The western side of Barbados is a haven of high-priced blended drinks floating around behind the closed gates of fancy resorts.
If you want this experience, you're in the right place.
But if you're after a different kind of island experience, pinpoints of personality and authenticity do seep through amongst the west's luxury hotels -- and they're impossible to miss in other parts of the country. For starters, fish-fry Fridays can't be missed in the village of Oistins; the southern-facing Bottom Bay is as good a tropical beach as your IG could ask for; and Bathsheba, on the wild Atlantic coast, has waves suitable for serious surfers -- and only serious surfers -- looking for a wild challenge. (If that's not you, just sit back and watch the show.)
There is adventure in Barbados if you'd like to find it -- and you can start that search below.