Known across the world for its ability to combine the finest in luxury living, beautiful natural scenery, cultural heritage and Caribbean warmth and hospitality, Barbados remains one of the best choices for those who are seeking the ultimate luxury getaway. Offering sublime natural corners alongside a vacation lifestyle that is both typical of this part of the world in its laid-back nature and welcoming attitude and also unique to Barbados in its own charming ways, the island’s appeal as a destination is due to it being both quaint and diverse. Pristine golf courses and fine gastronomic experiences exist in joyful tandem with vibrant musical rhythms and traditional practices, which demonstrate the blend of West African and English influences that is rooted in the island’s history.

Any luxury getaway to Barbados is therefore hugely complemented by some prior knowledge of the island’s cultural dynamic, allowing you to enjoy your trip in full consciousness of the nature of the location and providing you with the opportunity to get the very most out of your stay in this tropical paradise. From the customs and practices of the local population to the different styles of music that express the Caribbean spirit to enjoying the traditional cuisine and gastronomy that has become a deep part of the Bajan way of life, it is definitely worth acquainting yourself with the things that make this island a truly special place. With a selection of luxury villa rentals that hint at the Bajan influences and culture that are unique to the island, Rental Escapes is proud to bring you tropical vacations that are not only deeply relaxing, but which also add an unforgettable sense of cultural immersion to your time spent abroad.

Embracing the musical rhythms

One of the things that the Caribbean is most famous for on an international scale is its collection of musical genres that originate from its territory, with infectious rhythms lifting the atmosphere in every corner of Barbados. A particularly Bajan piece of musical heritage involves the Tuk band, which is a collection of brightly attired musicians playing bass drum, kettle drum and pennywhistle to create a relaxed and yet constant beat. Many find the sounds of this band irresistible, with the blend of African music (as demonstrated by the heavy drum influence) and British folk music creating an effect that is truly unique in style. Barbados is also known for having produced celebrities in the field of calypso, and fosters an extensive jazz scene. And, of course, the island brought the world Rhianna, one of pop’s most celebrated artists whose latest album has garnered significant critical acclaim for its use of Bajan musical influences.

Gastronomic delights

There are few better times to indulge in a wide range of tantalizing food and drink than on holiday, and Barbados has just as many delicious options on offer as the rest of the Caribbean islands. Find yourself tempted by the dish of Cou-cou and flying fish, the national dish of Barbados. Cou-cou resembles a creamy variant of polenta and is made from cornmeal and okras, while the flying fish is usually served steamed in a tomato-based sauce. A large part of Bajan culture also involves the ritual of grilling a variety of fish on every day of the week – especially on a Friday night and on weekends, when the locals group together to enjoy the delights provided by the ocean which surrounds the picturesque isle. Otherwise, another widely popular meal goes by the name of “pudding and souse,” which is made from a base of steamed sweet potato and pickled pork. Often coming served with pickled sweet potato or pickled breadfruit, this makes for a warm and flavorsome insight into the gastronomic heritage of the island. With many of the luxury villa rentals in Barbados coming with their own private staff and chef, it isn’t difficult to discover the mixture of flavors that drive forward the Caribbean cooking traditions through to this day.

The quirks of Bajan life

Bajan life also involves many particularities that can’t be compared to those of any other culture, such as the tradition of the Barbados Landship that dates back to the 1800s. Resembling a piece of theater that incorporates intricate dances to incarnate the passage of ships through rough seas and the activities taking place on board, the tradition celebrates the social and economic progress of the island. Following this idea, the performers often wear costumes that are similar to those worn in the Navy. However, while the actual organization was designed around the structure of the British Navy, the dances are performed to an African rhythm and are often accompanied by a tuk band; a combination that again symbolizes the convergence of cultures at the heart of Bajan heritage. And, of course, every summer Barbados hosts its annual Crop Over festival, where Bajans take to the streets in colorful, traditional dress to celebrate the arts, crafts, food, and spirit of the island.

Luxury vacations in your Barbadian idyll

One of the great pleasures of enjoying a holiday in the Caribbean involves the opportunity to discover the unique culture that exists on every island – and Barbados is no exception. Aside from its ability to cater to the finest in luxury living, the island’s exterior, a beautiful environment with sandy beaches conceals an interior that offers infectious music, delicious food and a variety of events that are unique to Bajan heritage. Using our extensive knowledge and experience with organizing deluxe escapes that provide a full immersion in a destination’s atmosphere and culture, Rental Escapes are pleased to tailor your vacation to your wishes so that it meets every expectation. From the organization of your villa rental to the date of departure to your time spent on the island itself, we are on-hand to ensure that all runs smoothly and that you are left to enjoy the tropical retreat that you have been waiting for.