Mon, Feb 9th 2009, 11:30

With its sandy white beaches, crystal blue waters, warm tropical climate and welcoming friendly people, Barbados is consistently recognized as one of the world’s preeminent vacation destinations.

A unique hybrid of African and English cultures, Barbados blends British architecture and style with warm African style hospitality. Nowhere else in the world will you find such a unique blend of backgrounds that combine in such a remarkable synthesis.

Barbados is the most easterly of all the Caribbean islands and maintains a consistent tropical climate year round. A favourite destination of travellers from around the world, Barbados' Grantley Adams International Airport welcomes regular flights from major airline carriers including:
• British Airways
• Virgin
• BMI
• American Airlines
• Air Canada
• And more

Barbados West Coast
Barbados famed West Coast also known as the "Platinum Coast" is home to some of the most prestigious real estate on the island if not the world. However, one of the things that gives Barbados its true charm is that between some of multi-million dollar homes, resorts and villas you will find Chattel Houses and other small residences and commercial buildings.

The stunning West Coast beaches, like all beaches in Barbados, are open to the public and are world renowned for their tranquil waters. The West Coast beaches are ideal for swimming, water sports or just relaxing under the warm Caribbean sun.

Barbados South Coast
The highly regarded South Coast is where you will find the majority of restaurants, night clubs and infamous St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados entertainment district. Along the South Coast you will also find Oistins Fish Market which is alive with activity and tasty, authentic "Bajan" food on Friday nights.  The beaches along the South coast are stunningly beautiful and are wonderful for swimming, water sports, walking and simply enjoying beautiful weather.

Barbados East Coast
Ruggedly beautiful, the East Coast offers incredible views of the island's Atlantic shoreline. The East Coast is home to the dramatic landscapes, natural pools and unspoiled beaches. A surfer's paradise, the waters along the East Coast tend to be rougher and caution should be taken when swimming, as the undertows and riptides of the East Coast are very powerful and can be dangerous. Sightseeing is highly recommend as beautiful rock formations that can be seen atop white sandy beaches in Bathsheba, where natural pools made from the reef are wonderful for bathing.

Accommodation
Barbados offers a wide selection of accommodation to fit any budget. GreatBarbados.com is the preeminent accommodation website for Barbados, offering a vast array of property listings that range from budget accommodation to high end luxury villas and everything in between. GreatBarbados.com also provides visitors with the opportunity to read unbiased reviews not only of accommodation, but also of tourist attractions and Barbados in general.
 
Food
Barbadian restaurants are highly regarded from a global perspective and visitors will find a wide selection of all types of restaurants ranging from high end gourmet dining establishments to "Sports Bar" cuisine to sushi to fast food. Flying Fish is one of the island's National dishes and can be enjoyed in most restaurants and in the open air fish market of Oistins.

Currency
The Barbadian dollar is pegged to the US dollar.
US $1 = BDS $1.98

Major Banks
Barbados National Bank
First Caribbean
Royal Bank of Canada
The Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank)
Bank of Butterfield

Capital
Bridgetown is located in the parish of St. Michael. It is easily accessible and the main area for duty-free shopping.

Climate
Temperature: 24 to 33 degrees Celsius (74 to 83 Fahrenheit) approximately

Rainy Season
June to November

About the Author:
James Jenkins, is the Business Development Manager for GreatBarbados.com, the ultimate guide to Barbados Accommodation, where visitors can find the best deals on places to stay, read traveller reviews, share photos and reviews and learn about Barbados.

Click here to visit his baysider business card