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Home • Travel

Black Travel Vibes: Let Your Melanin Shine Bright in Barbados

ESSENCE'S EXCLUSIVE GUIDE ON HOW TO SEE, TASTE AND EXPERIENCE THE HOTTEST DESTINATIONS IN BLACK TRAVEL. 
Black Travel Vibes: Let Your Melanin Shine Bright in Barbados
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
By Danielle Pointdujour · Updated December 6, 2020
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Powdery sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, friendly people and a proud culture are just a few of the reasons visitors fall in love Barbados from the moment they land. The island truly has it all and it shows.

Many people know Barbados for its nonstop annual fete known as Crop Over, but if you dig a little deeper you’ll find a hidden gem that shines as bright as the sun that illuminates its picturesque shores. All it takes is one visit to the island and you’ll immediately notice that the island looks and feels good on you. Don’t believe us? Just ask Kéla Walker (@kelawalker).

The #bookedbusyblessed travelista recently spent a long weekend on the island and that Barbados energy had Kéla glowing and shining bright. There’s no doubt that after one look at her photos, you’ll want some of that island drip too. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a guide to help you plan a trip to Barbados that you’ll never forget. Travel fly.

01
Welcome to Barbados
An eastern Caribbean island and an independent British Commonwealth nation, Barbados is as close as one can get to perfection. With perfect weather year-round, Barbados is a fave among island-hopping travelers. The best time to visit is between July and November, and though these months fall within the Caribbean’s hurricane season, Barbados is rarely ever affected.
Black Travel Vibes: Let Your Melanin Shine Bright in Barbados
Getty Images
02
Beach Blues
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad place to stay in Barbados. From affordable and family-friendly accommodations to luxe, over the top baecay hideaways, Barbados has something for you. Our pick: The Hilton Barbados Resort, with it’s top-notch staff and impeccable beach views, you’ll fall in love.
Black Travel Vibes: Let Your Melanin Shine Bright in Barbados
Hilton Barbados Resort
03
Food is Art
Barbados, like many Caribbean destinations is known for their traditional island fare, but over the years it has become a must-visit destination for foodies looking for a more elevated culinary experience. Head to the highly-rated Tapestry restaurant and let Chef Javon Cummins (Barbados’ youngest executive chef) take you on a foodie journey that is a feast for your belly and your eyes.
Black Travel Vibes: Let Your Melanin Shine Bright in Barbados
Photo Credit: Tapestry
04
Island Explorer
Though it’s pretty tempting to spend your days on one of Barbados’ many picturesque beaches, there is so much more to explore on the island! Wander through the colorful waterfront promenade in Bridgetown, spend your Friday night with friendly locals at Oistins Fish Fry in the parish of Christ Church, or if you’re lucky to be around in August, take a lime and a wine during Barbados Crop Over.
Black Travel Vibes: Let Your Melanin Shine Bright in Barbados
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
TOPICS:  barbados Black Travel Moment of the Day travel travel guide