Barbados

At a Glance

Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, with a distinctly British colonial heritage, immaculate beaches on the west coast, and a vibrant local culture centred on cricket, rum, and Crop Over festival. The island is well-developed, safe, and friendly, which makes it one of the more approachable Caribbean destinations. Those looking for raw wilderness or budget travel may find it polished to a fault.

• Oldest parliament in the Caribbean — continuous since 1639.
• Rihanna was declared a National Hero — the first in the country's history.
• Rum was invented here — the word 'rum' first appeared in a Barbadian document from 1651.