Bridgetown, capital city of Barbados

Bridgetown is the capital city of Barbados

Bridgetown is not just the capital of Barbados; it is also the island's only city. More than 110,000 people call Bridgetown home, and it is the cultural, political and economic heart of the island nation. The city boasts beautiful architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site, terrific shopping and world-class restaurants, all in a paradisiacal setting with blue skies, palm trees and the country's only natural harbor.

The harbor made Bridgetown a key hub for commerce and trade during the 17th century, but it also made Barbados a target. The colonial powers of Spain, England, Holland and France were often battling over the Caribbean's prosperous islands, and Barbados soon was dotted with fortifications to protect the island. The largest fort is the Barbados Garrison, built in 1705. Today, the garrison's walls surround Bridgetown's historic district, whose serpentine layout and buildings are outstanding examples of colonial architecture. The Garrison district is now a perfect blend of historic buildings and modern amenities. There are many restaurants, beaches, galleries, boutiques, cafes and villas in the area, making it a favorite destination of both travelers and locals.

The Chamberlain Bridge is just two miles south of the garrison in the capital's center. Originally built between 1865 and 1872, the bridge separates the outer and inner basins of the harbor, creating a safe space for fishing boats, catamarans and pleasure crafts. The Bridgetown boardwalk runs along the west side of the bridge and makes for a lovely waterfront stroll. At the west end of the boardwalk is a small park dedicated to the country's maritime history. Visitors can see some of the island's oldest cannons and read posters with fascinating facts about Barbados' pirates.

The east end of the boardwalk leads to Independence Square, a quiet respite in the center of the city. The square has many benches that offer beautiful waterfront views of some of Bridgetown's most historic buildings, including the Parliament Building. The Museum of Parliament offers visitors a riveting inside-look at politics in Barbados, and the nearby National Heroes Gallery traces the lives and work of many influential citizens, including doctors, sportsmen, politicians and artists.

The beaches that surround Carlisle Bay are considered to be some of the best in Barbados. The waters on the west side of the island are generally calmer and more suitable for swimming and diving than those on the east or north coasts, and what lies underwater is even more beautiful and intriguing than what is on land. Carlisle Bay is home to several species of exotic and brilliantly colored marine life, including reef squid, sea horses, barracudas, frog fish, moral eels, octopi, mackerel and more. The bay also contains the wrecks of six ships, including the coral-laden Berwyn, the country's first tugboat and a Canadian freighter sunk in World War II by a German torpedo.

Bridgetown's nightlife is quite active, and although most bars and nightclubs do not open until later in the evening, they usually keep the party going until dawn. The beaches often play host to bonfire parties, where guests are treated to steel drum music and mouth-watering barbecues, and most establishments only charge a cover fee. After that, the drinks flow like water all night and you do not have to pay a single penny.