5 Things You Didn’t Know About Barbados

Barbados gained its independence from Britain on November 30, 1966, marking a significant milestone in the island's history. This milestone was the result of a long process of political, social, and economic change, fuelled by the desire for self-governance and the determination of the Barbadian (locally known as ‘Bajan’) people. On that historic day, Barbados became a sovereign nation, with Errol Barrow serving as the first Prime Minister. The achievement of independence marked not only the end of British colonial rule but also the beginning of a new chapter for Barbados as a proud, independent nation with a bright future.

On November 30, 2021, Barbados took another significant step in its journey by transitioning from a constitutional monarchy to a republic, as the island officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and established a republic with a President as its ceremonial leader. Sandra Mason, the island’s Governor-General, became the first President of Barbados, symbolising the country’s new chapter. The switch to a republic was celebrated with national pride, and the island continues to honour its cultural and historical roots while looking forward to its future as a republic, standing as a beacon of Caribbean pride and self-determination.

Independence Day on November 30 remains a national holiday, celebrated with lots of events, including parades, cultural performances, and a formal ceremony that highlights the island’s pride and unity. But while many are familiar with the island's picturesque landscapes and status as a popular tourist destination, there are still plenty of lesser-known facts about this tropical paradise. Here are five things you might not know about Barbados:

Barbados Was Once the Wealthiest Colony in the Caribbean

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the island was one of the richest British colonies in the Caribbean, largely due to its sugar industry. The island's fertile soil and perfect climate made it an ideal location for sugar plantations. This wealth helped shape Barbados' social and economic landscape, leaving a lasting impact on the island’s architecture and culture. The sugar industry also led to the importation of enslaved Africans, and their descendants played a vital role in shaping the island’s culture and identity.

The First Country in the World to Abolish Slavery by Legislation

Barbados was one of the first British colonies to abolish slavery. In 1834, the island's legislature passed the ‘Emancipation Act,’ which led to the emancipation of enslaved Africans on the island. While slavery did not end across the British Empire until 1838, Barbados led the charge for emancipation, making it a symbol of progress and freedom in the Caribbean. This progressive movement paved the way for other colonies to follow suit and is a key part of the island's proud historical narrative.

Home to the World’s Oldest Rum Distillery

Barbados is often referred to as the ‘birthplace of rum’, and it proudly houses the world’s oldest rum distillery. Mount Gay Rum, established in 1703, has been producing rum for over 300 years. The distillery’s deep-rooted history and legacy in the production of rum make it a must-visit for those interested in learning about the island’s alcohol-making traditions. Mount Gay offers tours where you can explore the distillery and sample different rum varieties, all while soaking up the island’s rich history. And, of course, Mount Gay Rum is served at all our Ocean Hotels Barbados bars and restaurants!

A Leader in Sustainability and Eco-Tourism

While many islands are known for their natural beauty, Barbados is setting a standard for sustainability, with Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley leading the charge as one of the world’s most outspoken heads of state on combatting climate change. The island is heavily focused on environmental conservation and has made significant strides in eco-tourism. Barbados is home to a number of sustainable hotels and eco-friendly resorts, including O2 Beach Club & Spa, Sea Breeze Beach House, and The Rockley by Ocean Hotels Barbados, that aim to reduce their environmental footprint. Additionally, the island’s government has invested in renewable energy projects, such as solar power and wind energy, to make the island more eco-conscious and sustainable for future generations.

The Island Has Its Own Unique Wildlife

Barbados is home to a variety of unique species, both on land and in the sea. The island’s wildlife includes endemic species such as the Barbados Green Monkey, a playful primate native to the island. Lush forests and coral reefs also harbour a range of exotic birds, reptiles, and marine life. The beaches and waters around Barbados are famous for sea turtles, which come to nest along the shore, and the island is a key part of sea turtle conservation efforts.

So now you know! Barbados is far more than just a sun-soaked destination for beach lovers. Its rich history, commitment to sustainability, and unique cultural contributions make it an island worth exploring beyond the surface. Whether you're visiting the world's oldest rum distillery, learning about its history of emancipation, or observing its diverse wildlife, there’s much more to discover about this Caribbean gem than meets the eye, and Ocean Hotels Barbados have the perfect island home-base for exploring.