Barbados - Why I keep going back
Barbados, the land of the flying fish! is more than just a beautiful island to me; it’s a place that shaped my journey in ways I never imagined. I first set foot on this gem of the Caribbean when I moved there to complete my undergraduate studies at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. What was supposed to be a temporary stay quickly turned into a lifelong love affair with the island, its people, and its culture. A self-proclaimed ToBAJAN (Tobagonian & Bajan)
Spending three years living in Barbados immersed me in a way that no vacation ever could. I wasn’t just a visitor; I became part of the rhythm of Bajan life. From learning how to run to catch a ZR to head to Bridgetown. I learned the nuances of the dialect (my Bajan accent is point, lol if I do say so myself), navigated the streets like my fav (Swan Street) to get my bag of sea grapes or dungs / dounce with salt. Yum!! or to visit cave Sheppard for the latest fragrance drop or walk round to stores for the latest fashion styles. I definitely developed an unbreakable bond with the island. The warmth of the people, the sense of community, and the ever-present sea breeze made every day feel like a blessing. Barbados didn’t just educate me academically; it enriched my soul.
The People: Friendships That Last a Lifetime
One of the most beautiful things about Barbados is its people. I had the privilege of meeting some of the kindest, most genuine, and most welcoming individuals I’ve ever met. They embrace you as their own, whether you’re a student, an expat, or a traveler passing through. It’s no surprise that my best friend of 15 years is Bajan. Our friendship, born out of my time at Cave Hill, has stood the test of time, distance, and life’s ever-changing seasons. Our bond got stronger, so much so that we now refer to each other as sisters. Barbados gave me not just memories but family.
The Culture: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Barbados is a perfect blend of old and new. The rich history, from the stories of emancipation to the vibrant festival of Crop Over, tells a tale of resilience and pride. The music, the food, the art, and everything else carry a sense of identity and heritage. There’s something magical about hearing the sweet sounds of soca floating through the air or watching a tuk band parade through the streets. Barbados has a soul, and it’s one that resonates deeply with me.
The Food: A Culinary Love Story
Ask any Bajan, and they’ll tell you that food is an essential part of their culture. From flying fish and cou-cou to a good plate of pudding and souse on a Saturday. Have you even visited Barbados if you’ve never indulged in any of these? Oistins on a Friday night is an experience—freshly grilled fish, lively music, and an atmosphere that makes you feel alive. Let’s not forget the rum! There’s something special about sipping a rum punch while watching the sunset over the west coast.
The Beaches: Paradise Found
You can’t talk about Barbados without mentioning its breathtaking beautiful beaches. I’ve spent countless hours on the shores of Accra Beach, watching the waves roll in, feeling the sun warm my skin, and losing myself in the endless blue of the Caribbean Sea. Each beach has its personality—Miami Beach for a peaceful sunrise, Carlisle Bay for a perfect swim, Bathsheba for the rugged beauty of the Atlantic.
Why I Keep Returning?
Barbados isn’t just a destination for me—it’s a feeling, a connection, a home away from home. Every return trip feels like a reunion with an old friend, a chance to relive cherished memories while making new ones. It’s the place where I learned, grew, and fell in love with life in a different way. No matter where I go in the world, a piece of my heart will always belong to Barbados.
So, if you’ve never been, I encourage you to visit. And if you have, you already know—Barbados has a way of calling you back. Just answer when she calls.