I am Barbados, a single island despite my plural English name (but in French, La Barbade). The Portuguese, who first arrived in the 16th century, named me «Barbudos» (the bearded ones) after the huge liana trees that reached down to the ground (the bearded fig trees), hence my name. With all due modesty, I have to admit that I was a stunning paradise in those days with lush forests, white sands and ethereal turquoise waters.
The Portuguese moved on, and in 1627, the English arrived. Recognizing my potential, they transformed me into the ‘Jewel of the British Empire.’ This title highlights the economic success of sugar cane and rum but reveals little of the suffering of my soil and the horrendous plight of the hundreds thousands of Africans enslaved on my land.
For over three centuries, the British garrison based on my land was there to prevent rebellion and deter any other foreign occupation. Unlike my sister Caribbean islands, I’ve always had one master: the British Crown. English is my native language, along with my ‘Bajan’* English dialect, and many localities bear English names, earning me my nickname ‘Little England.’ My 11 administrative districts are called ‘Parishes,’ echoing England’s ‘civil parishes.’
Slavery was abolished in 1838 at great cost for the Crown, costs incurred to compensate the former slave owners, of all people.I finally gained independence in 1966 and became a constitutional monarchy. In 2021, I declared myself a Republic within the Commonwealth, with the strengthened resolve of my people to be “Firm craftsmen of our fate” as my national anthem says.
Though small (166 square miles), I offer plenty to entertain you during your chilly winters, thanks to my diverse attractions and my many faces. So let me describe myself to you:
Stunning
Not to boast, being the only coral island in the Caribbean, my beaches are as gorgeous as the postcards suggest. I proudly embrace tropical clichés: turquoise waters, white sands, coconut palms, rum punch, breathtaking sunsets—pure paradise! From the South to the West Coasts, my beaches welcome you, each with its unique character and activities. My favorites are secluded coves, also cherished by sea turtles.
Vibrant
The South Coast of Christ Church Parish is where the vibe is, especially during the Friday Night Fish Fry at Oistins fish market. Nearby, in the lively St. Lawrence Gap, it’s always “Rum o’clock,” time for ‘liming’ (gathering) or “Fêting” (partying). At Worthing Court Food Plaza, rum and music pair perfectly with fish cakes, breadfruit chips, Indian rotis, flying fish cutters or Jamaican jerk chicken. Along the Boardwalk from Accra Beach, bars and restaurants compete with cocktails galore. And don’t miss out on my magnificent Carlisle Bay beach!
Further down on the South-East Coast, watch kite surfers dance above the windy sea of Silver Sands near the colourful De Action surf center. In St. Philip Parish, meet my rural communities and stroll along the more secluded yet majestic beaches of Long Bay, The Crane, Fowl Bay…
Cultural events are plentiful year-round, but Crop-Over season is when I truly shine. From June onwards, my entire land buzzes with excitement, culminating in the Kadooment Day carnival on the first Monday of August.
Glamourous
My worldwide fame stems from my luxurious ‘Platinum’ West Coast, in St. James and St. Peter Parishes. Here, I indulge in unabashed opulence. Five-star hotels and glamorous residences compete for celebrities and wealthy guests. For this elite class, golf, cricket, polo, private cruises, horse races, shopping in Holetown’s boutiques and fine dining are on the agenda. This is also where my most famous citizen, Rihanna, can frequently be seen.
Further north, the quaint town of Speightstown showcases my Caribbean charm with quiet beaches, art galleries, and colorful food stalls.
Soothing
While my West and South Coasts border the calm Caribbean Sea, my East Coast faces the powerful Atlantic Ocean. This is where you should come for a restorative stay. In St. John and St.Joseph Parishes, I reveal my untamed beauty on the rugged shores where the majestic Bathsheba rocks stand. Swimming is prohibited there, but it is a haven for surfers, while botanical gardens lovers can stroll in Andromeda Gardens. Further along, in St. Andrew Parish, or ‘Scotland district,’ I am eco-friendly Barbados, with my wild coastline bordered by protected sand dunes and green hills.
Wild
My roughest side is on the North Coast, in St. Lucy Parish, with high cliffs shielding me from the ocean’s fury. At Animal Flower Cave, witness the awe-inspiring sight of waves crashing against the cliffs. These cliffs extend many miles toward the north east coast, offering breathtaking views.
Lush
In the landlocked parishes of St. George and St. Thomas, enjoy my countryside: sugarcane fields, historic plantation houses, remnants of windmills, and the lush beauty of my botanical gardens: Flower Forest, Coco Hill Forest, Hunte’s Gardens, Welchman Hall Gully... Explore the geological wonders of Harrison’s Cave, with its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Tour fields and hills aboard the heritage train of St. Nicholas Abbey (in St. Peter), a former plantation house now hosting a rum distillery.
Authentic
How can I describe Bridgetown, my capital? This is where I feel most connected to my African roots. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it retains its original street layout and historic buildings. Get lost in the city’s maze, explore Cheapside market, the bustling Swan Street, hair salons, artisan shops of Pelican village, and you will begin to grasp my soul.
Proud and caring
What about my people, the Barbadians, whom I affectionately call Bajans*? They are my greatest treasure, my pride. They embody joy and warmth. They give me vigor, creativity, resilience and desire to stand out. My people honor the memory of our enslaved ancestors by turning past sufferings into expressions of humanity and solidarity. They are the reason that my diaspora is returning for the 2025 ‘We Gathering’ event. And it is my Bajan people who convert tourists into friends and family, making them come back time and again, like the lucky author of this article who has just visited me for the 27th time in nine years. If you want to learn more about me, check out other posts of this same blog.
But nothing beats a visit to get to know me better…
Jihane Sfeir
Article written for the May 2025 edtion of UN Today magasine
*Bajan (pr. bay-djun): noun or adjective, derived from “Barbadian