Oistens, Barbados

We found ourselves in beautiful Barbados, ready for sun-soaked adventures. However, our plans for a leisurely morning were dashed as the skies opened up, and rain poured down relentlessly. Rather than let the weather dampen our spirits, we decided to embrace the day differently.

We hopped on a brightly colored Reggie bus, which was a delightful experience in itself. The bus, filled with locals and the infectious sounds of reggae music, had an atmosphere that was lively and warm, contrasting beautifully with the dreary weather outside. The ride was short, just a couple of miles down the road, but it was full of character, with the cheerful chatter and laughter of fellow passengers making the journey enjoyable.

Soon, we arrived in Oistins, the main fishing village on the island. Despite the rain, Oistins was alive with its vibrant culture. The smell of fresh fish filled the air as we strolled through the village. Fishermen were unloading their catches, and the sight of colorful boats bobbing in the water was mesmerizing.

We wandered through the market, where fishermen displayed their catches of the day—snapper, flying fish, and more—while lively conversations floated around us. Mandy and I couldn't resist stopping at one of the many food stalls, where we ordered a platter of grilled fish served with macaroni pie and coleslaw. The fish was so fresh and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the tangy sauce that accompanied it.

After exploring the market and picking up some delicious snacks, we strolled over to the nearby beach. The soft sand felt warm beneath our feet, and the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore created a perfect backdrop for our afternoon. As we settled onto the beach, something caught our eye—a little boy, no more than four years old, was determinedly learning to surf.

With a bright smile plastered across his face, he paddled out on a small board, his tiny frame full of energy and enthusiasm. Each time he wiped out, he quickly got back on his board, laughing and calling out to his father on the shore. It was heartwarming to see the way his father cheered him on, offering encouraging words and playful shouts.

We watched in awe as the boy finally caught a wave, standing up with all the confidence of a seasoned surfer. For a moment, he balanced there, arms outstretched, before tumbling back into the sea. The joy on his face was infectious, and we couldn’t help but clap and cheer for him as if we were part of his little audience.

We returned to the Sea Breeze and Robbie was given a lesson on how to use a boogie board, the lad's a natural.