Barbados is the most easterly of all the Atlantic Islands and although it is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, most people consider it as a Caribbean destination. Bridgetown is its capital and English is the official language throughout the island but the Bajan dialect is also widespread.

On the eastern side of the island the coast is rugged due to the strong waves that crash on to the shore, while on the western coast the pristine coral reef protects the white sandy beaches. Most of the island is flat, although in the north there are some low hills that rise above sea level, such as Mount Hillaby, the island’s highest viewpoint (343m) offering breathtaking views across the coast.

Throughout the island one may visit magnificent botanical gardens rich in native exotic plants with rare species inhabiting the lush vegetation, such as the Flower Forest Park. There are also caves to explore, namely Harrison’s Cave a breathtaking experience with examples of stalactites, stalagmites, waterfalls and deep emerald pools as well as the Animal Flower cave decorated with coral rock and flowers.

There are also striking examples of colonial architecture such as the Jacobean St Nicholas Abbey with ornate Persian arches and Tyrol Cot, the grand former home of Sir Grantley Adams, the first premier of Barbados.
It is generally warm and sunny all year round with an average temperature of 26° to 29°C during the day, although the northeast trade-winds blow regularly so it is never stifling hot. The dry season goes from January to June and when it does rain it is usually under the form of quick showers.