Island Geography

Barbados is the Caribbean’s easternmost island and arguably its most charming. The secret of Barbados’s natural beauty lies in its formation as a Coral Island. The coral stone and coral reef combine to provide Barbados with some of the most fertile soil, lush green scenery and pure water on the planet. In addition it has created calm waters and breathtaking beaches on its Caribbean coastline and powerful surf on its Atlantic coastline.

History

Barbados was first inhabited by the peaceful Arawak Indians who were driven off the island by the cannibalistic Carib Indians from Venezuela around 1200 AD. The Caribs later deserted Barbados and when the British found the island uninhabited in 1625 they decided to settle heralding an unbroken era of British rule spanning over four centuries until Barbados finally gained independence in 1966. Barbados’ major industry during British rule was sugar – The first large sugar plantations in the Caribbean were in Barbados - and fuelled by the notorious slave trade, Barbados was for centuries a very profitable gem in the crown of the British Empire.

Perhaps the best modern day legacy of British influence is the stability of Barbados’ political and social system, which has given rise to almost unrivalled peace and security. Low crime rates and a healthy environment for business and tourism characterize a thriving economy. The best way to discover the islands past is to explore one of the great plantation houses that have been turned into visitor attractions. Saint Nicholas Abbey is the closest to Caspian and one of only three remaining Jacobean mansions in the western hemisphere.

History of Speightstown
The Speightstown area has a rich heritage. Formerly known as ‘Little Bristol’, Speightstown was the first major port in Barbados. It still functions as the major market town for the north of Barbados and is one of the few settlements to retain much of its old-time character. Its quaint, narrow streets are lined with small shops with overhanging open air patios. The Denmark and Orange Forts are centrally located and make for interesting stops, as do Arlington House and St. Peter’s Parish Church.

Sporting Life

If you like to be active whilst on holiday Barbados will provide you the perfect opportunity. What distinguishes Barbados as a world-class sporting destination is the camaraderie of the people bringing a refreshing element of fun, charm and enjoyment to the sport on offer. Perhaps it is the fact that this petite island, 21 by 14 miles in size, has produced more great cricketers per head of population than any other place on Earth. Either way you will find the ‘Bajan’ people sport crazy.

Watersports
The safe and laid back Barbados’ beach culture provides an ideal setting to enjoy the wealth of watersports options including water & jet skiing, sailing, parasailing, kayaking, game fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling and swimming. In addition, as a coral island, Barbados boasts one of the best surfing breaks in the world at ‘Soup Bowl’ on the east coast with plenty of other great surfing spots dotted around the island. The reef has also created a vibrant marine environment for snorkelling and scuba diving. Another activity not to be missed in Barbados, especially for families, is swimming with Sea Turtles on the many catamaran cruises and glass bottom boat tours. Three of the best beaches in Barbados can be found within close proximity of Caspian at Heywoods, Mullins Bay and Gibbes Bay.

Other sport
Barbados boasts three world class 18-hole golf courses, ample tennis facilities (some available to Caspian guests), horse racing, polo as well as organised hiking, cycling and of course plenty of cricket! On April 28, 2007 Barbados was the proud host of the Cricket World Cup final which was won by Australia at the newly revamped Kensington Oval.

Dining & Attractions

Barbados offers a tremendously diverse range of cuisine. There is something for all palates and budgets. For an authentic Caribbean experience we always recommend one of the nearby Fresh Fish Fries & Grills where you’ll see how the locals unwind at down to earth prices. Doris Place and Braddy’s Bar are two such places. There is also a large selection of exclusive restaurants with distinguished chefs preparing both Caribbean & International cuisine. La Mer, the Fish Pot and Mango’s By the Sea are three such restaurants in the vicinity of Caspian.

Some of Barbados’ many fascinating attractions include:

• Historic Signal Stations
• Historic Plantation House & Mansion tours
• Botanical Gardens & Flower Forests
• Wonderous Caves
• Sunset Cruises
• Off-Road Island tours
• Island Craft & Pottery centres
• Underwater Adventures & Theme Park
• A Wildlife Reserve
• A Nature Sanctuary
• Horse Back Riding
• Helicopter tours

‘Bajans’

By far the most valuable asset to Barbados is its people. You will find ‘Bajans’ as they call themselves to be hospitable and extremely helpful hosts. Whether it is giving you directions whilst on the road or engaging with you in a spontaneous conversation you can’t help but be charmed by the warm and relaxed atmosphere they create.

Events at a glance:

2007

  
 2008