People of Barbados 🇧🇧

Spent a day traveling the south coast of the beautiful island of Barbados (my homeland) and came across some very interesting characters.

Starting our journey crossing over the marina on the Chamberlain Bridge, we caught our first glance at Bridgetown, the largest city and capital of Barbados located on the southwest coast. Though the busiest place on the island, there was still an overall calmness in the air as we entered right around lunchtime.

Making our way through the veins of the city, we maneuver around the hustle and bustle of crowded streets. A small child crossing the street with her mother, or maybe aunt, doesn’t look too pleased. Perhaps the result of a firm “no!” to the begging for a toy from one of the department stores?

The woman I referred to as the Snow Cone Queen, drew me in with her smiling eyes. Her warm approach was a contrast to the chilly and icy snow cones she made for us. Yet both were equally refreshing and pleasant.

Always a favorite refreshment as a child; the shaved ice was like sparkling crystals cold and colorful, even the bees couldn’t get enough. It was also completely a coincidence that I chose the colors of the Barbados flag.

This Rastafarian man caught my attention walking past his leather repair shop. His rasta hat embroidered with the image of Haile Selassie I, emperor of Ethiopia, mirrored his devotion to his religion. This rastaman’s attention to detail and focus in his craft radiated an artisan energy of mysticism.

We drove about 30 minutes to the opposite end of the island along the southeastern coast of Ragged Point. There was a strong presence of historic value to this place. If these cliffs could talk they’d have so many epic pirate stories to tell.

Although Barbados was an active British colony since 1627, Ragged Point Lighthouse wasn’t constructed until 1875. Standing at almost 100 feet (29.5m) she is still active today.

Meet Alvin. A man of the land. He was eager to tell us all of the popular and not-so-popular histories of Ragged Point. Filled with so much knowledge and grit, Alvin is also a volunteer groundskeeper. Keeping the long stretch of cliffsides and open fields free of garbage and debris. Was truly a pleasure to meet Alvin.