BARBADOS
Sunset at Heywoods Beach
OUR GEOGRAPHY
Barbados is a coral and limestone island on an area measuring 166 sq miles. The most easterly of the Caribbean islands, Barbados is relatively flat, rising gently to the central highland region with the highest point at Mount Hilaby in the Scotland district, some 1,115 feet above sea level.
The name Los Barbados (The Bearded) was given by the Portuguese and relates to the bearded fig tree which grew in abundance along our coast line.
OUR GOVERNMENT
Barbados became independent on November 30th, 1966 and remains an indepent state within the Commonwealth. Our parliamentary democracy is modelled on the Westminster system, control of govenrment being held by a Cabinet responsible to the Prime Minister. We enjoy a very stable political climate with elections constistutionally due every five years.
OUR CLIMATE
Barbados is blessed with a tropical climate tempered by an almost constant sea-breeze. Temperatures range from 21°C to 31°C (70° to 100°F) with annual rainfall from 100cm to 230cm. Our wet season is from June to December although rain falls periodically year round.
OUR PEOPLE
The Caribbean is full of people who are larger than life. They fill your mind with their colourful speech, their walk, their engaging looks and their endless energy and love of life. They are children who will never grow old, no matter what their age, they insist on having fun.
Barbadians are no exception, and will surprise with their warmth, casual charm and sophistication. The island is a reflection of its people.
Here the simple chattel house sits boldly in the splendor of wealthy estates. The beach vendor will happily discuss the meaning of life with anyone, from Pope to movie star. They usually have an inspired point of view.
With an estimated population of 270,000 mainly made up of people of African descent, we are also home to Europeans, Asians, Hindus, Muslims and Syrians.
The official language is English, but most Bajans speak it with our own dialect. The people of Barbados are friendly, fun loving and warm and are always ready to welcome you with a smile.