Thursday, November 21, 2024

We were picked up this morning by the same driver we had yesterday. Good news, because Dunstan did an amazing job explaining Barbadian history and pointing out the sites.

We had a full day, touring the sights here in Barbados. Harrison’s Cave is a popular attraction. We rode a tram through the caves, and oohed and aahed at the streams and waterfalls as well as the stalactites and stalagmites. Harrison’s Cave was first mentioned in 1795, but never developed as a tourist site until about 1981.

We then visited the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, home to monkeys, snakes, iguanas, turtles, and tortoises. parrots, flamingos, and peacocks, moving freely in the park.

The green monkeys found here, also called sabaceous monkey, originally came from Senegal and the Gambia in West Africa approximately 350 years ago.These monkeys are relatively long-lived and can reach up to 30 years in captivity. Their fur is more yellowish than other species of monkey, giving them a golden-green appearance.

Hunte’s Gardens is said to be the Most Enchanting Place on Earth. It is home to exotic plants and birds, a delightful place to visit. Anthony Hunte purchased the property in 1990, 10 acres of a former sugar plantation called Castle Grant. He began developing the gardens with the assistance of several workers. The 2.5 acre Gardens were opened to the public in 2007. We were simply amazed at the numbers of tropical plants and flowers that are included in these gardens. There are several spots with benches and chairs where guests can sit and enjoy this tiny bit of paradise nestled near the center of this island paradise.

All in all, a day of beauty.