Barbados Rum Tour

Black business, located at the number #1 rated rum distillery in the world..

We are a team of professional rum tasters, our organization makes tours of producers in Barbados.

Our tours aim to enlighten new tasters about the different types of rum and distillates, combinations and cocktails. All in a healthy, pleasant and cultural atmosphere around our island.

Distilled by Foursquare Rum Distillery

Book now and live an unforgettable experience of flavors, party and fun on the beautiful island of Barbados.

Foursquare Rum Distillery, St Philip BB12046, Barbados.

Phone: 246-622-2068

[email protected]

Business hours: Monday to Friday 9:30 am / 5:30 pm Saturday 9:30 am / 4:30 pm

© 2022  barbadosrumtour.com

As with their rums, Mount Gay only permits those that have been properly matured.

Sorry, you cannot enter this site as you are not of legal age.

BY VISITING THIS WEB SITE, YOU ARE AGREEING WITH OUR TERMS & CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY

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TOUR MOUNT GAY

Our visitor centre and tours are now open. we look forward to seeing you soon, location 001 - st. lucy, barbados, historic distillery tours.

Visit the original landscape and buildings where it all began, back in 1703. Our Historic Distillery Tours take you through our fully-operational rum making headquarters. Steeped in over 300 years of heritage and expertise, the experiences are tales to be told forever and a rum-lover’s paradise. This is the heart of Mount Gay. This is more than a rum.

Masterclass and Cocktail Workshop

Masterclass and Cocktail Workshop

Immerse yourself into our heritage, craftmanship and terroir. You will be guided through an in-depth tasting session with our Rum Experts, followed by an interactive Cocktail session lead by an Award Winning Mixologist. Get all the tips, tricks, techniques and recipes as we shake, stir and muddle!

DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE

DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE

Come to the site where Mount Gay has distilled rum for over 300 years to discover how Barbados became the birthplace of rum and how Mount Gay’s focus on quality has made us the oldest, continuously running rum distillery in the world. With unparalleled access to our working estate, you will explore our lands, original well, molasses house, fermentation house, distillation house and bonds.

PREMIUM RUM FLIGHT EXPERIENCE

PREMIUM RUM FLIGHT EXPERIENCE

Treat yourself to a tour of the distillery with a more in depth tasting experience. In addition to our four signatures rums, you get to taste four rums exclusive to this tasting.

LOCATION 002 - BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS

Visitor centre tastings & workshops.

Transportation, tastings, lunch and our beautiful open-air Visitor Center in the capital city of Barbados. Stopping in is a must for anyone setting foot on the island for the first time, or for the 100th time. Our doors are always open to rum-loving visitors from around the world. And the experience is a deep dive into the flavour of our rums and the traditions at Mount Gay.

AN EVENING AT MOUNT GAY

AN EVENING AT MOUNT GAY

Get a hands on experience with Mount Gay as you taste our extensive portfolio, learn about our history and craft your very own cocktails. This tour also include tapas and a complimentary cocktail.

SIGNATURE RUM TASTING

SIGNATURE RUM TASTING

Our Signature Tasting is the perfect introduction to the world of Mount Gay Rum. Learn about the history and home of Mount Gay and taste a selection of our finest rums.

RUM TASTING AND LUNCH

RUM TASTING AND LUNCH

Enjoy a tasting of our signature rums followed by Bajan lunch at the Mount Gay Visitor Center.

COCKTAIL WORKSHOP

COCKTAIL WORKSHOP

Get a hands on experience of Mount Gay Rum. Enjoy a tasting, learn about the history and craft your own cocktails.

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The Barbados Rum Experience

HONEST & AUTHENTIC The Barbadian Rum experience by Barbadians dedicated to the Barbadians that make the best rum in the world.

FOUNDED IN 2020

The pinnancle of Rum Education Experiences

At the Barbados Rum Experience we take a deep dive behind Barbados Rum and individuals who make it. We step back in time to Rum’s origins through the lens of the History of Sugar. Thought provoking questions on whether or not the Caribbean, that identity exists and much more. For those that really want to understand Rum right here in at it’s starting point in Barbados. We have the leading Caribbean acadmeics and speakers take us on this journey to learn the history of Sugar & Rum.

rum shack tour barbados

OUR PRESTIGIOUS SPEAKERS

Our BRE 2024 Speakers

rum shack tour barbados

Dr. Tara Inniss

Professor of History at the University of the West Indies

rum shack tour barbados

Richard Seale

Distiller & Blender at Foursquare Rum Distillery

rum shack tour barbados

Jacklyn Broomes

Agricultural Manager at Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd.

rum shack tour barbados

Dr. Richard Drayton

Professor of Imperial History at Kings College London

rum shack tour barbados

Dr. Geoff Ward

Caribbean Naval / Maritime Historian

rum shack tour barbados

Dr. Lennox Honychurch

Caribbean Anthropologist

2021 & 2022 Edition Highlights

Some of the great highlights from our first and second editions of the Barbados Rum Experience. Full of seminars, distillery visits and exciting rum events each evening. Will you be joining us this year?

rum shack tour barbados

THE STORY OF SUGAR & RUM

Why should you attend?

rum shack tour barbados

We created the Barbados Rum Experience to ensure that caribbean voices were telling the caribbean story. We put the history of sugar and rum at the forefront of our seminars and work hard to ensure we support local Barbadian intaitives along the way.

Caribbean Academics & Speakers

Too often the history and stories of the caribbean are being told by visitors returning to their home countries. At the BRE we want to ensure that our Caribbean history of Sugar and Rum is told by caribbean speakers and academics.

Exclusive Distillery Visits

One of the unique parts of the BRE is our ability to have exclusive distillery visits with members of the distilling teams across the island. Go behind the scenes at Mount Gay Rum Distillery, St Nicholas Abbey and Foursquare Rum Distillery. Discover storied pot stills and innovations coming from each distillery alongside the famed Caribbean Double Retort Pot Still.

FEATURED TALK

The Caribbean

You know Barbados and the Caribbean on a map.  But where are you really? Why are these places as they are? How did volcanos, the huge rivers of South America, winds, ocean currents, and the sun set the terms of their human history?  Rum is a product of the convergence of soils, water, climate and human labour and skill in this very unusual historical context. You will at the end of 40 minutes, understand this region better than 99% of the people who live there. 

rum shack tour barbados

BRE RUM PACKAGES

TICKET PACKAGES

Bre standard pass.

THE BEST OF BRE, SEMINARS, DISTILLERY VISITS, BRE GROUP LUNCH & TRANSPORATION

All BRE Seminars

3 Distillery Visits

3 BRE Lunches Visits

Bus Transportation

BRE Rum Cruise

BRE Welcome Bag

BRE DELUXE PASS

GO ALL IN, BRE SEMINARS, DISTILLERY VISITS, BRE GROUP LUNCH, TRANSPORTATION & BRAND DINNERS

3 BRE Lunches

All Brand Dinners

RUM EVENTS Add Ons

BARBADOS RUM DINNERS HOSTED BY LOCAL BRANDS

Foursquare Rum Dinner

Mount Gay Rum Dinner

SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL SUPPORTERS

BRE PARTNERS

rum shack tour barbados

The Barbados Rum Experience returns to the beautiful Radisson Hotel on the south coast of the Island. Wake up early and catch a swim with the racehorses or sneak in a quick dip between seminars. The Radisson is centrally located for all that Barbados has to offer.

Book now and quote the reference BRE24 and the Barbados Rum Experience to access our BRE rate.

The Radisson Acquatica Resort, Barbados

Barbados Happy Hours

Barbados Shore Excursion: Rum Tour

Visiting Barbados on a cruise? Become immersed in the rum history and excellence of the island on this 6-hour Rum Tour.

Plantation Tour

Start your journey at a working rum plantation at St. Nicholas Abbey exploring a beautifully maintained plantation house that was built in the 17th century. This Jacobean style mansion was built in 1658 and is filled with intriguing antiques.

St. Nicholas Abbey has a long history of producing quality rum and the current owners have revived this tradition using traditional distillation methods. As you visit the distillery you’ll see the incredible Annabelle , an impressive combination pot still and distillation column. While most rum produced in Barbados uses molasses in the distillation process, St. Nicholas Abbey Rum goes the route of cane syrup .

rum shack tour barbados

Railway Ride

Take a ride on the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway through the plantation heading out to a stunning view of the eastern coastline from Cherry Tree Hill.

rum shack tour barbados

Lunch and Bathsheba

After touring St. Nicholas Abbey it’s time for a delicious local lunch and a brief stop in the seaside village of Bathsheba .

rum shack tour barbados

Rum Tasting!

The next stop is the Mount Gay Visitor Centre , to learn about this iconic rum and enjoy a tasting session highlighting Mount Gay’s signature flavors, aromas and nuances of the various rums.

rum shack tour barbados

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Private All Inclusive Rum Experience in Barbados

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Trip Highlights

Join a rum-lover’s dream tour and visit either one of two of barbados’ most renowned distilleries, where you can learn, taste, and enjoy the world’s oldest and finest rums., relax on a scenic drive through the country side as you travel between distilleries and local rum shops., sit and mingle with the locals at one of the many great local restaurants or bars., enjoy complimentary rum tasting during your tour., description.

Experience the rich history and culture of Barbados through its most famous drink: rum. Learn how rum is made, taste the different varieties, and see why Barbados is known as the birthplace of rum. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can also visit a local rum shop or restaurant and learn how to mix your own cocktails with a bajan twist. This is the ultimate tour for rum lovers and anyone who wants to have some fun!

Rum tasting at Foursquare Distillery

If you love rum and history, you will love the Foursquare Rum Factory and Heritage Park! This amazing place is located on a former sugar plantation in the southern countryside of Barbados. You can tour the modern and computerized rum factory and learn how they make some of the best rums in the world, such as Doorly’s, Old Brigand and E.S.A.Field.

The Culture of Mount Gay

At Mount Gay Visitor’s Centre, you can explore the history and heritage of the world’s oldest rum brand, dating back to 1703. Learn how the finest rums are crafted from molasses, yeast and water, and sample a range of award-winning expressions. You can also join a cocktail workshop, a masterclass, or a Bajan lunch experience to enhance your rum appreciation.

You'll get picked up

Traveler pickup is offered. We pick up from anywhere in Barbados.

Airports: Grantley Adams Intl Airport, Bridgetown Barbados

Ports: Cruise Terminal, Bridgetown Bridgetown BB BB23026, Bridgetown, Barbados

Hotel pickup is offered. View the hotel list on our checkout page to see if yours is included among the pickup points.

Foursquare Rum Distillery

Stop: 45 minutes - Admission excluded

The Foursquare Rum Factory and Heritage Park is a more modern and computerized rum factory. The heritage park features beautifully landscaped gardens, art, and craft shops, and food and drinks stalls. Admission: $23 USD per person

Pass by Holetown Speightstown

Mount Gay Visitor's Centre

You'll return to the starting point.

Where you were picked up.

Why take this tour?

Air-conditioned vehicle, alcoholic beverages, admission is included, lunch is included, private transportation, things to know.

Pricing starts at USD $240.35 per passenger and decreases with each additional passenger.

The tour is about 5 hours.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Return details

Returns to the original departure point

Departure details

Additional information.

  • Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • We pick up from anywhere in Barbados.

Booking in advance

Can be booked no later than 24 hours before start time.

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rum shack tour barbados

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Foursquare Rum Distillery

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Foursquare Rum Distillery - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Williams Tours Barbdos Logo

Discover Barbados Rum Tour

Get to know rum like a bajan at foursquare rum distillery and mount gay visitor centre.

RUM TASTING MOUNT GAY

What you can Expect:

Enjoy a taste of our sweet island spirit. barbados is considered the birthplace of rum and no island visit would be complete without a sample of our historic export.

Start your tour at the magnificent Foursquare Rum Distillery. Once a working sugar factory in the 15th century, Foursquare now pays tribute to the many aspects of Barbadian history. You will learn about the various stages of rum-making and enjoy sampling their amazing rums at the bar. From here we will visit The Mount Gay Visitor Centre, founded in 1703—and the world’s oldest commercial rum distillery. For three centuries, residents and visiting sailors have sipped its sweet golden nectar. Each distillery have their own distinct secrets to share with you.

Price Includes:

Comfortable Air conditioned coach

All entrance fees included

Hotel pickup and drop-off included

Free Rum Tastings ​

Discover Barbados Rum Tour Highlights include:

Foursquare Rum Distillery

Mount Gay visitor Centre

Tuesdays & Thursdays​

Bridgetown & Hotel Departures:

Departs: 8-9am , Returns: 1-2pm 

Please Note:  

We also pick up from the 

BRIDGETOWN CRUISE TERMINAL

Barbados rum shops: exploring this Caribbean island's wet history

Oct 14, 2019 • 4 min read

Four older gentlemen sit around a table playing dominoes in front of a Barbados rum shop

Rum shops highlight the culture and history of Barbados © Michael Lawrence / Getty Images

The rum shops of Barbados are full of culture, local flavor and of course, great rum. Considering this tiny Caribbean island is the birthplace of rum, it’s no wonder that Barbadian heritage and the amber-colored spirit are intertwined. 

Four older gentlemen sit around a table playing dominoes in front of a Barbados rum shop

Rum shops, which are small (think shack) establishments where the community shops and socializes, date back to the days of slavery and the immediate post-Emancipation period. Surviving for over 300 years, these local watering holes, that are really just wooden shacks are still an integral part of Bajan history and culture today.

It’s estimated that there are over 1,500 brightly colored rum shops scattered around the island. Most are family-owned operations that have been passed down for generations. Other establishments are supported by local distilleries and beer brands like  Banks ,  Heineken or Stag , as well as,  Old Brigand Rum.  

Understanding their importance to the country and its history, the Bajan Association of Rum Shops (BARS) was created to help preserve the culture of rum shops and their influence on Caribbean culture.

Related article: Why Barbados is for rum drinkers  

A row of Mount Gay bottles sit on a store cabinet; Barbados Rum Shops

Rum shops are more than just a place to drink, they are a social hub where locals gather to gossip about the happenings around the island while playing a game of dominoes. They also double as grocery stores, selling items based on the specific needs of the town or village in which they are located. Some might just sell booze and a few tasty snacks, while others stock basic food items and other necessities by day and transform into a lively rum shack by night.

And you can’t have a party without food. Rum shops offer up traditional Bajan eats on the cheap. Order a flask of rum and a cutter sandwich – a salt bread roll filled with everything from fried eggs to fried flying fish.

Where to go? 

With so many rum shops dotted around the island, you’re probably wondering where to start? Kermit’s Bar in Oistins Hill and the waterfront John Moore’s Bar in St. James should be on the list for their great ambience, conversation and lively music.

A trip to Nigel Benn Aunty Barin , a shop run by Barbadian-British boxer Nigel Benn’s elderly aunt, Lucille, in St Andrew is well worth the visit. Take a seat at the bar and chat with the ever-entertaining Lucille while gawking at the many photographs of Benn and other celebrity visitors lining the bar. 

But if you only have time to visit one rum shop, then it should be  Fisherman’s Pub and Beach Bar . It’s an off-the-beaten-path beachside watering hole in Speightstown known for its authentic Barbadian food that tourists and locals love.

BarbadosRumShop.jpg

Related article: Mini guide to Barbados 

Learn more  .

For a more formal introduction to Bajan rum history, tour one of the island’s most famous distilleries. 

Mount Gay Rum Distillery 

Mount Gay Rum Distillery , originally called “Kill-Devil” by the Barbadians who first distilled it, was founded in 1703 and is believed to be the oldest rum in the world. During the tour, visitors can explore the history, heritage and the craft of Mount Gay rums through five experiences including their signature rum tasting, full signature rum tasting, the interactive cocktail tasting, the rum & food pairing experience and their lunch experience featuring their bottomless rum punch station.

St. Nicholas  Abbey 

The 350-year-old St. Nicholas Abbey is the oldest plantation house in the Caribbean and is one of only three genuine Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere. Here you can visit the sugar mill and distillery to see how they make their small-batch rum.

Then walk around the beautiful surrounding gardens, orchards, gullies and the adjacent Cherry Tree Hill. Not only can you visit the distillery, but there’s also a guided tour of this sugarcane plantation that explores its history with rum and slavery. You can glance at old enslaved African ledgers and records in their museum as well as the old village.

Foursquare Rum Factory 

The Foursquare Rum Factory and Heritage Park is the most modern of the rum distilleries. Located in the countryside on a former sugar plantation, Foursquare Rum Factory is known for producing a wide range of outstanding rums including Doorly’s, Old Brigand and E.S.A. Field.

It also doubles as a rum museum with antique distilling equipment and bottles scattered about, as well as, a pavilion for rum education. It’s also the place to watch local music acts, plays, or if you're lucky, a wedding. 

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Luxury Travel Magazine

The Best Rum Bars in Barbados

  • November 17, 2022

The Best Rum Bars in Barbados

Of all the things Barbados is famous for, rum — a sweet, brown liquor made by fermenting and distilling sugarcane — is arguably the most popular.

The Caribbean island, which is home to less than 300,000 inhabitants but receives more than triple that number of tourists annually, is the birthplace of rum. The drink’s documented history stretches back to 1651, when a local document first called it ‘Rumbullion’, or ‘Kill-devil’, and described consuming it as ‘hot, hellish, and terrible’.

Today, rum is Barbados’s oldest and greatest export. The drink has shaped the island’s history and remains an important part of Caribbean culture.

Below, five of the best places in Barbados to learn more rum — and enjoy it.

  • The Mount Gay Distillery

mount gay rum

Mount Gay is the spirit of choice for making the island’s famous Rum Punch cocktail, which typically also includes orange juice, sugar, lime an Angostura Bitters.

Tours of the historic Mount Gay distillery, which is still operational, and the surrounding estate outline the manufacturing process and offer the chance to partake in a rum-pairing session. Visitors can also enroll on a cocktail workshop run by local experts.

https://www.mountgayrum.com/tour-mount-gay/

  • The Rum Vault

rum vault

The hotel’s very own ‘Rum Ambassador’ and storyteller Corey Sobers guides guests through a flight of tastings and offers expert tips on how to swill and sip, along with the best way to describe and analyze each liquors’ complex flavors. The private chef is also on hand to design dinner and desert pairings.

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bgilc-colony-club-by-elegant-hotels/dining/

  • Nicholas Abbey

St. Nicholas Abbey

It might not have the same global recognition as some other rum brands, but the liquor handcrafted at St. Nicholas Abbey is some of the finest around. Regular tours around the distillery take place every day, along with tasting sessions, but make sure to also visit the The Great house, formal gardens, and terrace café, which overlooks tropical jungle and throngs with the sound of bird song — an ideal spot for resting your feet and enjoying a drink.

https://www.stnicholasabbey.com

  • Bar 1887, The Crane hotel

bar 1887

Supposedly, the recipe for the hotel’s famous — and potent — rum punch was provided by a member of staff named Errol, who landed his first job at the resort after mixing his concoction for the owner’s wife.

Offering views down to the hotel’s famous palm-fringed, pink sand beach, which hugs the shore of a natural harbour that whistles with the Atlantic’s breeze, it’s easy to see why guests have been visiting The Crane and enjoying a drink of rum in this spot for nearly a century-and-a-half.

https://www.thecrane.com/dining/bar-1887/

barbados rum bar

Guests can feel the sand between their toes or swing from hammocks all day and into the night (with ideal sunset views) whilst sampling no fewer than three different rum punches. They offer some of island’s tastiest varieties featuring cucumber and elderflower or Mount Gay Black barrel, which is aged in heavily charred ex-bourbon casks. There is even the option to sip Mount Gay XO, an intense blended rum best drunk neat, straight from a coconut, for the ultimate tropical refresher.

https://www.lacabanebarbados.com

Article by Harry Seymour

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Themed on the traditional Bajan Rum Shak’s seen around the island. All spirits are sold by the bottle. Small and large! With the local Rum’s being the go to choice for many patrons. A bowl of ice and a coke on the side and you’re all set…

Call  +1 (246) 419 – 7264  to speak to the Rum Shak team

Image related to Rum Shak

Opening Times:

Bar : 5:00pm – 10:30pm Wednesday – Sunday 12:00pm – 10:30pm Mondays & Tuesdays

Kitchen 5:00pm – 9:30pm Wednesday – Sunday 12:00pm – 9:30pm Mondays & Tuesdays

This is a casual setting with no dress code and a place to visit and relax for villa owners, members and guests. Open from 5pm every day.

To view the 2023 New Years Eve menu click here

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Best Caribbean Rum Distilleries, Tours & Tastings

By Lauren Breedlove

Last updated: April 17th, 2024

Man crafting Caribbean rum at the Casa Bacardi

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Head to the idyllic Caribbean islands for the ultimate tropical paradise where white sands, turquoise seas, sunshine, and incredible Caribbean rum awaits. There’s nothing quite like relaxing on the beach with a refreshing cocktail in hand, clear turquoise waters softly lapping at your feet.

These gorgeous islands are known for producing fantastic rum, which has a fascinating history and deep cultural ties to each island nation. For true rum enthusiasts, vacationing in the Caribbean is a dream, with a wide array of distilleries to visit and exciting tours and tastings to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the history and production of this famous spirit, tasting aged, rare, and flavored varieties, or just purchasing a duty-free souvenir, discovering the world of Caribbean rum can be exciting for everyone.

Mount Gay Visitors Centre, Barbados

Couple trying rum at the Mount Gay Rum Distillery

The Eastern Caribbean island of Barbados is hailed as the birthplace of rum, producing the popular spirit at the resident Mount Gay Distillery for more than 300 years. Tour the Mount Gay Headquarters, where you can learn about the oldest continuously running distillery in the world.

As you venture through the property, you’ll see the molasses, fermentation, and distillation houses, as well as the original well, while your guide shares the step-by-step process and ingredients used in creating this famous rum.

After touring the facility, embark on a tasting to uncover your favorite variety. Sample a flight of rum, including Mount Gay’s signature, premium, and exclusive rums. Or try authentic rum punch, the most popular cocktail in Bajan culture, a refreshing blend of rum, simple syrup, lime juice, and bitters with a splash of water or passion fruit juice and nutmeg.

If you’re interested in learning how to craft your own cocktails, workshops are available at the distillery too, making for a memorable afternoon.

Read: Caribbean Culture: What to Know Before You Go

Neisson Distillery, Martinique

Exterior of Neisson Distillery

On the idyllic island of Martinique in the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles, you’ll find a family-run distillery that produces high-quality rums, well-loved by locals and visitors alike. Venture to the village of Carbet on the northwestern part of the island to visit a small, traditional operation with exceptional rum at the forefront.

Run by the daughter and grandson of the distillery founder, Hildevert Pamphille Neisson, this rum producer is known for its unique, hand-painted bottle design as well as its artisanal rum.

Get a taste of the French Caribbean at this award-winning distillery where the rum has been processed from pure sugar cane juice since the distillery opened in the early 1930s. Try their speciality, “rhum extra-vieux” (meaning vintage rum), as you learn about the company’s history and authentic methods like hand-cutting the sugar cane.

After discovering your favorite variety, purchase a bottle to bring home as the perfect souvenir of your time in beautiful Martinique.

Captain Morgan Visitor Center, St. Croix

Caribbean rum tasting in Captain Morgan Visitors Center

Discover one of the best-known rums in the world while visiting St. Croix , one of the jewels of the US Virgin Islands. Captain Morgan is named after the legendary captain, Sir Henry Morgan, a pirate who set sail from Wales to the West Indies and eventually became Governor of Jamaica.

Learn about the history of this distillery, the craft of creating the rum, and the story behind the famous tagline, “Variety Is The Spice Of Life,” while touring this exciting distillery. Gain a new perspective on the swashbuckling personality that was “The Captain”.

The 40-minute tour includes an interactive exhibit, observation of the production process, a lesson in mixology, and a tasting in the on-site tavern. Take a seat in the pirate-themed bar area, where you can enjoy a rum cocktail of your choice; the distillery makes original spiced rum, white rum, and Jamaican rum.

Be sure to stop in the gift shop as well if you’re in search of a souvenir; glassware, hats, t-shirts and more are available for purchase as a token of your time spent in St. Croix’s famous distillery.

Tortuga Rum Centre, Grand Cayman

Famous Tortuga Rum cake on display

Discover the flavors of Grand Cayman with a visit to the Tortuga Rum Centre in the capital city of Georgetown. Opened in 1984, this rum factory is a favorite destination for learning about the history of rum and the production process, with tastings of both the rum and the famous Tortuga Original Rum Cake.

Starting as a small kitchen operation, Tortuga Rum has grown into a thriving business, partly thanks to these delectable cakes, made from a recipe that’s been handed down through four generations. The cakes are so popular, in fact, that they’re one of the biggest exports from Grand Cayman.

Savor the buttery flavor of this sweet treat, with the crunch of walnuts inside and the hand-glazed Tortuga Gold Rum on the outside, or try the Jamaican Rum Cake, dark with rum-soaked fruits.

Casa Bacardi, Puerto Rico

Man crafting Caribbean rum at the Casa Bacardi

Casa Bacardi in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Visit Puerto Rico’s most famous distillery, located just across the bay from the colonial center of Old San Juan . Casa Bacardi is accessible by car or ferry and offers an informative historical tour, rum tastings, and mixology classes.

An open-air waterfront pavilion is the perfect place to sip a welcome drink before embarking on a tour of the distillery, where you’ll learn about the production of this award-winning spirit.

On the tasting tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Bacardi Family Museum and then sample some of the distillery’s premium rums such as the Casa Bacardi Special Reserve, rich in vanilla, almond, hazelnut and butterscotch, and the Bacardi Reserva Ocho. There’s even a chocolate pairing while you decide on your favorite variety.

Indulge in an interactive mixology class where you’ll learn to craft cocktails like a professional, using the distillery’s high-quality Bacardi rum. Or treat yourself to the special experience of bottling your own rum. Your bottle is sealed with Bacardi’s signature red wax and personalized with your name.

River Antoine Rum Distillery, Grenada

White facade of River Antoine Rum Distillery

Discover the island of Grenada , otherwise referred to as the “Spice Isle” where beautiful beaches, lush scenery, and the oldest functioning water wheel-propelled distillery in the Caribbean await. Located on the northeastern region of the island, the River Antoine Rum Distillery has been producing fine rums since 1785.

Embark on a tour, where knowledgeable guides share how the rum is made, detailing steps from the sugar cane harvest through when the spirit is bottled up for selling. The whole process is almost exactly the same as it was hundreds of years ago.

You’ll see the ancient water wheel used to crush the locally grown sugar cane, powered by the River Antoine. Afterward, try the notoriously strong Rivers rum; at more than 79 percent proof, it’s not for the faint hearted. A less potent brew is available in the gift shop, including a read-mixed Royale Grenadian Rum Punch.

Read: What to Eat in Grenada

The Explorer Boat, St. Maarten

View from the Explorer Boat rum tasting experience

Take to the sea for the ultimate unique rum tasting in true Caribbean fashion. Hop on board a double-decker Explorer Boat in the pretty port of Marigot, located on the French side of St. Maarten . This scenic boat tour offers a fun-packed rum tasting experience accompanied by live music and beautiful coastal scenery.

Sip locally made rums like Topper’s Rhum, and the famous Guavaberry rum, the national liquor of St. Maarten. Enjoy the sea breeze as you glide along the waters and take in the island views from a different vantage point; and save time to explore the chic French stores and patisseries of the town after your cruise.

Read: Where to Go Shopping in St. Maarten  

St. Vincent Distillers, St. Vincent

Couple on a Caribbean rum tasting at the St. Vincent Distillers

Head to lush St. Vincent in the Grenadines for sun, sand, and excellent rum. Originally known as the Mt. Bentinck Distillery, this popular distillery produces a wide array of award-winning rums and is also known for its delicious, read-bottled Sunset Rum Punch.

Perched at the base of the forested La Soufrière volcano, this distillery produces a fine example of authentic Caribbean rum, aged in bourbon oak barrels. Tours are by appointment only, and will have you exploring the distillery and sampling the range of delicious rums.

Try the smooth flagship Captain Bligh XO, and the golden Sparrow’s Premium Aged Rum, with a hint of molasses. Go easy on the Sunset Very Strong Rum, as it’s 84.5 per cent proof, best sampled in a cocktail or with a lot of mixer. Or invest in a bottle of fruity Sunset Rum Punch that will transport you immediately back to the balmy Caribbean when you open it back home.

Rum Distillery of St. Pierre / Distillerie Depaz, Martinique

Lush landscape of Rum Distillery of St. Pierre

Uncover the historic Depaz Distillery near the northwest coast of Martinique in the Saint-Pierre district, perched in the midst of rippling fields of blue sugarcane, unique to the region and distilled here since 1651.

The distillery was rebuilt in 1917 after the devastating eruption of Mont Pelée, the volcano that looms over the area. The family’s son Victor, who was studying in France at the time of the eruption, was the lone survivor of the Depz dynasty and restarted the family business with tradition and sustainability at the heart of the operation.

Just before arriving at the distillery, make sure to take in the incredible views of the towering Mont Pelée. Enjoy a self-guided distillery tour, where you’ll learn about the rum production methods, the equipment used, and the dramatic history of the island.

Admire the impressive 16th century mansion, Chateau Depaz, that served as the family Great House and was rebuilt by Victor Depaz after the volcanic eruption. After touring this very grand property, stop into the tasting room for samples of Distillerie Depaz rums, a wide assortment ranging from flavored to aged and rare rums. A box of four miniatures is a great gift to take home as a reminder of your visit to this serene spot.

Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery / Grenada Distillers Limited, Grenada

Machines inside the Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery / Grenada Distillers Limited, Grenada

The “Spice Isle” of Grenada is known for its fine rum distilleries. Venture to the Parish of St. George in the south of the island to discover one of the most celebrated distilleries, Clarke’s Court Rum Distillery, a brand of Grenada Distillers Limited. This historical production site has been making rum since the 1930s and is the largest distillery on the island of Grenada.

Touring the facility is one of the best things to do in Grenada , where you’ll learn about the distilling process from beginning to end, including how the rum is aged and bottled. You’ll see historic steam engines that date back to the late 1800s, a key element of rum production.

Afterwards, taste the rums at the bar; some of the intriguing flavored varieties include lemon, mojito and passionfruit. Chat to the bartender about the best Caribbean cocktails to make back home using your bottle of Clarke’s Court, too.

In The Backyard Rum Shack, Antigua

Bottles of Antiguan rum at a bar

Spend an afternoon tasting delicious rums on the sunny island Antigua, where there’s a beach for every day of the year. In The Backyard Rum Shack in the island’s capital city, St. John’s , is an iconic bar and restaurant.

The husband and wife-run establishment is a popular spot not only for tasting Antiguan rums, but also for learning about the history of the island and Caribbean rum production. Best of all, you can sample authentic Antiguan fare , each dish paired with a different variety of the famous spirit.

Sip rums like aged English Harbour and Silver Bay, perfectly paired with Caribbean specialties like jerk chicken, conch fritters, crab backs, and saltfish fritters. This classic experience is a must-do on the island of Antigua .

Read: The Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Cuisine

Couple trying out Caribbean rum and food at the Backyard Rum Shack

A luxury Caribbean cruise is an incredible way to discover the exciting realm of Caribbean rum, with visits to local distilleries and, of course, tastings.

From historical tours and rum sampling in idyllic locations, to delicious culinary pairings and souvenir shopping, there’s no limit to where your rum tasting expedition can take you. Browse itineraries and book your Caribbean getaway today.

Lauren Breedlove

Lauren Breedlove is a freelance writer, travel photographer, and the girl behind girlwanderlist.com, a list-based travel blog. She thrives on random adventures, off-beat destinations, and grilled cheese. Follow all her exploits on Instagram, @girlwanderlist.

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The best rum shack in Barbados! - Chris' Place Bar & Variety

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“The best rum shack in Barbados!” Review of Chris' Place Bar & Variety

Awaiting the delicious food!

I discovered this rum shack back in 2007 and have been coming back ever since. It is located on the west coast, not on the beach like the John Moores Bar which you past if going North on Highway 1B. You need to look for a road called Gibbes Road on the right, which has signs for Rock Dundo. If you end up near Mullins Beach you have gone to far. Go down this road and it will eventually appear on the right. Its just wonderful and has obviously been found by many Brits over the years with the football scarves pinned to the rafters. It is cool, breezy, normally has sport on (low volume). The draw however is draft Banks beer in chilled glasses and the amazing food. The menu changes daily arrive early to get your pick as they do run out. We had Chicken with salad and Macaroni Pie and it was divine. The girls had swordfish which was also delicious and cheap! Just BD$15-20. It is popular with locals which is always a good sign. I haven't been in the evening but will do one day, well worth stopping off if you are driving round the island, or like us, made a special visit as we love it.

rum shack tour barbados

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Chris's Place, is an oasis of calm and friendliness in a crazy world. We have spent a few nights here over the last two weeks (we are staying locally) and have always enjoyed the atmosphere. You are always made to feel welcome by the locals, who go out of their way to speak with you. The food is great (far better than in some pubs in the UK l would say) and also good value for money. My wife and l would say: do not listen to any negative revues........life happens.....it's a great place to go.

A little tucked out of the way but well worth the journey. We enjoyed all our meals, I'm not a fan of ribs but felt I must try them, the meat just fell off the bone and was truly delicious. You can order rum by the bottle or half/quarter. The atmosphere was good and there was a nice mix of tourists and locals. We'll definitely be returning next year.

Great little bar Chris and his wife always make you welcome. Friday night is party night with a great range of music. Always make a resavation on a Friday because the bar is busy full of locals and expats. Look forward to ribs and fries and plenty of beer or rum each year I visit Barbados. As in a previous review I don't know why there is a picture of an advacado starter as I have never seen this on the menu. Visited twice this year and on second visit I had a change and had the blackened chicken with of course fries which was just as Devine as the fries. My family say the Mac pie is the best on the island

A country rum shop , with indoor and outdoor tables . Good buzzing atmosphere , popular with locals and long time island residents . Simple , tasty menu - essentially fish , ribs or chicken . Hidden away , so hardly any tourists . No frills , just really enjoyable . Interesting selection of football scarfs - including Chesterfield and Plymouth !

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  • Top 10 Barbados Rum Shops

With so many rum shops to choose from, “Totally Barbados” has selected a few that are worth the drive to find and some of the livelier ones located on the South Coast of Barbados.

This list is not conclusive, nor are they in any order to suggest one is better than another, especially if some didn’t make our top 10 or 20 list.

Exploring the Top 1- to 25 Rum Shops in Barbados:

A Journey Through Authentic Island Flavor

Barbados, known as the birthplace of rum , is home to an incredible array of rum shops , each offering a unique slice of Bajan culture and hospitality.

In this guide, we take you on a tour of the top 25 rum shops across the island, complete with addresses and driving directions, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in this quintessential Barbadian experience.

1. Fredrika’s Rum Shop – is a local favorite near the Garrison Savannah horse racing track and offers a genuine Bajan rum shop experience. It’s a hidden gem that’s well worth the visit.

2. Kermit’s Bar – Thornbury Hill, Christ Church.

Driving Directions: Typically, if you’re coming from Bridgetown (the capital of Barbados), you would head south, possibly via Highway 7 (also known as the South Coast Road), and then navigate inland towards the Thornbury Hill area. Since specific street addresses can be less common in some parts of Barbados, it’s often helpful to use GPS navigation or ask locals for directions once you’re in the general vicinity of Thornbury Hill.

3. Chris’ Place Bar & Variety – Known for its lively ambiance, Chris’ Place is a cornerstone of Barbados’ rum culture.

4. Chicken Ritas – This iconic rum shop is renowned for its rum and authentic Bajan cuisine, making it a must-visit spot.

Directions – Head along the south coast main road towards the airport until you get to Oistins. At the fork in the road, turn right, heading towards Silver Sands, and continue up this road until you come to an oval-shaped roundabout. Turn right and follow the road until you come to St. Christopher’s Church. Turn right and follow the road for about half a mile, then take the next turn on your left. At the end of this road, you will see Chicken Rita’s right in front of you. We advise you to call in advance and order how many pieces of chicken you wish, as everything is cooked fresh to order. The telephone number is (246) 428-6873.

5. London Bar – London Bar offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a great selection of rums.

Directions – Head along the south coast main road towards the airport until you get to Oistins. At the fork in the road, turn right, heading towards Silver Sands, and continue up this road until you come to an oval-shaped roundabout. Go straight over and follow the road until you come to Roy Smiths – another rum shop. Turn right here and follow the road down until you reach Silver Sands Recreational Park at the bottom; you will see the skeleton of a large boat on your right, and London Bar is on your left.

6. Hercules Bar – Oistins, Christ Church.

Directions: Drive along the southern main road into Oistins. Hercules Bar is a prominent spot in the area, known for its friendly vibe. Heading from Bridgetown towards the airport, you will see Hercules Bar on your left on Oistins Main Rd.

7. Lexie’s Bar – Location: Oistins Fish Vendors Market, Christ Church Directions: In Oistins Fish Vendors Market, Lexie’s Bar is a great spot to enjoy a drink amidst the local market atmosphere.

8. Cool Castaways – Offers a relaxing environment in which to enjoy various rum blends with beautiful views.

9. Braddy’s Bar – Six Men’s, St. Peter – Directions: Head north on Highway 1 towards Speightstown and follow the signs to Six Men’s. Braddy’s Bar is known for its traditional Bajan charm.

10. Crystal Waters – A perfect beachfront location for pairing their rum with stunning ocean views.

11. Lemon Arbor – Popular among locals, this shop is famous for its lively weekend scenes and excellent rum selection.

Directions – Head to the parish of St. John and look for Four Cross Roads. The turning for Lemon Arbor is on your left before the Texaco station, and then you will see a turning on your right. Here, you will see many parked cars; park wherever you can and follow your nose for the smell of home cooking, and you will find the rum shop.

This place isn’t easy to find, but once in the parish of St. John, ask a local, and they will point you in the right direction. You will know you are in the right place as you see parked cars with registration plates from every part of the island.

12. Nigel Benn Auntie Bar – A cozy and welcoming spot, perfect for experiencing local flavors and hospitality. Nigel Benn Auntie Bar is located in the parish of St. Andrew, just along Highway 2 from Bellaplaine, and again, not likely to be near where you are staying. However, if you are driving around the island, this rum shop is well worth visiting.

Nigel Benn is a famous boxer from the UK, and his aunt has maximized her marketing potential by naming her Bar after him. The walls are lined with family photographs of the boxer with his Barbadian family.

Auntie Lucile is always pleased to see visitors and insists you sign her visitor’s book.

There is a jukebox left over from some time in the 60s with the original tracks, and the fun is always seeing if it is working.

You will pass this Bar as you drive up the east coast and head towards the St. Lucy’s Parish Church roundabout. The rum shop is on your right, just before the bend.

13. Garry’s Rum Punch – A must-visit for rum punch enthusiasts, offering various flavors.

14. The Golden Anchor – An iconic spot known for its extensive rum collection and picturesque setting.

15. Old Brigand Rum Shop – A traditional rum shop with a rich history and a wide array of rum selections.

16. Rum Stop – A modern twist on the classic rum shop, offering innovative rum cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.

17. The Bush Bar – Pile Bay, Off Spring Garden Highway, St Michael.

Directions: Located near Pile Bay, this shop is easily accessible from the Spring Garden Highway, offering a unique beachside rum experience.

18. The Bay Tavern – Martins Bay, St Joseph.

Directions: Nestled in Martins Bay, this tavern is a scenic drive along the East Coast roads, offering breathtaking views and authentic rum flavors.

19. St Elmo’s Bar – Moon Town, Half Moon Fort, St Lucy.

Directions: Located in the northern part of the island, St Elmo’s Bar is accessible via the west coast road, offering an authentic Bajan vibe.

20. Fisherman’s Pub – Queen Street, Speightstown, St Peter.

Directions: Situated in the heart of Speightstown , this pub is a short drive north along Highway 1, offering a blend of history and local rum culture.

21. John Moore’s Bar – Weston, St. James (Highway 1).

Directions: Located directly on Highway 1 in Weston, this Bar is a staple in the Barbadian rum shop scene.

22. The Village Bar (aka Lemon Arbor) – Lemon Arbor, St. John.

Directions: In the rural parish of St. John, this Bar is a journey into the countryside, offering a tranquil rum experience.

The list continues with other notable spots like De Garage , The Lazy Mongoose , and Rum & Sugar Bar .

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rum shack tour barbados

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The rolling stones crossfire hurricane rum is releasing a limited-edition hackney diamonds bottle.

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The limited edition gift box from The Rolling Stones Crossfire Hurricane Rum includes both a Hackney ... [+] Diamonds tour bottle and a regular bottle of their rum.

The Rolling Stones once sang, "You can't always get what you want," but if you are a fan of theirs, you can lay your hands on a unique slice of Stone's memorabilia. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers announced they are releasing a limited edition bottle of their Crossfire Hurricane Rum to commemorate its Hackney Diamonds tour that kicked off April 28 in Houston.

Priced at a MSRP of $125, the limited-edition collection features a deluxe box set including the Hackney Diamonds bottle—a sleek black gloss glass container with a unique gold top—adorned with the iconic Rolling Stones tongue logo, and a flagship bottle of Crossfire Hurricane Rum; all encased in a keepsake box. The brand is also hosting concert post-show parties in select cities and offering a sweepstakes for fans the chance to win two VIP tickets to The Rolling Stones show in Santa Clara, California on July 17, 2024.

Launched in November 2023, the rum is the first product owned by The Rolling Stones in their seven decades. Born from a partnership with Universal Music Group and Socio Ventures, Crossfire Hurricane Rum takes its name from the first line of their hit Jumping Jack Flash. According to the brand, it is a testament to the band's lifelong love of rum , which began in the 1970s and continues today.

It’s also a smart move into a rum market that is booming these days. According to a recent report from Market Data Forecast the global rum market recently hit $16.5 billion with forecasts showing it hitting $22.54 billion. As the second most popular spirit on the market drinkers are continually looking for interesting new products.

The limited edition Crossfire Hurricane Rum Hackney Diamonds bottle celebrating The Rolling Stones ... [+] tour.

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“I’ve visited loads of rum distilleries in the Caribbean – I’ve been to the most rundown and the most ancient ones in Barbados and Jamaica that are remarkably still running on Victorian equipment,” says Mick Jagger, the frontman of The Rolling Stones. “Very interesting to discover how rum is made and how it’s blended.”

The birth of Crossfire Hurricane Rum coincided with another big announcement from The Stones. That they were releasing their first album of new material in almost two decades, Hackney Diamonds. The album took the charts by storm, building a buzz for all things Rolling Stones. That energy flowed towards their rum, leading to record-setting sales in online sales and the brand signing a deal to roll it out in retail across the United States with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits.

By releasing a limited-edition bottle, Crossfire Hurricane Rum hopes to build on the momentum of the Stones' sixteen-city summer North American tour. In a crowded marketplace, the brand hopes that having The Rolling Stones' distinctive tongue and lips logo emblazoned on the label will make the product stand out on the shelf.

“This commemorative box set of Crossfire Hurricane Rum is not just a celebration of our US tour, but a toast to the incredible journey we've shared with our fans,” said The Rolling Stones.

The celebratory box set will be available at select retailers across the country and will be introduced in markets to coincide with the bands stops during their tour. Additionally, concertgoers in the United States can purchase the gift set via in-stadium digital billboards and have it delivered directly to their homes vis ReserveBar.

Made from a blend of rums from Jamaica, Barbados, and the Dominican Republic, it exhibits flavors of pineapple, caramelized bananas, and mellow oak with a slight hint of the funkiness anyone would expect from The Stones. It has been aged for up to five years in charred oak barrels before being blended abroad and bottled in the United States at The Point Distillery. The rum regularly retails for $37 and is available for purchase at CrossfireHurricane.com .

Hudson Lindenberger

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rum shack tour barbados

The Rolling Stones Strum up Limited-Edition ‘Hackney Diamonds’ Rum in Anticipation of 2024 Concert Tour

"This commemorative box set of Crossfire Hurricane Rum is not just a celebration of our US tour, but a toast to the incredible journey we've shared with our fans," The Rolling Stones said.
“Mick Jagger has been all over it to the finest detail,” Wolf told FOX 13 in an interview . “And they wanted a product that represented them. If you look at the back label, they’ve actually signed them.”

The Rolling Stones Strum up Limited-Edition ‘Hackney Diamonds’ Rum in Anticipation of 2024 Concert Tour

How to make the most of Passport DC’s free embassy tours

Over the next two weekends, dozens of embassies will open their doors to the public for free. Here’s how to travel the world without leaving D.C.

rum shack tour barbados

Dozens of countries from Armenia to Zambia are hosting open houses Saturday during the annual Around the World Embassy Tour , one of those “only in Washington” events you’ll tell friends and relatives about. How often do you get invited into an embassy to explore its art collection, sample traditional cuisine, and watch free music and dance performances, let alone play cornhole in the Norwegian Embassy’s garden? Here’s a guide to planning for a successful day of globe-trotting without leaving D.C. Also, many of these tips are just as helpful on May 11, when the European Union hosts its annual E.U. Open House embassy tours.

  • Because the event is popular, lines are common, and they get longer at some of the better-known locations, such as the Korean Cultural Center at the South Korean Embassy, or the embassies of the United Kingdom, Jamaica and Thailand. If there’s a particular embassy you must visit, get there before doors open at 10 a.m. to improve your chances of getting in.
  • If you’re trying to visit a variety of embassies, pick a particular neighborhood to explore — maybe Massachusetts Avenue near Scott Circle, the string of embassies on Massachusetts northwest of Sheridan Circle, or the embassies dotted among the streets of Kalorama — and research the participants within a few blocks. That way, if you get tired of waiting outside one embassy, you can head to another, preferably smaller, destination nearby. Also, as veteran Around the World-ers will tell you, the embassies clustered around International Drive and International Court in Van Ness — China, Bangladesh, Egypt, etc. — are closer together and can be easier to get into than the ones on Embassy Row.
  • You don’t even have to go indoors to get a taste of a country: Some embassies offer outdoor live music, dance performances or, in the case of China, lion dances to entertain the crowds waiting to enter their buildings.
  • If you go to a busy neighborhood, try starting at the embassies that are farthest from the Metro station — people have a tendency to stop and get in line at the first embassy they pass. Walk past them, then work your way back.
  • For serious explorers, this is a good weekend to skip brunch. Participating embassies and cultural centers are open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and lines get longer as the day goes on. An early start will help you make it to the most locations — getting to five or six is a solid day of sightseeing.
  • Even if you plan well, you might be able to avoid lines at only a handful of embassies. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a phone charger and a book, just in case.
  • Carry cash or a credit card. While many embassies offer free samples of food or drinks, some also charge. Last year, the Embassy of Barbados handed out free sweets and had a chef preparing traditional Barbadian dishes as a teaser for the upcoming Barbados Food and Rum Festival. Everyone sitting on a chair in the embassy’s front garden watching the cooking demo got a two-bite hors d’oeuvre. But in the parking lot behind the embassy, there was a party raging: The ambassador was hanging out next to a DJ spinning upbeat carnival songs; a bar served potent rum punches ($6 each) and beer ($4); and a team of cooks was dishing up flying fish with rice and beans, oxtail platters, barbecued pig tails, and macaroni pie (main dishes $15-$35 with sides, smaller plates $1-$10). While the Barbados Association of Washington did have a credit card reader, that’s not true of every embassy we’ve been to.
  • Some embassies have marketplaces with art or textiles from native artisans. The Embassy of Kenya transformed the forecourt of its building into a showcase of baskets, clothing and jewelry; Ukraine House, the Ukrainian cultural center, had traditional Ukrainian fashions, nesting dolls and accessories for sale on tables in its garden.
  • Related: Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, grab the first free tote bag you see, because you’ll pick up plenty of tchotchkes, pamphlets and other gifts throughout the day.
  • Don’t be shy about asking what you’re in line for. The Dominican Republic hosted a veritable street party last year, with a DJ on its front porch and people dancing in the road. Depending on which way you approached the building, though, there were two very different lines: One was to access the indoor embassy tour, and the other was to purchase food and a rum tasting. You don’t want to get to the front of the line to find out you’ve spent 20 minutes waiting for the wrong thing.
  • Bigger isn’t always better. Some of the more popular embassies can be so crowded that you don’t really feel like you’re learning anything about the country. At an off-the-beaten-path embassy, such as the Embassy of Gabon, you have a better chance of getting face time with a staffer who can talk about the cultural uses of elaborate masks on display, or explain how national parks cover more than 10 percent of the country. (That’s about three times the percentage in the United States.)

The Around the World Embassy Tour is part of the month-long Passport DC program, and souvenir passports are available from booths near the Dupont Circle and Van Ness Metro stations; at the Mexican Cultural Institute ; and at the International City Food Festival , held at the Square food hall. Visitors can collect stamps while visiting embassies and cultural centers, though there’s no reward for filling the book.

rum shack tour barbados

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

There’s so much more to this lesser-known island in The Bahamas than a failed Fyre Festival

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The Bahamas is hiding that it’s amazing, affordable, and the gem of the Caribbean (Picture: Getty)

More than 8,000 of the world’s ultra-elite flocked to the Bahamas in the spring of 2017 for Fyre Festival , which promised world-class headliners, luxury accommodation and five star cuisine – all the tune of up to £75,000 a ticket.

But we all know what happened next. When the masses arrived on Great Exuma – one of the lesser ventured Out Islands of the Bahamas – they were greeted with a ‘post-apocalyptical nightmare’ : a sea of white tents, stacks of wet mattresses, and no electricity or running water.

Sharing their frustrations on Twitter, the world watched a play-by-play of Fyre Festival as it burned.

The now iconic cheese sandwich was posted, with the hashtag ‘dumpsterfyre’ and the rest, as they say, is history.

But seven years on from the iconic flop, and tourists haven’t been deterred from visiting Great Exuma, where Fyre Festival was held – and it’s easy to see why.

While the majority of tourists flock to the Bahamian capital of Nassau, on New Providence, Great Exuma is quieter, but still has those white sandy beaches, delicious street food and laid-back island vibes.

Mr Sandman, thanks for sending me a dream… (Picture: Dom Hines)

According to astronauts, when viewed from space, Great Exuma is the most beautiful place on Earth. And I can attest to the fact that, once you’re taking it all in on solid ground (or should that be, white sandy beach?) it’s pretty stunning too.

I arrived in Great Exuma via the country’s main international airport in Nassau, followed by a 30 minute island hopping flight.

Sandals is a stunning paradise in Great Exuma (Picture: Sandals)

Sandals Emerald Bay would be my home. I’ll admit, I expected a soulless high-rise but, to my surprise, it was actually a villa-style property sitting on a lush 500 tropical acres, close to the beach. It’s so expansive, that despite being fully occupied it felt secluded. Bliss.

I was ready to soak in all it had to offer, but that would have to wait as it was was already time to hit the road.

I was to get an authentic taste of Exuma with the People-to-People program, run by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, which connects visitors to locals for a ‘non-touristy’ experience. You can just sign up to join in all the fun.

I was invited to join a local family for dinner in their backyard who told me this was the standard view in thebackyard of most Exuma homes (Picture: Dom HInes)

I arrived at the home of locals Katharina and Victor and was instantly hit by the mouth-watering aroma of an authentic Bahamian meal being prepared – which would soon become my new obsession: conch fritters. Conch is a common name of a number of different medium-to-large-sized shellfish.

I was taken to where I’d be dining, the home’s back garden. But with its panoramic view of the ocean, it wasn’t your average backyard!

It wasn’t long before I felt like one of the family as the cook’s youngest children excitedly grabbed my hands to show me around the property, as neighbours popped by to extend a welcome and sharing the stories. 

What followed was an evening of lively conversation and laughter while tucking into seafood and rice and peas. And as the sun set on the gathering, even the uninvited guests – the mosquitos – seemed sad to see me go.

'The Best and Best': Enough said! (Picture: Dom Hines)

After a much-needed sleep in my room at Sandals (in the super comfortable fit for a Queen-size bed) the next morning I was on a boat chartered by Exuma Water Sports for their must-do, four-hour, Seven Beaches & Moriah Marine Park Tour.

During the tour, you explore caves, coves and seven of the worlds most stunning beaches sipping on copious refreshments. The tour was pricey at £150, but well worth it. 

Our guide, Justin, made sure I glimpsed every one of the sea life creatures flitting around the crystal-clear water as we passed by an unreal secluded beach. ‘We hosted a private party for Taylor Swift there,’ he then casually said as we passed the spot in Moriah Bay. As you do!

Next, it was time to alight at a breathtaking sandbar — a permanent fixture in the midst of the ocean. I stepped on to it and immediately felt almost invincible, as though I was ‘walking on water’. It was nothing short of overwhelming. 

Walking on water in the middle of the deep Caribbean sea, which I challenge anyone to do and not feel like a bad b***h (Picture: Dom Hines)

A brief journey then led to another of The Bahamas’ many small nameless islands where after a little stroll, a ‘secret’ beach appeared.

After I jumped into the sea, and floated and glided through the narrow caves, it was a back on the boat for a speedy sail to local favourite, Chat ‘N’ Chill bar on Stocking Island, accessible only by boat.

There, I tucked into delicious mahi-mahi fish with rice and salad for £15, while sipping on a rum punch (The Bahamas is after all, the home of rum). Heaven. 

Chat n' Chill, an idyllic Exuma beach day retreat, is literally what it says on the tin (Picture: Dom Hines)

Then more heaven back at Emerald Bay, where I ate yet again, but this time some tasty Asian-fusion cuisine in one of its 11 restaurants.

If you want culture, Great Exuma has that too. Next up was a sightseeing tour, during which we explored the Pompey Memorial and Steventon Jail Ruins.

Being blue in the Bahamas is apparently a good thing (Picture: Dom Hines)

Pompey is a national hero in the Bahamas. Once a slave for Lord John Rolle, a British landowner, in 1830, Pompey, then 32, led a rebellion against the slave master along with 43 slaves from Lord Rolle’s plantation in Exuma. 

When caught, Pompey was given several lashes – but his actions managed to stop the transfer order of 77 slaves, which would have led to their separation from their families, including children.

His act was a precursor to emancipation in The Bahamas in August 1838. Now, a memorial statue stands in front of the dilapidated jail where many slaves were sent for disobedience.

After the tour hosted by our knowledgeable guide, historian Kenneth Nixon, I popped over to Uncle El’s Conch Shack, a little stand in front of the old jail ruins, with the ever-present ocean in the backdrop.

It’s run by a local food legend, Uncle El, who is quite the character – not shy about telling you why he’s the best conch salad maker on the island. After tucking into his fresh, appetising treat, which cost just £3, I think his claim would be hard to dispute.

Master at work: Uncle El is a local legend thanks to his 'best in Exuma' conch salads at his conch shack (Picture: Dom Hines)

Back at Sandals, I indulged in all the resort has to offer: I had to go for a quick dive with their amazing diving team, have at least 100 more of their tropical fruit punches at their sprawling, never busy bar, and tuck into chicken at their jerk shack.

Belly full and bags packed. It was bye, bye paradise and hello, Nassau! After all, I couldn’t not visit the capital city of The Bahamas.

The stunning powder-white sand casually rising in the middle of the deep ocean in Exuma (Picture: Dom Hines)

I was bracing myself for Nassau to be the total opposite of Exuma. Bahamas has a population of 415,000 and Nassau has 70% of them, plus It’s beloved by American tourists, given it’s proximity to Florida.

But despite the foot traffic there, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the place is filled with pockets of serenity at every turn.

It’s where the country’s colonial past is most on display, with buildings from that era still meticulously maintained and turned into, offices and museums, including The Pompey Museum , named after Pompey, the heroic slave from Exuma.

The museum, which is only £2 to enter, is within the historic Vendue House, which was constructed before 1769 and was a marketplace until the late 1800s, where enslaved Africans were traded during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Amidst colonial buildings there are coffee shops, restaurants, and designer boutiques.

Even the Bahamian skies show out when welcoming visitors flying from Exuma to Nassau (Picture: Dom Hines)

Next, I went on a one and a half hour historic walking tour, which included the grand mansion once occupied by the abdicated King Edward VIII when he was Governor of The Bahamas in the Second World War. Nassau’s centre was pristine, by the way, with not even a stray cigarette butt insight. 

I also put a postcard in the famous and still-functioning post box in Parliament Street, which bears the initials of Queen Elizabeth II – its style was one of the first used in Britain in 1852. It’s believed to be the the only pillar box of it’s kind in the Caribbean. (Two weeks later and that post card, which I forgot about, rocked up at my London flat!)

This still-functioning, famous, post box in Parliament Street, is from the 1800’s and bears the initials of Queen Elizabeth II (Picture: Dom Hines)

Next, I headed to private Salt Cay (Blue Lagoon Island) by boat to take in thestunning scenery, a gorgeous lagoon and yet more of those white sand beaches.

I relaxed my tour-weary legs at the beach before enjoying a local picnic of a delicious fish meal, washed down with the obligatory rum punch. The five-hour experience with Dolphin Encounters costs £95.

I could move into the Sandals resort in Nassau (Picture: Sandals)

I made my way back to the my Nassau Sandals Royal Bahamian resort in its new villa-style section, where some suites come with their own plunge pool.

There’s also access by boat to their own private island. The beach club and restaurant here is a must visit, and their open air beach spa, Red Lane Spa , is not to be missed.

You get to the spa boat from Sandals Hotel, Nassau (Picture: Dom Hines)

My incredible massage would prove to be just the prep I needed for what was set to be one the best and heady nights I’ve ever had.

Because in a sea of yellow, blue and black – the colours of the country’s flag – Nassau transformed in the early hours from a relatively quiet city centre into the capital of revelry.

A must visit! Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation at Vendue House, Nassau (Picture: Dom Hines)

Starting at 2am, steel pans, marching bands, drums, and boom boxes greeted my ears with catchy, booming music as seemingly the whole town gathered to celebrate Junkanoo , to mark 50 years of the country’s independence. 

Named after the West African John Canoe Festival, Junkanoo originated in the Bahamas around the 17th century as a masquerade. Slaves with their faces hidden under a mask of flour paste, celebrated on Boxing Day and the day after Christmas. Then, the flour masks were replaced by the more recognisable wire masks held on a stick. Today, Junkanoo is a bi-annual party celebrating the Bahamian culture.

There is no festival more visually thrilling than the phenomenal Junkanoo extravaganza in the heart of the Bahmian capital, Nassau (Picture: Dom Hines)

From the seemingly perennial groups of dancers parading down the streets in colourful costumes followed by musicians, there was non-stop cheering on by the crowds of locals and visitors alike.

A vibrant and surreal scene, this parade suddenly saw my ageing hips gyrating, arms flaying and head wildly bopping at the street party.

Your Daily Horoscope

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Daily horoscope today: May 9, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

This annual event, which could rival the spectacle of the Rio Carnival, was the fitting end to my time on the island. The Bahamas: it’s no Fyre Festival.

Getting there:

  • British Airways  flies from Heathrow to Nassau, The Bahamas, from £711 return.
  • Return flights between Nassau and Exuma with  bahamasair  from £191 and  Western Air  from £179.
  • Three-nights at Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma in a Beach House Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level Room followed by four-nights at Sandals Royal Bahamian, Nassau in an East Bay Zen Garden Room costs from £2,789 per person. Price includes a total of seven-nights all-inclusive accommodation, Club Sandals Concierge Service at Sandals Emerald Bay, return economy class flights with British Airways, inter-island flights with Bahamasair and in-resort airport transfers. Price also includes an extra £200 off per booking with Sandals Annual Sale. Quote promo code ‘SALE’ by 14 May 2024. Price is valid for travel on select dates in September 2024 and is subject to availability/change. Visit the Sandals website for more information.

MORE : Forget the Maldives, Mauritius is the pearl of the Indian Ocean with its BDE (Big Dynamic Energy)

MORE : Want your travel to come with a side of saving the planet? These are the trips for you

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    Select. Rating: Location: Select. Of Results. Of Results. Travel to the heart of Barbados by dropping in Caribbean bar & rum shop. Locals call it 'firing some shots' & the rum is so delicious you'll fire along with them.

  23. Where to go for rum in Barbados : r/rum

    Not always Barbados rum, either: I found a bottle of El Dorado 15 for like, $28USD there on my first trip, and a bottle of Angostura Single Barrel for $11 or so, last time. As far as establishments go, The Tiki Bar (at the east end of Rockley Beach) is the closest I've found on the island to such, but there's also a decent beach bar a bit west ...

  24. The Rolling Stones Crossfire Hurricane Rum Is Releasing A Limited

    The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers announced they are releasing a limited edition bottle of their Crossfire Hurricane Rum to commemorate its Hackney Diamonds tour that kicked off April 28 in Houston.

  25. The Rolling Stones Strum up Limited-Edition 'Hackney Diamonds' Rum in

    The rum within is a blended mix of Jamaican, Barbados and Dominican rums aged up to five years in charred oak. While a standard bottle of Crossfire Hurricane costs $40, the new set comes at a ...

  26. How to make the most of Passport DC's free embassy tours

    Guests sample free food while touring the Embassy of Jamaica during the 2023 Around the World Embassy Tour. More than 60 embassies and cultural centers will open their doors on May 4. (Events DC)

  27. There's so much more to this lesser-known island in The Bahamas ...

    The Bahamas is hiding that it's amazing, affordable, and the gem of the Caribbean (Picture: Getty) More than 8,000 of the world's ultra-elite flocked to the Bahamas in the spring of 2017 for ...