If you are stuck in a hotel in Barbados but want to get in touch with nature, that is not a problem because the mainland island country of the West Indies is very rich in fauna and flora. The Caribbean island is home to many different types of beautiful and wonderful plants. Many horticultural societies and clubs were founded because of the lucrative hobby of gardening. Different garden houses were built on the island, which attracts a lot of attention from tourists who want to enjoy the sights of beautiful flowers and plants available only in the country.
Barbados, being a tropical country, is rich in many colorful shrubs and has a wide range of flowering plants and other plantings. Almost each of the 7 parishes in the country has its own lush garden to be proud of. St. James Parish has the Lancaster Great House gallery and gardens. The Andromeda gardens and the flower forest are located in the parish of San José. Due to the number of plant and flower enthusiasts, many plant hobbyists founded the Barbados Horticultural Society. By joining this society, members can enjoy special invitations, discounts and other benefits. Horticulture club members only pay BDS$5 instead of the regular BDS$15 entry fee for various garden venues in the country.
The tropical climate allows many plants to grow and flourish on this Caribbean island. Trees such as the golden palm abound on the island, in addition to palm trees, many frangipani and cordial trees offer cool shade for other plants such as orchids and other flowering plants to grow and flourish. Rare plants can also be found in the mainland West Indies, such as the rainbow eucalyptus, which has variegated colored tree bark. Plant enthusiasts will really enjoy the variety of flora that grows in many of the country’s gardens.
Vegetarians will also have meals to fill their stomachs, as the country offers many Bajan vegetable dishes for them to enjoy. Pumpkin Fritters are an ideal snack for those who love something sweet and spicy. Rice is often cooked with a variety of peas such as pigeon peas, black-eyed peas, or split peas. Vegetables like okra and asparagus are often drizzled with lime juice and sautéed in butter. There are also unusual fruits for tourists to enjoy at local restaurants. A large green football-sized breadfruit that is similar to potatoes in flavor and texture, it is often served lathered in a sauce of butter, tomato and onion or fresh cucumber and lime. The plantain may seem unpleasant when not cooked, but it is quite popular in local restaurants. It is a member of the banana family and is usually served wrapped in bacon and baked. The sugar-free member of the melon family, Chrisyophene, is another unusual vegetable that is commonly served with cheese sauce.
The Caribbean island has so many wonderful caves and gardens to explore. So, after arriving in the country and finding a hotel in Barbados, pack your gear and explore the best of Mother Nature on this tropical island.