Christchurch

A holiday in Barbados is the stuff that dreams – and travel brochures - are made of. This tiny gem of a tropical island is hot and sunny all year round and easily navigable in a day. Boasting unspoilt rainforest, spectacular sunsets and a coastline of incomparable beauty, Barbados has gained popularity with tourists for its warm, relaxed English-speaking culture.

Nestled in the south-western corner of the island, the parish of Christchurch encompasses some of the most beautiful beaches and vibrant attractions for the visitor. Close to the bustling capital, Bridgetown, Christchurch makes an ideal base from which to explore this friendly, sun-kissed island.

Attractions

Barbados is renowned for its golden, sandy beaches, and the pick of the bunch are located in Christchurch. Friendly Accra Beach is one of the most popular with tourists and locals alike. Acres of white sand, palm trees to provide much-needed shade, safe shallow waters, and bustling market stalls selling everything from fresh coconuts to jewellery make for a fantastic daytrip destination. Have your hair braided Caribbean-style, swim out to the off-shore reef for excellent snorkelling, or follow the locals’ example and kick back with a beer and a game of dominos.

Explore the incredible environment of a mangrove wetland at the tranquil Graeme Hall Swamp. This fascinating habitat is home to more than 40 species of bird and many varieties of fish and tropical plants. If you’re lucky you might also spot a green monkey or a mongoose! The new boardwalk allows you to get close to the wildlife whilst protecting the ecosystem from tourist damage.

When you’ve had enough of the tropical sunshine, head to the Barbados Museum in the neighbouring parish of St Michael for a fantastic insight into the turbulent history of the island. The museum has an extensive collection of displays and local artefacts, ranging from sugar-cane farming to colonisation to the native Amerindians, and is housed in the building of the former British Military Prison. (Open Monday-Saturday 9-5, Sunday 2-6pm; admission $5 children, $10 adults).

Shopping

Whilst the shops and department stores of Bridgetown can fulfil all your shopping needs, including duty-free shopping for tourists, it is the tiny stalls that you’ll see on beaches and by roadsides all over the island that provide really interesting and original treats and gifts. Check out the handmade jewellery, printed fabrics and shell ornaments.

Nightlife and Eating Out

The weekly fish-fry in the small fishing town of Oistins is not to be missed. Locals and tourists flock to the beach at Oistins every Friday night to socialise, enjoy the live music and impromptu performances, and above all to sample the irresistible seafood. Dozens of stalls offer the best in super-fresh fish and Caribbean cooking, at bargain prices. Grab a drink and eat at a table or whilst lounging on the beach enjoying the sultry night air. The main difficulty lies in choosing your dish!

Those looking to party til late can enjoy dancing on the beach at Harbour Lights, Barbados’ best-known nightclub, located in nearby St Michael. With a covered bar, an open, breezy dance-floor and a section of beach reserved for revellers, the club provides a live music and dancing for those eager to experience a Caribbean-style night out. For an edgier, more sophisticated clubbing experience try Club Xtreme, the island’s newest dance venue.

Tourist Information

Barbados Tourism Authority, Harbour Road, Bridgetown, BarbadosTelephone: +1 (246) 4272623Website: www.barbados.org

Airport

The Grantley Adams International Airport is located in Christchurch. The size of the island means that all locations can be easily reached in a few hours by car.