Barbados, in the West Indies, at only 34 kilometres in length, is pure pleasure. The home of rum, Mount Gay was the first rum distillery in the world beginning in 1703 and still open today. We highly recommend a visit, a tour, and of course, a tasting along with a bottle to take home. Barbadians like their rum punch: it's refreshing and invigorating and when in Rome!

Barbados is a country of many blends. Walk along the local streets with fresh produce, take a tour and understand the influence this region had on slave labour as you wander past warehouses and historical points of interest. Catch the local bus into towns about a quarter of a taxi fare as Reggae music pours out from the speakers. You'll soon be bopping along.

Don't miss Barbado's street parades; big or small, they feature elaborate costumes, dancers and performers, music, and food. The end of Crop Over is celebrated on Grand Kadooment Day, and is one of the most colourful and energetic festivals; however, there are many others held throughout the year. Bajan entertainment and cuisine are fantastic and worth indulging in. Nightlife, bars, and clubs all keep the Calypso and Reggae beats alive as do international DJ's, in this happy-party country.

Sports events attract teams from around the Caribbean and across the world. Island teams, when resting, are often dancing while working on their next strategy through songs and bonding. It's a great spectacle, even if you don't follow the sport. Then there's the Cricket Hall of Fame, the beaches, St James Parish Church, in Hopeton, the oldest church in Barbados, and Cuz's Fish Shack for the best fish sandwich with the perfectly cooked fresh marlin.

Visit Rihanna Drive and see the home of Rihanna, one of the most consistent hitmakers in the pop music industry, who grew up here in Barbados. Consider having dinner with George Washington and step back to 1751 while dining with George and his staff, during an educational theatre/dining experience at his UNESCO protected property.

Witness the Changing of the Sentry the Garrison Clock Tower (check dates and time as they do have days off) at a ceremony that dates to the late 1700s. Queen Victoria selected the colourful Zouave uniforms in 1856, and precision is everything. Beautiful Barbados: it's not a celebrated holiday destination for no reason.

Best time to visit Barbados

There is so much to see and fun to be had on this small isle: however, it is a leading Caribbean tourism destination, so plan your visit. Mid-December to mid-April, is high season. July to October is considered the low season. Barbados is a country you can visit all year round.