Visit Barbados

Two blue lounge chairs next to a blue large umbrella on a sandy beach with greenery on the borders and facing the blue sea.
Photo of a beach in Barbados taken by Tom Jur on Unsplash

Searching for your Caribbean escape?

Look no further than Barbados! Whether Whether you're a foodie, an adventure enthusiast, a partygoer, or someone in need of relaxation, Barbados has something to make every experience unforgettable.

How to Get There

Barbados is nestled in the south-eastern Caribbean sea and is accessible via direct flight with many international airlines. Some of these airlines include: Caribbean Airlines, WestJet, British Airways, LIAT, American Airlines, Jet Blue and Air Canada.

From Toronto, Canada, the flight to Barbados is approximately 4 hours.

Visa Requirements:

Be sure to verify the visa requirements for your specific travel document based on your country of issue before planning your trip.

For Canadian passport holders, no visitor’s visa is required at this time, allowing for a hassle-free entry. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm your entry requirements before departure to ensure your travel plans go smoothly.

History

Before being colonised by the British in the 17th century, Barbados was home to the indigenous Carib and Arawak communities.

The arrival of the British in the 17th century sparked the beginning of the island's transformation into a major slave colony in the sugar industry. In 1966 Barbados achieved full independence from the United Kingdom. Today, the rich history has shaped the island's unique culture making it an ideal travel destination for all.

Where to Stay

That's easy, anywhere.

Barbados is full of beautiful beaches at every corner of the island. Be it the west coast, east coast or south coast.

If you're looking to enjoy a laid back "feet up on the beach" kind of experience then the south coast is the place for you! This includes:

  • Accra Beach Hotel
  • Radisson Aquatica Resort
  • Courtyard by Mariott
  • and many others!

But if you're coming to surf then there's no better coast to stay than on the east coast.

To experience the east side of the island you can stay at:

  • The Crane Resort
  • Wyndham Grand Barbados All Inclusive Resort

What and Where to Eat

Being an island, it's no surprise that seafood is one of Barbados' specialties.

Whether it's shrimp, lobster, or a variety of fish like flying fish, barracuda, or mahi mahi (to name just a few!), there's something for both seafood lovers and skeptics alike.

However, seafood isn’t the only delight Barbados has to offer. The local cuisine is a blend of Caribbean, African, Italian and British flavours creating an enjoyable culinary experience for all. There are many beachfront restaurants that offer stunning ocean views and often feature live music. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or an upscale dinner, Barbados offers a variety of options for every dining occasion.

flying fish @ oistins fish fry

Places:

  • Oistins Fish Fry- An absolute must visit on a Friday or Saturday night (or better yet, both). It is an outdoor fish and food market with numerous vendors, live music, craft vendors and bustling with locals and tourists.

  • QP Bistro - Located on the beautiful west coast (literally on the coast). Have a romantic lunch or dinner next to the ocean and listen to some live music.

  • The Lone Star — No wonder Simon Cowell named it his favorite restaurant. This breathtaking beachfront spot allows guests to enjoy the experience of saying, "I had the best burger on the beach in Barbados."

  • Naru Restaurant and Lounge- A sushi and cocktail lounge located next to the sea that offers an exciting menu of blended Caribbean and Asian techniques.

  • Buzo Osteria Italiana - Craving Italian? Buzo Osteria offers signature cocktails on a martini bar and delicious italian cuisine.

  • Tapas - a popular restaurant settled right on the south coast. Enjoy ordering cocktails and tapas or choose from the traditional menu. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the boardwalk.

Local Attractions

With its rich culture, beautiful landscape and friendly locals, Barbados presents a wide array of intriguing attractions.

Every day of your trip offers the chance to partake in one or many of these exciting attractions.

Coconut trees along a road next to the ocean.
Photo taken on the Gap by Rebecca Rafeek.
  • Harrison's Cave Eco Adventure Park - Take the walking or driven tour within the magnificent Harrison's Cave. Be amazed by flowing streams, crystal clear ponds and towering coloumns of crystalized limestone.

  • Atlantis Submarines - Experience a memorable trip aboard a submarine and visit a shipwreck and enjoy the stunning sights of marine life.

  • The Boatyard Beach Club- While Barbados boasts many fantastic beach bars, if you're in the mood for water toys, turtle feeding tours and a rope swing, look no further than the Boatyard.

  • Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd - Tour the distillery of the world's oldest rum and learn about its history while enjoying complimentary samples.

  • Crop Over Festival - A festival rooted in the historical successful sugar can harvest celebration, the Crop Over festival offers an exciting cultural experience culminating on the first Monday in August with the spectacular street parade known as Kadooment Day.

  • Boat Cruises - Enjoy a fun evening cruise on the Jolly Roger or a catamaran cruise that ends with cruising into the sunset.

  • The Gap - Looking for some nightlife? The Gap is a lively strip that is littered with bars and restaurants open during the day and night. Enjoy a night out with good drinks and even better people next to the sea.