Last year I decided that I will miss Advent in Prague. and I'll go out into the heat. No frosts, no stress, just disappear for three whole weeks and not come back until Christmas Eve. I combined business with pleasure and set off for a language course in Barbados. How did I spend these three weeks?
Adrenaline in a taxi for a few bucks
Barbados and its public transport are experience itself, so today was all about hitchhiking and exploring Bridgetown. If you want to experience the real Caribbean, you have to let go of your shyness and just to wave at the roadside to a passing van.
First morning stop
When I pulled up to the road in the morning, the first car just sped by, but the second "zed" (as these vans are called) stopped right away. It's ingenious system – they have their own fixed routes and you can hop on or off wherever you like.
The truth is, you'll pay about $100 for this joke. 40 crowns, and it doesn't matter if you drive two blocks or half an island. Just wave, elbow your way in, and enjoy the buzz.
Bridgetown and pieces of history in Queens Park
This time, travel took me straight to the center of the capital, where I got dumped by Queens Park. But I have to admit that my itinerary got a little out of hand because I just casually cruised through this park.
But as soon as I discovered that it was growing there giant baobab over a thousand years old, it was clear to me that I had made a mistake. This tree is one of the largest and oldest living organisms throughout the Caribbean, so you definitely shouldn't miss it.
Anglican Beauty: St. Michael's Cathedral
A short distance from the park you will come across St. Michael's Cathedral, which is a breathtaking structure made of coral stone. It belongs to the oldest on the island, and although the original building was destroyed by a hurricane, this version from 1789 It has an absolutely surreal atmosphere.
In addition, the church grounds also include an extensive historic cemetery. Important figures of the island are buried here, and a walk among the tombstones will remind you of the old days of the British colonial era.
Where history is written: Parliament and Heroes' Square
My next steps led to parliament buildings, which will captivate you with their neo-Gothic architecture from 1874. Did you know that Barbados has the third oldest parliament in the entire Western Hemisphere? Right in front of him lies Heroes' Square.
Parliament building: Completed in 1874.
Heroes' Square: Formerly known as Trafalgar Square.
Historical significance: The heart of the island's political life.
So, if you are interested in history and architecture, this place is an absolute must for you. Plus, the view is great. to the wharf and Constitution River.
Visiting the Queen of Pop Rihanna
After a quick meal at the local fast food place, I finally headed to the house where The childhood of the famous Rihanna. You will immediately recognize the right street by the memorial plaque at its beginning and the entire street bears its name – Rihanna Drive.
As a result, an ordinary residential area has literally become a place of pilgrimage for fans from all over the world. A different family lives in the house today, but the feeling that a world star comes from here is in the air at every step.
But as soon as the sky clouded over and another tropical downpour began, I had to start looking for a ride back to Oistins. It didn't take long before I jumped into taxi number 11 and with fifteen thousand steps in my legs, I was just looking forward to bed.
If you haven't read about my previous day, check it out. Day 3 – Travel to Barbados, it's worth it!
All about Barbados in my e-book
Are you tempted by the Caribbean, but don't know where to start? In my e-book on the e-shop you will find a complete guide on how to enjoy Barbados to the fullest and without stress. It's worth it!
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