BARBADOS BECKONS

Tropical island paradise shares special history with Boston

Lore has it that Barbados got its name from the Bearded Fig Tree, spotted in 1536 by Portuguese sea captain Pedro a Campos, who called the island that held them “Os Barbados,” or “The Bearded.” If he'd been prescient as to the future of the Caribbean spot, he'd have named it for its ability to serve as the perfect island paradise.

Bostonians have long been onto this. In fact, we've made Barbados a vacation destination for centuries.

Early trading across the Atlantic focused on three major ports: Boston, London and Bridgetown, Barbados, which led Brahmin Boston families to discover it as a holiday escape.

Because then — and now — a visit to Barbados is special. There, instead of fenced-off all-inclusive resorts with private beaches lined with visitors, you find wonderful spots to stay along roads and beaches populated by locals and visitors alike. Resort beaches are local beaches, and vice versa. Roads and hamlets are easy to access, meaning you can dive right into Barbados life without a worry — or a tour guide.

Getting to Barbados from Greater Boston is a snap, thanks to JetBlue direct flights (there's even a JetBlue Mint flight, to start and end your trip just right). Once there, your accommodation choices are plentiful. Choose a classic brand such as Marriott or Hilton. Tuck into a seaside resort with local ownership. Go big with a full resort with spa and amenities or choose a quaint seaside hotel. This fall, a new Sandals resort debuts there.

While it will be easy to settle into your accommodations and soak in the perfect weather, make a point of getting out and around the lovely island. Barbados is easily drivable, and its well-paved roads are also well marked.