Barbados Tourist Attractions

Barbados is an island in the Lesser Antilles chain. It is located in the Western Atlantic Ocean, to the East of the Caribbean Sea. It was a British colony for nearly 250 years (since 1627 when the first British settlers arrived), and for much of this time, the island’s economy was based on sugar cane production. Barbados gained its independence in 1966), and today is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and CARICOM. Since independence, Barbados has made considerable progress and the economy has diversified into light manufacturing and especially tourism; Today, Barbados is the third highest ranked country on the Human Development Index for the Americas (after the United States and Canada).

Most people who visit Barbados, of course, do so to enjoy the beaches, the sea and the wonderful weather – the island has developed a reputation in these areas. However, there is also much to see on the islands, and some of the tourist attractions to look out for include:

* Andromeda Gardens – This is a horticultural park, today owned by the Barbados National Trust, but which began as the private collection of renowned Bajan horticulturist Iris Bannochie.

* Barbados Concorde Experience: Barbados was one of four regular destinations visited by the Concorde aircraft (the others being London, New York and Paris), and this exhibit commemorates that fact. The exhibit includes a retired Concorde aircraft and lots of information on the history and development of the supersonic aircraft.

* Harrison’s Cave – This is a cave system that was formed when water naturally eroded limestone. It contains many unusual stalactites and stalagmites, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barbados.