
Beach near Bridgetown © ulybug
Barbados, known as the 'pearl of the Caribbean', is the
eastern-most Caribbean island, and is actually an enormous and
ancient coral reef that was formed approximately one million years
ago. It has been dubbed 'the real fantasy island', an appellation
that points to its exotic resorts and glorious beaches. Enjoying
340 days of sunshine a year, numerous well-developed amenities, a
throbbing nightlife and friendly inhabitants, it is one of the most
popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean.
Barbados islanders, calling themselves 'Bajans', are West Indian
by descent, although largely shaped by English customs and culture.
These influences pervade much of the island, most evident in the
Anglican stone churches (the island is divided into numerous
parishes) and in the many cricket games played on the village
greens. The 'Little England' legacy dates back to colonial days
when the sugar industry reigned supreme. Barbados gained
self-government in 1966, and now tourism, rather than sugar, is the
mainstay of the local economy.
The island is a pear-shaped, 20-mile (32km) stretch of soft
coral, which is permeated by water and over time has formed
fascinating underground caverns. The coral reefs enveloping most of
the island entice tourists to its picturesque shores for activities
like snorkelling, scuba diving, and watersports.