While Barbados offers all the sandy fun of the rest of the Caribbean, it's decidedly English influence is clear in everything from residents' attire to the polo and cricket matches that abound. Barbados is synonymous with rum as it's the home to Mount Gay Rum, which was first distilled on the island in 1703. A Barbados vacation rental helps you enjoy all the beauty of the island with the comforts of home.

The names of the beaches are as colorful as the island plants. If you want to surf, the Soup Bowl is the place to go. If lounging in the sun is more your thing, Bottom Bay is a picturesque option, and because of this, draws a crowd. Sun and surf aren't the only things to enjoy in Barbados. Garrison Savannah Horseracing and the Mount Gay Rum tour will keep adults entertained while younger travelers will enjoy the Barbados Wildlife Reserve and the beauty of Flower Forest.

Cars are the most efficient way to get around the island but remember you'll be driving on the left. Taxi drivers give expert advice on best places to see and things to do but you'll pay for the travel tips. Luckily, the government does set the rates but they're not cheap. The most economical way to see the island is by government-operated bus. They run "often" but it is difficult to hammer a schedule down when you're on island time. Remember the fun is in the journey not just the destination.

Barbados is thirteen degrees above the equator but temps stay in the 70s and 80s year round. Hurricanes rarely hit the island. Peak travel time is December through April but with consistent year-round temps and pleasant weather, you're not settling regardless of when you visit.

Barbados hosts a fun Jazz Festival in January followed by the colorful Holetown Festival in February featuring a fashion show, beauty contest, historical lectures, and a tattoo show. Another highlight is the Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival in November, which is as delicious as it sounds.

Often referred to as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, Barbados serves up a sumptuous combination of British, African, and island tastes. Seafood and tropical fruits play a prominent role in island cuisine.

The south coast cities of Bridgetown and Oistin Bay are the hot spots for nightlife. Nightclubs are more plentiful than bars in Barbados. Visitors enjoy the live jazz and calypso music and most resorts offer live bands. You'll find European-style discos as well as open-air venues. The island also brings in major acts but getting tickets can be difficult, still seeing a top-notch performer in paradise is a pretty special occurrence so it's worth the try.