Barbados’ contrasts

Photo: Pixabay

By Marina Menéndez/ Special to TTC no. 292

Barbados is not only an excellent place to enjoy the always blue, warm and placid waters of the Caribbean. This small island, which in 2021 proclaimed republican life and broke the political link with the British Commonwealth, preserves these traces in its cultural identity. That is why some sometimes called it “little England,” and it is a museum in itself.

The attire of its black women is surprising with hats in the style of the English monarchy for “special occasions,” and the chivalry of the soberly dapper men when they welcome you in any hotel is very European.

Great Britain is also in the winding layout of the streets and the old buildings that can be seen in Bridgetown, the capital. Because of these values, UNESCO declared the city a World Heritage Site in 2011, and considered it a well-preserved example of a British colonial city from the 17th to 19th centuries.

This makes Barbados an ideal place for those who love delving into centuries of history. But it always also invites other forms of recreation. The authentic Caribbean ease and joy of its festivities provoke dancing to the sound of the drums, and many succumb to the desire to taste its tasty and traditional rum.

Its beaches number in dozens and are clean and have crystal-clear waters, because the island preserves its nature with the same love that it takes care of its architecture, and is a leader in the search for sustainable tourism.

Rare and wonderful species such as sea turtles are protected to prevent their extinction, and it is an adventure to participate in the work of locating the nesting females, or in the rescue of the hatchlings.

The coral reefs, which can be seen if you practice diving; the magnificent and exuberant vegetation completes a picture of contrasting nuances that make the island an attractive destination.