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Despite the small size of this Caribbean
island (just 166 sq. miles), Barbados has a wealth of interesting
places of explore, and some of the best places are the towns
and villages scattered throughout the island.
Bridgetown
The main commercial area of Barbados is the capital city of
Bridgetown. Here you will find an abundance
of duty
free shops (selling fine jewellery, china,
liquor, etc.) and wayside vendors (selling just about everything!).
The Parliament Buildings are also located
in Bridgetown. The Barbados Parliament was established in 1639
and is the third oldest Parliament in the entire Commonwealth.
We
have recently celebrated the 375th anniversary of Bridgetown,
a celebration that included concerts, historical lectures,
and a recommitment to the renewal and continued development
of the capital city.
Speightstown
Speightstown, located in the north of the island, was the first commercial centre
of Barbados. It was neglected for many years but has since been revived and
restored to its former glory. The area offers a unique look into the architectural
heritage of Barbados.
It is a wonderful place to spend a half-day
- browse the shops, visit the art gallery, and enjoy
a sumptuous local lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
Holetown
Located right in the heart of the
tourist district on the west coast of the island, Holetown is a place where history
and modern development meet. Holetown is the location of
the first settlement of Barbados and the Holetown Monument
commemorates the first English landing in Barbados
in 1625.
In the years since then, the area has seen
many changes and is now home to several excellent restaurants,
shopping areas, hotels, residential areas, and night spots.
Oistins
Oistins is on the south coast of the island, and the Oistins
Fish Fry has become the second most popular tourist attraction
on the island!
Oistins has a rich history -
this is where Articles of Agreement were drawn up to form Barbados' own parliament
- the third oldest parliament in the entire Commonwealth!
Needham's Point
An area of great historical interest, Needham's Point is also
the location of some of the best beaches on the island.
St.Lawrence Gap
Not so much a place of historical interest, "The Gap" is where
the party animals will feel right at home! There are numerous
night clubs and bars, along with excellent beachfront restaurants.
Fitts Village
A small village on the west coast, Fitts Village offers good
swimming and snorkeling conditions as well as one of the
best Italian restaurants on the island.
Bathsheba
On the rugged east coast, Bathsheba is a quiet
hideaway
that is
popular with visitors and locals alike. Enjoy
the breathtaking scenery and take a dip in one of the naturally
carved out pools!
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