Introduction

Barbados ah come from!

Hello everyone! I am Petunia, the Bajan Tour Guide. Today we are going to explore the beautiful island of Barbados, our island home in the Caribbean Sea! 

 Did you know that the island of Barbados has eleven parishes and four towns? Yes! The four towns are Oistins, Speightstown, Holetown and Bridgetown.  Come with me as we learn a little bit more about each town.

                                                OISTINS

Sweet Sweet Flying Fish and Cou Cou!

We’re in the southern town of Oistins. Located on the coastal part of Christ Church, Oistins is the smallest town on the island, known for its fishing history and rich culture. 

Oistins was named after an early landowner called Austin, who was well-known all over the island. Today, many locals and tourists still visit the town to enjoy themselves at the famous Friday night limes in Bay Gardens. Here, local food vendors prepare a number of delicious meals; the most popular being the grilled fish.

FUN FACT!

The Oistins Fish Festival is an annual event in Barbados, celebrated by many, all over the island during the Easter weekend. 

                                   SPEIGHTSTOWN

Boots, boots, boots and more boots!

Speightstown is the most northerly of all the towns in Barbados. It is located on the west coast in the parish of St. Peter and is the second largest town in size. This town is known for its traditional appearance which seems to capture the essence of the past. Today, both locals and visitors enjoy walking along Queen’s Street, to visit the shops or restaurants in the town, especially the popular Fisherman’s Pub. 

Did You Know?

Speightstown was once known for its forts. Even though it featured three forts to protect the island from invasion, in 1651, soldiers from England were still able to invade Barbados. 

FUN FACT!

Even though it is considered to be the quietest of all the towns today, Speightstown was once a busy port in the 17th century. Yes! Before Barbados exported sugar cane in large quantities, Speightstown was known for exporting cotton and tobacco to Bristol, England. The relationship between the two countries became so close, that Speightstown became known as Little Bristol.

                                        HOLETOWN

 I want a plantation!

Holetown, which is located in the western parish of St. James is on the “Platinum Coast” of Barbados. Third largest in size, Holetown is known to cater to the wealthy locals and tourists on the island. This town, which features many of the island’s upscale hotels and restaurants, was once home to five plantations on the island.

Did you know?

 Holetown was first discovered in 1625 by Henry Powell. The town was named Jamestown, after the king of England at the time, James 1st. This is the very first town in Barbados.

FUN FACT!

Every year, the Holetown festival is celebrated on the second weekend in February. During this carnival, both locals and tourists are treated to music, live presentations and street parades.