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| White Anthurium Flower |
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| Purple Anthurium FLowers |
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| Red Anthurium Flower |
Melanie & Kimberly*
29/02/2012
The flower of Love (or should be at least) - Anthurium
Being the last day of love month we thought we would do a small mention on a flower close to heart. Yes, we know red roses are the flower of love however, have you ever wondered what those heart-shaped tropical flowers in Barbados were? Well they are called Anthuriums but are also be known as the Flamingo Flower or Boy Flower because of the structure of the spadix (the piece that sticks off the waxy flower). Such a beautiful flower, Anthurium is a genus of over 800 species.
As can be readily observed, Anthuriums have quite an unusual shape (exactly like a heart) and can be seen in an array of different colours such as pinks, red, whites and even deep purples!
27/02/2012
A Taste of Agrofest 2012
The three day agricultural festival, Agrofest, ended last night and we are sure people are already looking forward to next year's festival. With over 200 exhibitors displaying and selling a diverse selection of seedlings, organic vegetables, orchids, crafts and livestock, the weekend was filled with excitement for people of all ages. Not only were farmers at Agrofest displaying their local produce but there were livestock and animal shows also! Take a look below for some of the photos we snapped (in between buying our weeks worth of veggies and enjoying the atmosphere!).
If you missed it this year, hopefully you can make it next year!
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| Sheep at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Cassava at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Vine Ripened Tomatoes at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Eggplants at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Local Pumpkins at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Local Lettuce Agrofest 2012 |
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| Mixed Lettuce at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Gerber Flower at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Cherry Tomatoes at Agrofest 2012 |
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| Orchids at Agrofest 2012 |
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados
24/02/2012
Have a Wonderful Weekend!
It's Friday and we hope you are....
Have yourself of wonderful weekend!!
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| Sunset on the West Coast of Barbados |
Have yourself of wonderful weekend!!
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados
22/02/2012
Cooking Bajan Style: Bul Jol
Bul Jol is a very popular delicacy in Barbados and even though it originated in Trinidad it is a must serve at many local parties, gatherings or festivals. Recently a new restaurant in Barbados, Naru Restaurant and Lounge started incorporating it into sushi! Bul Jol is made from salted cod and various vegetables and herbs such as sweet pepper, tomato, cucumber, thyme, marjoram etc. A vital component of Bul Jol is also the famous hot scotch bonnet peppers! In Bul Jol, the saltiness of the cod coupled with the crisp and wet coolness of the vegetables make this dish ideal. Additionally, the variation of the ingredients provide a pleasant texture. We, over at Loop Barbados, prepare Bul Jol on a regular basis, as not only is it extremely delicious but also low in fat and cholesterol. See below for our special Bul Jol recipe.
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| Bul Jol, Barbados |
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| Bul Jol, Barbados |
BUL JOL RECIPE
1/4 lb dried salt cod
1/2 medium onion -sliced very thin
1 medium tomato -cubed
1 clove garlic - minced
1/4 cup green bell pepper -cubed
5-10 sprigs of thyme
1/4 cup marjoram - Chopped
1 green onion (scallion) -chopped
1/4 of a Scotch Bonnet Pepper - seeded and minced
Dash of black pepper
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 medium onion -sliced very thin
1 medium tomato -cubed
1 clove garlic - minced
1/4 cup green bell pepper -cubed
5-10 sprigs of thyme
1/4 cup marjoram - Chopped
1 green onion (scallion) -chopped
1/4 of a Scotch Bonnet Pepper - seeded and minced
Dash of black pepper
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Place the salted fish in a deep bowl and boil enough water to completely cover it. After the water reaches boiling point (I use our electric kettle) pour it over the fish and allow it to soak for about 15 minutes or until it’s cool enough to work with. This water will help remove most of the “salt” that was used to cure the fish, or you’ll be stuck with a very salty dish. Not only does the hot water help remove the excess salt, it also makes the fish a bit tender and easier to shred. Drain and rinse with tap water, then shred the fish into tiny bits. Try and squeeze out any remaining water that it may still have as best as possible. Now slice, dice and chop the pepper, onion, tomato, scallion, thyme, marjoram and garlic and add to the bowl with the shredded saltfish. Give it a good dose of fresh cracked black pepper and mix. Finally, heat the olive oil in a frying pan and just before it starts to smoke, pour the heated olive oil onto the everything in the bowl. Mix thoroughly and serve the fabulous Bul Jol.
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados
20/02/2012
It's 24 for the Famous and Talented Rihanna
Rihanna celebrates her 24th birthday today, and with 25 million albums sold and 9 #1 hits since 2005, this singer is in no uncertain terms. Rihanna is no doubt one of the most successful female recording artists ever and according to her the reason behind this is because she only produces music she absolutely loves.
Through her trend-setting red carpet looks, catchy pop tunes, and sometimes thought-provoking music videos, this 24 year old beauty proves that she is on a mission.
Rihanna will be spending her birthday in London and we hope the she has a phenomenal day!
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| Rihanna at the Grammy Awards 2012 |
Through her trend-setting red carpet looks, catchy pop tunes, and sometimes thought-provoking music videos, this 24 year old beauty proves that she is on a mission.
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| Rihanna on the cover Vogue April 2011 |
Rihanna will be spending her birthday in London and we hope the she has a phenomenal day!
Melanie & Kimberly*
17/02/2012
Top 5 Things to do in Barbados (if you are only here for one day)
We know that many travelers only get to spend one single day on the island because cruise ships are a very popular choice amongst individuals. We have been getting a lot of "what is the BEST thing to do if I/we are only in Barbados for one day" queries. The best thing to do really depends on your personality type, so Melanie and myself decided to do a small questionnaire among various locals to come up with the top five things to do in Barbados (if you are only here for one day).
Activity # 5 - A day cruise - There are many catamaran boats that offer a day cruise where you can to swim with turtles, explore sunken ships and sip on some classic Barbadian rum punch. About 11% of locals said they would like to see Barbados underwater if they were here one day and so may you. Three catamarans we would recommend are Jammin', Tiami or Cool Runnings.
Activity # 4 - Harrison's Cave - This magnificent crystallized limestone cavern is a hit amongst both locals and visitors. It is claimed to be one of the wonders of the world with its pure waters and flowing streams which aided in the formation of the stalactites and stalagmites. Approximately 15% of locals said if they were here for one day this is what they would like to see and experience. Especially with their new eco-adventure tour you actually get to hike through the cave itself!
Activity # 3 - A taste of local cuisine - A surprising 17% of the locals we interviewed said something along the lines of "dey mus tase we food an drink we drink" translated to mean you have to enjoy something that it authentic to Barbados, whether it be flying fish and cou-cou, pudding and souse, cutters, breadfruit, macoroni pie, coconut, pepper sauce, peas n rice etc.
Activity # 2 - Enjoy a day at the beach - Barbados is known for their beaches and many locals (about 21%) recommended one day visitors to relax by the water's edge and soak up the sun that Barbados has "blessed we with". Harbour lights has a great beach day planned for cruise passengers that simply want to wind down and enjoy the sheer beauty that Barbados offers.
Activity # 1 - Tour the island - This can either be by car or bus, and majority of locals recommended visitors do this on their one day stop! If you are more of the adventurous type rent a car for the day and explore the island by map. On the other hand if you don't want the responsibility of driving or have a fear of getting lost, there are many tour companies such as Coconut Tours, Island Safari and Adventureland which do the driving for you! Some of the sights that you have to see are Cherry Tree Hill, Cove Bay, Morgan Lewis Windmill, Hackletons Cliff, St. Johns Parish Church, St. Joseph Parish Church, Bathsheba and Cattlewash.
The other 8% of the locals said 'other' activities such as scuba diving, St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation tour, Mount Gay rum tour, surfing, and shopping in Bridgetown.
Hope this helps you next time you come to Barbados!
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Activity # 5 - A day cruise - There are many catamaran boats that offer a day cruise where you can to swim with turtles, explore sunken ships and sip on some classic Barbadian rum punch. About 11% of locals said they would like to see Barbados underwater if they were here one day and so may you. Three catamarans we would recommend are Jammin', Tiami or Cool Runnings.
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| Turtle Swimming in Barbados |
Activity # 4 - Harrison's Cave - This magnificent crystallized limestone cavern is a hit amongst both locals and visitors. It is claimed to be one of the wonders of the world with its pure waters and flowing streams which aided in the formation of the stalactites and stalagmites. Approximately 15% of locals said if they were here for one day this is what they would like to see and experience. Especially with their new eco-adventure tour you actually get to hike through the cave itself!
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| Harrison's Cave, Barbados |
Activity # 3 - A taste of local cuisine - A surprising 17% of the locals we interviewed said something along the lines of "dey mus tase we food an drink we drink" translated to mean you have to enjoy something that it authentic to Barbados, whether it be flying fish and cou-cou, pudding and souse, cutters, breadfruit, macoroni pie, coconut, pepper sauce, peas n rice etc.
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| Flying Fish, Barbados |
Activity # 2 - Enjoy a day at the beach - Barbados is known for their beaches and many locals (about 21%) recommended one day visitors to relax by the water's edge and soak up the sun that Barbados has "blessed we with". Harbour lights has a great beach day planned for cruise passengers that simply want to wind down and enjoy the sheer beauty that Barbados offers.
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| Beach Day in Barbados |
Activity # 1 - Tour the island - This can either be by car or bus, and majority of locals recommended visitors do this on their one day stop! If you are more of the adventurous type rent a car for the day and explore the island by map. On the other hand if you don't want the responsibility of driving or have a fear of getting lost, there are many tour companies such as Coconut Tours, Island Safari and Adventureland which do the driving for you! Some of the sights that you have to see are Cherry Tree Hill, Cove Bay, Morgan Lewis Windmill, Hackletons Cliff, St. Johns Parish Church, St. Joseph Parish Church, Bathsheba and Cattlewash.
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| Cherry Tree Hill Barbados |
The other 8% of the locals said 'other' activities such as scuba diving, St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation tour, Mount Gay rum tour, surfing, and shopping in Bridgetown.
Hope this helps you next time you come to Barbados!
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados Flickr, Flickr,
15/02/2012
Sugar Sugar!
What we are going to talk about today is considered a Bajan Delicacy- Coconut Sugar Cakes also known as Coconut Ice! It is a sugary sweet with fresh coconut which pairs perfectly with tea and other desserts. To make this well know delicacy see below for the recipe:
Famous Coconut Sugar Cakes
COCONUT SUGAR CAKES
- 1/2 lb. grated fresh coconut
- 1/4 pt. water
- 3/4 lb. sugar
Place the sugar in a saucepan and add water. Simmer until the sugar melts. Then add the coconut.
Let boil slowly, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Allow to cook until it thickens and takes on a greasy look. Drop mixture by tablespoonfuls onto a shallow plate or cookie sheet that has been moistened with water. Leave to set.
Let boil slowly, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Allow to cook until it thickens and takes on a greasy look. Drop mixture by tablespoonfuls onto a shallow plate or cookie sheet that has been moistened with water. Leave to set.
A must try in Barbados!
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados
14/02/2012
The Top Five Romantic Spots In Barbados*
Happy Valentines Day everyone!! The day of love is upon us, so to do a little celebrating ourselves we thought we would mention our top 5 romantic spots on Barbados.
Romantic spot #5 - An afternoon stroll on the Boardwalk. As dusk falls take a stroll along the boardwalk which lines some of the South coast beaches of Barbados.
Romantic spot #1 - Wine sipping on a West coast beach at sunset - The West coast has the most brilliant sunsets. Purchase a bottle of wine and some snacks at the nearest grocer and make your way down to one of the beaches such as Payne's Bay, Sandylane, Paradise etc. Sit on the beach and watch as the sun sets and shows off some of the most magical colours in the world!
Remember its the simple things in life that are beautiful!
Melanie & Kimberly*
Romantic spot #5 - An afternoon stroll on the Boardwalk. As dusk falls take a stroll along the boardwalk which lines some of the South coast beaches of Barbados.
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| View from the boardwalk at dusk, Barbados |
Romantic spot #4 - Morning stroll on the East coast as the sun rises - As the sun rises on the East coast the fresh feeling in the air is like no other. Walk the long and winding beaches of Soupbowl and Cattlewash, watch the morning patrol surfers catching the first waves of the day and take in the sheer beauty that surrounds you.
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| Sunrise at Bathsheba, Barbados |
Romantic spot #3 - Picnic at Codrington college - The oldest Anglican Theological College in the Western hemisphere also has the most stunning gardens and surroundings. Set up a small picnic blanket in front the pond which is covered in stunning purple water lilies and just simply relax while enjoying one anothers company.
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| Picnic at Codrington College, Barbados |
Romantic spot #2 - Stargazing on the magical Cattlewash beach - This may be among the best spot in the island to stargaze! Lay a blanket on the beach and count the endless shooting stars that whiz by. Just be cautious when you go and ensure people are in the houses above as the beach can get fairly lonely on a night.
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| Stargazing |
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| Sunset at Freshwater Bay, Barbados |
Melanie & Kimberly*
10/02/2012
The Taste of Pan-Asian Heaven
Last week the two of us decided to try a restaurant which recently opened on our little rock - Naru Restaurant and Lounge. Naru unfolds across the recently built boardwalk on the South coast and the Pan-Asian/fusion style menu is a different concept (tapas style) to many other eateries here on the island. We thought we would try a dinner slightly different than the regular eclectic..and boy were we happy we did.
On arriving we were greeted by a lovely hostess who showed us to our seats (which I will mention were right on the boardwalk and seaside). We ordered a bottle of Pinot Grigio and started taking a look at the menu. Usually it is quite easy for me to decide what I am eating but this time...let's just say it took a while. All the dishes were interestingly composed (I guess that's why they can call it fusion styled food). It was a good thing they were tapas sized which meant we could try different dishes. In the end we decided on (1) The Carnival; (2) The Duality; (3) Grilled fresh water shrimp with roasted pumpkin puree, tempura zucchini, fresh herb and chili Vinaigrette and finally (4) Grilled fillet of Angus rib eye with cassava puree, sauteed wild mushrooms, teriyaki and balsamic sauce.
The Carnival sushi caught my eye because it had a very Caribbean spin to it. This maki roll actually contained Bul Jol (a salted cod Caribbean delicacy) along with cucumber, wasabi seasame seeds and chili. The flavours of the Caribbean bul jol combined with the crispness of the cucumber and the slight heat of the seeds made your mouth water (literally) for more.
The Duality was more of a classic roll containing crab meat, tempura shrimp (a must when we are eating Asian cuisine) and cucumber. It was served with a spicy mayonnaise and in addition to the crunch from the tempura shrimp the rice itself had a slight tempura batter (and who does not like a little added crunch).
The grilled fresh water shrimp with roasted pumpkin puree, tempura zucchini, fresh herb and chilli vinaigrette was again superb. The charcoal flavour of the shrimp, which I will mention was cooked excellently, along with the sweet roasted notes of the pumpkin, and the crispy texture of the zucchini complimented one another ideally. You know in life how certain things just work...well this was most definitely one of those things.
And finally, the grilled Angus rib eye with cassava puree, sauteed wild mushrooms and teriyaki and balsamic sauce was yet another crowd pleaser. I can be very picky about how my beef is cooked. medium is medium and some places just can't seem to get it right. Barry and his staff, thankfully know what medium means. The cassava we found a very interesting choice as it was not the normal fries or english potato but something rooted to Caribbean culture.
As you can tell, the food was exquisite to say the least! Each dish had distinctive layers of flavour that were 'fused' brilliantly. It is no wonder, as Barry Taylor the executive chef and owner of Naru Restaurant and Lounge, is one of the islands leading chefs. So if you have not already, go on down to Naru Restaurant and Lounge, currently the number one restaurant in Barbados on Trip-Advisor, and have a small taste Pan-Asian Heaven.
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| Naru Restaurant and Lounge, Barbados |
On arriving we were greeted by a lovely hostess who showed us to our seats (which I will mention were right on the boardwalk and seaside). We ordered a bottle of Pinot Grigio and started taking a look at the menu. Usually it is quite easy for me to decide what I am eating but this time...let's just say it took a while. All the dishes were interestingly composed (I guess that's why they can call it fusion styled food). It was a good thing they were tapas sized which meant we could try different dishes. In the end we decided on (1) The Carnival; (2) The Duality; (3) Grilled fresh water shrimp with roasted pumpkin puree, tempura zucchini, fresh herb and chili Vinaigrette and finally (4) Grilled fillet of Angus rib eye with cassava puree, sauteed wild mushrooms, teriyaki and balsamic sauce.
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| Naru Restaurant and Lounge, Barbados |
The Carnival sushi caught my eye because it had a very Caribbean spin to it. This maki roll actually contained Bul Jol (a salted cod Caribbean delicacy) along with cucumber, wasabi seasame seeds and chili. The flavours of the Caribbean bul jol combined with the crispness of the cucumber and the slight heat of the seeds made your mouth water (literally) for more.
 |
| Carnival Sushi, Naru Restaurant and Lounge, Barbados |
The Duality was more of a classic roll containing crab meat, tempura shrimp (a must when we are eating Asian cuisine) and cucumber. It was served with a spicy mayonnaise and in addition to the crunch from the tempura shrimp the rice itself had a slight tempura batter (and who does not like a little added crunch).
 |
| Duality Sushi Roll, Naru Restaurant and Lounge, Barbados |
The grilled fresh water shrimp with roasted pumpkin puree, tempura zucchini, fresh herb and chilli vinaigrette was again superb. The charcoal flavour of the shrimp, which I will mention was cooked excellently, along with the sweet roasted notes of the pumpkin, and the crispy texture of the zucchini complimented one another ideally. You know in life how certain things just work...well this was most definitely one of those things.
 |
| Grilled Fresh Water Shrimp, Naru Restaurant and Lounge, Barbados |
And finally, the grilled Angus rib eye with cassava puree, sauteed wild mushrooms and teriyaki and balsamic sauce was yet another crowd pleaser. I can be very picky about how my beef is cooked. medium is medium and some places just can't seem to get it right. Barry and his staff, thankfully know what medium means. The cassava we found a very interesting choice as it was not the normal fries or english potato but something rooted to Caribbean culture.
 |
| Grilled Angus Rib Eye, Naru Restaurant and Lounge, Barbados |
As you can tell, the food was exquisite to say the least! Each dish had distinctive layers of flavour that were 'fused' brilliantly. It is no wonder, as Barry Taylor the executive chef and owner of Naru Restaurant and Lounge, is one of the islands leading chefs. So if you have not already, go on down to Naru Restaurant and Lounge, currently the number one restaurant in Barbados on Trip-Advisor, and have a small taste Pan-Asian Heaven.
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados, Naru Restaurant and Bar
08/02/2012
Barbados Events- February 2012
Are you visiting Barbados in February? Well take a look below to see what the up and coming events in Barbados are!
February Event 1. Holetown Festival- This festival celebrates the remembrance of the landing of the first settlers to Barbados in 1627. The Holetown Festival runs from the 11th- 19th February. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 467-7520/ (246) 432-0433. You can also take a look at their website.
February Event 2. Laff it Off "Talk Cheap"- This theatrical event is produced annually by Community Theatre Productions and is based on the view of local (Barbadian) everyday scenes. A definite laugh it is! The production runs from February to the end of March at the Ann Johnson Auditorium from 8 PM. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 432-9191 or take a look at the website.
February Event 3. Agrofest- The National Agricultural Exhibition- This event allows vendors to display a large variety of agricultural products and exhibitions such as livestock, local crafts, flowers, plants, vegetables and even entertainment. There will also be educational and interactive workshops demonstrating flower care, cooking and even farm to table concepts. This event will be held on the 24th, 25th and 26th of February at Queens Park from 10am- 9pm. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 436-6683 or visit their website.
February Event 4. De Action Beach Waterman Festival- This event is a water sports festival which will be held on the 18th and 19th of February and hosted by Brian Talma, one of the biggest water sports personalities in Barbados. Competitions will be held in windsurfing, surfing, kite surfing and paddle boarding. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 428-6596 or visit the website.
February Event 5. cRave- The Carnival Rave Experience- This event is carnival themed with a mix of soca and pop music to kick off Carnival 2012. Not only will there be great music but also good food, premium drinks and surprise giveways. It will be held at the Barbados Museum on the 11th February from 5:30PM - 11:30PM. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 421-9571 or visit the website.
Enjoy!!
Images: RKelsey, Note to Sarah Pinterest, Catch a Vibe
February Event 1. Holetown Festival- This festival celebrates the remembrance of the landing of the first settlers to Barbados in 1627. The Holetown Festival runs from the 11th- 19th February. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 467-7520/ (246) 432-0433. You can also take a look at their website.
February Event 2. Laff it Off "Talk Cheap"- This theatrical event is produced annually by Community Theatre Productions and is based on the view of local (Barbadian) everyday scenes. A definite laugh it is! The production runs from February to the end of March at the Ann Johnson Auditorium from 8 PM. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 432-9191 or take a look at the website.
February Event 3. Agrofest- The National Agricultural Exhibition- This event allows vendors to display a large variety of agricultural products and exhibitions such as livestock, local crafts, flowers, plants, vegetables and even entertainment. There will also be educational and interactive workshops demonstrating flower care, cooking and even farm to table concepts. This event will be held on the 24th, 25th and 26th of February at Queens Park from 10am- 9pm. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 436-6683 or visit their website.
February Event 4. De Action Beach Waterman Festival- This event is a water sports festival which will be held on the 18th and 19th of February and hosted by Brian Talma, one of the biggest water sports personalities in Barbados. Competitions will be held in windsurfing, surfing, kite surfing and paddle boarding. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 428-6596 or visit the website.
February Event 5. cRave- The Carnival Rave Experience- This event is carnival themed with a mix of soca and pop music to kick off Carnival 2012. Not only will there be great music but also good food, premium drinks and surprise giveways. It will be held at the Barbados Museum on the 11th February from 5:30PM - 11:30PM. For more information on this event, please contact (246) 421-9571 or visit the website.
Enjoy!!
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: RKelsey, Note to Sarah Pinterest, Catch a Vibe
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