BARBADOS

The easternmost island in the Caribbean, Barbados is a small, relatively flat coral island of only 166 square miles with rolling green hills and sugar cane fields dominating the interior.

Barbados is famous for its lovely white sand beaches and gentle blue waters along the protected west coast. The rugged Atlantic coastline is pounded by powerful waves that wash onto its rocky shore; parts of the east coast have unusual rock formations formed by the relentless Atlantic surf. Throughout the countryside, there are many caves and sinkholes that have been carved in the porous limestone terrain as well as gullies thick with vegetation. Located in the center of the island is Mount Hillaby, the highest point in the island at 1104 above sea level.

Barbados was discovered by the Portuguese in 1535 but wasn't settled or colonized until 1627 by the British. Unlike other Caribbean countries, which traded hands among the European colonial powers of the day, Barbados remained a British colony for over 300 years until its independence in 1966. The personality of Barbados has been influenced strongly by its unique history as evidenced by its architecture, customs and political stability.

For such a small island, Barbados is very picturesque and has a diversity of natural attractions. For botanists and flower lovers, there are several outstanding botanical gardens featuring exotic and native species as well as many private gardens

Climate

Barbados follows the classical tropical climate regime- the Rainy Season is from May -November with September and October being the wettest months and the Dry Season is from December-April. The temperature averages around 85F and tradewinds from both the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean cool things down a bit making Barbados a comfortable and pleasant place to be all year around.