BARBADOS
Motto
“Pride and Industry”
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Overview
Barbados, often called “Little England” of the Caribbean, is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes. Its neighbours include Saint Lucia, to the north, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to the west, and Trinidad and Tobago to the south. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples before being claimed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. However, it was the English who established the first permanent settlement in 1627, making Barbados one of the oldest English colonies in the Caribbean.
During the colonial period, it became a major sugar-producing colony, with large plantations worked by enslaved Africans. This era shaped much of the island’s culture and society. After centuries of British rule, Barbados gained independence in 1966, but it still maintains strong ties to the UK and is a member of the Commonwealth. In 2021, Barbados made history by becoming a republic, removing the British monarch as head of state while retaining its vibrant ties to its past.
Barbados is famous for its stunning beaches, with Crane Beach and Bottom Bay offering some of the best white sands and turquoise waters for swimming and sunbathing. The capital, Bridgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore historic sites like the Garrison Savannah, a colonial military barracks, and St. Michael’s Cathedral.
For those interested in the island’s history, the Barbados Museum provides insights into its colonial past, while the George Washington House offers a unique connection to American history, as the future first U.S. president once stayed there.