BARBADOS
Outdoors, leisure and cultural opportunities presented by Barbados
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
BARBADOS
The Barbados Tourism Authority showcases the best of the island’s opportunities and leisurely experiences available to those wishing to visit Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin
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BARBADOS IS A tropical paradise known for its stretches of beautiful white sandy beaches, the vivid greenery of its land and hills, and the impossibly serene coastal waters that sweep under the hanging leaves of swaying palm trees. The island’s capital, Bridgetown, shows off these elements of Barbados. Sitting on the south-west corner of the country, Bridgetown mixes the natural beauty of the island with iconic colonial-era architecture, brought to
life with energetic Bajan culture. Away from the beautiful coast and lively city, the wilderness of inland regions offer limitless adventure. And for those who visit Barbados, the opportunities for leisure activities, cultural and historical learning, and to experience a variety of traditional foods, drinks, and festivities, are boundless. With opportunities such as these, there is no wonder why the tourism industry is such a substantial contributor to the nation.
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BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS THE BARBADOS TOURISM Authority aims to increase travel to the island so that visitors can experience what it has to offer. As the nation has been somewhat reliant on tourism for the past few decades, maintaining the attraction of Barbados to its global customer base is highly important. But it also provides visitors with a unique experience they will not forget. For many, the perfect mixture of white beaches and tranquil waters is a rare and exciting prospect – a place to relax, sunbathe, and take in the vast ocean-filled horizon while the sun sets. The Barbados Tourism Authority is focused on the maximisation of possibilities to all those who visit the island. 4 | Outlook Travel issue 04
FESTIVALS AND ARTS Various festivals are celebrated in Barbados annually. From January till December several venues on the island come alive in celebration for one reason or another. The Barbados Music Awards starts
the celebrations in January, followed by the Holetown festival in Holetown St. James in February. Agrofest, an agricultural fair also takes place in February in Queen’s Park in the capital Bridgetown. March offers festivals catering to the foodie and to the horse racing enthusiast. These festivals are Oistins Fish Festival in Oistins, Christ Church and the Sandy Lane Gold Cup held at the Historic Garrison Savannah. The Barbados Reggae Festival which culminates at the historic Farley Hill National Park in St. Peter keeps the festivities pumping in April. Gospelfest a Christian celebration of poetry, dance and song is also staged at Farley Hill in the month of May.
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
The remaining months of the year consist of several other festivals inclusive of Visual Arts, Pan Pun De Sand, NIFCA (National Independence Festival of creative Arts) and Run Barbados to name a few. The variety of festivals on offer cater a myriad of interests and are sure to intrigue. The largest and most important festival in Barbados however is Crop Over, which celebrates the end of the sugarcane harvest. This summer festival is celebrated over several weeks and includes fairs, fetes, parades and contests. Crop Over culminates on Kadooment Day. This day features an explosion of colours, food and masqueraders dancing rhythmically to the pulsating beats of Calypso along the streets towards Brandons Beach on the
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Spring Garden Highway. It is truly the sweetest Summer Festival.
TRAVEL PROMOTION
AFTER INDULGING ON THE SWEETNESS OF RUM, YOU CAN EXPECT TO FIND A HIGH-ENERGY EVENING ENVIRONMENT AT LOCAL BARS AND RESTAURANTS WHERE YOU CAN DINE ON A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT DISHES, LOCAL OR INTERNATIONAL”
The organisation has actively developed its online presence for an increasingly digital age. On top of email subscriptions and other forms of contact, its website, www.visitbarbados.org, showcases a huge variety of places, activities, and events that occur around the island – a platform that provides access to knowledge about Barbados with amazing ease. If you were unsure of what Barbados had to offer, and you wanted to maximise the opportunities at your fingertips, the website provides visitors with a range of informative points through which to ensure that they can experience everything they wish to and more.
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
The website also allows visitors to learn about the best locations to stay, help with holiday trip planning, and even a podcast that keeps you up to date with the latest in goings-on in Barbados allowing those who wish to be as informed as possible. In the face of the world-changing COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation has worked to introduce a 12-month Barbados Welcome Stamp. This is a new remote work programme
Your Barbados experience is incomplete until you’ve sampled our oldest and greatest export, rum. Discover the story, the mysteries and the secrets behind our finest and most celebrated spirit. Make sure to book a Barbados rum tour - you’ll be glad you made the journey from beach to bottle
that can provide a visa to eligible individuals and allows them to work remotely within Barbados for up to 12 months – a brilliant opportunity for people wishing to work abroad. The visa can be granted to anyone who meets the visa requirements and those whose work is not bound Outlook Travel issue 04 | 7
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
by a specific location, whether they are individuals or families. This stamp had given people the chance to work abroad, who otherwise may not have been able to do so.
WHY VISIT BARBADOS? For the Barbados Tourism Authority, the main reason to promote Barbados is of course its weather, tropical climate, and coastal holidaying areas for the average visitor to relax, enjoy, and kick their up feet with a rum-based cocktail. But there is more to the island than the stunning geography. The Bajan culture of the island includes celebrations and parties, unique cuisine, and many other specific customs and traditions that are brilliant to experience and take part in. From urban nightlife, shopping facilities, and spa treatments, to world heritage sites, culture tours, and wedding
“BARBADOS HOLIDAYS CAN INCLUDE MUCH MORE THAN JUST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS. THIS VIBRANT ISLAND PLAYS HOST TO AN ASTONISHING ARRAY OF ANNUAL EVENTS...” planning, Barbados is an island of many wonders. One such culture tour is the visitation to rum distilleries, of which there are several on the island, including multiple within the capital. Barbados is known as the “birthplace of rum”, boasting the smoothest and most delicious rum taste in the world. The country has been producing the “Caribbean elixir” for over 350 years, the oldest rum of which visitors to the island can try from Mount Gay Rum Distillery in Bridgetown. After indulging on the sweetness
of rum, you can expect to find a high-energy evening environment at local bars and restaurants where you can dine on a variety of different dishes, local or international. Classic Bajan cuisine can be found to be a wonderful amalgamation of flavours and ingredients from around the world, such as chicken curry and beef stew, or the island itself, such as Flying Fish and Cou Cou (a combination of cornmeal and okra). And in the light of the tropical midday sun facilities all over the country allow visitors to fulfil their
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
adventurous wishes. Surfing is a popular island-wide activity, and the coastal waters provide veteran surfers, or those who are simply keen to try it out, the perfect environment to make their surfing dreams come true. If surfing is not on your to-dolist, abseiling, jet-skiing, kayaking, and of course swimming and snorkelling among underwater wildlife in the warm ocean waters are just some of the water-based activities to be enjoyed – even the opportunity for a submarine journey into the deeper corals just off the island’s coasts! Further inland there are rural beaten paths that wind their way into the green hills and through peaceful woodlands desirable for the active walker or hiker, and off-road bike hires are open across the island, and
safari tours enable visitors to witness native wildlife first-hand. But on the flip side, if you are looking for a place to rest, relax, and watch the sun set with a cool drink in your arms, Barbados is the place to be.
EVENTS AND CELEBRATIONS There’s always something happening all year-round in Barbados, so add to your Caribbean experience by planning your getaway around your favourite festivals and events. Barbados holidays can include much more than just beautiful beaches and the great outdoors. This vibrant island plays host to an astonishing array of annual events including world-class sports, music festivals, theatre performances
and our much-loved Barbados carnival during the Crop Over harvest festival celebrations - called Grand Kadooment, it’s considered one of the best festivals in the world. Check what’s on in Barbados before you travel, and make online bookings for popular events such as international cricket test matches at the Kensington Oval, our jam-packed Reggae on the Hill event, and the annual season of outdoor theatre and musical performances hosted in the sublime gardens of Holders Great House. Come and join us!
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“Discover one of the most beautiful lifestyle resorts in the Caribbean at the Accra Beach Hotel & Spa. Located on the South Coast of Barbados, this 4-star beachfront property offers 221 rooms, sparkling pools, 4 restaurants, 3 bars, on-site spa, event & conference facilities, a welcoming team and unparalleled relaxation to make your stay a memorable one. What are you waiting for? Book your reservation at thisaward winning hotel today and experience the Caribbean Dream!” Activities We have a business/activities centre which allows access to the internet, printing, faxing and photocopying services. One can also reserve off-site tours in the Activities Centre. On property, we offer a complimentary kids club for children ages 4 to 14 years where daily activities are organised, complimentary use of the games room with pool table, table tennis and board games, as well as the fitness centre. Adult activities are also arranged and can vary including trips to Bridgetown, walks on the board walk, fish feeding and games in the pool. Room Categories Accra Beach Resort & Spa boasts 221 rooms of 10 different categories: Island View, Pool View, Ocean View, Oceanfront, Deluxe Ocean View Suite, Pool View Suite, Penthouse Suite, Deluxe Ocean View Junior Suite, Oceanfront Suite and State Room. Meetings For meetings, the resort boasts of 4 meeting rooms and a board room with over 6,500 sq ft of meeting space. Additionally its beach-front, pool side and well manicured landscape sets the ideal scene for Gala Dinners with the ocean serving as an enchanting backdrop. Happenings There is never a dull moment to be had with so much to offer every day of the week, such as our Manager’s cocktail reception, the Curry & Kebab night, the Karaoke evening, the BBQ buffet dinner with floor show & live band, the Authentic Caribbean Sunday lunch buffet with live band, Three (3) Happy Hours daily, Yoga, Aqua Aerobics, Kid’s activities, Beach games, Organised tours and more!
Accra Beach Hotel & Spa, Rockley, Christ Church BB15139, Barbados +1 246 4358920 | reservations@accrabeachhotel.com | www.accrabeachhotel.com
Welcome to The Abidah by Accra, sister property and newest addition to the Accra family, a majestic all-inclusive adult-only boutique hotel overlooking the pristine waters of Enterprise Bay.
You will instantly feel at home and relish in Abidah’s intimate ambience and unique charm. Be welcomed through our modern glass exterior framed by lush island greenery to discover forty-four (44) refined suites, all fitted with private balconies with spa pools; and boasting panoramic views of the turquoise ocean and lavish island greenery. Don’t forget to say hello to our very own Tipsy Tuk-Tuk Mobile Bar. You will come to be the best of friends during your stay. We host casual dining by day and elegant dining by night, our very own Remous Restaurant and Lounge is known for its blend of exquisite interiors and lavishly inviting ambience. Our Chef’s take you on a tantalizing culinary journey with menu’s honouring traditional Caribbean favourites and international masterpieces. We offer seven different themed cuisines throughout the week for a dining experience like no other. Our 44 guest rooms harmoniously blend sleek, modern designs and décor with chic fabrics and stunning colour palettes that fashion a sense of Caribbean warmth and serenity with intimacy. Senses Studio Spa is a haven of tranquility created just for you. Amidst the very contemporary feel pamper yourself in an oasis of serenity tailored just for two. See the warming colour collaborations in the décor; smell the fragrance of unique blends waiting to relax your mind, body and spirit.
At The Abidah Hotel, we pledge to safeguard the health and wellness of all guests and our team. With safety as a prime concern, we urge you to take special care in following our safety guidelines as you enjoy your stay. Upon entering public areas, you will observe hand sanitizing stations which are located on all guest floors. Our Front Office reception area is outfitted with a sneeze guard and all team members are all equipped with face masks and shields for added safety, we urge you to be safe as well and wear a mask when in public areas or coming into close contact with persons outside of your room.
Enterprise Beach Road, Christ Church, BB17068, Barbados, W.I. reservations@theabidahhotel.com +1 (246) 538-8920 www.theabidahhotel.com
OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
E AT: F OA R SBO UC DIG ERS …M OS P H E R E … AELTATNRDAV L IEVLELLY AT Harbour Lights F O R LO C A L C U I S I N E I N A L A I D - B AC K E N V I R O N M E N T… Cutters of Barbados I F YO U FA N CY I N T E R N AT I O N A L O R AS I A N … Nishi Restaurant
SLEEP: TO E X P E R I E N C E E V E RY T H I N G T H E I S L A N D H AS TO O F F E R … Accra Beach Hotel and Spa is home to a variety of luxury opportunities, from its relaxing pools to its high-end dining experiences, and of course, its extensive range of spa treatments that cater to all your leisure needs. Situated on the beautiful coast of the capital Bridgetown, Accra combines the opportunity for ocean-based activities, urban culture trips, and inland experiences, giving you access to everything Barbados has to offer at your fingertips.
F O R A H I G H - E N D A N D CO M M U N A L STAY… Sandals Barbados F O R A R E L AX E D STAY W I T H A PA R T N E R … Yellow Bird Hotel
DO: TO SA I L T H E O C E A N A N D E X P LO R E W H AT ’ S W I T H I N … Barbados Catamaran Snorkelling Cruise F O R T H OS E W H O W I S H TO E X P E R I E N C E C L ASS I C M E A L S … Street food walk tour
I F YO U WA N T TO T RY T H E S P I R I T O F B A R B A D OS … Mount Gay Rum Tour 12 | Outlook Travel issue 04
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
IN FOCUS
B R I D G E TOW N THE THRIVING CAPITAL of Barbados, Bridgetown is a hub of energetic celebration and an experience for the senses. During the day, the city is home to an array of shopping opportunities, from malls to unique street markets where visitors can browse the ranges of traditional wares and try out exotic street foods on offer. Favourite local eateries supplying authentic Bajan food can be discovered in walking food tours of the city, allowing tourists to experience the delicious dishes unique to the island’s people if visitors fancy a different experience to restaurant dining. The variety of historic buildings present harken back
to the nation’s colonial past, including a 17th-century garrison and horseracing track, and its culture born of a diverse mixture of international influences. Shipwreck dive sites and locations such as Browne’s Beach add a sense of adventure to the city, allowing visitors to take part in a multitude of activities unique to Barbados, and unavailable in other urban areas of the world. The city’s rum distilleries are a chance to try out the country’s national beverage in all its natural glory. Some of these institutions have been around for hundreds of years and they are as deeply rooted in the island’s culture as the various celebrations enjoyed throughout the year.
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S
MORGAN LEWIS MILL Interested in the history behind the island? Morgan Lewis Mill is one of the last sugar mills to have operated in Barbados, now converted into a museum for any visitor open to exploring the rich history of the nation.
BATHSHEBA BEACH Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Bathsheba Beach is a haven for surfers and those interested in aquatic life. Here, the sea rocks the coast with dramatic waves ideal for those keen for water sports. The power of the waves along this coast is shown in its erosion, that have formed a multitude of rockpools ideal for aquatic life in the shallows.
CARLISLE BAY, BARBADOS The central beach of Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay is a made up of white beaches stretched beside tranquil waters. It is a picturesque area of the coast, popular with swimmers, scuba divers, and thrives next to a hub of urban activity.
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White sand beaches, lush tropical peninsula, conveniently located with contemporary accommodation and a host of premium amenities, the Hilton Barbados Resort awaits you. Get the lowest price when you book direct* at Barbados.Hilton.com or call +1 246 426 0200.
BARBADOS RESORT
*Subject to Availability. Terms & Conditions apply. Visit www.hilton.com for full details.
BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
PHOTO BY BGABEL AT WIKIVOYAGE SHARED, CC BY-SA 3.0
PHOTO BY CARIBDIGITA - OWN WORK, PUBLIC DOMAIN
PHOTO BY SVEN VOLKENS - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 4.0
VISITORS WILL ARRIVE via plane at the Bridgetown/Grantly Adams Airport, where they can reach the capital within half an hour by taxi or car hire. Once in the city, visitors can take buses or hop in taxis for short car journeys to specific locations or hire a car in the city centre to explore the island freely for a unique and personalised adventure. In the capital everything from pristine white beaches, to hotels, restaurants, bars, markets, and historic sites are all within walking distance. If you fancy going further afield while enjoying the fresh air, bike hire is always available. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a luxury cruise to and from Barbados and take to the seas aboard several different ships to reach the various coasts of the island.
A Hino ACME Minibus B 163 in Speightstown, St. Peter
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Grantley Adams International Airport
Check-in hall at Grantley Adams International Airport
www.kensingtonoval.org info@kensingtonoval.com.bb
Established in 1882, Kensington Oval is Barbados’ oldest cricket ground. The ground was expanded and upgraded from its 4 acre pasture land of Kensington Plantation, to the prestigious, over 7 acre ground we have come to know as “the Mecca” of cricket in the Caribbean. After its redevelopment for the hosting of the ICC Cricket World Cup’s 2007 Championship, this multipurpose facility has evolved into a landmark venue hosting some of the island’s most monumental and prestigious events in sports and culture. Next time you visit Barbados be sure to include a Tour of the Oval, and walk the hallways graced by the cricketing greats such as the 3W’s (Worrell, Weekes & Walcott), Joel Garner, Sir Charlie Griffith, Desmond Haynes, Sir Ian Botham and Brian Lara. Take the opportunity to have a photo with the only statues of His Excellency The Right Honourable Sir Garfield Sobers and the Reverend Dr. Sir Wes Hall. Come experience a once in a lifetime opportunity to walk the grounds and touch the grass, which has hosted some of the most memorable matches in the history of the sport. Enjoy the exclusive views of the President’s Suite, Hospitality Suites, and the Players Pavilion, and take home exclusive memorabilia available only at the Kensington Oval Gift Shop. All this and more awaits you! Our social media pages are a great destination to experience the sites and sounds of the stadium when it is brought to life as well as to get insights and see the latest activities happening at the ground.
Kensington Oval Management Inc. Fontabelle, St. Michael, Bridgetown, Barbados BB12004
Please visit the website and social media pages for tour schedules and other information about Kensington Oval.
Follow us today @KensingtonOvalBarbados
T: (246)536-0351 (246)536-0352 (246)536-0353
krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 682 matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 669 w w w. o u t l o o k t r a ve l m a g . c o m