Currency:

Barbadian dollar (BBD)

When to go:

Anytime! Very rarely gets hit by hurricanes, although the rainy season funs June to October

Known for:

High literacy rates and standard of living, sugercane

Languages:

English, Creole dialect/Bajan

Affectionately nicknamed little England, Barbados is an independent country first settled by the British in the 1600s and produced sugar, rum and molasses. However, tourism is now the country's leading industry and employs many of the 280,000 citizens that live there.

Located in the same time zone as the North American East Coast, non-stop flights are available from this area directly to the country. Cruise ships often stop at the capital, Bridgetown.

While in Barbados, try the flying fish, whose likeness adorns the currency. Also try the pepperpot and 'cutters' – local sandwiches – the very affordable, locally distilled Mount Gay Rum. Banks is the local brand of beer while the national sport is cricket. Take care to drive on the left.

Read more about Barbados at www.visitbarbados.org.