Barbados is a coral island and the most easterly of the Caribbean islands. It enjoys a tropical climate, invitingly-warm emerald and blue seas and glorious white sandy beaches.

The island was first settled by the British in 1627 and for more than three centuries was a British colony, gaining independence in 1966. It still retains much of its British feel, and is often referred to as "Little England", for here you will find cricket, polo, Anglican churches, horse-racing and so much more.

Even with its long heritage Barbados has a distinctly Caribbean flavour with brightly painted chattel houses and sugar cane fields that still cover much of the island. Today Barbados is a prosperous, progressive and cosmopolitan island with a strong character of its own and a natural charm. Barbadians are friendly, fun loving and rightfully proud of their island. Their warm welcome will always make you feel very much at home.

Beautiful beaches, all of which are open to the public, range from the tranquillity of the spectacular east coast to the busy golden shores of the south and to the alluring beaches of the "platinum" west coast. However, if you want to escape the beaches, there is a myriad of other things to do and see, such as exploring old plantation houses, fabulous botanical gardens, a flower forest and the lively capital of Bridgetown.