The Rum Shop is to Barbados as the pub is to Great Britain. For over 300 years, the rum shop has been at the centre of local community life – a place to meet and put the world to rights as well as a place to drink, eat and often buy local groceries!
Speightstown was once the busiest port in Barbados and the town gained its other name ‘Little Bristol’ as a result of the trade in sugar and other goods between here and its larger namesake in England. Tucked away at the back of the small car park in the centre of town you’ll find Island Plates.
Heading north on the West Coast and situated between Holetown and Speightstown you will find the secluded bay of Gibbs Beach. With a number of fine houses overlooking the sweep of the bay, the beach is edged with trees that overhang the fine sands providing dappled shade, particularly in the morning.
Little Bristol Beach Bar is hidden away in the centre of Speightstown – it is easy to miss if you aren’t looking out for it and very unassuming from the street side but it has a lovely deck overlooking the sea and a wonderful laid-back vibe. Visit on a Wednesday, Friday or Sunday evening just before sunset and enjoy live music and a great atmosphere.
Bajan fish cakes are an island staple. You’ll find them for sale at the side of the road or as an appetiser in bars and restaurants across the island of Barbados. Of course, not all fish cakes are made equal – at least so would most who sell them have you believe. Follow this simple recipe and make your own fishcakes whilst staying in your villa in Barbados or once you get home.
Lisa and I had met a couple of the local Nikki Beach marketing team at Little Bristol Bar on a number of occasions and they invited us along to spend some time on the sunbeds and experience Nikki Beach for ourselves. We duly obliged – I was wearing my slightly sceptical hat (“luxury lifestyle brand” – not really my thing) but Lisa was rather more open minded and didn’t see much wrong with the idea of an afternoon on a sunbed with a glass of champagne.
We are Mark and Lisa Hammerton and we are lucky enough to spend our time organising villa and apartment holidays to the wonderful Caribbean island of Barbados.
We have been involved with the travel industry for most of our working lives but fell in love with Barbados after many visits and ended up buying a second home there.
We would love to talk to you about the island and our selection of wonderful properties and, as our priority is matching the right property to your requirements, we will always be open and honest in what we have to say.
Mark & Lisa
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