Barbados

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The most easterly of the Caribbean islands, it lies about 100 mi (160 km) east of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Area: 166 sq mi (430 sq km). Population (2005 est.): 270,000. Capital: Bridgetown. More than nine-tenths of the population is of African ancestry. Language: English (official). Religion: Christianity (mostly Protestant). Currency: Barbados dollar. Largely covered by a layer of coral, Barbados is low and flat except in its north-central part; its highest point is Mount Hillaby, at 1,115 ft (340 m). There is little surface water. The island is almost encircled by coral reefs. Bridgetown is its only seaport. Barbados main town The economy is based on tourism and sugar, while the offshore financial sector is growing. Barbados is a constitutional monarchy with two legislative houses; its chief of state is the British monarch, represented by a governor-general, and the head of government is the prime minister. The island was probably inhabited originally by Arawak and later by Carib Indians. Spaniards may have landed by 1518, and by 1536 they had apparently wiped out the Indian population. Barbados was settled by the English in the 1620s. Slaves were brought in to work the sugar plantations, which were especially prosperous in the 17th–18th century. The British Empire abolished slavery in 1834, and all the Barbados slaves were freed by 1838. In 1958 Barbados joined the West Indies Federation. When the latter dissolved in 1962, Barbados sought independence from Britain, which it gained in 1966.

Barbados is a coral island, pushed out of sea by volcanic activity in a far away time. On the West Coast of Barbados, coral shore beaches of fine white sand stretch along a blue-green sea. Coral reefs fringe the Barbados shoreline to provide excellent snorkeling and Scuba Diving. Along the East Coast a lively surf is blown briskly by the strong and constant trade winds and the waves pound against a rocky shore. The constant breeze of the trade winds give Barbados a mild and pleasant tropical climate. Barbados water tour

When you visit Barbados, you will see it is mostly a flat coral island with excellent beaches, but there are rolling hills and many deep ridges and gullies, with an interesting distribution of flora and fauna. Within the Barbados coral core there is a vast array of caves and underground lakes which provide an excellent supply of drinking water that is amongst the purest in the world. Geologically Barbados is unique, being actually two land masses that merged together over the years. This and other anomalies make this Caribbean Island quite phenomenal, and there are geological structures that you will find only in Barbados.

Barbados is a very beautiful island, with lots of art, activities, night life, music, history and some of the best restaurants to be found anywhere. But what makes Barbados even more special, and the reason why so many visitors keep returning to the island year after year, is the people. Barbadians, called Bajans, are warm and friendly souls, always ready to greet you with a sincere smile. Barbadians make you feel welcome and special, in this lovely Caribbean Island. You will feel its your home and will want to come back again and again to Barbados: A unique Caribbean paradise, surprisingly sophisticated, friendly, fun and always Naturally Charming!

Barbados is a fun dynamic island with plenty to keep you busy no matter how long your stay. Whether you're looking for lazy days on a tranquil sun-drenched beach while sipping a tropical cocktail, or an exciting and adventurous day enjoying our many water-sports and beach activities, Barbados caters to all your needs. Enjoy the shimmering, crystal clear waters on a pleasure or party cruise or explore the exotic marine life on a snorkeling trip, a submersible or diving expedition. Thrill seekers may prefer a rugged out back or safari tour exploring the gullies and hidden treasures by horseback, ATV, hiking or the very popular 4x4 tours.
Barbados museum
Create your own adventure, hire a mini-moke, arm your self with a map and drive off into the sunset. Wander through meandering hills and swaying cane arrows. A stop at one of the many local rum shops that dot the countryside is a must do.

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