dive Reservations

(246) 622-2025

www.thedivebarbados.com St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church

The newest addition to St. Lawrence Gap brings a rum shop vibe to the waterfront. Serving IslandStyle food with a huge seafood selection in a barely-presentable shabby shack overlooking St. Lawrence Bay, this is where you can really get in touch with your “inner island self”. Reggae, calypso, rum by the 1/2 bottle and a huge cocktail list specializing in Caribbean Coladas and Daiquiris; this may be the most unforgettable place you’ll visit in Barbados! The Dive – for a memorable night you may never remember!!!

sample menu PUT YOUR TOE IN THE WATER Sweet ‘n’ Spicy Plantain Chips with Sour Cream & Chive Dip Crispy Sticky Wings tossed in Spicy Rum BBQ Sauce Coconut-crusted Calamari with Pineapple & Bajan Pepper Sauce Coulis Mini Chicken or Beef Roti with Seasonal Fruit Chutney DIVE IN Grilled or Blackened Catch of the Day with Coconut Rice ‘n’ Peas, lemon & parsley butter sauce Pan-Fried Flying Fish with garlic & sea-salted breadfruit chips Capt’n Crunch Chicken Thighs with Bajan Mac ‘n’ Cheese skillet DRINK UP The Dive Lava Flow White rum, coconut rum, strawberries, banana and coconut cream, blended until yummy Mosquito Bite Absolute Lemon, homemade lemonade, Sprite and Fruit Punch Juice, shaken and served in a frosty mug

“Visit the local sea life hanging out in their giant saltwater tanks, the biggest public tanks on the island. Check out the Lion-Fish tank, they don’t bite... often!”

Dinner Nightly 5pm - 11pm Starters from BB$14 Mains from BB$30 Cocktails from BB$12 Bar open until the last person rolls out!

RESTAURANTS 267

Carib Beach Bar Reservations

(246) 571-4694

caribbeachbar@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/CaribBeachBar Sandy Beach, Worthing, Christ Church At last! The south coast once again has a proper Beach Bar & Restaurant on a beautiful beach with good swimming. Rory Rodger and Jason Hyndman, the same dynamic duo that successfully ran Lone Star Restaurant for 14-years, put Mullins Beach Bar back on the map and built and opened Little Bristol Beach Bar in Speightstown, have now restored Carib Beach Bar at Worthing to all the former glory of its heyday in the 70’s and 80’s. It’s an ideal place for families or friends to spend the day, pop in for a drink, have lunch and dinner, or enjoy a few cocktails listening to great music. The Menu features a good selection of freshly cooked beach bar classics, including local seafood, popular Bajan dishes and the famous Carib Fish Chowder. With daily Happy Hours, Live Music on Friday and Sunday evenings, and big-screen TVs showing Premier League football and other sports, the Carib can offer something for everybody.

sample menu Carib Fish Chowder Fried Calamari Shrimp & Mango Salad Seafood Linguine Bajan Plate With fried fish, macaroni pie, plantain, coleslaw, rice & peas Fish Tacos (Soft Shell) With salsa verde

Open 7 days a week from 10am. Kitchen from 12pm. Last orders at 9pm. Happy Hour Mon-Fri 5-7pm. Live Band every Sunday 6-9pm. Starters · BB$12-22 Mains · BB$26-44 Desserts · BB$22

268 RESTAURANTS

Chocolate Brownie With coconut ice-cream Apple Crumble With coconut ice-cream Vanilla Cheesecake With cherry topping

“Great food, great fun and right on the beach! Live music on Fridays and Sundays.”

Cocktail Kitchen Reservations

(246) 622-3017

info@ckbarbados.com

www.ckbarbados.com St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church

Where food is full of flava’ and the rum is always sweeta’

Cocktail Kitchen combines two of our favourite things in Barbados: Food and Rum! As they say... “there ain’t no food with more flava’ and no rum sweeta’!” Put the two together and you get the ultimate casual dining experience, with a unique, modern Cocktail Kitchen twist, of course. Watch the night bubble away from the heights of Cocktail Kitchen’s al fresco rooftop deck, whilst sipping on one of their freshly made cocktail concoctions. Enjoy the buzz of CK with people from all parts of the world - tourists and locals alike. It’s everything we love: people, food and of course, cocktails! .

sample menu

Thai Seafood Cakes Pieces of fish, crab, and sweet potato slowly cooked with green Thai curry, crusted in Panko and fried, with mango/coriander mayo BBQ Pigtails Flame grilled pig tail tossed in our CK BBQ sauce with yellow split pea puree, and pickled beets Pina Colada Catch Pan seared catch crusted with coconut, pineapple and coriander, accompanied with scotch bonnet & ginger scented sweet potato purée, vanilla braised plantain purée, coriander emulsion, pickled pineapple and beets Parmesan Catch Baked in herbed parmesan crust, garlic potato purée, pesto cream and tomato salsa CK Burger Homemade beef burger, mozzarella, bacon, tomato salsa, balsamic onion compote, crispy onion rings and fries

Cocktails Coconut Mojito Malibu Original, fresh lime juice, fresh mint, homemade sugar syrup, fresh lime juice, fresh mint, homemade sugar syrup, topped with soda water Mango Chow Scotch bonnet infused vodka, mango purée, fresh lime wedges, brown sugar

“A trendy addition to The Gap with a casual, bubbly atmosphere. Great cocktails and an award winning chef!”

Monday - Sunday 5pm-12:30am Happy Hour · 5-7pm & 10-11pm Starters · BB$12-20 Mains · BB$36-72 Signature Cocktails · BB$14-24

RESTAURANTS 269

The Garden Terrace Reservations

(246) 428-7171

info@southernpalms.net

www.southernpalms.net St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church Located in the heart of St. Lawrence Gap, on one of the best south coast beaches. Enjoy a delicious lunch by the sea sipping cocktails in their newly renovated bar. This is a wonderful place to dine with live entertainment for dancing. Monday night is Caribbean Buffet with entertainment by the Redmen. Thursday night is a Steelband, Saturday night is English Pub Night in the bar with a live band & Sunday lunch is Steelband 12pm - 3pm. All day menu including starters, salads, sandwiches, pastas and grilled or pan fried selections.

sample menu Quenelles of Lobster Garden beetroot & mesclun salad with bell pepper sauce Pan Roasted Duck Breast Vegetable risotto. Orange sauce Roasted Rack Of Lamb Garlic mustard mash, grilled zucchini in a port wine sauce Pan Seared Dorado On cajun mash yam. Dijon mustard sauce Flambé Bananas With rum & raisin ice cream Rich Chocolate Gateau Served with fresh cream

Breakfast · 7:30-10:30am | Lunch · Noon-3pm Sunday Lunch Buffet · 12:30pm-3pm A La Carte Menu · 11am-10pm Dinner & Buffet · 6:30-10pm Starters · BB$16-35 Mains · BB$55-70

270 RESTAURANTS

“Live steelband and a delicious Sunday buffet lunch!”

Ocean Two Resort and Residences Reservations

(246) 418-1800

guestinfo@oceantwobarbados.com

www.oceantwobarbados.com Dover Rd., St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church This welcoming hotel located on the beach in St. Lawrence Gap has the perfect spot for casual ocean side dining. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or one of their themed nights - it’s a luxury setting that won’t break the bank. Daily Breakfast: It’s what you would expect from a four plus hotel. Full buffet with hot and cold stations including a live omelette station. Daily Lunch: Great for salads, burgers, wraps or some fresh local grilled fish with a great view of the ocean.. what more could you want? Friday - Breadfruit Bowl: Experience a truly authentic Barbadian delicacy while relaxing on Ocean Two’s beachfront. Roasted home grown breadfruit with your choice of fillings and trimmings. Nothing can beat this al fresco Friday night “Bajan Lime”. Saturday - Beach Barbeque: Dine under stars on the beach with a live band. Delicious BBQ steak, chicken & fish served with a lovely buffet. Vegetarian options available. Sunday - Live Music Night: A great evening to enjoy a simple but tasty, farm to table menu and listen to light jazz and other contemporary sounds from top musicians. Monday - Tapas: A small plate concept - order a little bit of everything for you, or share with friends. You can upsize any option for a small supplement. Tuesday - Rotis N’ Wraps: True Caribbean flavours are infused into all the options. Deliciously made with fresh spices and great options for vegetarians. Wednesday - Ribs & Wings: Everyone’s favourite! With so many sizes, sauces and sides to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. Thursday - Pasta & Pizza: A live pasta station and freshly made artisan pizzas are sure to please the palate of the young and young at heart.

Breakfast 7.30 - 10.00 am Lunch 12.30 - 3.00 pm Dinner 6.00 - 9.30 pm Prices range from BB$15 - BB$60 BEACH BBQ BB$79 - BB$99

“This is a great place for relaxed dining while listening to laid back jazz on Sunday evening!”

HAPPY HOURS - Three times daily!

RESTAURANTS 271

30 AT-A-GLANCE

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