Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean chain of islands. To the west, coral beaches are made of fine white sand and the sea shifts from brilliant blue to emerald green over coral reefs. Along the less developed east coast there is a lively surf as the sea pounds the more rocky shoreline. On the Caribbean side, where watersports come into their own, it is calm and clear.

The old, but diminutive, capital of Bridgetown has a decidedly English character; so much so that there is even a miniature of London's Trafalgar Square. Places worth visiting include the Fairchild Market and St Michael's Cathedral (built in 1789).

Harrison's Cave in St Thomas is an eerie, luminous cavern that makes a spectacular excursion. The Barbados Wildlife Reserve located in a mahogany forest includes green monkeys, deer, wallabies, pelicans and otters.

Many restaurants serve local specialities including flying fish, lobster, and crane chubb. Popular local drinks include all types of rum-based cocktails. Nightclubs, discos and bars provide entertainment that includes limbo dancing, fire-eaters, steel and dance bands.