Introduction
A part of the Caribbean Islands in the Pacific and one of the hottest tourist spots in the world, Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados. An independent state under British Commonwealth it is world famous for calypso, cricket, beaches, and nightlife. Initially, the town was known as "Indian Bridge" because of the bridge constructed over river Careenage by the Indians. Later on, name of the city changed to St. Michael, before changing over to Bridgetown in 1654 when a new bridge was constructed here to replace the old one.

What to do
Bridgetown is a Caribbean vacation paradise. While here, you can explore the colonial heritage that is a part of the modern landscape, spend the whole day on the beach, and dance the night out with calypso music. The city is full of life in the evenings when the glitzy bars and clubs are at their best. Spending some time here will certainly relax you after a hectic day fun and adventure.

City at a Glance

Latitude 13°06'N Longitude 059°37'W Population 80,000 Language English Religion Christianity Telephone Code 0246

History
History of Bridgetown is commonly identified with the history of Barbados. British came to these islands in 1627 AD and the first English settlement was established in that year only. Sugar was introduced as the dominant crop and thousands of blacks were imported in the island as plantation labourers. The first Legislative Council was formed in Barbados in 1639 and it became only the second British colony to establish such an assembly. With the passage of time the indigenous residents of this region initiated the struggle for independence from British rule. After a long fight, Universal Adult Suffrage was introduced here in 1944 and in 1961 Barbados became an independent country under the British Commonwealth. Bridgetown remained capital of the state throughout and prospered a lot due it its enviable position.

Weather and Best Season to Visit
The climate of the town is generally pleasant. There is very less variations in temperature throughout the year. Maximum temperature hovers around the 30°C mark with the minimum being at a comfortable 22°C. February to May is the best time to visit Bridgetown or entire Barbados when the climate is cooler and weather conditions are dry.

Attractions
TEntire Barbados and Bridgetown in particular is not a place for the destination hoppers but a place for the pleasure seekers. The very experience of being in Bridgetown, be it any part of the city, can be enthralling.

National Heroes Square (Trafalgar Square)
Popularly known as Trafalgar Square, this is the place where most structures of importance can be found. Some of the famous ones are: Statue of Lord Nelson, Treasury Building, Barbadian War Dead Memorial, Parliament Building, St. Michael's Cathedral, and Broad Street (major shopping centre of the city).

Jewish Synagogue
The Jewish Synagogue was originally built in the year 1654 AD, but got destroyed in by a hurricane in 1831 AD. Sold in 1929, it was again brought back to the city and restored to its present state with its Gothic arches.

Other Places of Interest
Other places of interest in Bridgetown include Gareenage, Harry Bailey Observatory, Garrison, Mount Gay Visitor Centre, Barbados Museum, and Tyrol Cot near the city.

IMPORTANT FESTIVALS AND EXHIBITIONS
Cropover, held in the months of July and August is the main festival of Bridgetown. Weakened competitions, calypso music, and parades are all part of this festival, which culminates on the Kadooment Day. Other festivals include National Independence Festival of Creative Arts, held on 30th November every year, and Holders Season, held in the months of March and April.

AFTER HOURS
Fun at Bridgetown starts at dark when the tinkling stars replace the glowing sun. Options are varied and choosing one can be quite a difficult job. There are sports bars, nightclubs, discos, pubs, dinner shows, cinemas, night cruises and many more. So, don't think that everything has lost if the day has gone it is only the beginning.

Shopping
There are good shopping malls all across the city and some of the best ones are at Broad Street, Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, Pelican Village, and Medford Craft Village. Purchasing from duty free shops is quite a good option and you are needed to produce just your passport or air ticket for it. Prices in these shops are generally lesser then North America and Europe.

WHERE TO STAY
Accommodation is available for every section of the tourists and in every category there are some good choices. Apart from regular hotels, there are Guest Houses, apartment hotels, and villas on offer for accommodation.

WHERE TO EAT

There are wide choices available if you are looking for eating joints, though most of them are expensive. Prices in a good restaurant can range from $15 to $40 while in a reasonable place you can get a general option at just $5. Speciality restaurants are available all throughout the city. Fish is the main dish on every menu. If you are in Bridgetown between December to May don't forget to have a taste of fish cuisine here.

Travel Information
Air Travel Resources
There is a modern airport in Barbados and it is connected to destinations in North America, South America, Europe, and other destinations in Caribbean Islands. Flights can be heavily booked on Christmas and Cropover, and making advance bookings is not a bad idea. There are regular buses and taxis that can take you to Bridgetown from the airport. Check the fare chart before hiring a taxi or you may be overcharged. Land And Water
Water
The best way to travel between various islands is by the regular cruises, which operate in most parts of the Caribbean, including Bridgetown. You can get more information once in the city from the tour operators or the offices of the shipping lines.

Land
Bridgetown has a number of options when it comes to public transport. A number of yellow and blue buses ply in most parts of the city. Privately owned mini buses are also available that can take you to any part of the island. Taxis are good value for money if you want a bit of comfort. Cars are also available on hire, but in this case you would be needed to produce you driving license.