As you leave behind the turquoise ocean, you will discover a tropical island full of unusual and exciting features :Miles of white sand beaches, glamorous shopping and exquisite dining.

Additionally, a full range of exciting activities awaits you: Bicycle and horseback riding,sight-seeing tours of all kinds, including sky tours and , of course, nature walks.

So many beautiful things to see, As you explore the flora and fauna of Barbados island.

While on the island, why not visit the BARBADOS MUSEUM, where illustrations, artifacts and displays gives you an idea of Barbadian history. The Museum is housed in elegant buildings which were once used as a military prison in St. Ann's garrison, ST.Michael. These buildings were built in the 1800's and are of Caribbean Georgian architecture.

For the ones of you who enjoy shopping for exotic items, you are in the right place. Barbados has a fantastic array of shops of all kinds.Give yourself time. There is a lot to see... You will not be able to resist perusing through the chattel -type shops outside the cruise terminals. Incidentally,it's duty FREE!

A palm-fringed beach .Barbados Illustration by Maryvonne C.M.MARTIN Your stay would be incomplete without trying the local food in BRIDGETOWN, capital of Barbados. To tempt your tastebuds, a delicious fare of Bajan food awaits you.Be different, explore new tastes ! How about:Bajan style flying fish,succulent blackened chicken served with coconut mayonnaise, bread-fruit cheesy or breadfruit pie,baked plantain,mango mousse or rum omelet flambe..Too many dishes to mention

My favorite place is the FISHERMAN'S WHARF SEAFOOD RESTAURANT. The view of the harbor is truly delightful. Not only do you enjoy some of the best cuisine around but, you are entertained by various boat activities as well as local color. This particular restaurant is renowned for its' traditional West Indian dishes, which includes :broiled caribbean lobster and crab backs.It's definitely a must ,to visit this charming and quaint restaurant.

The Barbadians are also reputed for exotic drinks, such as :Bajan coffee,which is strong coffee laced with Mount Gay rum and fresh cream, Mango Daiquiris and passion fruit drinks.

The Barbadians are fun loving people. It's not unusual to see natives doing the Limbo act to the accompaniment of a steel band; Usually you will see this sight close to the ship's terminal. Not only is it captivating to watch but entertaining as well. The dancers gracefully lower themselves under a bar (lowered at intervals) making the high energy act seem so simple and painless.

You will be able to listen to a wide variety of Caribbean music (steel bands,) indoors and outdoors.HOT1HOT! HOT!

If you find that time was too short to complete all that you wanted to do and see, there is only one remedy :come again and continue where you left off...

The beautiful island of Barbados will stay in your heart forever.

By : Maryvonne C.M.Martin