Most people want to go on a tropical vacation at least once in their life, and the Caribbean region is the perfect place to go. Whether you want to spend time on the beach, enjoy local cuisine, or participate in cultural celebrations, you’ll enjoy your time in the Caribbean. Barbados is an incredible island, but many don’t know much about it. Dive into a few interesting facts to know about Barbados before planning a trip or booking your flight.
English Is the Official Language
Believe it or not, English is the official language of Barbados. Although many speak other languages, such as Spanish, Dutch, or French, you can visit or live on the island if you only speak English—most understand and speak it. While you may have to adjust to the Bajan dialect, you’ll be comfortable communicating with locals on the island. Aside from various other reasons to invest in Barbados real estate, knowing you can communicate effectively is a convincing factor.
It’s the Only Place George Washington Visited
George Washington didn’t visit other places outside the United States, but he did visit Barbados. His half-brother, Lawrence Washington, suffered from tuberculosis and decided to spend the winters in a warmer climate. However, his wife couldn’t join him, so George agreed to go and care for him in Barbados. The house they stayed in is still one of the significant landmarks on the island and provides a glimpse into the history of Barbados and the life of former US president George Washington.
Barbados Is the Birthplace of Rum
Almost everyone is familiar with rum but may not know where it comes from. Interestingly, Barbados is the birthplace of rum—Mount Gay Rum is the oldest brand worldwide, dating back to 1703. This distillery still produces rum and exports it to various countries worldwide. When you visit Barbados, consider taking a tour of the distillery to explore the interesting history of Caribbean island rum.
Pro Tip
Most drinks on the island contain Mount Gay Rum—you most likely won’t get far without tasting it.
The Island Is Only 166 Square Miles
Barbados isn’t even close to the smallest Caribbean island, but it’s not as big as many think. This beautiful island is only 166 square miles, meaning you can travel around the entire tract of land within a day. If you want to eat at a restaurant on the North coast but are participating in an activity on the South coast, it’ll only take about 3 hours maximum to reach your destination. Barbados isn’t huge, but it has everything you need to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle.
After learning a few interesting facts to know about Barbados, you can properly plan your first or umpteenth visit. The island lifestyle can be an adjustment, but you’ll enjoy everything this gorgeous paradise offers.
