Explore Our Isle Barbados

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BRIDGETOWN - #32 Broad Street, Tel. (246) 429-7072 WEST COAST - The Promenade Shops at The Beach House, Holetown, St. James, Tel. (246) 432-7342

Credits Publisher - Vivian-Anne Gittens (246) 430-5425 EDITORIAL Publication Editor – Valerie Hope Lead Writer – Alicia Griffith Project Lead Designer – Ashif Nakhuda Graphic Design – Imageworx Contributing Writers: Alicia Griffith, Cheryl Harewood, Valerie Hope, Coretta Joe, Damian Pinder, Luigi Marshall Contributing Photographers: Jennifer Allen, Amery Butcher, Rawle Culbard, Alicia Griffith, Basil Griffith, Marcille Haynes, Insight Digital, Charleston Selman Cover Photo – Lucy Agace ADVERTISING Advertising Manager –Paulette Jones (246) 430-5412 Sales Executive – Alison Licorish (246) 430-5552/ (246) 234-5378 DISTRIBUTION Circulation Manager – Edmund Holder (246) 430-5500 Circulation Executive – Goldburn Weekes (246) 430-5501 MARKETING Marketing Manager – Valerie Hope PRINTERS Printweb Caribbean Ltd (246) 434-6719/ (246) 467-2895/ (246) 434-6713 Explore Our Isle Barbados is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of The Nation Corporation, which is a member of the One Caribbean Media (OCM) group of companies.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate. However, the Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions.

This publication cannot be copied in whole or in part without explicit permission from the publisher.

CONTACT US To share vacation pictures or moments send an email to exploreourisle@nationnews.com ©2011 Nation Publishing Co. Limited

Amery Butcher

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Contents Calendar of Events Culture Local Treasures Bajan Talk Sweet Fuh Days! The Local Sugar Industry Know Barbados

Shopping Shopping Hubs/Duty Free Local Art Makes The Perfect Gift

Real Estate Behind The Scenes

Cuisine Recipes Fine Dining by The Waterside Something Sweet

Activities Surf’s Up Tee Time Cat Cruising Beach Adventures Deep Sea Fishing Explore Hockey Hiking Our Gullies Top Beaches In Barbados Weddings In Barbados Take A Tour After Dark

Tips & Tidbits Island Directory he Barbados Experience

8 10 12 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 60 62 64 66 68 72

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Welcome

T

oo good to be true?” - a popular saying that we are all too familiar with. It is quite easy to believe it…that is, until you’ve been to Barbados.

Beautiful beaches, friendly people, rich culture, scrumptious cuisine, serene landscapes, one-of-a-kind entertainment, this list goes on and on. The size of our small island may fool you. Despite our size quite a bit can be found on our shores.

There is an almost inexhaustible list of places to go, things to do, foods to try, memories to be made, and experiences to have that will last a lifetime.

Explore Our Isle Barbados is a visitor’s handy guidebook to the best places to go, and things to do to be fully enveloped into the culture of our beautiful little island.

Whether it is your first time or you are a repeat visitor, there is something for you. Flip through the pages of this booklet for advice on some of the best beaches, restaurants, sites, and activities to visit and partake in.

The Calendar of Events on page 8 covers some of the more major events that will be happening during the time of this issue.

It is definitely a good place to start when planning your itinerary. Be sure to look through “Culture” for some of the mustsee places of interests, whose histories have been beyond influential. Included in “Activities”, is a taste of some daytime doings, like sailing along the luxurious West Coast on a catamaran, swimming in crystalclear water with turtles, a round of golf on one of our prestigious championship courses, or a tour of the rugged country while strapped in on the back of a 4x4! Turn to page 62 for even more exciting things to do! Shopping and food are most definitely

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considered activities in their own right and we take them both very seriously. Turn to pages 22 and 32 espectively for local and international options that are sure to make you say “wow!” When the sun sets, the island comes even more alive. So as much as we want to partake in the many daytime activities, it would be a real shame for you to tire yourself out and miss out on the after-dark fun!

Barbados has much to offer, and admittedly there is the chance of suffering from what we call the “too much choice” dilemma”. Let Explore Our Isle Barbados be your guide to a fantastic holiday!

Regardless of who you are, where you are from, or what exactly brought you to Barbados, I want to personally welcome you to our little home and implore you to fully submerse yourself in its big culture.

Alicia Griffith Lead Writer

Culture

My Barbados

My Barbados - Michelle Haynes

I

have lived and worked abroad, but nothing beats being able to call Barbados my home.

When I awake each day, I am pleased to experience the warmth of the sun and sounds of the birds. Even if the sun fails to shine first thing in the morning, you can always bet your bottom dollar that it will peep out from behind the clouds sometime during the course of the day.

I consider myself to be friendly, and you’ll discover for yourself that Barbadians are generally friendly and helpful. Our friendliness makes people want to return again and again to my beautiful island. I like that! The fact that we are great hosts serves us well, since we depend on the Tourism Industry to bring in much needed foreign exchange.

Working in the industry allows me to meet and greet many visitors, and I enjoy that immensely. Any time that I can tell a story of my country, and encourage visitors to return, I know I have done my part for the day.

Barbados has much to offer. While I grew up in St. Michael, I now live in St. Philip.

Being able to enjoy both city and country life is a wonderful experience. As you drive around my island you’ll discover this for yourself. The lush, green freshness of the country makes it paradise over and over again.

By the time you get to read this publication, our national festival, Crop Over would be almost over. I hope you had a chance to experience it, if not, come back next year in July to get the full experience.

There are many parties, days of fun, frolic and eating. Men, women and children don brightly-coloured costumes and parade on the streets during Kadooment Day – celebrated this year on August 6. It’s always fun!

Rum shops are aplenty in my Barbados, and are ideal places to hear stories, engage in conversations about the island, enjoy a game of dominoes, or chat about cricket – our national sport.

Barbados is home, and will always be home for me. Thank you for making it your vacation home. Enjoy all we have to offer.

- Michelle Haynes works in the House-keeping Department of Accra Beach Resort, and simply loves being a Bajan. She is a wife, mother of two, end enjoys her work in the tourism industry. What’s more, she loves to extend a warm greeting to all visitors to our shores.

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Calendar Of Events

AUGUST

Every Saturday & Sunday – Barbados Cricket Association 1st Division Cricket

August 1st to August 11th – Barbados Museum Exhibition – A Century of Electricity in Barbados

Every Friday – Oistins Fish Fry; Contact Band “Pork Limes”, Wildey

August 1st to 15th - Barbados Museum Exhibition – Crop Over through the centuries

Every Saturday – Barbados Hash House Harriers Weekly Run Every Thursday – Black Pearl, Jolly Roger, Taste of the Caribbean Sunset Cruise

Every Sunday

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 8

Barbados National Trust Hikes

August 7th – Hike Barbados – Carrington’s old Sugar Factory August 21–27 –Banks International Hockey Festival 2011

Every Thursday Black Pearl Jolly Roger Taste of the Caribbean Sunset Cruise

Every Monday Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show at Harbour Lights Every Wednesday

Plantation Garden Theatre Roots and Rhythms.

Caribbean Buffet and Floor Show at Lanterns Bougainvillea Beach Resort Every Friday

Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show at Harbour Lights

Every Saturday & Sunday – Barbados Cricket Association 1st Division Cricket

Plantation Garden Theatre Roots and Rhythms

Sun, 02 – Motoring Club Barbados Inc - Speed Event No 5 Wed, 05 – Sagicor Twenty/20 Cricket

Every Friday – Oistins Fish Fry; Contact Band “Pork Limes”, Wildey

Thurs, 06 –Sagicor Twenty/20 Cricket

Every Saturday – Barbados Hash House Harriers Weekly Run

Sat, 08 –

National Surfing Championships

Every Thursday – Black Pearl, Jolly Roger, Taste of the Caribbean Sunset Cruise

Sun, 09 –

National Dinghy Championships

Mon, 01 – Crop Over Festival: Grand Kadooment Fri, 05 –

Rihanna in concert in Barbados – Loud

Sat, 13

Banks August Medal Tournament, Barbados Golf Club

Sat, 14 –

Hike Barbados – Moonlight Hike, Heywoods, St. Peter

Sun, 04 – Sagicor Cup Cricket 50 overs – Final Barbados Optimist Dinghy Association End of Summer Regatta Sat, 10 –11 Surfer of the Year (SOTY) Competition Sun, 11 –

BRC Mud Dogs September Safari Championship

Sun, 11 &25 National Dinghy Championships

Sat, 27 – Live Jazz / Blues Lime at Eco Country Escape Organist Sean Jackson in Concert, Frank Collymore Hall Sun, 28 – Barbados Auto Racing League - Track International Race Meet” Sun 28 – Miss Barbados World Pageant

Mon 12 –

September 18th - Hike Barbados – Wildey House, National Trust HQ Sat, 24 –

Live Jazz / Blues Lime at Eco Country Escape

Sat 24–30 Barbados Golf Club Week of Activities

Hike Barbados Oistins’ Car Park

Fri, 28 –

2011 Caribbean Rum and Beer Festival

National Surfing Championships

Sat, 29 –

Live Jazz / Blues Lime at Eco Country Escape Twenty/20 Cricket 2011 Caribbean Rum and Beer Festival

Wed, 12 – Sagicor Twenty/20 Cricket Sat, 15 –

David King Memorial InterClub Badminton Tournament

Barbados Association of Dragsters and Drifters Event 4

Sun, 23 – National Dinghy Championships

Format: Date, Event, Location

Sun, 30 – Sagicor Twenty/20 Cricket Mon 31 –

Barbados Darts Festival

9

Jennifer Allen

Culture

Culture

Jennifer Allen

A Bajan Ting

Colourful hand-made souvenirs

O

ur history gives way to many stories to be told. Be it through art, music, food or dialect, our way of life is a product of our unique past. Bajan culture has been meticulously developed over the centuries, as different people who have lived or visited these shores at some point in our history have left their imprint in some way or form.

Amerindians are believed to be the first indigenous people. In the 1400’s, the Portuguese arrived and gave the island the name “Los Barbados”. This translates to “the bearded one” which is thought to be a homage to the bearded fig trees that cluttered the island. The British arrived

in the 1600’s, claimed it as a colony and brought slaves from Africa to support the sugar cane plantations. Indians arrived as indentured servants, and like the others, brought their culture with them.

When Independence came peacefully in 1966, it commemorated the official beginning of a new culture; Bajan. A unity was formed, blending the separate cultures seamlessly into one.

A visit to our museums, galleries, or even our infamous rum shops can expose you to a level of our culture that we could never describe in these pages. The only way to know it is to experience it yourself!

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Culture

Cove Bay

Cove Bay Hard to find but, once you do, Cove Bay offers you a breathtaking view of the northern and eastern coastline of Barbados. Located on the north-east side of the island in the parish of St. Lucy, the trek to get there involves skillfully manoeuvring through a field dotted with cows, black belly sheep and other animals. No worries, once you arrive prepared to be amazed by this natural sanctuary which provides the perfect spot to take in the dramatic peaks of Pico Tenerife, which is over 240 feet high.

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Feel free to bask in the lush, natural surroundings as you watch the magnificent view from hundreds of feet down as tides crash against the cliffs. Choose a spot under one of the swaying coconut trees and let the postcard-picture environment inspire you to paint a picture, write a poem, or best of all, relax and enjoy the scenery that is second to none.

Cove Bay is a delightful getaway. There’s nothing quite like the serenity that comes with exploring and enjoying undisturbed beauty, so get ready to be awed.

Alicia Griffith

Local Treasures

Rawle Culbard

Mount Hillaby

Mount Hillaby Even though Barbados is by no least mountainous, there is one major attraction that stands out, so pay a visit to Mount Hillaby in the Scotland district of St. Andrew and you will be treated to a majestic site which boasts a height of 1,115 feet.

Mount Hillaby is the highest point on the island and the scene from its peak is absolutely stunning. You will be amazed by the marvellous view of the east and the rugged Atlantic Coast of Barbados. Also, you can feast your eyes on the beautiful beaches in Bathsheba, internationally known for fantastic surfing. While you’re there, don’t forget to look out for Chalky Mount; named for its distinctive white chalky colour. On the other side, you will see pure and unexploited beauty as a dense green jungle below greets you.

For the adventurous types, climb all the way to the top and you will definitely be rewarded by a spectacular view of what the island has to offer. If you’re not into heights, no worries, the surrounding areas are just as beautiful.

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Culture

Alicia Griffith

Rock Hall Village Rock Hall Village, set in the parish of St. Thomas and home to the Rock Hall Freedom Monument, holds significant value to Barbadians. Nicknamed Cut Throat Village back in folklore, it did not come without its fair share of drama. Back in 1820, a slave named Godfrey found out about a will that the master Reynold Elcock left and cut his throat. In the will, the young planter, who was only 32 at the time of his death, left a will giving each of his adult male slaves 5 pounds sterling a year.

The slave who killed him was eventually executed for his act of murder and the money was not given to the slaves until emancipation in 1838.

Today, Rock Hall Village is considered Barbados’ first free village. This village was founded in 1841, five years after emancipation. The imposing 20 feet bronze stainless steel statue was designed

by Mr. Stanton Haynes and vividly depicts a family of three former slaves overlooking the Rock Hall Village.

Stroll around the village and be sure to visit the monument and you will leave with a little more knowledge of Barbadian history. The friendly locals who still occupy the village will not hesitate to give you the back-story of how their village came to be and how proud they felt when the statue was erected in 2005.

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Rock Hall Monument

St. George Parish Church Savour a piece of Barbadian history when you visit St. George Parish Church located in Glebe, St. George, in the center of the island. Of Anglican denomination, the church was first built between 1637 and 1641 but was destroyed by hurricane and was rebuilt in 1784, making it the oldest ecclesiastical building on the island.

On entering the church, lush green plants adorn your feet on both sides of the walkway and swaying palm trees on either side of the church bow gracefully, as if understanding the reverence of their location. You

will be greeted with a beautiful structure that withstood the test of time; it is one of four Parish Churches to survive the great hurricane of 1831. The arched front door that welcomes you tells the story of how buildings were carefully and lovingly constructed in the 1700’s.

The elegant décor that adorns the building were gifts to the church by parishioners over the years such as the art and sculpture and the beautiful stained windows. One of the most treasured gifts the church has received is the resurrection painting, “Rise to Power,” by American artist Benjamin West. Another spectacular work of art is “The descent from the Cross” which hangs on the wall behind the mahogany pulpit. It is painted on copper, but the origin and its artist are unknown.

Whether you’re going to worship or for sightseeing, feel free to take in the beautiful sights on the historical grounds of the St. George Parish Church.

St. George Parish Church

Alicia Griffith

Marcille Haynes

St. George Parish Church

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Culture

B

The Bajan Green Monkey

Expression: ”Who help yuh buy a big foot horse don’t help yah feed it!”

Translation: Those who encourage you to be a big spender don’t help you pay your debts.

Expression: “De berry don’ drop too far from de tree!”

Translation: Children typically inherit their habits and behaviours from parents.

Expression: “Head en mek for hat alone!”

Translation: Use your common sense.

Expression: “Don’ wait till de horse get out de stable to shut de door!”

Translation: Don’t wait for things to get out of control to take action.

Expression: “Cockroach en got no right at Hen Party!”

Translation: Avoid situations which you cannot handle or control.

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Expression: “De higher de monkey climb, de more ‘e show e tail!”

Translation: The more you show off, the more your faults will be noticed.

Expression: “The sea en’ got nuh back door!”

Translation: Be careful, the sea can be a dangerous place.

Expression:

“If you didn’t at de christening, yuh shouldn’t be at the wedding!”

Translation: Don’t involve yourself in things, if you don’t know how they started.

Expression: “Bet who bet you!”

Translation: Help those who help you.

Expression: “Cheap tings nuh good!”

Translation: Be careful when things come too easy.

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Culture

Sugarcane harvester

B

arbados Sugar, Muscovado Sugar, Moist sugar – the terms can be used interchangeably. It does not change the fact that the sugar produced in Barbados is known around the world. Many, many years of sugar production on the island has led to it being an almost perfected art form.

Historically, the sugar industry has been solely responsible for the wealth, fame and stature of some of the original plantation owners. The quality of the sugar is hard to rival. The coarse, sticky and dark brown crystals will stand out on any table, and believe it or not, has a high nutritional value when compared to processed white sugars. Muscovado sugar has a uniquely strong molasses taste which is attributed to its production from the naturally sweet sugar cane juice of the sugar cane grown on local plantations. The sugar is unrefined, and therefore still maintains a naturally 18

Jennifer Allen

Sweet Fuh Days!

The Local Sugar Industry

high mineral and vitamin content.

It may be hard to believe that something as simple as sugar is taken so seriously, but in Barbados especially before the boom of the tourism industry, sugar was big business.

Sugar used to be the main industry in Barbados and was at its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries. However, various factors including the abolition of slavery and the small size of the island has made it hard to produce our sugar in amounts that could still rival larger producers. That being said, the quality of our sugar is still among the highest in the world.

Out of 26 sugar factories, there are only two remaining in operation today. There are the Andrews sugar factory in the parish of St Joseph and the Portvale sugar factory in the parish of St James. Now, there are about 1500 small farms across the island which can produce an estimated 60, 000

A bajan cane cutter

Jennifer Allen

tonnes of sugar annually.

There are various steps in the journey from sugar cane in the fields to the rich brown sugar that we use in our homes.

Firstly, Barbados sugar grows from cuttings, not seeds. This allows for multiple harvests from the same cutting, although each successive crop will yield less sugar.

During the crop season, the sugar cane is sometimes harvested by hand. The fields are set on fire and the leaves burnt, leaving the roots and stalks of the cane exposed.

The stalks are then cut with a machete, collected and taken to the factory. This method however is almost always done mechanically now. A harvesting machine is used to cut the cane stalks and separate them from their leaves. The cut stalks are dispensed into the back of the loading trucks.

Once at the factory, the sugar cane stalks are grinded to extract the cane juice. Wind-powered sugar mills like the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill in the parish of St Andrew were used to grind the stalks.

This is another process that has been fully mechanized today. The extracted juice is then processed by boiling causing the water to evaporate and the sugar to be crystallized. Unlike most other sugars, Barbados sugar is not spun in a centrifuge after the initial crystallization, a method which further dries the crystals. Leaving out this step allows for the high moisture content in our sugar.

The Sugar Museum is located at the Portvale sugar factory. It is an impressive collection dedicated to the Barbados sugar industry of the 18th and 19th centuries.

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Culture

Barbados’ capital Bridgetown

B

arbados is uniquely blessed with a strong heritage, rich culture, and beautiful environment which effectively coexist with a first world worthy infrastructure, stable leadership and progressive outlook. Here are some quick facts about our island that tell a tale of who we are as a people and country.

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•

Barbados has a democratic style of Government which is modeled on the British Westminster System.

There are two main political parties; the Democratic Labour Party which now form the Government and the Barbados Labour Party, who have been in opposition since 2008.

•

Officially a national of Barbados is a Barbadian, less formerly we refer to ourselves as Bajans.

•

The official language is English, but

you are very likely to hear the Bajan dialect as you interact with locals, especially in social settings. The dialect is a fusion of English-based phrases and unique West African idioms and expressions, which originate from the slave population brought in by the English.

•

Unlike many of our island neighbours, Barbados was colonized solely by The British. This is evident in our architecture, street names as well as political and legal system. In fact the island is often fondly referred to as Little England.

•

Barbados officially moved away from British rule on November 30th 1966.

This year the island will be celebrating 45 years of Independence.

•

The National dish is cou-cou, which

Basil Griffith

Know Barbados

Charleston Selman

The Pride of Barbados flower

is made of yellow cornmeal and flying fish. Try this delightful dish at one of the several restaurants around the island, which specialises in Bajan cuisine.

•

Barbados is known to have one of the most dense road networks in the world.

•

Barbadians were one of the signatories to the United States Constitution and the original printer of this document.

•

The national colours of Barbados as shown in our flag are blue, yellow and black. The blue represents the sea and sky, the yellow the beaches and the black is the colour of the broken trident, which is in the centre of the flag and represents our break away from the British.

•

The population of Barbados is just over 270 000, however annually we welcome over a million visitors to our shores.

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At just over 166 square miles, the island which is divided into 11 parishes is a speck on the globe.

•

Barbados has a relatively flat terrain.

Mount Hillaby which stands at 1115 feet is the highest point on the island.

•

Barbados is one of the most developed islands in the Caribbean with a very modern telecommunications infrastructure and a population that likes to stay connected.

This is evident in the fact that the island has an internet penetration of about 50%; almost 1 in 3 people are on Facebook and there are almost 1.2 cell phones per person in use.

•

Former American President George Washington’s only trip outside of the United States was to Barbados in 1751. He came at the age of nineteen with his brother who was ailing at the time and hoping to recuperate in our tropical climate.

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Shopping

Enjoy the luxury of duty-free shopping

Shopping Contents

Jennifer Allen

Shopping in Barbados

Enjoy duty-free shopping in Barbados

F

rom your favourite trusted brands to unique hand-made crafts, all can be easily acquired at one of the many shopping locations across the island.

Small chattel villages, charming boutiques, or retail malls all house a wide selection of apparel, jewellery, accessories, souvenirs, and anything else you care to take back with you. (Sorry, the beach is not for sale!).

While Barbados certainly is not a bargain shopping destination, it certainly has some of the best shopping in the Caribbean. The high quality and unlimited selection of items

cannot be ignored. Tax-free shopping in the large department stores keep prices on luxury items more affordable than most other places in the world including the US and the UK. Local shops with unique crafts and apparel are scattered throughout the major shopping areas of Bridgetown, Holetown, Speightstown and along the south coast.

The clothes, the jewellery, the crafts, the art, the rum – if the beach was not relaxing enough, the retail therapy is sure to take care of all your tensions!

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Shopping Contents

Shopping in Holetown

D

uty-Free shopping in Barbados has allowed for visitors to purchase top quality brands and items minus the extra taxes that would normally be charged elsewhere. In simple terms, it means an automatic 15-40% off everything just because you took the time to visit this beautiful island – seriously, there is no catch! No matter what language you speak, that sounds like a pretty sweet deal!

There are a variety of department stores and shopping centres that offer a wide range of duty-free items all under one roof in the true Barbadian style of sophistication and elegance. Whether you are buying up

24

a storm or just window-shopping, you are sure to be impressed with the selection of merchandise available. When making duty free purchases, you must have your passport and information about your return ight in order to be eligible for the tax-free discount. Also note that certain items like tobacco, liquor and spirits can be purchased in store, however unlike other items which you receive immediately, you will need to pick them up from your port of departure.

The city of Bridgetown, which is a 10 minute walk away from the Sea Port and Cruise Terminal, is the major shopping hub in Barbados. At its very centre is

Jennifer Allen

Shopping Hubs/Duty Free

Broad Street, whose high-end stores offer an array of premium international brands ranging from cosmetics, jewellery, apparel, accessories, perfumes, electronics, liquor and swimwear. Make sure to visit Cave Shepherd, the largest department store on the island with several locations on the West and South Coasts of the island. Also worth a look-see is The Royal Shop which retails fine jewellery and luxury watches from brands such as Rolex, Longines, and David Yurman at affordable tax-free prices.

While in Bridgetown, take a stroll down the charming cobbled paths of Swan Street, which runs parallel to Broad Street. This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is home to an array of smaller boutiques and shopping centres offering clothes, shoes, souvenirs, materials and cosmetics for sale. It’s the perfect location to score a bargain.

If you are addicted to Malls, there are also at least 4 larger retail centres clustered through Bridgetown, each with scores of intimate stores offering a variety

of luxury goods, souvenirs and even art. If you run out of money, no worries: all of the major commercial banks have a branch in Bridgetown offering a full range of banking services. There are also ATMS dotted throughout the island, offering easy and convenient access to funds.

Outside of the hustle and bustle of “Town” as Bridgetown is commonly referred to, there are several malls, upscale boutiques and souvenir outlets, many of which are concentrated on the West and South Coast of the island. These locations offer a relaxed shopping atmosphere and are located near to major hotels and restaurants.

Shopping hours in Barbados are traditionally 8:30 am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with some of the larger malls located outside of Bridgetown closing as late as 9:00pm. On weekends, many shops have shorter opening hours, so be sure to check before you set off for your island retail therapy.

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Shopping Contents

Shopping in Holetown

A

trip to Barbados would not be complete without collecting souvenirs to keep the memory of the visit intact. There are many talented local artisans and craftsmen who have perfected the skill of creating beautiful art, crafts and gift wares. Finding outlets and shops for these items will be no issue at all, as there are many literally right around the corner in any of the major shopping and tourist areas in the island.

Possibly one of the more popular gift and souvenir shopping areas is the renowned Pelican Craft Village. This chattel house village is the largest arts and crafts shop in the Caribbean. It is conveniently located 26

on the outskirts of Bridgetown near the Bridgetown Port and contains over 25 shops where you can purchase hand made clothes, leather goods, wood works, jewellery, fine art pieces and other craft items. There are even workshops where you can watch the talented craftsmen work on their items.

There are a few chattel house villages that have been designed in clusters that provide a close-knit and homely environment for visitors to shop for local crafts and souvenirs. A chattel house is a traditional house in the early post-slavery era, so it only makes sense to sell some of the most authentically Bajan things you

Jennifer Allen

Local Art Makes The Perfect Gift

Jennifer Allen

Souvenirs

could buy here in these quaint villages.

One of the more popular ones is located next to the West Coast Mall and another is tucked away near the bottom of St Lawrence Gap. Some of the items that can be found include batiks, pottery, wood carving, hats, bags, clothing, and Barbados branded trinkets like mugs, key chains, bags, and t-shirts.

Of course, many of the best souvenirs you will find will not be located in some of these leased locations. Some local artisans have set up shop in carts and stalls in areas like St Lawrence Gap, Oistins, Holetown, Speightstown and Bridgetown. It will truly be a delight to discover that accidental find that catches your eye while walking down the street.

Where you shop for your souvenirs is completely up to you, but we do however encourage you to choose authentic options that are sure to capture the true spirit of Barbados to take home with you. Since Barbados is the birthplace of rum, it is an obvious choice that many visitors make. So good, yet so inexpensive, it is no surprise that our traditional watering holes, rum shops, are named after the spirit. It is almost required that you share its unique taste with those who did not make the trip. Another Bajan staple that makes for a great souvenir is a bottle of our local pepper sauce. Spicy, sweet, and borderline addicting (it’s that good) Bajans have a tendency to dash a little on just about anything, and if you take it home we are sure you will too!

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Real Estate

Photo compliments Realtors Limited

Real Contents Estate

Apes Hill

B

arbados boasts of a stable economy, strong government, beautiful year-round weather and a plethora of activities that make it an amazing place to both visit and live.

Many visitors - as we are sure you will, fall in love with the island and after repeat visits make a decision to purchase their own vacation or retirement home here. Many wisely use this as an income-generator for the time they are not in Barbados, renting to other visitors on short stays.

Real estate agents, like Realtors Limited, offer professional services that can guide you through the steps of this investment opportunity.

Options range from villas, condominiums, renovated historic Great houses, or even working with an architect to build your own property, among others. Would you prefer the luxurious West Coast scattered with high-end properties where your neighbour may be an international superstar? Or the South Coast that offers more midpriced but equally amazing beachfront properties near to all amenities? The serene countryside tranquilizes with its breathtaking views and lush surroundings making it the ideal get-away.

Whether you are interested in renting or buying, we welcome you to share in the beauty of our little rock!

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Real Contents Estate

Hilltop

A

second home in a beautiful paradise like this is enough to make anyone feel like a kid at Christmas.

Property values have been steadily rising and this trend is expected to continue. The beaches, the landscapes, the infrastructure, the economy and everything else included on these shores have combined uniquely, making Barbados a world-class destination and a sound location for real estate investment.

There are no restrictions on nonresidents and non-nationals buying property, however, all funds must come from sources outside of this jurisdiction.

The exception to this is if it is done through an offshore financial institution, where the 30

funds must be registered with the Central Bank of Barbados.

Once you have found that ideal piece of property, the steps in the process of purchasing normally takes around three months to be completed before you can legally call it ‘home’.

Steps to buying property in Barbados • Connect with a professional real estate agency like Realtors Limited, to assist in finding the perfect property. With a large selection of houses, villas, apartments, and lots for sale, the selection process may be overwhelming. Agents are wellversed in the best properties and can advise you on navigating the purchase

Photo compliments Realtors Limited

Behind The Scenes

Charleston Selman

process as well as match you with exactly what you are looking for.

• Appoint a registered local attorney who is responsible for preparing the Agreement for Sale, the Deed of Conveyance and the Deed of Transfer.

Lawyer’s fees are approximately 1.5-2% of the sale price plus 17.5% VAT. Both the buyer and seller are responsible for their own legal fees. Arrangements for mortgages and any other costs must be made before the purchase is made.

• Finalise purchase agreement. Once the agreement for sale is drawn up by the seller’s lawyer, verified by the buyer’s lawyer and signed by both purchaser and seller, a 10% down payment is made to the seller’s attorney. The purchaser’s attorney will then do titlesearch and make sure it is free of all encumbrances prior to finalizing the sale and exchanging title-deeds. In the case of new developments, a series of payments will be made during the construction period.

• Source funding - Since overseas buyers must use foreign funds, the Central Bank of Barbados has implemented policies

that govern the control of foreign exchange. It is best that you seek advice from a real estate or legal professional on how best to make the necessary payments.

• Settle closing costs. To finalize the exchange, in Barbados the seller is liable to pay stamp duty and property tax. Stamp duty is charged at a rate 1% of the consideration for the sale. In terms of Property Transfer Tax, there is no Capital Gains Tax in Barbados. Transfer Tax however, is applied equally to foreign and local sellers. For the seller transfer tax is 2.5% for land where there are no buildings; and in the case of land with buildings, 2.5% on the amount by which the greater of the consideration paid or value of the land exceeds $125,000.

Given the island’s popularity as a holiday destination and its economic and social development, real estate is highly soughtafter. If you are new to the island, a quick drive along the West and South Coast will show you why! Plain and simple, it’s a fantastic place to live – you’d be crazy not to want a piece of this rock.

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Shopping in Holetown

Marcille Haynes

Cuisine

Cuisine Contents

Marcille Haynes

Food Trends in Barbados

Shopping in Holetown

M

ost social gatherings revolve around food here in Barbados.

It is not a party unless there is a wide array of dishes on offer and everyone has the option to leave for home with left-overs. That is by no coincidence.

With food as rich and flavourful as Bajan food, you’d understand why it has an entire section dedicated to it in this guide.

But the selection is so much more than just local cuisine. In Barbados you can be sure to find a selection of international dishes in Zagat-rated restaurants across the island. Mouth-watering authentic delicacies from Asian, Indian, Arab,

American, French and Italian cultures among so many others can be found on our shores. Although some recipes may be left untouched, many have been uniquely infused with our Bajan traditions for one-ofa-kind dishes that can only be found here.

If this is your first visit to the island, there are plenty of dining options to try that range from elegant up-scale restaurants to small shops with a loyal clientele. Just remember, you have not really experienced Bajan cuisine unless you attend a Friday night fish-fry or head out for Pudding and Souse on a Saturday afternoon! Happy eating.

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Cuisine Contents

RECIPES

Peas and Rice Ingredients: 2 cups dried pigeon peas 6 cups water 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cups rice, washed and drained herbs to season (thyme, marjoram, chives) 1 tbsp butter/margarine 1 tbsp lime juice salt and pepper to taste

Method: • Cover peas and boil with herbs in four cups of water for 10-15 minutes.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until tender.

• Add rice, butter, onion, lime juice and 2 more cups of water. Stir well • Cover and cook on medium heat for about 20-25 minutes until the grains have absorbed the water and are tender.

• Serve hot.

Bajan Baked Chicken Ingredients: 1 whole chicken ¼ cup lime juice ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper 1tbsp parsley 1tsbsp thyme leaves 2 tbsp butter, softened 3 cloves garlic, chopped 2 green onions, minced 1 medium onion, diced 1 bell pepper, seeded and diced 1 Scoth bonnet or jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped.

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Method: • Take the chicken out of its trappings, remove giblets, rinse thoroughly, pat semi-dry and cover with a generous amount of salt and lime. Leave to soak. Rinse and prepare for baking.

• In a food processor, place all the ingredients except the chicken.

Process for 30 seconds to form a paste.

• Place the chicken in a bowl and cover it thoroughly with the paste. Let marinate for 4-6 hours.

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

• Place chicken in baking dish and bake for 45 minutes until the meat pulls easily form the bone.

• Baste chicken with pan juices and serve.

Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 tin crushed pineapple 1 tin sliced pineapple 1 small lime, juiced Salt to taste Sugar to taste Butter for mashing Candied cherries for garnishing

Method: • Boil sweet potato in salted water until soft.

• Remove from heat and drain some of the liquid. Keep some for mashing.

• Add sugar (if needed), lime juice, butter, crushed pineapple and liquid to the sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth with no lumps.

• Place in greased baking dish. Decorate with sliced pineapples on top and put cherries in the middle of each slice.

• Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, or until firm.

• Serve hot.

Pumpkin Fritters Ingredients: 2lbs/1kg pumpkin, peeled and cubed salt 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons mixed powdered spice or cinnamon 1 egg 1 cup 5oz/155g flour 2 tablespoons milk 2 teaspoons baking powder Canola oil for frying

Method: • Boil the pumpkin in salted water until soft. Drain and mash.

• Mix the sugar and spice and add to the pumpkin.

• Whisk an egg and mix with the pumpkin along with the milk. Add flour and baking powder, and mix well.

• Heat oil on medium heat in a frying pan.

Drop tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil and fry both sides until dark brown. Be sure to adjust heat when cooking so fritters cook through without burning.

• Serve hot, garnish with sugar and spice.

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Cuisine Contents

Fine Dining by the Waterside

Dining at Waterfront Café

M

OUTH-WATERING, succulent, tasty food served in a perfect setting in the Careenage, has been the hallmark of Waterfront Café for over 26 years.

Ideally located at the Wharfside in Cavans Lane, Bridgetown, this quaint, old-world charmed spacious restaurant managed

by Susan Walcott, recently changed its operation. Once the place to go for live entertainment in the City during the evening and and into the night, Waterfront Café now only serves up fine meals between 10 a.m and 5 p.m Monday through Saturday.

You can expect the usual extensive starter menu, tapas choices, variety of seafood and fresh fish choices, served by a friendly team.

To offer much more, albeit during the day time, Waterfront Café has extended its salad menu to appeal to those who wish to eat a little lighter, but still substantially.

With this restaurant’s “world of salad” choices, you can expect salads from Asia, the Mediterranean, and of course, the Caribbean. There is something for everyone- including the vegetarian.

You can feast on the popular Greek country salad, Indian spiced Chicken Salad; Grilled steak salad, Windward Chicken Salad or tasty Salt Fish Salad.

A wide range of starters, sandwiches,

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main dishes, decadent desserts, the best cocktails, wines, coffees and teas are also yours for the purchasing.

What’s more, you can enjoy 10 per cent off your take-out salad order, or one glass of free wine with table service, if you possess one of this restaurant’s special coupons.

Happy Hour is always a must! Each day from 3 p.m to 5 p.m, house liquor and one of a kind cocktails featuring the restaurant’s famous Fresh Mint Mojito and Sorrell Mojito, are at special rates.

But Waterfront Café is now more than a restaurant. Tea parties may be arranged by reservation between 3 p.m and 5 p.m, and offers three savoury and two sweet tea treats. The restaurant can also now provide catering for special events.

That’s still not all! To add to the interest of diners and non-diners, Waterfront Café has joined with The Miche Bag Outlet to offer ideal bags and accessories for corporate and leisure female travellers. Special coupons offer a 5 per cent discount.

In addition, an Internet Café, which is located on the premises, offers the best Internet usage for locals for as low of $10 an hour. Overseas call options are also available.

Now, where will you dine? Waterfront Café, of course! See their advertisement in this publication.

Dozens of candy, fruit, nut and syrup mix-ins smashed together with your favourite ice-cream on our frozen granite slab!

Open Monday – Thursday 11 am to 10pm Friday – Sunday 11 am to 11pm

Quayside Centre, Christ Church Tel 435-1877

Described as an oasis in Bridgetown, Waterfront Café provides a quality dining experience in a comfortable environment, that is extremely popular with locals and visitors alike.

Situated on the Careenage in the middle of Historic Bridgetown the restaurant offers full bar, a la carte menu and Live Nightly Entertainment.

The Careenage, Bridgetown Marina Reservations – 427-0093 waterfrontcafe@sunbeach.net

Located on the popular St. Lawrence Gap, this restaurant serves only Authentic Chinese cuisine prepared by famous and experienced Chinese Chefs.

Whether it’s lunch or dinner, our extensive menu sure has something to please your appetite.

We are opened 7 days a week.

Upstairs The Steak House St.Lawrence Gap, Christ Church Tel: 420-3762

Looking to beat the heat? Look no more. Discover the flavours of our ice cream treats at Café Moya.

We offer a delicious assortment of Blue Bunny ice cream on our home made waffle cones.

Join us for breakfast or a quick lunch Open: Mon – Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. # 7 Sunset Crest, St. James.

Tel: 432-5645.

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Cuisine Contents

Something Sweet

I

f you haven’t figured it out by now, food is a large part of Bajan culture. Although some may say that it is not something to be proud of, counting calories is definitely a part of everyday life. Foods rich in flavour fill our local menus so it is only fitting that our sweet snacks and desert options are equally as tempting! There are many unique local delights that are sure to excite your taste buds and put your self-control to the maximum test.

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Sugar Cakes

Tamarind Balls

Yup, they taste as wonderful as they sound with a not-so-secret ingredient to keep you begging for more: coconut! Bajan sugar cakes are made from grated coconut held together with dissolved sugar for a melt in your mouth yet chewy treat. By using white sugar, brown sugar, molasses or even food colouring, the colour and flavour is in no way restricted, making it quite the versatile snack. Colourful and simple, this sweet snack is a part of Bajan childhood that everyone looks forward to!

Another simple treat that packs quite a flavourful punch, Tamarind balls do not attempt to water down the intense natural flavours of the tamarind fruit. After the first taste of the very sour fruit, your mouth is sure to water (literally!) at just the sight of the next tamarind you see. Tamarind balls combine the fruit’s fresh fleshy paste with sugar and are then rolled into little sugar coated balls for a tasty snack that kids especially love. There is a spicy variety which includes traditional Bajan pepper sauce that adds even more dimension!

Black Bitch

Gourmet desserts

It has a controversial name and some may even say offensive. But one thing is for sure; it tastes good! It is another local delicacy that is made mainly from coconut.

But forget the melt-in-your mouth texture of the sugar cake, Black Bitch is a hard candy that combines coconut, sugar and molasses and a dark-coloured treat with a high sweetness factor. The molasses explains the “black” in the name, but why “bitch”? Your guess is as good as ours!

Whatever you do, do not make the mistake of thinking that satisfying that sugar craving is all fun and games. Many of our fine restaurants offer decadent desserts that are guaranteed to be the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. Choose from a selection that will include local treats as well as international classics. Moist fudge chocolate brownies, rich creamy ice cream, fluffy cakes, delightful sorbets, warm pies, fresh fruit salad - is your mouth watering yet?

Amery Butcher

Tamarind Balls

Amery Butcher

Delicious cheesecake

Sugar Cakes 39

The beautiful East Coast of Barbados 40

Insight Digital

Activities

Activities Contents

Insight Digital

Livin’ the Life

Fantastic nightlife awaits you

U

nder the beaming sun or the enchanting moonlight, whichever your prefer, there is a plethora of memories to be made on your stay in Barbados. Party the nights away, enjoy scrumptious meals along the beach, or visit one of the many cultural sites.

Better yet, indulge in uniquely Bajan activities like a Friday night Fish Fry, 4x4 Tours through the rugged countryside or a luxury catamaran cruise with one-of-akind views of the beautiful West Coast. Flip through this section for some tips on some of the things to try while on your vacation.

Barbados is so much more than just the beach (although we won’t blame you

if that’s all you want to do!) Be sure to try out as many of the various activities on the island as you can. There is sure to be plenty that suit your interests. Whether you prefer nature, art, sports, or going on adventures, one thing you can be sure of is that there is always something to do here.

Special events throughout the year like sports tournaments and cultural festivals add to the regular line-up of fun things to do like visiting sites and enjoying the relaxing beaches. And just because the sun sets is no reason to retire to bed. The many nightclubs and bars on the island keep the party going straight until the sun rises again.

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Activities Contents

Surfing action in Barbados

C

onsidering that the surf in Barbados is described by international champions as one of the best in the world, it is no surprise that most aficionados of the sport take it quite seriously. There are competitions throughout the year that test the skills and dexterity of local and international surfers who dare to tackle these waves.

The Barbados Surfing Association is the sole body that governs all forms of surfing in Barbados. The association holds and organizes various surfing competitions as well as sends selected members to international surfing competitions. It is quite the thrill to witness one of the competitions first hand here in Barbados. The display of skills on the waves is beyond impressive and always thrills the crowds that line the beach.

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Rawle Culbard

Surf’s Up

Surfer of the Year Championship Series The Barbados Surfing Association’s Championship Series is a year-long competition series that puts both junior and senior surfers on display to determine who will secure a position on the National Squad for the next year. This year, the Finale of the series will be held on September 10 and 11 and Parlour, Bathsheba on the east coast of the island. So far for the year, the top surfers have proven their deserved ranking on the island taking on trade wind waves with control and showmanship.

Nationals October 8, 2011 will see the ultimate display of surf skills at Nationals. The premier amateur event brings surfers together to compete for the title of the top Barbados surfer, the winner being

crowned as the National Champion. The event will be held at the top surf break on the island, Soup Bowl in Bathsheba.

Spectators, as always, will be wowed by the tricks out on the water while enjoying the all-day beach party on the shore. The divisions competing will be Open Men’s, Open Women’s, Bodyboarding, Open Long Board, Senior Men, Master and Junior Boys and Girls.

Jennifer Allen

BJSC Burkies Junior Surfing Championship Recently established in 2010, the Barbados Junior Surfing Club is a non-profit organization that strived to develop junior surfing in Barbados and provide stable support to its members as they compete locally, regionally and internationally. The event put on by the organization puts the spotlight on junior surfers in the island and gives them the opportunity to take centre stage. It is a series of five events that allows for juniors to compete within their own divisions to come out on top. The

championship culminates on December 10 to declare the junior champions of surfing in Barbados. Division include 10 and under; 12 and under boys; 12 and under girls; 14 and under; under 16 boys; and under 18 girls.

Barbados Independence Surf Festival In November, the Barbados Independence Surf Festival kicks off. This highly anticipated event brings together the top surfers from around the globe where they will meet with outstanding Bajan surfers for the competition that trumps all others.

Professional champions from around the world will tackle the rolling waves at the Soup Bowl for a chance at the cash prize of over USD$10,000. The Independence Surf Festival has attracted legendary surfers like Dean Randazzo and even 10-time World Champion Kelly Slater. The competition will be divided into Open Mens, Open Womens and Under 16 and Under 18 Junior Divisions.

Surf’s up

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Activities Contents

Tee Time

Some of the best golf courses can be found in Bardados

G

olf in Barbados is growing in recognition around the world as the island is becoming more and more renowned as a luxury golf destination. The perfect sunny weather all year round allows for uninterrupted rounds at any time of the year, at one of the six golf clubs on the island.

Golf vacations are growing in popularity as the championship courses continue to expand and improve both in size and exclusivity.

Whether you are a veteran or new to the game, you can be sure to ďŹ nd a course that suits your every need. In Barbados, you will have the opportunity to play on beautifully landscaped courses designed by top 44

architects. Many hotels and resorts offer special golf vacation packages for guests that include accommodation, tee times, and transportation between the resort and the courses.

There are also a number of exclusive membership only courses. These are mainly found on the West Coast. These are often complemented with spa, tennis, and restaurant facilities.

Various regional and international tournaments are hosted throughout the year including the Barbados Open Amateur Golf Tournament. Over 100 players come from all over the Caribbean as well as Canada, England and the USA. Many of the world’s top players have teed off on some of our exclusive courses.

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Activities Contents

Crusing by catamaran

W

elcome aboard one of Barbados’ many catamaran cruises.

You’ve made a great choice.

Over the next few hours you will experience the best of what the island has to offer as you wine, dine, and unwind.

You will meet natural beauty face-to-face.

As the warm sun bathes your skin, and a gentle breeze lightly brushes your face, you will find yourself somewhere between a smile and a laugh. And you will, without question, want to do it again.

Barbados is home to some 15-plus catamaran cruising companies, all ready to accommodate you and make your special moment that much more special.

These cruising “cats” range in sizes from 20 to 70 feet and can comfortably hold an intimate group of six or a large crowd of 80.

Big or small, as you sail the blue waters of the Caribbean sea, your party will create a memorable experience together.

The first thing you’ll notice is the

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friendliness of the crew. They will serve you, they will assist you, they will entertain you, but most impressively, they will befriend you. Outside of the sun and the sand, Barbados is best known for its hospitality. Barbadians, or “Bajans” as we call ourselves are a friendly people who still say “good morning” or “good evening” when passing strangers.

As your boat casts off, you will be treated to a snack and your favourite beverage.

The drinks flow freely from an open bar.

Have some champagne.

You will leave the capital city of Bridgetown on the southern shore and sail up the calm waters of the West Coast.

While the sounds of calypso gently begin to play, you may all feel free to sit back, dance, bathe in the sun or take in sights.

At your first stop, you will be provided with snorkelling equipment. The experienced are free to enter the water at their pleasure.

The uninitiated will get a step-by-step

Basil Griffith

Cat Cruising

Basil Griffith

introduction to snorkelling. Although crew members – all highly capable swimmers will enter the water with you, life vests will be provided for those who can’t swim or those who simply would rather relaxingly float than expend unnecessary energy.

Above the surface, the sea will seem like an empty expanse of water. But once you look below, you will see it teeming with colours. Fish of all kinds will be swimming throughout the reef. Should you so wish, you may attempt to dive down and get in their midst. If you happen to see the odd stingray, you’ll have no need for concern; it’ll be more afraid of you than you will be of it.

However, what you will definitely see are sea turtles. These calm creatures freely swim along the shores and will readily swim amongst your group as long as you have food to share. Don’t worry, the crew will have that covered.

When you make your way back onto the boat, you’ll be just in time for lunch. Waiting for you will be the sumptuous smells of a traditional Bajan spread. Some of your options will include baked chicken, stewed

beef, rice and peas, creamed (mashed) potatoes, steamed vegetables and most definitely fried flying fish. Don’t forget to try some of the macaroni pie - a baked dish that takes macaroni and cheese to delicious levels beyond compare.

At your next stop, which will be close to shore, some of your guests will choose to walk along, or rest on, the beach. A few will decide to snorkel, watching the Hawksbill and Leatherback turtles, and tropical fish swim through a sunken ship. And some will opt to remain on the boat drinking rum punch and laughing. The rest will opt to eat a rich chocolate or fluffy vanilla dessert with the crew.

You will choose your heart’s desire.

Hours later, as you sail back to shore, and your excursion comes to an end, you will begin to realize that you are in a place and time like no other. The smiles are as clear as the crystal blue water. Those who you hold most dear are gathered with you in one heavenly moment.

And it was worth it.

Are you ready?

Exploring our Bajan marine life 47

Activities Contents Activities

The Boatyard adventure

B

arbados has a reputation for beautiful beaches and gorgeous waters and where there is a beach; there is an opportunity for a spot of active fun with some great water and beach sports.

Low tide at places like Pebbles Beach, Christ Church, presents the perfect opportunity to learn how to kayak. Whether you mastered the sport or you’re a firsttimer, the kayak operators will have you happily and safely paddling away before you know it.

However, if you’re looking for a faster pace, you can hop on a Sea-Doo watercraft at any of the popular beaches such as Mullins, St Peter, on the West Coast. Hold on tight! Sea-dos can hit speeds of up to 50 km/h, and you ride at your own risk. But as you skirt across the waves, you have little to worry about other than the misty wind stroking your face.

Not enough wind for you? Well, then you need to go faster and higher. Head over to The Boatyard at Carlisle Bay and strap yourself in – parasailing is what you’re looking for. You’ll be flying up to 365 metres in the air while a boat pulls you at speeds of up to 75 km/h. From up above you’ll get a bird’s eye view of historic 48

Bridgetown - that is if you dare to open your eyes.

When you’re done flying high, check out The Boatyard’s Adventure Beach, where you, or the kids can dive into the water form inflatable trampolines or a mini, scalable pyramid. There’s also a rope waiting for you to do your best Tarzan impression before you splash into the sparkling water.

Finish it off with a bite on-site, or walk into The City for a range of choices.

But it doesn’t end there. Barbados is also home to one of the top ten surfing spots in the world. When you’re ready to get totally tubular, rent a surf board on the East Coast over in Bathsheba, St Joseph and head to the Soup Bowl which will give you six-metre high waves. Whereas most of Barbados’ beaches stretch out into the peaceful waters of the Caribbean Sea, the East coast opens up to a very active Atlantic Ocean. The waters there are rougher; not recommended for swimming, but are ideal for surfing. Can you hang ten?

No matter where you go, Barbados’ beaches give you innumerable and unparalleled opportunities to lay back or let loose. They’re safe, secure and meant for you to enjoy. Pick one. It’s time for you to get started.

Basil Griffith

Beach Adventures

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Activities Contents

A fishing paradise

I

magine nothing before you but the vast open sea, continuing on to an uninterrupted ending at the horizon.

Standing at the hull, you can feel the breeze blowing blissfully and the sun’s energizing rays gently warming your skin.

The challenge that awaits you is almost as great as the reward of holding your prize catch on the dock at the end of the day.

Blue Marlin, White Sailfish, Albacore, Dorado, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Yellow Fin Tuna, Kingfish, Billfish, and Barracuda these waters are home to a wide variety of fish. Cruise off the shore and sail to the deep water area just about a mile off the beach to make your catch of the day.

Fishing in Barbados is not just a hobby, it is a career, a culture and a way of life.

To say the fishing industry here is large is an understatement. And game fishing is growing in popularity and recognition as well.

There are many private/shared charters

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available for whole or half days. Many of these deep-sea-fishing charters provide the necessary tackle and bait, refreshments, and transportation to and from your hotel/ accommodation.

However, for the most authentic fishing experience, make a request to go out with one of the local fishing boats. They can be found at Oistins, the Bridgetown Careenage, and Tent Bay. Be sure to find out exactly what you would be required to do once out to sea. Remember, although it is a pleasure cruise for you, this is their job and their means of income! Be prepared to work as hard as they do for a true glimpse of the behind-the-scenes work that allows for Barbados to have the impeccable seafood reputation it does.

There are also opportunities for Bottom Fishing, Offshore Tackle, Inshore Fishing and Inshore Tackle. For any information, just ask any of the game fishing operators on the island.

Alicia Griffith

Deep Sea Fishing

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Activities

Nation Archive

Explore Hockey

Banks International Hockey festival opening ceremony.

L

ike most developing countries around the world you would find the centuries-old game of hockey being played in Barbados, as it makes up the 116 members of the governing body, the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

With more than 20 clubs spread out across the island; consisting of more than 650 players, hockey is very much a part of the island’s sporting calendar.

However, unlike ice hockey, which is played on ice, uses blades, a puck and L-shaped sticks, Barbadians play field hockey, usually on artificial turf, gravel, or natural grass with running-shoes, a ball and a J-shaped stick.

Field hockey in Barbados became a recognised and organised sport in 1958 when the Barbados Men’s Hockey Association was formed, soon giving away to the Barbados Hockey Federation after a merger with the women’s arm. The Federation was founded by Mike Owen, Toni Cozier and Winsmore Humphrey.

The local hot spot for hockey is the

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Astro Turf, located in the environs of the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium in Wildey St. Michael. This is where many a hockey tournament; domestic, regional and international has been played. The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill campus, also has an international standard hockey turf, which is only approximately one year old.

A popular staple on the annual calendar is the Banks International Hockey festival, which takes place in mid-August and features over 40 teams from all over the world. This event started in 1986 and sees games between juniors, seniors, women and mixed-gender at both the local and the international levels. It is considered to be one of the biggest field hockey tournaments in the hemisphere. The festival not only offers excellent on-field hockey action, it features a fun, exciting social package for teams and their supporters, which includes karaoke, adopt-a-team talent nights, and of course lots of good Bajan food, music, drink and company.

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Nation Archive

Activities

Great adventure

T

he Gully – one of nature’s beautiful creations. A gully is a basin-like formation in inland areas that is home to wild vegetation and animals. Many were originally underground caves whose roofs have collapsed creating rugged and untouched valleys.

If you are the outdoorsy type who likes a little bit of adventure, hiking through one of our many gullies may be just the thing for you! Full of exotic plants, the tropical forests can be found around the island giving us today a glimpse of what the island is like, in its most natural form, and as it was over 300 years ago.

There are various gullies with established trails that have been deemed safe to explore.

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Welchman Hall Gully Located in the central parish of St. Thomas, Welchman Hall Gully is a serene but picturesque trail about a ¾ mile long.

The self-guided tour through Welchman Hall Gully is one of the more tranquil trails that allow for you to enjoy the beautiful flora that it is home to – over 200 kinds of tropical plants!

Blackman’s Gully Blackman’s Gully is located in the parish of St Joseph. This gully, along with many others of its type, forms a vital part of our ecosystem. Plants and animals can be found in abundance in this long winding trail.

Jennifer Allen

Hiking Our Gullies

The famous Blackman’s bridge overlooks the gully. There is no known date of construction, but its origins can be traced back to the 1680’s. The bridge was constructed with limestone boulders plastered together with a white lime and sand mixture. Some interesting ingredients were added to the mixture for added strength. What are they? Molasses and egg whites! As strange as it sounds, the bridge is still standing after all these years, so it must have worked!

Blackman’s Gully recently underwent a massive clean-up to restore its beauty and its position as one of Barbados’ natural treasures.

Turners Hall Woods

Hackleton’s Cliff and Scotland District On the rugged east coast of the island, the Scotland District stands proud doing anything but blending in. The high hills were eroded by the sea, leaving behind a limestone cap that makes the site well worth the trek.

Monkeys, black-faced sparrows, yellow birds, humming birds, peewitters and blue herons, all nest there and made their lives in this little forest at the edge of the gully.

Jennifer Allen

Turners Hall Woods is truly an escape in another world. Dense forest and high humidity, you may question if you are still

in Barbados. Lianas, jack-in-the-box, silk cotton, and majestic mahogany and locust trees populate the rainforest area. Vines string and weave their way around the canopy. With cabbage palms over 130 feet tall, this approximately 46 acres of dense forest has remained unchanged over the centuries. It is truly a natural oasis.

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Activities Contents

Bathsheba

B

arbados’ beaches are internationally considered to be some of the best in world. With endless stretches of white sand and crystal clear waters that never seem to end, when we say island paradise, we actually mean it! It is a hard task pinpointing the beaches to recommend in each issue, as they are all breathtaking and special in their own way! Some are perfect for surf, some for water sports like jet skiing or diving and others for lazily wading in the water and soaking up the sun. Take note of the following beaches which are worth a visit while you are here.

Bathsheba Beach Bathsheba is not the typical Barbados beach. It is not exactly tranquil but in its 56

own way the rough waves and rocky terrain make it more serene that some of the otherwise calmer beaches. The pools that collect naturally within the rock formations and reefs are believed to have therapeutic effects that have been attracting visitors to the east coast for many years now.

Legend dictates that Bathsheba, the wife of King David, bathed in milk to maintain and nurture her beautiful soft skin. Another legend tells that the shores of Bathsheba resemble the queen’s milk bath and it too, is high in minerals and health value.

For visitors and locals alike, a trip to the East Coast is one of the most therapeutic remedies for the stresses of everyday life.

The fresh air and constant sound of the waves crashing against the rocky shore take you to a place and mindset that is hard

Alicia Griffith

Top Beaches in Barbados

Rawle Culbard

to achieve in the busy hustle and bustle of the city. Even to a city like Bridgetown that already has that relaxing island quality to it, Bathsheba serves as an escape and a haven to many.

The view is undeniably breathtaking.

The rolling hills serve as a sort of separation from the rest of the island, placing Bathsheba in its own little pocket.

The dramatic coastline is scattered with extraordinary rock formations that help to break the Atlantic waves that come rolling in to shore. The large rocks that line the beach have actually broken away from ancient coral reef! The shallow reef near the shore has formed little pool-pockets over the many years that are perfect to bathe in without being tossed around by the otherwise rough waters. The pools have been naturally carved out of the shallow inshore coral reefs and being only a few feet deep, you can sit in them and enjoy a drink as the surf splashes in!

On the inland side of the road that winds along with the shoreline are many little rum shops, hideaways and beach houses, almost always filled with locals and tourists who have travelled to the east to get away or to surf.

Speaking of surf, one of Barbados’ best kept secrets is the premier surf spot, Soup Bowl. For those who have dared to tackle these waves that come rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean, they can confirm the rumour that it is one of the best surfs in the world. Bathsheba is not a commercial area and the media attention given to other international surfs will definitely contradict with the humble rugged charm that the coast possesses, which is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Bathsheba is a place to recuperate and rejuvenate. The fresh air, cooling breezes and calming ambience has kept people coming back for well–deserved breaks from the ‘real’ world.

Six Men’s Bay 57

Six Men’s

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Photos by Rawle Culbard

Activities

Six Men’s Bay

Heywoods Beach

Located to the north of Speightstown, heading to the parish of St Lucy, Six Men’s Bay is a quaint fishing village and beach.

The main business and attraction of Six Men’s is the fishing. It is home to the Six Men’s Fishing Complex which operates at the main fish market and processing hall on the West Coast. Fishermen can often be seen building and repairing their boats on the shore. Another lovely sight is seeing them bring in their catches for sale at the market, at the end of a long day out to sea.

People are always there ready to purchase the freshest fish from that day’s catch. Of course, it should go without it being said that Six Men’s is also ideal for swimming!

The calm clear waters of the West Coast are forever glistening under the invigorating sunshine and along with the bathroom and shower amenities on location, lend to it being one of the best all encompassing beaches on the island.

Like the other major fishing village, Oistins, there is a fish fry held on Friday and Saturday evening at Six Men’s Bay. Enjoy fresh local fish in an easy, relaxing social atmosphere with the locals.

Just off the shore of the bay, there is a 165 feet long wreck of a sunken freighter called Pamir. If you enjoy scuba diving, this wreck which sits in 60 feet of water is an ideal spot. Join a local dive operator to explore the sunken wonder.

Just south of Six Men’s Bay is Heywoods Beach. Heywoods is a quiet beach in the north-western parish of St Peter, near the town of Speightstown. It is a wide and tranquil beach that, like most of the beaches along the West Coast are very calm and ideal for swimming. The shallow reef is very close to the shore, which has created natural rock-enclosed pools that are a perfect fit for smaller children to wade in safely. The beautiful coral reef also makes it an ideal spot for snorkelling.

Heywoods Beach is nestled between the two exclusive resorts Almond Beach Village and Port St Charles. There are a variety of watersports and jet ski operators are always passing by. Be sure to flag one down for an amazing ride across the water!

Alicia Griffith

Heywoods Beach

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Weddings Contents

Weddings in paradise

F

or Jason King and Suzahn Smith of Arizona, United States, Barbados was the ideal place for their June 14 wedding, which was held on the beach at the resplendent Bougainvillea Beach Resort on Maxwell Coast Road, Christ Church.

The resort’s beach front was attired in bright red and white, as the bride, adorned in a white, one-strapped gown, with red roses in hand, said her “I do” before 26 guests - 21 of whom were on their first visit to the island.

With the beautiful, azure waters of the Caribbean Sea as their backdrop, Jason and Suzahn’s wedding party included Jason’s mum, Carol Ficarelli, his dad, Barbadian-born Stephen King, best man Michael Campofredanot - who introduced the couple four years ago; maid-ofhonour Paula Bordelon - Suzahn’s sister; her mum, Peggy Smith, and the couple’s 11-year-old daughter, Taylor.

Jason disclosed that he and his wife enjoy the island tremendously - especially

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the cuisine and the mouth-watering dish of flying fish and scallop breadfruit.

After five days of fun and frolic, the newly-weds honeymooned in St. Lucia.

You too can get married in Barbados.

Planning your wedding will be easy. Simply contact one of our fine hotels or resorts that provide a wedding planner or service to help you with all the details.

You can wed at a splendid plantation estate, seaside masterpiece, classic resort, or in a church.

Before saying “I do” you must obtain a marriage licence at the Ministry of Home Affairs; have a valid passport; your birth certificate, wedding fees of BDS $ 150, plus a BDS $ 25 Barbados stamp. There are also fees for the minister or magistrate who performs the wedding.

Your wedding planner or hotel staff will be happy to walk you through the procedures and provide any other information.

Choose Barbados for your dream wedding then settle back and enjoy your special day in paradise.

Peter Hinds

Weddings in Barbados are actually weddings in Paradise

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Activities Contents

Take a tour by ATV

Take A Tour Barbados is an undeniably beautiful island with so much to see. Luckily, there are various ways to discover the sights and the one-of-a-kind beauty these shores are blessed to contain. Whether by land, sea, or air, the rugged terrains; natural valleys; lush vegetation and historical places, which abound are well worth your attention.

4x4 Safari These safari tours are certainly not your regular drive through the countryside. Strap yourself in carefully for a one of a kind expedition on roads and makeshift paths through the hilly terrain of the Eastern and North-Eastern side of the island. The 4x4 tour takes you off the beaten track to discover some of the most magniďŹ cent sites and views that otherwise could not be reached. It is one thing to take pictures of these areas. It is another to take a picture right in the middle of them.

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ATV Take a trip on the wild side by touring the island on the back of an All Terrain Vehicle. These Quad bikes are the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful sites in some of the most remote areas that offer some of the best photo ops! The ATV guided tours travel both on and off –road to the rugged outback, lush forest areas, and the guides provide information of many of the sites you will visit. But not to worry, every tour starts with a lesson on riding the ATV. Riders must have a valid drivers license and be 21 years or older, but children over 9 are welcome as passengers.

Horse Back Truly go back to nature by exploring one of the many nature trails on horseback. Take a full day to ride through the rugged countryside and the picturesque beaches and discover some of the most scenic spots on the island.

Charlston Selman

Take a Tour

There are many bus tour operators in the island with a wealth of expertise and different options to choose from.

Whether you prefer a to go on a tour with a specific theme such as history and culture, picturesque views, or natural sites, there is a package that will suit your preference or even combine them all!.

There are even tours available for cruise passengers stopping on the island for a short time before heading out to sea again.

Explore our island by bus

Insight Digital

Bus

Rent and go

Nation Archive

Charlston Selman

Ride through the rugged countryside and the picturesque beaches

Car As wonderful as the aforementioned guided tours may be, there is nothing quite as extraordinary as grabbing a map, and finding your own way through our petite home. It is very difficult to get too lost, as there is a popular local saying that goes “all roads lead to Bridgetown”! So do a bit of reading up, circle the places you want to go and get started your own adventure.

You can rent a car from one of the several reliable companies listed in the travel section of the Island Directory (see page 68). They all offer a fleet of reliable and modern vehicles from economy cars to high end SUVs for your driving comfort.

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Activities Contents

Is that the sun rising?

Better believe it. on any party-goers to-do list.

If you are one of those “all work and no play” type of people, it means you have probably chosen the wrong vacation spot.

Having fun, especially after a hard day of work, is high on just about everyone’s list. And in Barbados, there are more than enough options.

If you haven’t been able to spend much time with locals, this is your chance. The majority of the clubs and bars are located on either the West or South Coasts of the island and provide a wide selection of venues, music and surprisingly contrasting atmospheres.

St Lawrence Gap in Christ Church is a 1.3 km stretch of road saturated with

Partying in the Ship Inn 64

Insight Digital

I

n Barbados, the nightlife turns into ‘morning-life’. It is true that we are known for a party scene that might appear to contradict our laid back pace. But when you really think about it, one would be crazy to expect anything else. Dinner and dancing under the stars – who said the night time was for sleeping?

When the sun sets, the serene breezy shores completely transform into a captivating dance floor where pulsating rhythms entrance you, making standing still almost impossible. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore mix seamlessly with the beats and melody of the sweet music engulfing the open air. Hitting up one of our many beach bars and clubs should be

Jennifer Allen

Partying the night away

nightclubs, bars, restaurants and various types of accommodation. “The Gap” as it is commonly known, is a watering hole of sorts for locals and tourists alike who know how to party in true island style.

First and Second Street in Holetown, St. James, like The Gap, serve as a one stop shop for after-dark activities. With fewer nightclubs but more restaurants than St Lawrence Gap, First and Second Street provide quality entertainment under the beautiful stars .

One can never be too old to be engulfed into the after-dark fun of the island. If the nightclub scene does not tickle your fancy, enjoy a romantic dinner for two or an engaging dinner show with friends and family. Fine dining and live entertainment combine for a night out that every member of the family can enjoy.

For something a little different, a catamaran or boat cruise off the magnificently lit West Coast is a mustdo. You can choose between a private catamaran cruise or join many others on one of the party boats. Be sure to check dock times and arrive early, because that is one departure you do not want to miss!

It is important to note that the age of entry to many of these nightclubs/bars range from 16 to 18 and the legal drinking age is 18. We encourage you to always drink responsibly and remember that the use of any illicit drugs come with heavy

penalties.

There are many night festivals, concerts and shows that occur throughout the year.

Check the event calendar to see what is happening while you are enjoying your stay. Despite our small size, you can surely find something different to do that suits your style any and every night of the week!

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Info

B

anking: We have a number of international and regional banks throughout the island. General operating hours are Monday through Thursday 8am to 3 pm, and Friday 8 am to 5 pm. There are also a wide variety of ATMs around that dispense local currency only.

Safety: Barbados is generally considered to be much safer than several other tourist destinations. That said, don’t do anything you wouldn’t do at home. For example, don’t leave valuables lying in plain sight, in an unlocked car or in an open room; also remember to lock your doors when leaving your accommodation.

Business Hours: General operating hours of local businesses and stores are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm or 9 am to 5 pm, Monday thru Friday with some places open on Saturday from about 8:30 am to 1 pm. These hours are just a general guideline as some stores and offices have their own opening hour, which may not comply with the above.

Telephone: Phoning home is very simple, you can call direct to most places in the world from any fixed line or cell phone.

If you need any help, you can use local operator assistance by dialing 0 + Area Code + Number.

Currency: Barbados has its own currency which is pegged to the US dollar at an exchange rate of BD$1.98 to US$1.00. You can change your currency at any local bank.

However, major foreign currencies such as the US $, the British £, the Euro €, and the Canadian $ are widely accepted by local merchants and restaurants. Major credit cards and travellers’ cheques in the above mentioned currencies can also be used.

Just remember to carry corresponding picture identification.

Transportation: Getting around our lovely island is quite easy and there are several options for you to choose from: • Buses/ Vans - The fare on any of the following modes of transport is BD$2.00 one way. Do remember that when you are at a bus stop you need to put your hand out to signal the bus to stop. o Transport Board buses – These are government buses. These are blue with a yellow stripe and have licence plates that begin with the letters “BM”. o Privately owned mini-buses – These have license plates which start with the letter “B” and are yellow with a blue stripe. o Privately owned route taxis – These are affectionately known as ZR’s after the first two letters on their license plates. ZRs are smaller white vans with a purple stripe.

• Taxis – There are a number of companies and individuals who provide private taxi services. The associated fares are based on the distance travelled and in most cases are fixed. You should establish with the driver before starting your journey what the fare is likely to be.

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Brian O’Neale

Tips & Tidbits

Brian O’Neale

• Rental Cars – There are many perks to renting a car while you are here on holiday. You get the opportunity to explore parts of the island not traditionally seen by tourists and you have more flexibility in moving around. This can also be a very cost effective option, especially if you are part of a large group. Rental options vary from small cars right up to jeeps and large vans that can hold over 6 persons. Make sure to visit our island directory listings, to find a reputable and affordable car rental company.

• Scooters/ ATVs/ Bicycles - If you’re

feeling adventurous, you can also consider renting a scooter, ATV or bicycles to tour our lovely island.

Water: Our water supply is completely safe to drink from the tap and is one of the best in the world. This is because of Barbados’ unique limestone make-up, which helps to purify and cleanse the water.

Tipping: Many restaurants include a 10% service charge on their bills. If there is no service charge or you receive excellent service, tipping is at your discretion.

Emergency Numbers: Although we certainly hope you won’t need any emergency help while enjoying your stay on our island, things do happen, so please take note of the following local emergency numbers.

• Police 211 or 430-7100

• FMH Emergency Medical Centre, Belleville, St. Michael, 228-6120

• Fire 311 • Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) 436-6450 • Sandy Crest Medical Centre St. James, 419-4911 • The Sparman Clinic, Belleville St. Michael, 624-3278

• Ambulance Service Queen Elizabeth Hospital 511 • Barbados Red Cross Ambulance Service 417-2727 Other Helpful Numbers • Local Directory Assistance 411 • International Directory Assistance 711 67

Info

Island Directory Accommodation Worthing Court Apartment Hotel Worthing, Christ Church Tel: 434-8400

Activities Aerial Trek, Hike & Cave Jack in the box Gully, St. Thomas Tel: 433-8966 Black Pearl Party Cruises Inc. Carlisle House, The Careenage, St. Michael TEL: 436-2885 Coconut Tours Bayside Bay, St. Michael Tel 437-0297 Island Safari Lower Estate Complex, St. George Tel: 429-5337

Barbados Museum & Historical Society Garrison, St. Michael Tel: 427-0201 Barbados National Trust Headquarters, Wildey House, Wildey St. Michael Tel: 426-2421 Caves of Barbados Harrison’s Cave Welchman Hall, St. Thomas Tel: 438-6640 Sunbury Great House Sunbury, St. Philip Tel: 423-6270

Communications

Sugar Cane Club Hotel and Spa Maynards, St Peter Tel: 434-8415

Digicel Barbados Ltd. The Courtyard, Hastings, Christ Church Tel: 434-3444

Suntours Barbados Tel: 434-8412

Complimentary Health

Frangipani Art Gallery Sugar Cane Club Hotel & Spa Maynards, St Peter Tel: 422-5026

The Barbados Reiki Association Tel: 428-4186 or 428-4000 Email: barbadosreiki@hotmail.com or touchoflight@gmail.com Email: juliette.rudder@gmail.com Website: http://www.barbadosreikiassociation.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BarbadosReiki

Attractions & Museum

Dining

Banks Beer Brewery Tour Wildey, St. Michael Tel: 228-6486

Angry Annies Holetown, St. James Tel: 432-2119

Art

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Barbados Concorde Experience Grantley Adams International Airport, Christ Church Tel: 420-7738

Brown Sugar Aquatic Gap, St. Michael Tel: 426-7684 Chilli Moos Ice Cream Treatery Quayside Centre, Rockley, Christ Church Tel: 435-1877 The Crane Resort Crane, St. Philip Tel: 423-6220 David’s Place Worthing Christ Church Tel: 435-9755 H. Jason Jones & Co. Ltd. Premium Steak Delivery Kensington Court, Fontabelle, St. Michael Tel: 4297209 Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church Tel: 428-2759 Oriental B.B.Q & Bar Upstairs The Steak House St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church Tel: 420-3762 Paulo’s Churrasco Do Brasil St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church Tel 438-6767 St. Lawrence Steak House & Grill St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church Tel: 428-7152 The Waterfront Café Cavans Lane, Bridgetown Tel: 427-0093 The Tides Holetown, St. James Tel: 432-8356

Entertainment The Boatyard Bay Street, St. Michael Tel: 436-2622

Harbour Lights Bay Street, St. Michael Tel: 436-7225 The Plantation Theatre St. Lawrence Main Road Christ Church Tel: 428-5048 The Ship Inn St. Lawrence Gap Tel: 430-7447

Embassies and Consulates Australian High Commission Bishop’s Court Hill, St. Michael Tel: 435-2834 Austrian Honorary Consul Knowlton, Exeter Rd, Navy Gdns, Christ Church Tel: 427-3131 Embassy of Brazil Hastings Main Road, Christ Church (Located in the Digicel complex) Tel: 427-1735 Canadian High Commission Bishop’s Court Hill, St. Michael Website: http://www.bridgetown.gc.ca Tel: 429-3550 Embassy of Colombia Dayrells Rd., Rockley, Christ Church Tel: 429-6821 French Consulate Waverly House, Hastings, Christ Church Tel: 435-6847 German Honorary Consul Tel: 427-1876 Israeli Honorary Consul General Palmetto St. Bridgetown Tel: 426-4764

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Info Italian Vice Consulate Bannatyne, Christ Church Tel: 437-1228 Netherlands Consulate Balls Plantation, Christ Church Tel: 418-8000 United Kingdom British High Commission Collymore Rock, St. Michael E-mail: britishhc@sunbeach.net Tel: 436-6694 Embassy of the United States Bridgetown, Wildey Business Park, Wildey, St. Michael Tel: 227-4000 or 227-4399 Venezuelan Embassy Hastings, Christ Church Tel: 435-7619

Places of Worship Anglican St Matthias Anglican (Episcopal) Church St. Matthias Road, Hastings, Christ Church Sunday Services: 7a.m. and 8:45a.m.

Tel: 429-5733 or 427-7389

Jumma Masjid Kensington New Road, Bridgetown, St Michael.

Tel: 426-0117 City Masjid Sobers Lane, Bridgetown, St Michael.

Tel: 427-1258 Makki Masjid 6th Avenue, Belleville, St Michael.

Tel: 228-3653 Islamic Teaching Centre Harts Gap, Hastings, Christ Church.

Tel: 427-0120 Jewish The Barbados Jewish Community Summer services which run until Decmber 15, 2011 will be at Shaare Tzedekh Synagogue, Rockley New Road, Christ Church.

Friday evening Shabbat service starts at 7.30 PM Winter Shabbat services will be held at Nidhe Israel Synagogue and the Jewish Museum, Synagogue Lane, Bridgetown Tel: 427-7611, 228-2102, 426-4764, 428-8414 or 432-1114 Pentecostal

Christ Church Parish Church Church Hill, Oistins, Christ Church Sunday Services: 6:15a.m., 7:45a.m. and 9:15a.m.

Sunday School: 9a.m.

Tel: 428-8087/428-9147

The People’s Cathedral Bishop’s Court Hill, St Michael Sunday Services: 7:30a.m., 10a.m. and 6p.m.

Family Bible Hour: 9a.m.

Tel: (246) 429-2145

Brethren

Roman Catholic

Ebenezer Gospel Hall Crumpton Street, Bridgetown Sunday Services: 11a.m. and 6p.m.

Tel: 432-0811 or 420-1469

St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral Bay Street and Jemmott’s Lane, St Michael.

Sunday Mass: 7a.m., 11a.m. and 6p.m.

Tel: 426-2325

Islamic

St Dominic’s Maxwell Main Road, Christ Church Sunday Mass: 7a.m. and 10a.m.

Tel: 428-7677

Barbados Muslim Association Five daily prayers and Friday prayer at 12:30p.m.

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Real Estate Apes Hill Club Apes Hill, St. James.

Tel: 432-4500, Fax: 432-4501 Realtors Limited Holetown, St. James Tel 432-6930

The Runway DaCosta’s Mall, Bridgetown, St. Michael Tel: 43-style Limegrove Lifestyle Centre Holetown, St. James Tel: 432-6563

Spas Services Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association 4th Avenue Belleville, St Michael Tel: 426-5041

Sugar Cane Club Hotel & Spa Maynards, St. Peter Tel 434-8412

Travel

Barbados Tourism Authority Harbour Rd, Bridgetown, Barbados Tel: 427-2623

1st Choice Car Rental Worthing Main Road, Christ Church Tel: 434-2277

Ministry of Tourism Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre Two Mile Hill, St. Michael Tel: 430-7500

Coconut Car Rentals Bayside, Bay Street, St. Michael Tel: 437-0297

Shopping Cave Shepherd Broad Street, Bridgetown Vista, Worthing Sunset Mall, Sunset Crest West Mall, Holetown Crane Hotel Almond Beach Village Hotel Grantley Adams International Airport Opening Hours: Mon - Thur 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Fri - 8:30 am - 6:30 pm Sat - 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Sun - 9:30 - 2:30 pm PBX: 246-227-2121 Shuttle Service available from most hotels each day.

The Royal Shop 32 Broad Street, Bridgetown St. Michael Tel: 429-7072 or 431-0296

Courtesy Rent-A-Car Wildey, St. Michael Tel: 431-4160 or 418-2500 Coconut Car Rentals Bayside Bay, St. Michael Tel 437-0297 Drive-A-Matic Ltd. Lower Carlton, St. James Tel: 424-4000 Executive Car Rental 9 & 10 Tamkris, Worthing, Christ Church Tel: 228-1993 Johnson Tours Barbados Limited Sunny Isle Complex, Worthing, Christ Church Tel: 426-5181 Top Car Rentals Ltd. Rockley New Rd., Christ Church Tel: 435-0378 71

Info

Mike and Lynn Norman

H

e loves being in the ocean and she loves catamaran cruises.

These fun-loving activities are “the height” of Mike and Lynn Norman’s holiday in sunny Barbados.

The two New Yorkers recently spent their annual three-week stay living it up on the island – something they enjoy doing each year as time-share owners at Bougainvillea Beach Resort.

“This year was our ninth visit to Barbados.

We come here because we love everything about the island. It’s our little paradise,” Lynn told Explore our Isle Barbados.

Laid back days and starry sky nights are also what this couple look forward to, but playing golf and feasting on sumptuous Barbadian fare– particularly at Champers 72

Restaurant, are added bonuses for these two.

Their favourite food is pan-fried Bajan Flying Fish served with rice and sweet potato, but anything Bajan goes for Mike and Lynn, who say they never feel threatened or intimidated during their visits.

Last July they celebrated Mike’s 60th birthday, and hope to celebrate many more birthdays in this gem of an island.

“We have a deep love for Barbados.

Although we visited other Caribbean islands, we love Barbados the most, and it’s the only island we have visited repeatedly,” Lynn disclosed.

Here’s hoping they continue to have many more sojourns to their best place on the whole earth – Barbados.

Peter Hinds

The Barbados Experience!

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