21 October 2024

Local Living When on Vacation in Barbados

Vacationing in Barbados is about embracing the culture and living like a local, even if only for a little while.

Barbados is renowned for its postcard-perfect charm — golden beaches, swaying palms, and the kind of crystal-clear waters that invite pure relaxation. But beyond its natural beauty lies a more intimate, enriching experience, one that beckons you to discover the true essence of island life. The island’s allure goes far beyond the typical tourist attractions, offering the opportunity to indulge in local cuisine, feel the rhythm of its music, and explore hidden spots treasured by those who call Barbados home. It’s about embracing the culture and living like a local, if only for a little while.

At Apes Hill, luxury and authenticity go hand in hand. What sets us apart is our deep connection to the island. We’re not just a resort, we’re part of the community. Staying with us means more than just enjoying a secluded getaway — it’s about experiencing Bajan traditions and culture, blending into the island’s rhythm, and discovering its true heart. From our serene surroundings to the warmth of the locals, your time here will reveal the understated richness of Barbados.

Read on for our tips on how to experience the authentic side of this extraordinary island and craft memories that will stay with you long after your return home.

Traditional Food From the Caribbean

It goes without saying that the first way to absorb yourself into the Caribbean food culture is through trying and using local ingredients. Instead of sticking to familiar produce, venture out. Try breadfruit, ackee, callaloo, or soursop. Each ingredient offers a new flavour profile and broadens your culinary repertoire.

There are an array of local dishes to be introduced to, too:

Here in Barbados, 'cou cou and flying fish' stands as the national dish, a pairing of cornmeal and okra with the delicately flavoured flying fish.
Another Bajan delicacy is 'pudding and souse', a dish featuring pickled pork paired with sweet potato pudding, offering a delightful play of textures and flavours.
'Cutters', Bajan sandwiches filled with ham, fish, or cheese, are beloved quick bites that highlight the simplicity yet profound taste of Caribbean ingredients.

Of course, no trip to Barbados is complete without sampling the local drinks. As the birthplace of rum, this island is home to some of the best in the world. But beyond rum, why not try a refreshing drink made with mauby, a Caribbean favourite brewed from the bark of the mauby tree? Or, if you prefer beer, grab a cold Carib or Red Stripe for a truly local experience. Every sip and bite connects you to the heart of the island, making your stay in Barbados that much richer.

Exploring Local Markets and Street Vendors

Local food markets and beach vendors form the vibrant pulse of everyday life. Wander through the stalls and you're greeted by the earthy scent of ground provisions, the alluring fragrance of tropical fruits, and the inviting aroma of freshly caught seafood. Along the sun-drenched shores, beach vendors offer a sensory delight – from succulent grilled fish to refreshing coconut water, served straight from the shell. These food stalls also offer a way in which to preserve and enrich African traditions in the Caribbean, such as smoking and grilling meats, for example.

Start your Saturday morning with a visit to Brighton Farmer’s Market. Here, you’ll find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and home-baked goods, all sourced from local farmers. The market has a lively, community-driven atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to pick up some unique ingredients or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of a typical Bajan weekend.

For seafood lovers, the fish market in Oistins is a must-visit destinations. Not only can you pick up the day’s freshest catch, but you can also have it expertly grilled right in front of you. It is famous for its Friday night fish fry, where locals and visitors gather for an evening of delicious food, music, and socialising. It’s an unforgettable experience, with a lively, festival-like atmosphere that invites you to relax, enjoy the rhythms of calypso, and savour the flavours of the sea.

And for those who crave a true street food experience, make your way to the Cheapside Market, where you can find food stalls offering local delights like fish cakes and salt bread sandwiches. These quick bites are simple yet bursting with flavour, giving you a genuine taste of everyday Bajan cuisine. Whether you’re browsing for fresh produce or mingling with locals at the food stalls, Barbados’ markets offer a deeper connection to the island’s culture, giving you a chance to experience life as it’s lived here, one delicious bite at a time.

Vendors line the beaches and streets in Barbados

Music in the Caribbean

The music of the Caribbean is more than just a backdrop — it’s a vibrant expression of the island’s spirit and soul. In Barbados, music is woven into the very fabric of daily life, from lively festivals to impromptu performances at local bars. No visit to the island is complete without diving into its rhythmic heartbeat, where genres like calypso, soca, reggae, and gospel blend seamlessly with the island’s rich cultural traditions.

For the ultimate music and cultural experience, plan your visit around Crop Over, Barbados’ largest and most iconic festival. Celebrated over several weeks, this vibrant festival culminates in Kadooment Day, a joyous parade filled with colorful costumes, infectious soca beats, and dancing in the streets. To learn more about the origins and celebrations of this incredible event, read our guide to Crop Over.

If you're looking for a deeper connection to Barbados' past, Holetown Festival offers a unique glimpse into the island's rich history. This annual event celebrates the first settlement in Barbados, combining music, craft markets, and historical reenactments to create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Music flows naturally into everyday life on the island. Attend local events like Gospel Fest, a celebration of uplifting and soulful music, or enjoy live calypso performances at cozy beachside bars. You’ll find that the music is never far away, whether you’re exploring a lively festival or simply enjoying a meal at a local dining spot.

The music scene blends beautifully with the island's culinary delights. Head to local hotspots in Holetown, Speightstown, and St. Lawrence Gap for great food paired with live performances. Don’t miss the famous Oistins Friday night fish fry, where music, food, and community come together in one unforgettable celebration. As the sound of steel drums and calypso fill the air, you’ll get a true taste of Bajan culture — one that’s joyful, expressive, and absolutely infectious.

Explore Bajan Art and Craftsmanship

From beautifully handwoven baskets to vibrant paintings that capture the essence of island life, Bajan art is a celebration of tradition, storytelling, and innovation. For those looking to take home a piece of Barbados, or simply immerse themselves in the local art scene, there are plenty of ways to explore the craftsmanship of this unique island.

A great starting point is Pelican Island, an artisan hub where you can find handcrafted souvenirs made by local artists. Located near Bridgetown, this colourful spot is perfect for picking up one-of-a-kind treasures, from intricate pottery to hand-carved wooden pieces. Each item reflects the island’s history and the skill of its artisans, making it a wonderful way to bring a piece of Barbados home with you.

For those with an appreciation for fine art, head to The Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown. This renowned gallery showcases the works of artists from across the Caribbean, offering a dynamic collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media that reflect the region’s diverse cultures and landscapes.

For a more immersive experience, why not join a local workshop? In Barbados, you can learn the traditional skills of basket weaving or pottery, guided by skilled artisans who have been honing their craft for generations. Alternatively, sign up for a painting class led by a local artist, where you’ll have the chance to unleash your creativity while gaining insight into the island’s art culture. Batik workshops are another hands-on option, where you can learn the ancient technique of wax-resist dyeing to create beautiful textiles.

Community-Driven Adventures to Experience the Real Barbados

For those seeking to experience the true heart of Barbados, there’s no better way than through community-driven adventures that offer an authentic connection to the island’s culture.

A perfect way to start is by taking a Bajan cooking class. Learn how to prepare local favourites like fish cakes and other island staples, guided by chefs who are passionate about sharing the rich culinary heritage of Barbados. If you’re a true foodie, consider joining a local culinary tour, where you’ll sample some of the island’s best dishes, from casual street food to gourmet delights.

For a deeper dive into Bajan cuisine, The Barbados Culinary Experience is a must. Here, you can take part in cooking classes and demonstrations led by award-winning chefs, and even participate in the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, a celebration of the island’s vibrant food and rum culture.

When it comes to rum, Barbados is truly the birthplace of this iconic Caribbean spirit. A visit to the Mount Gay Rum Distillery is essential for anyone looking to explore the island’s famous rum culture. With local guides, you’ll learn about the history and craft behind the world’s oldest rum brand. For a more intimate experience, head to the Foursquare Rum Distillery or St Nicholas Abbey - two hidden gems that produce some of the best rums in the world. In fact, Foursquare recently won the award for the best rum globally, making it a must-visit destination for rum aficionados. For a more laid-back adventure, indulge in a traditional rum shop crawl, where you can sip on local favourites and chat with residents at some of Barbados’ most iconic rum shops.

For nature lovers, the island offers stunning landscapes to explore with local experts. Take a hike through Welchman Hall Gully or the Andromeda Botanic Gardens, where knowledgeable guides will share stories of Barbados’ flora and fauna while leading you through these lush, serene environments. Or, if you prefer a more communal experience, join the Barbados Hike, a beloved Sunday tradition for locals and visitors alike. These hikes take you through some of the island’s most scenic spots and offer a unique opportunity to connect with both the land and its people.

For a different perspective of the island, take a boat tour with a local fisherman. This intimate experience lets you see Barbados from the water, gaining a fresh appreciation for its coastal beauty while hearing tales of the sea from those who know it best.

Beach Life in Barbados: How Locals Enjoy the Coast

When it comes to beach life, Barbados offers far more than just sun and sand—they’re social hubs where locals gather for sport, relaxation, and the simple joy of being by the sea.

Bathsheba Beach is a local favourite, particularly for surfers and photographers. Known for its dramatic rock formations and wild Atlantic waves, this beach is a haven for those seeking adventure or inspiration.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to the tranquil shores of Payne’s Bay or Alleyne’s Bay on the west coast. These beaches are beloved for their calm waters, perfect for swimming or paddleboarding, and their golden sands make them ideal for a relaxing afternoon. Locals often gather here for sunset swims, beach games, or simply to enjoy the serene atmosphere. For an even more secluded escape, venture to Bottom Bay, a hidden gem where towering palms and dramatic cliffs frame a quiet stretch of beach.

Of course, no day at the beach in Barbados would be complete without some local flavour. At beachside bars or rum shops, you can often find friendly games of dominoes—a cherished island pastime. Pull up a chair and join in, or simply watch as the locals show off their competitive spirit, accompanied by a cold rum punch or beer.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, Carlisle Bay is a go-to spot for watersports. Known for its calm waters, this beach is perfect for paddleboarding, and its stunning underwater world makes it a popular destination for scuba diving, with several shipwrecks to explore just beneath the surface. If you prefer to stay above water, grab a snorkel or simply enjoy a leisurely swim.

Beach life in Barbados isn’t just about relaxation, though—it’s also about sports. Keep an eye out for a local cricket match on the beach. Cricket is our favourite sport here on the island, and you’ll often see impromptu games pop up on the sand, especially at beaches just downhill from Apes Hill.

Getting Around Barbados Like a Local: Transportation Tips

Getting around Barbados is as much a part of the local experience as the sights themselves.

For an authentic and budget-friendly way to explore, hop on a ZR minibus—a quintessential Bajan experience that has now affectionately been known as the ‘reggae bus’. If you’re heading to a local fish fry or out for an evening adventure, taking a cab may be the most convenient option. Or, if you truly want to connect with the island, there’s no better way to explore than on foot. Walking allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of Barbados at your own pace. Wander through vibrant streets, discover local markets, or take a beachside stroll to really get a feel for the island. Walking not only grounds you in the present but also invites unexpected encounters with locals and hidden corners you might miss otherwise.

For more detailed tips on navigating Barbados, including bus schedules and car rental options, read our guide to getting around Barbados.

Barbados is a cultural melting pot, a place where the rhythms of the Caribbean, rich history, and warm hospitality come together to create an unforgettable experience. It’s an island that draws visitors from around the globe, but once you’re here, it’s easy to see why there’s truly nowhere else quite like it. Whether it’s the vibrant music, mouthwatering cuisine, or the welcoming spirit of the local community, Barbados has a way of capturing your heart.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our island. During your stay, we invite you to embrace local living by stepping off the beaten path and exploring everything Barbados has to offer. From hidden beaches and lively markets to local workshops and authentic culinary experiences, the true essence of Barbados lies in its culture, its people, and its everyday life. So come and discover the real Barbados — a place where lasting memories are made, and where you’ll feel like part of the island’s story from the moment you arrive.

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