Bajan Dialect

Barbados has a rich history that is shaped by centuries of sugar cane cultivation and production, and influenced by the heritage of its British settlers and African slaves that worked the land.

And as you traverse the island you can't help but notice the gilded tapestry of the landscape painted in lush green pastures, majestic flowering trees, and a range of architecture from the quaint and unique chattel house to the historic Codrington Theological College.

You wouldn't believe that this small island 166 square miles could offer such a range of sights and scenes.

You can visit a plantation house or a slave hut, the house where American revolutionary and President George Washington slept or Nicholas Abbey, one of three remaining examples of Jacobean-style architecture in the Americas.

The Barbados National Trust has been entrusted with the preservation of heritage buildings throughout Barbados, many of which it has restored to their former glory and which are opened for viewing through the Trust's Open House programme.

Guided tours are available and can be arranged by your local friendly taxi driver or from your hotel. And you can tailor your tour to suit your taste. Choose from the general scenic tours, safari tours or historic tours all of which offer an exciting view of our lovely island.

Nature lovers can visit Andromeda Botanical Gardens, Welchman Hall Gully, Harrison's Cave, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve or the Flower Forest. For the more adventurous explorer, you can sign up for an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tour that takes you over the hilly and rugged countryside.

For the water lovers, there is a host of activities tours of our island. Many companies offer underwater tours of the extensive reef structure of Barbados and you can enjoy frolicking with the colourful marine life.

If you chose to rent a car remember that this is a relaxed island and the infrastructure sometimes reflects that. The roads meander and are often illogical locals probably get lost as often as you will. Take it in stride you will get to your destination eventually. Maps are available at most gas stations although they often offer only the most dubious of assistance.

Bajans are helpful and will offer assistance when directing you to your destination, ask and they will be happy to help you get where you are going.