Prepare yourself for an authentic island famed for its rich history and blissful beaches. Bridgetown is said to be named after a primitive wooden bridge that was discovered by the British when they arrived on the uninhabited island. It is thought to have been created by the indigenous Arawak, who had since left, and stretched over the central swampland of the Careenage River. A walk over its current incarnation, the Chamberlain Bridge, makes for a scenic route across the city. Pass through the commemorative Independence Arch at its southern end, stroll along the waterfront boardwalk to its west or stop a while and admire the views at Independence Square.
Bustling Bridgetown, like most cities around the world, is a place of strong contrasts. A slow stroll through the hub of Bridgetown can expose one to the many variations of city life. Retro cars and new cars, bicycles, motorcycles, ice cream parlous, street vendors and hawkers all contribute to the hustle and bustle of Barbados’ capital. Tantalise your taste buds with traditional local foods by embarking on a walking food tour, seek out the best duty-free shopping or immerse yourself in the local history by stopping by the Barbados Museum.
A cruise to the Caribbean is incomplete without a trip to the beach. Luckily, Bridgetown is full to the brim with fantastic beaches. If being at the heart of Barbados’ oceanfront action is your thing, then Brownes Beach is for you. This southwestern, half-mile stretch of creamy white sand, mellow waves and prolific beach life is only a 5-minute walk from the city and has an unmatched relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Pebbles Beach is the beach that holidays are made of. Sitting on the southwest coast of Barbados, a mere 5-minute drive from Bridgetown, this clean-cut beachfront is an excellent choice to experience Barbados’ waters. Fancy scuba diving? Carlisle Bay’s marine park is a popular spot on the island for just that. Many relics, like anchors and cannonballs from ships, can be found on the ocean floor in Carlisle Bay.
Which cruise lines sail to Bridgetown?
