A vacation on the beach always brings to mind images of lying in the sun, doing nothing but enjoying the sound of waves lapping on the shore. Today I woke up with a strong urge to do just that if for no other reason that I got an ugly open blister in between my toes. I admit that it was all my own undoing: two days ago I decided to put on a new pair of flip-flops in lieu of my beloved but multi-strapped Merrell, and the thing just gnawed through my skin all the way to my flesh. Of course it didn’t help that I spent a good chunk of the day yesterday with my feet in salt water…So today I woke up with a red fleshy blob that stings every time I move my big toe (don’t worry, I’m not going to post pictures of it).
But there was one place I really wanted to check out – Speightstown, called “the most evocative small town on Barbados” by my travel guide. So blister or no blister, there I went and was not disappointed. Speightstown is located on the west coast, and was the first major port and commercial center on the island during colonial times, from where ships carrying primarily sugar departed directly to Bristol in England. The colonial past is evident in the town’s architecture, a mix of still battered wooden structures and restored houses with colorful facades that give the town a lively vibe. The whole place has an air of nostalgia about it, particularly as you stroll along the pier dotted with blue old-fashioned lampposts. Speightstown doesn’t feel crowded even though it’s the second largest town in Barbados, and, best of all, has retained its character despite being located on the touristy west coast. It is a must-see on any island itinerary.
A little further up the coast, a little area called Shermans has beaches as good as the ones further down the shore, but without the crowds. If seclusion is your thing, this is the place to be.
So now I’m back at the hotel, looking at my aching open blister that’s become even redder and more swollen…Call me crazy, but it was all worth it.
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