Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Barbados In Bridgetown Is A City

By Maxo Rally

Bridgetown is the historic capital of Barbados in the Caribbean. Bridgetown has a population of approximately 100,000 and is the largest city in Barbados, however due to its size and population in other larger countries in the world it would be considered to be a town. Bridgetown was formally called the Town of St Michael and Greater Bridgetown is located now within the parish know as St Michael but some areas of Bridgetown fall within the parishes of Christchurch and St James. Delegates from Great Britain who settled in James Town in 1628 decided the present location for Bridgetown.

When the English landed on the Island there was hardly anyone living there. and there was very little proof that anyone had lived there previously either. The English then found a bridge constructed over a swamp and this was though to have been built by a tribe called the Arawak's who were know to inhabit some of the caribbean islands. In 1654 a bridge was built in the tow of Saint Michaels and this later became Bridgetown.

Bridgetown today is place of much business, with designer shops, night bars, attractions for visitors, pubs and much more. I hate to say but when visiting Barbados it is easy to see that the island would not surrvive without it's holidaymakers visiting. As the Rum and sugar cane fields could not support them alon as this is the only exports.

South of the Island is the home for Bridgetown. Being there is some great history to be learnt in Barbados. You will find many attractions here and I would say if you are interested in learning some history about Barbados this small city is a must! The taxi drivers know a lot of history too, maybe have a taxi for the day and have a whole island tour.

In this Capital you can expect to have a great shopping experience at some of the malls and designer retail outlets, but if you after more authentic Bajan items then Cheapside Market is a must and its surrounding shops too. Many a bargain can be found there.

Barbados is known all over the world for its excllent prices for quality jewellery and diamonds, so be careful boys the lady in your life may get hypnotised. Remember to have a little haggle as I have found prices can be negotiated lower. Please use common sense and stick to the reputable outlets and not street traders, etc. Diamonds International is a good place to start.

I would say the best known place to get watches, diamonds and other Jewelley is Diamonds International there are many located all through the island. They are professional and you could easily waste the day trying on many different pieces with no pressure to buy.

The capital is also known for its great party environment for an evening with its many nightclubs and bars there will be something for you. Or try some of the other place like Holetown which has a square with several bars and restauransts then there is no needs to walk far.

Like any large city there will always be a need for vigilance, although the crime rate in Barbados is particularly low. If you do not know the area well it is always advised late at night to get a taxi or be on an escorted tour.

In the UK it is a popular design to wear camouflage t-shirts and shorts but in Barbados it is illegal. You maybe lucky to get a waring but there is a good chance that the police will let you have a night in a local police station. And from the stories I have heard you do not want to do that!

Even if you are not staying in the South of the Island, Bridgetown is without a doubt worth a visit, it is a beautiful and charming City with a rich history and fantastic atmosphere.

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