Travel around Bridgetown with Bobby
Day 1Walking Through Colonial History
I kicked off my first day in Bridgetown by heading straight to the historic Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The moment I stepped into this well-preserved area, I could feel the weight of its colonial past. The impressive George Washington House, where the first U.S. president once stayed, was a must-see. Walking through the rooms, you can imagine what life was like during the 18th century.
From there, I made my way to the Parliament Buildings, some of the oldest in the Caribbean. Their Gothic architecture was breathtaking, and I took a guided tour to learn more about Barbados’ political history. Lunch was at a local favorite, Cuz’s Fish Shack, where I tried the famous fish cutter sandwich—crispy, fresh, and absolutely delicious!
In the afternoon, I explored St. Michael’s Cathedral, an iconic Anglican church that dates back to 1665. The peaceful atmosphere inside was a nice break from the bustle of the city. By evening, I checked into my hotel, The Radisson Aquatica, a lovely beachfront spot with stunning views of the ocean.
Bridgetown’s history is rich and fascinating—definitely make time for the Garrison and Parliament Buildings. Exploring on foot is easy, but be prepared for the Caribbean sun!
Day 2A Day by the Sea
After a historical deep dive, I was ready for some beach time. I headed straight to Carlisle Bay, famous for its crystal-clear waters and great snorkeling spots. I rented some gear and within minutes of being in the water, I was swimming with sea turtles and exploring shipwrecks. The visibility underwater was incredible, and it felt like I was in a giant aquarium.
After drying off, I grabbed lunch at The Boatyard, a beachfront bar that serves fantastic seafood. The grilled mahi-mahi with a side of coconut rice hit the spot while I enjoyed the ocean view. I spent the rest of the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and sipping on a cold rum punch.
For dinner, I decided to treat myself at Champers, an elegant waterfront restaurant. The setting was romantic, and the seafood platter was fresh and flavorful—definitely a spot for a special evening. The night ended with a peaceful walk along the beach, the sound of the waves providing the perfect backdrop.
Lunch at The Boatyard was a perfect beachside treat. The grilled fish was fresh and well-seasoned, and the coconut rice was a flavorful complement. The lively atmosphere and ocean views added to the experience.
Food
The stay at The Radisson Aquatica Resort continued to be pleasant. With the beach right outside my room and easy access to nearby restaurants, it felt like the ideal base for exploring Bridgetown. The proximity to the water was unbeatable.
Accomodation
Snorkeling at Carlisle Bay was a highlight, especially swimming with sea turtles and exploring the shipwrecks. The clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life made it an incredible experience. For anyone who loves the ocean, this is a must-do.
Activity
Carlisle Bay is a must if you love the ocean—snorkeling here is unbeatable. Don’t miss Champers for a fine dining experience with unbeatable views.
Day 3Exploring Local Flavors and Culture
On my final day, I wanted to experience more of Bridgetown’s local culture. I started with a visit to Cheapside Market, one of the busiest markets in the city. It was the perfect spot to see locals in action, and the vibrant stalls were filled with fresh produce, spices, and crafts. I grabbed a fresh coconut to sip on while wandering through the market, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Afterward, I took a short walk to The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum, one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. It was fascinating to learn about the Jewish history in Barbados, something I didn’t expect to find on the island. The museum offers a well-curated look at this lesser-known part of the island’s past.
For lunch, I headed to Brown Sugar, a local restaurant known for its Bajan buffet. The flying fish, macaroni pie, and breadfruit were all delicious examples of authentic Barbadian cuisine. The rich flavors of the spices used in the dishes were unforgettable.
With some time left in the afternoon, I took a catamaran cruise along the coast, enjoying one last look at Bridgetown from the water. The crew was friendly, and the sunset over the water was the perfect way to say goodbye to this beautiful island.
Lunch at Brown Sugar was an authentic Bajan feast. I indulged in traditional dishes like flying fish and macaroni pie, and each bite was packed with local flavor. The cozy, local atmosphere made the meal even more enjoyable.
Food
By my third night at The Radisson Aquatica, it truly felt like a home away from home. The staff’s hospitality and the perfect location continued to make my stay enjoyable. The serene environment made it easy to relax after a day of exploring.
Accomodation
Visiting Cheapside Market was a cultural deep dive into local life. The vibrant market atmosphere and friendly vendors gave me a great sense of the island's daily life, and I even picked up some fresh fruit and local crafts as souvenirs. It’s a great place to connect with the heart of Bridgetown.
Activity
Cheapside Market is a vibrant spot to feel the local culture, and Brown Sugar offers some of the best traditional food on the island. Don’t leave Bridgetown without getting out on the water—whether it’s snorkeling or a sunset cruise, the sea is unforgettable.
Summary of My Trip
Bridgetown offered me the perfect mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation. From walking through the Garrison Historic Area to snorkeling with sea turtles at Carlisle Bay, every day felt like a new adventure. The city’s rich colonial past is fascinating, and I loved learning about it while exploring landmarks like the George Washington House and Parliament Buildings. The locals were warm and welcoming, and places like Cheapside Market gave me a real sense of Barbados’ vibrant daily life. I also can’t forget the food—whether it was a simple fish cutter at Cuz’s or a full Bajan feast at Brown Sugar, every meal was packed with flavor.
Staying at The Radisson Aquatica right on the beach added to the charm. Waking up to the sound of the ocean and enjoying the sunset every evening made my stay even more special. Bridgetown felt safe and easy to navigate, with plenty of options for transportation and activities. Overall, it was a well-rounded trip where I could balance culture, history, and relaxation perfectly. I’d recommend this city to anyone looking for a destination with diverse experiences, all within a tropical paradise.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Bridgetown impressed me with its perfect balance of history, culture, and beachside relaxation. From exploring centuries-old landmarks to tasting local Bajan cuisine and swimming with sea turtles, every moment felt rich and diverse. It’s a city where you can truly experience the best of Barbados, with warm hospitality and natural beauty adding to its charm.
Lunch at Cuz’s Fish Shack was a delicious start to my trip. The fish cutter sandwich was crispy, fresh, and packed with flavor, offering an authentic taste of Bridgetown's street food. The casual beachside atmosphere made it even more enjoyable.
Food
The Radisson Aquatica Resort provided a great beachfront experience. The rooms were comfortable, the staff friendly, and being just steps away from the water was a huge plus. Watching the sunset from the beach was an unforgettable experience.
Accomodation
Exploring the Garrison Historic Area and visiting the George Washington House was a fantastic introduction to Bridgetown's colonial past. The guided tours were informative, and the historic sites were well-preserved. It’s the perfect starting point for any history enthusiast.
Activity