Barbados Tourist Guide From Discount Hotels

If you want a peaceful island getaway, with a bit of excitement thrown in, then Barbados, an island in the Caribbean could be your dream vacation. With its fantastic West Indian culture and more attractions than any other island, you will have the vacation of a lifetime. The landscape is one of majesty with little seaside villages, plantations, gardens and English country churches dating back to the colonial era. British traditions, such as afternoon tea, remain and the islanders speak with a British accent. With accommodation and restaurants catering to all tastes and budget, you will not be lacking in finding places to sleep and eat.

All of the beaches on Barbados are open to the public. The beaches on the West Coast have the calmest waters and are good choices if you want to take in some snorkeling. These are also the most popular beaches and can get crowded. These beaches are Brighton Beach, Brandon's Beach, Paradise Beach and Mullins Beach. One of the widest beaches is the Casurina Beach on the South Coast and Sandy beach is a favorite for families with children. Prince Andrew has a house overlooking Crane Beach on the Southeast Coast where the view is absolutely amazing. Have your picture taken beneath the coconut palms on the beach of Bottom Bay, the most photographed beach on the island.

If you get tired of the beach scene, you can play a few rounds of golf, take a horseback ride, play tennis or take a guided hike along the Arbib Nature and Heritage Trail. Windsurfing is also popular and if you want to engage in scuba diving, the dive shops can easily accommodate your need for diving gear.

Bridgetown has many sightseeing opportunities starting at the waterfront with the many boats moored there. There is a monument of Lord Nelson in Trafalgar Square and the surrounding buildings will make you think you are actually in London. Take in a game of cricket, visit St. Michael's Cathedral and the Synagogue. Barbados Museuem was once a military prison and has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the island's history.

In the center of the island, you can visit a former sugar plantation, known as Flower Forest, which is a beautiful botanical garden. Explore the underwater world at Harrison's Cave and walk through a lush tropical garden at the Welchman Hall Gully. Along the coast The Folkestone Marine Park and Visitor Centre features a museum dedicated to the marine life of the island.

Shopping is a pure delight with the prices averaging 20% to 40% below that of the stores in North America. If you purchase locally made products you won't have to pay duty on them when you arrive home. Shopping opportunities abound featuring imported and local products, such as wall hangings made from local grasses.

Virtual Tours of Hotels in Barbados