Family Adventure to Harrison's Cave in Barbados

A Taste of Barbados

Today was a day steeped in Bajan culture, history, and, of course, a little bit of that famous Bajan rum. Aisha, Ethan, and I set out to explore Bridgetown and experience some of the island's most iconic spots. It was a day of discovery, laughter, and a few surprises along the way.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Bar Carizma Chattel Village. Aisha had read rave reviews about their breakfast, and we were eager to try it out. Tucked away in the charming Chattel Village in Holetown, the cafe exuded a relaxed, tropical vibe. Chickens roamed freely around the open-air dining area, adding a touch of rustic charm. I felt a pang of nostalgia, reminiscent of my childhood days in Speightstown.


Experience delightful breakfasts and vibrant social gatherings at Cafe Bar Carizma in Holetown, Barbados - your perfect culinary retreat.
We settled into a cozy spot and ordered a mix of Bajan and continental breakfast items. Ethan, predictably, went for the pancakes, while Aisha chose a fruit platter with yogurt. I opted for the full Bajan breakfast – saltfish and provision, a true taste of home. The saltfish was perfectly seasoned, and the provision (a mix of boiled ground vegetables) was cooked just right. It was a delicious and satisfying start to our day, and the coffee was strong enough to give me the energy I needed for our explorations.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Mount Gay Visitors' Centre. As a Bajan, I've always been proud of Mount Gay Rum, the world's oldest rum. I was excited to share this piece of our heritage with Aisha and Ethan. The drive to the center was scenic, with glimpses of the turquoise Caribbean Sea along the way.


Experience the legacy of the world's oldest rum distillery at the Mount Gay Visitors' Centre in Barbados, where you can explore over 300 years of rum-making history and savor the spirit of the Caribbean.
The tour began with a welcome drink – a potent rum punch that immediately set the tone for a fun and informative experience. Our guide was engaging and knowledgeable, taking us through the history of Mount Gay and the rum-making process. Ethan, surprisingly, was quite interested in the historical aspects, asking insightful questions about the distillery's origins and the different types of rum.

We learned about the distillation process, the aging in oak barrels, and the blending techniques that give Mount Gay its distinct flavor. Of course, the highlight was the tasting session. We sampled several of Mount Gay's signature rums, from the Silver to the XO. I savored each sip, appreciating the nuances of flavor and the smooth finish. Aisha, who isn't a big rum drinker, found the XO surprisingly palatable.

Ethan, of course, couldn't participate in the tasting, but he enjoyed learning about the different aromas and how the rum is made. The tour guide even gave him a special non-alcoholic cocktail, which he happily sipped on while we enjoyed our rum.

To me, rum has always been more than just a drink; it's a taste of home, a symbol of our island's history and spirit.

Following our rum-filled adventure, we headed to National Heroes Square in Bridgetown. Formerly known as Trafalgar Square, this historic site is a tribute to Barbados' national heroes and influential figures. As we strolled through the square, I shared stories about Errol Walton Barrow, Barbados' first prime minister, and other national icons. Aisha was particularly interested in the statue of Rihanna, a modern-day Bajan hero.


Discover National Heroes Square in Bridgetown, Barbados: a vibrant landmark honoring national heroes, showcasing rich history, and offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.
The square was bustling with activity, and we took some time to soak in the atmosphere and snap a few photos. Ethan enjoyed running around the square, chasing pigeons and admiring the statues. I felt a sense of pride, standing in this historic spot, surrounded by the symbols of our nation's identity.

By this time, we were all feeling quite hungry, so we made our way to Sizzle Steakhouse for lunch. Located in the Sugar Bay Barbados resort, Sizzle is known for its succulent steaks and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The ambiance was elegant yet relaxed, and the service was impeccable.


Discover culinary excellence at Sizzle Steakhouse in Sugar Bay Barbados - where every bite is a taste of paradise.
I ordered the ribeye steak, cooked medium-rare, while Aisha opted for the grilled salmon. Ethan, predictably, chose the burger. The steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a flavorful char. Aisha raved about her salmon, which was fresh and well-seasoned. Even Ethan, who can be a picky eater, devoured his burger with gusto.

After our satisfying lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Bridgetown, exploring the shops and soaking in the local atmosphere. We bought a few souvenirs, including a miniature cricket bat for Ethan and a handcrafted jewelry piece for Aisha.

As evening approached, we decided to try The Sipping Room - Lounge Bar & Restaurant for dinner. This spot came highly recommended for its cocktails and sophisticated ambiance. Nestled in Hastings, Christ Church, The Sipping Room exuded a cool, urban vibe.


Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors at The Sipping Room - your go-to lounge bar & restaurant in Hastings, Barbados.
The decor was stylish and inviting, with lounge-style seating and soft lighting. The bar was impressively stocked, boasting an extensive selection of whiskies and other spirits. We settled into a comfortable booth and ordered a round of cocktails. Aisha tried their signature Spiced Old Fashioned, while I went for a classic Rum Sour. Ethan, of course, had a non-alcoholic fruit punch.

The cocktails were expertly crafted, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing evening. For dinner, I chose the grilled fish, while Aisha opted for the pasta. Ethan, still full from his burger at lunch, ordered a light salad. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive.

To cap off the night, we decided to check out McBride's Music Pub & Night Club. I wanted to give Ethan a taste of Bajan nightlife, albeit a toned-down version. McBride's was lively and energetic, with a DJ spinning a mix of Caribbean and international tunes. We danced for a while, enjoying the music and the vibrant atmosphere. Even Aisha, who usually prefers quieter evenings, let loose and had a good time.


Discover the electrifying atmosphere at McBride's Music Pub & Night Club in Oistins, where live music and vibrant nightlife come together.
Ethan, of course, was the star of the dance floor, showing off his moves and attracting cheers from the crowd. It was a fun and memorable way to end our day of exploration.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. We had tasted the flavors of Barbados, explored its history, and immersed ourselves in its culture. It was a day that brought us closer together as a family and deepened our appreciation for this beautiful island.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Paynes Bay Beach and Holetown Chattel Village, eager to discover more of Barbados' hidden gems. I'm especially looking forward to relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun before our final day on this beautiful island. I'm already dreading packing my bags, but the thought of returning to Toronto with these memories is something I will cherish.

I must remember to buy sunglasses before we head out tomorrow, I can’t believe I forgot them!

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of Bajan adventures. Goodnight from Barbados!