Vacations To Cabo San Lucas

Bridgetown is the historic capital of Barbados in the Caribbean. Bridgetown has a population of approximately 100,000 and is the largest city in Barbados, however due to its size and population in other larger countries in the world it would be considered to be a town. Bridgetown was formally called the Town of St Michael and Greater Bridgetown is located now within the parish know as St Michael but some areas of Bridgetown fall within the parishes of Christchurch and St James. Delegates from Great Britain who settled in James Town in 1628 decided the present location for Bridgetown.

When the British landed in Barbados the Island was almost uninhabited and very little evidence existed of previous inhabitants. However the British found a bridge that was constructed over the Careenage areas swamp. It is most likely that this bridge was constructed by a race of people called the Arawak who were local to the Caribbean area. A new bridge was built in 1654 and was called the Town of St Michael later to be known as Bridgetown.

The City has much life with many great designer shops, attractions, night clubs, eateries and much more. A visit is well worth wherever you stay on the island. I do not think Barbados would be able to keep going without its tourist trade as to date there two main exports are Rum and Sugar.

South of the Island is the home for Bridgetown. Being there is some great history to be learnt in Barbados. You will find many attractions here and I would say if you are interested in learning some history about Barbados this small city is a must! The taxi drivers know a lot of history too, maybe have a taxi for the day and have a whole island tour.

The Capital is also know as a shopping Mecca today and has many different malls and designer shops, however if you are looking for more local shopping Cheapside Market and surrounding shops might be more appropriate for local Caribbean purchases.

Barbados is known all over the world for its excllent prices for quality jewellery and diamonds, so be careful boys the lady in your life may get hypnotised. Remember to have a little haggle as I have found prices can be negotiated lower. Please use common sense and stick to the reputable outlets and not street traders, etc. Diamonds International is a good place to start.

I would say the best known place to get watches, diamonds and other Jewelley is Diamonds International there are many located all through the island. They are professional and you could easily waste the day trying on many different pieces with no pressure to buy.

Great nightlife can also be found in Bridgetown for everyones taste. Tradition Carib dancing or nightclubs or just a local bar to have a chilled drink. I mean there is something for everyone in this vibrant capital.

Like any large city there will always be a need for vigilance, although the crime rate in Barbados is particularly low. If you do not know the area well it is always advised late at night to get a taxi or be on an escorted tour.

In the UK it is a popular design to wear camouflage t-shirts and shorts but in Barbados it is illegal. You maybe lucky to get a waring but there is a good chance that the police will let you have a night in a local police station. And from the stories I have heard you do not want to do that!

Even if you are not staying in the South of the Island, Bridgetown is without a doubt worth a visit, it is a beautiful and charming City with a rich history and fantastic atmosphere.