Hastings: The Heartbeat of Barbados' South Coast

• HelloHello
  [Heh-loh]
• GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Gud-bye]
• YesYes
  [Yehs]
• NoNo
  [Noh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Pleez/Yuh welcome]
• Thank youThank you
  [Tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Eks-kyoos mee/Saw-ree]
• How are you?How are you?
  [How ah yuh?]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fyne. An yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Doo yuh speak Ing-lish?]
• I don't understandI don't understand
  [Ah doan undah-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [Ah'd like tuh see deh men-yoo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [Ah doan eat meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Chee-ahs!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [Ah wood like tuh pay, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Go away!
  [Go away!]
• Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Call deh Police!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call ah doc-tah!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [Ahm lost]
• I'm illI'm ill
  [Ahm eel]

• I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [Ah'd like tuh bahy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [Ahm juss look-ing]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [Dat's too ex-pen-siv]
• Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Can yuh low-ah deh price?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [Wat time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's wun o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Haff past (10)]
• MorningMorning
  [Morn-ing]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Af-tah-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [Ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yess-tuh-day]
• TodayToday
  [Toh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Toh-mor-row]
• 11
  [Wun]
• 22
  [Too]
• 33
  [Tree]
• 44
  [Foh]
• 55
  [Fahyv]
• 66
  [Six]
• 77
  [Seh-ven]
• 88
  [Eyt]
• 99
  [Nahyn]
• 1010
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Wherz a/the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [Wats deh ad-dress?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can yuh show mee (on deh map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [Whenz deh nekst (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [Ah tick-et (to ....)]

Hastings, a charming coastal area on the south coast of Barbados, was initially settled during the early colonial period. The British established control over Barbados in the early 17th century, and Hastings became a part of the island's agricultural and maritime activities. The region's strategic location along the coast made it an important area for trade and shipping. Early settlers primarily engaged in sugar cane cultivation, which was the backbone of Barbados' economy during the colonial era.

Hastings is home to the historic Garrison area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which played a significant role in the island's military history. The Garrison Savannah, established in 1789, served as the headquarters for the British Army in the Caribbean. It provided a strategic point for defense and training. The area is dotted with military buildings, including the Main Guard House and the George Washington House, where the future first President of the United States stayed in 1751. The Garrison's racecourse, still active today, adds a vibrant cultural aspect to the area.

Hastings witnessed important events leading up to Barbados' independence from British rule in 1966. The area was a hub of political activity and discourse. Prominent figures such as Errol Barrow, the 'Father of Independence', frequented Hastings as they strategized and campaigned for self-governance. The political rallies and public meetings held in and around Hastings contributed to the growing national consciousness and the eventual establishment of an independent Barbadian state.

In the post-independence era, Hastings has evolved into a vibrant and culturally rich community. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, such as the popular Hastings Rock Beach, and the scenic South Coast Boardwalk. The local economy has shifted from agriculture to tourism, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to both locals and visitors. Hastings hosts various cultural events, including music festivals and craft markets, reflecting the dynamic and diverse culture of modern Barbados.

Efforts to preserve Hastings' historical landmarks have been ongoing, ensuring that the area's rich heritage remains accessible to future generations. The Barbados Museum & Historical Society, located in the Garrison area, plays a crucial role in these preservation efforts. The museum, housed in a former military prison, offers exhibits on Barbadian history, culture, and natural heritage. Additionally, restored sites like the George Washington House provide visitors with a glimpse into the past and the significant historical narratives associated with Hastings.

Hastings is located on the south coast of Barbados, within the parish of Christ Church. The nearest international airport is Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), which is approximately 13 kilometers away. From the airport, you can reach Hastings by taxi, rental car, or public bus. The taxi ride typically takes around 20 minutes, while public buses offer a more budget-friendly option, though the journey may take longer.

Hastings is easily navigable, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked through your hotel. Public buses and minibuses (ZR vans) run frequently along the main roads and are an economical way to get around. Car rentals are also available, offering the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.

The official currency in Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD), although US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and market vendors. ATMs are conveniently located throughout Hastings and other parts of the island.

Hastings is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Hastings itself does not have high-crime areas specifically targeting tourists, it is always wise to stay aware and avoid less populated neighborhoods after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 211 for police, 311 for fire, and 511 for medical emergencies. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown is the main medical facility and is about 10 minutes away by car from Hastings. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach and pool areas. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting religious sites; modest dress is appreciated. Public Transport: Do carry small change for bus fares and be prepared for crowded buses during peak times. Don't expect rigid schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon'. Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like flying fish and cou-cou. Don't rush meals; dining is often a leisurely activity.

To experience Hastings like a local, visit the nearby Richard Haynes Boardwalk for a scenic stroll along the coast. Engage with vendors at the Hastings Farmers Market, held every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, where you can buy fresh local produce and handmade crafts. For an authentic culinary experience, try the local rum shops where you can enjoy a drink and chat with the locals.