Mahogany Bay - West Coast © Barbados Tourism Authority
Barbados, the pearl of the Caribbean, is the eastern-most
Caribbean island. It is actually an enormous and ancient coral reef
that was formed approximately one million years ago. It has been
dubbed 'the real fantasy island', an appellation that points to its
exotic resorts and glorious beaches. It enjoys 340 days of sunshine
a year, numerous well-developed amenities, a throbbing nightlife
and friendly inhabitants, making it one of the most desirable
holiday destinations.
The islanders call themselves 'Bajans', West Indian by descent,
although largely shaped by English custom and culture. These
'influences' pervade much of the island, most evident in the
Anglican stone churches (the island is divided into numerous
parishes) and in the many cricket games played on the village
greens. The 'Little England' legacy dates back to colonial days
when the sugar industry reigned supreme. Barbados gained
self-government in 1966, and now tourism rather than sugar is the
mainstay of the local economy.
The island is a pear-shaped, 20-mile (32km) stretch of soft
coral, which is permeated by water and over time has formed
fascinating underground caverns. The coral reefs enveloping most of
the island entice tourists to its picturesque shores.
