The unique cultural and historical significance of rum shops in Barbados, the easternmost island of the Lesser Antilles; these establishments, which combine a grocery store with a bar, are integral to the island’s social fabric and can be found in abundance across its eleven parishes. Originating from the 17th century tippling houses introduced by...
Read MoreThe Crop Over Festival in Barbados, rooted in plantation celebrations, saw a decline in the 1940s due to the reduced demand for sugar and the closure of plantations. However, it never completely vanished. Dr. Marcia Burrows’ research and oral histories from former plantation workers highlight vibrant celebrations during the 1950s and 60s. The Junior...
Read MoreBarbados has emerged as the top producer of rum at this year’s International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC), with more than half of the top 20 rated rums hailing from the island. R.L. Seale’s Foursquare distillery in Barbados produced eight highly-rated rums. The No. 1 rum, R.L. Seale’s Foursquare 14-Year-Old Equipoise Rum, scored 99...
Read MoreThe debate over “raisins or no raisins” in conkies may continue, but there are numerous reasons to enjoy this Barbadian delicacy throughout the year. Beyond its satisfying taste, conkies offer several health benefits: 1. Fibre: Conkies are rich in fibre, aiding digestion and potentially supporting weight loss. 2. Proteins: Some ingredients in conkies provide...
Read MoreSince 2004, Barbados has faced tension with Trinidad and Tobago over maritime boundaries due to the migration of flying fish, a key ingredient in Barbados’s national dish, to Tobagonian waters. Bajan fishermen pursued the fish, leading to arrests and diplomatic disputes. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea intervened in 2006,...
Read MoreHarrison’s Cave, located in the parish of St. Thomas in Barbados, is a natural wonder and a popular tourist attraction. Named after Thomas Harrison, who owned the land in the 1700s, the cave remained mostly unexplored until the 1970s. It was mapped out in 1974 and opened to the public in 1981. Recently renovated,...
Read MoreBussa, an enslaved African ranger at the Bayley plantation in Barbados, led a rebellion in an attempt to change society and gain freedom from plantation owners. Planning with others from different estates, including Jackey, King Wiltshire, and Nanny Grigg, Bussa commanded around 400 men and women against British troops, including the West India Regiment....
Read MoreThe area between Ragged Point and the Airport in Barbados is characterized by flat coral rock with little soil covering, known as the East Point Shelf. This land was once underwater, evidenced by coral fossils embedded in rocks. One notable feature is a large boulder resting on the flat coral base near the cliff...
Read MoreBarbados, an island in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean, has a rich history dating back to around 1600 BC when humans first settled there. ItVarious European powers claimed itefore becoming an English/British colony. The introduction of sugar cane in the 17th century led to a significant transformation of the island’s society and economy,...
Read MoreVisitor Rich Townend recounts his great experience at Kensington Oval and some Bajan eateries yesterday! Check out his full experience HERE!
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