BARBADOS INVITES BLEISURE TRAVELERS TO BE PRESENT IN THE MOMENT

Every parish of the island offers something unique for visitors.

Living on island time occurs at a different level when you are in Barbados. For one, it is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, and brings its own quaint charm. For another, the pictures don’t lie—The pristine blue waters surrounding this country can calm any soul. No wonder then that the capital, Bridgetown, is a cruise ship port where many travel enthusiasts and visitors to this island nation disembark for a piece of history, fun, and time in the sand and sun.

Over the years, Barbados has gained fame for many things—musician and entrepreneur Rihanna, the cricketing wizardry of Sir Garfield Sobers, its culinary offerings, the fun-loving zest for life that Bajans are known for, the island paradise that many visitors escape to, and more. It has also gained a reputation for remote work and corporate retreats. And with the speed at which bleisure travel has grown over the last few months, spots like Barbados lend well to the business traveler that would then like to spend time with family and friends in this island paradise.

One property that offers the luxury of resort living on the coast and is a historic venue is The Crane, which is the oldest continuously operating hotel in the Caribbean. Well-appointed suites, cliff-top pools, award-winning restaurants are all on property to make you feel at home as you explore Barbados, which is divided into 11 different parishes, each offering its own set of attractions.

Whether seeking a venue for a team activity or a family reunion, or even a serene self-care vacation, Barbados has much to offer. The most obvious being the culinary component, given its perfect location in the Atlantic Ocean, offering the choicest selection of local seafood any time of year. Among gastronomic venues to test your palate here are Sand Dunes, a Bajan eatery serving staples such as pudding and souse; Cocktail Kitchen, located in St. Lawrence Gap, redefining Caribbean cuisine with delicacies such as breadfruit and lobster; and Sea Shed with its laissez-faire beach vibe or Calma Beach Club on Barbados’ famous west coast. For casual and communal food experiences, the food trucks at Worthing Food Square Garden, an outdoor food hall filled with about 20 unique street food canteens and pop-up food trucks highlighting dishes from around the Caribbean, and Oistins Fish Fry, which is somewhat of a community event in the active fishing town by the same name in the south coast, are immersive experiences to indulge in just as the residents do.

For venues to visit that have historical or geographical significance to the country, look no further than Mount Gay, the world’s oldest commercial rum distillery; Holetown and Speightstown, which are both landmark spots in the creation of the country; and the Barbados Museum and Historical Society.

One experience not to miss is the tram tour at Harrisons Cave which is one of Barbados’ greatest wonders. Located in the central uplands of the island, this crystallized, limestone cave is characterized by flowing streams, deep pools of crystal-clear water and towering columns. A guided tram tour through the caves is the highlight of the experience here, leaving any visitor in awe of the splendor that lies beneath the surface.

Another experience is a catamaran cruise, which is especially recommended for large groups but equally enthralling for an individual adventure. Set sail on a catamaran with your dedicated captain and crew for a day at sea, where your catamaran stops at select locations close to shore for a variety of activities, the most important being a swim with Barbados’ sea turtles. There are a few local varieties easily spotted in the area so consider yourself lucky if you sight all during your cruise. Barbados also has a big focus on preserving and protecting the native marine life population given the role it plays in tourism but also its significance to the area’s habitat.

All of this can also be experienced via Barbados’ Welcome Stamp program which allows remote workers to live in the country for a full year. Created during the pandemic, it affords individuals interested in experiencing the Bajan lifestyle the opportunity to truly immerse themselves in a culture and community different from their own that embraces the diversity they bring to the island. And the best part? Bridgetown’s Grantley Adams Airport offers a Meet and Greet Fast Track service at arrival and departure to expedite your transit through the airport and onward. And while you are at it, remember to grab some Bajan seasoning, rum cake, and tamarind balls to take home as souvenirs for loved ones!