It is rumoured that for every church you find in Barbados (and there are many churches), you will also find a rum shop. A traditional Barbadian staple, the rum shop has been on the island for close to 300 years! It is an integral part of Bajan culture and the perfect place for a drink (rum, of course), a ‘lime’ (Bajan for a get together), a story and, well, more drinks.
Walking into any rum shop you are guaranteed to spot at least one group of elderly men, throwing back some drinks, playing dominoes and regaling anyone who will listen with stories of Barbados back in the day. This is one of the best ways to learn more about the island, over a glass of this sugarcane derived liquor and with a plate of macaroni pie and flying fish – food, friends and fabulous rum – nothing wrong with that.
Rum on my mind
Rum drinking aside, many rum shops are classic examples of traditional Barbadian chattel houses and are of great historical importance. Rum shop tours are extremely popular with both locals and tourists – these are quite often full day events and require a strong stomach and stable legs (just kidding!).
This November, why not try some good ole’ Bajan rum for yourself and come to the Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival. This series of events will focus on the best of Bajan cuisine AND the best rum the island has to offer. This year, the event not to be missed is the Rum seminar with famed mixologist, Chesterfield Browne. Starting November 17th…tickets are available but going fast…where would you rather be??
Mix it and they will come!
One Response to Rum, the key ingredient of any Barbados holiday
Rum Punch,
one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak