Barbados Island Information

Remaining exclusively under the British flag for over 300 years, Barbados has always been the most British of the Caribbean islands, an influence that has earned it the nickname 'Little England'.

On the West and South Coasts, coral shore beaches extend along the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea. Along the East Coast you will find the stronger Atlantic breezes and current, perfect for hosting international surfing competitions and enjoying a more rugged coast of the island.

Barbados is a nature-lover's paradise with its excellent beaches, rolling hills, gullies, caves and natural springs. Either escape and become one with nature or embrace the cosmopolitan capital city of Bridgetown. With its extensive range of shops, restaurants and historical places, a day in the city will leave you amazed that so much can occur on 166 square miles.

The other major towns on the island Speightstown, Holetown and Oistins are all uniquely featured and you will be amazed at the different moods that are evoked in these areas. The eleven parishes of the island are also unique and some Barbadians believe they even have different accents.

The stable political and economic landscape makes this island an ideal spot for property investment. Barbados has been governed by the Barbados Labour Party for the last thirteen years, which have been referred to as the "Owen Arthur Administration" after the Hon. Prime Minister.

The island also boasts a phenomenal literacy rate of 99% and some of the finest secondary schools across the Caribbean, like Harrison College, Combermere, Lodge School. The local Community College, Polytechnic and one campus of the University of the West Indies also contribute to the educational development of the island.

The focus of developing the real estate market in Barbados arose out of a variety of factors. With its traditional sugar cane industry in steep decline, it has begun to rely increasingly on tourism and overseas property buyers to support its economy. There has always been an almost inexhaustible long term international demand for tourism and the property to match this leisure industry.

To many people the idea of buying a little piece of the Caribbean might seem little more than an idle fantasy, but the market has indeed become rather attractive particularly to British buyers.

All these features combine to provide you with the perfect island destination to invest in the property market. It is never all work and no play though and there are several bars, restaurants and an effervescent night life to keep you occupied. Some of our favourites are:

The Cliff (West Coast)
This is like stepping into the epitome of the luxurious world and this is the preferred restaurant for many of the celebrities who frequent the island......a different world; the service, the ambience, the music, this is restaurant and bar and lounge area. It is probably the most expensive on the island but you do feel extremely special when there and you have got your money's worth. Many International celebrities have been known to frequent this spot.

Once again you are next to the sea, and on a cliff. The lighting is soft and also accentuated by the fire flame sticks placed around the area. The dining area is downstairs and in an open area and upstairs there is a bar and lounge area, oversized chairs, high ceilings, fans, and soft Arabic, Mediterranean sounding music, very sensual vibe there.

Scarlet (West Coast)
From the outside you can tell that inside has got to hold some secrets. From the onset, the brilliant red of the exterior can get you excited to see what inside really held! The colour contrasts inside-deep red walls and black furniture, with white flower and candle arrangements-created such a cozy yet vibrant vibe.

The music is great, there's a nice mix of genres and eras. This is truly one of the gems on the West Coast.

Harbour Lights (South Coast)
This is one of the most popular clubs in Barbados located on the South Coast. It has its faithful followers and visitors to the island always have at least one night out there. Varied themed-nights cater to a wide cross-section of persons and you are guaranteed a great night out. From the barbecue and spectacular shows on Mondays and Wednesday, to the club nights on Fridays and beach parties on Sundays, there is something for everyone.

The music is very diverse and on any one night you will hear your dub, calypso, rock, reggae, dub, techno set, it caters to most musical taste and lives up to its reputation as one of the most popular establishment on the island.

Boatyard (South Coast)
Boatyard is also extremely popular and it is the other enduring club in Barbados. Just a few minutes walk away from Harbour Lights, this is the place to be for Friday after work drinks, followed by late night partying.

Boatyard also has that "open air" feel, it is very rustic with a colourful dcor, there is a stage area for a live band, and open dance area overlooking the South Coast beaches.

Realtors Limited welcomes you to Barbados.