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Rogues Review – A Barbados Story

I am delighted to have read the draft copy of this delightful and informative book. Rogues in Paradise. Here is a synopsis of my Rogues Review. The full review is available here >>>

Book By Author Ian R. Clayon

“Rogues in Paradise” is a captivating book about Barbados that delves deep into the heart and soul of this enchanting island.

The book, written by author y Ian R. Clayton, founder of the Barbados Tourism Encyclopedia, provides a unique and intimate perspective of the island’s people, culture, heritage, and history.

Rogues Heroes, Legends, and Everyday Bjans

Rogues introduces readers to unforgettable people like Queen Bee Peggy, who finds herself on a high-tech medical stretcher, and Rex Wooton, embroiled in a comical caper with ‘stolen’ construction lights. It also recounts the uproarious courtroom antics of ‘Fred’ as he tries to save the Race Horse Bathing at Pebbles Beach. The stories of people are warm and vibrant everyday characters who embody the true spirit of Barbados.

However, “Rogues in Paradise” is not just about these characters; it’s about the legendary heroes who are often also rogues. Clayton seamlessly weaves significant historical events and special places into the narrative, shedding light on the island’s rich heritage and remarkable people. He discusses Errol Barrow, a visionary leader who introduced free schooling and meals for all children, making Barbados one of the most literate nations.

Reflection on a Dark Past

The book’s entertaining stories transition seamlessly into a more solemn reflection on the inhuman and brutal slave trade and its lasting impact on Barbados. Throughout it all, Clayton underscores the unwavering resilience of the Bajan spirit, emphasizing that it has endured and risen above all adversities.

“Rogues in Paradise” offers readers an engaging account of history, with humour, and poignant reflection that deepens understanding and connection to Barbados. For those who have visited the island, the characters in the book will feel like old friends encountered on beaches, in town squares, or even in the local rum shops and restaurants. Clayton’s narrative reinforces the idea that the people define Barbados, and Barbados, in turn, is a reflection of its people.

As an avid traveler who has frequented Barbados, I eagerly anticipate the updated edition of this book. I assure readers that “Rogues in Paradise” is a delightful and enlightening read, offering laughter and profound insights of the history and people of of Barbados.

Summary Video of My Rogue Review

Original Review Blog – https://RoguesinParadise.com/reviews-videos/

Calum Glenny – The Avid Traveller

Whether planning a trip to the island or intrigued by its rich culture and heritage, this book is essential to understanding the essence of the island and the Bajan people.

Rogues Review By Calum Glenny-
http://AvidTraveller.News

barbados, rogues in paradise, travel literature, TravelWatchNews

Barbados Greek Dynasty

Uncover the captivating story of Ferdinand Paleologue, Barbados Greek Dynasty at Rest in St. Johns Church. He is from the esteemed Palaiologos Greek family that ruled the Byzantine Empire until the 15th century. He embarked on a remarkable journey that brought him to Barbados. Fleeing the English Civil War turbulence, Ferdinand arrived on the island in 1644, immersing himself in its privileged circles and establishing his position among the elite.

His influence extended beyond agriculture, with Ferdinand playing a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual landscape of Barbados. From serving as a vestryman to ascending to the distinguished position of churchwarden at St. John’s Parish Church, he left an indelible mark on the island’s ecclesiastical affairs.

Ferdinand was buried in the graveyard at the church. His tombstone reads, “Here lyeth ye body of Ferndinando Paleolocus descended from ye imperial line of ye last Christian emperors of Greece.” Died on October 3, 1678.

Unearth the allure of Barbados as a refuge for those seeking new beginnings, witness Ferdinand Paleologue’s contributions to the island’s economic and spiritual fabric, and marvel at the spectacular home he built, Clifton Hall, a testament to his grand vision. This is your invitation to experience the captivating legacy of Ferdinand Paleologue and the extraordinary people who have shaped the paradise of Barbados. See the spectacular St. Johns Church, perched on the breathtaking Hackeltons Cliff.

Don’t miss the opportunity to delve deeper into the captivating stories of Barbados’ rogues, heroes, and emperors. Discover the thought-provoking book, “Rogues in Paradise,” which challenges traditional perspectives and showcases the extraordinary individuals shaping the island’s vibrant culture.

Join us on this journey and unravel the rich tapestry of Barbados’ history, where elegance, influence, and a spirit of resilience converge to create a story that inspires you. Explore more and secure your invitation to the “Rogues in Paradise“ Free chapters book launch by clicking the link below.

Related Links –

The Barbados Tourism Encyclopedia Blog on Ferdinand Paleologue

The Real Story of Barbados People, place, history and Culture Rogues in Paradise. About Rogues in Paradise

Avid Traveller, barbados, caribbean culture and heritage tourism, go local, rogues in paradise, TravelWatchNews

Going Local in Barbados

Go Local in Barbados is the latest blog by Avid Traveller, Calum Glenny. Calum has recently produced numerous travel guides for Europe, North America, Oceania and now revisits Barbados in the Caribbean while escaping the Scottish winter weather.

Calum’s travel review highlights local people, mainly vendors who despite the pause to business created by Covid have burst back onto the scene. The highly successful vaccination programme delivered to the Barbados population by Major David Clarke is also acknowledged.

Miami Beach & Janelle Natural Fruit Drinks

Go local in Barbados — GoLocal with Dancing Moon Cruises from Miami Beach

Calum first visits Janelle at her pop up stand near Miami/Enterprise Beach. Sampling her chilled homemade natural juices on the beach sent the taste buds tingling. Calum highlights the intriguing combinations of local flavours available and links the theory behind making the natural juice drinks to a London family who have taken the idea from Barbados to London and set up their own business, OTC Beverages making Caribbean natural fruit juice drinks in the UK.

Calum then moves onto the lady Alison who makes the most delicious fish cakes from the back of her old white car adjacent to the Enterprise Beach Facility. Alison is a delight to speak to and often has several people waiting on her mouth watering produce and hot sauce.

Next is an early morning visit to Brighton Farmers Market for the best breakfast sausage and egg cutter from Liam’s Cottage Meats stand. Calum’s favourite take away breakfast on the island.

While at the market Calum also samples Neil’s superb fish pate and to go with his sausage breakfast, a lovely coffee from Pilebucks.

After breakfast Calum checks out and makes a purchase at the hand crafted jewellery stand of Kimberley White at Summergems. Kimberley is a talented young local jeweller.

On a sightseeing drive North, Calum bumps into the gregarious Andrew Kellman. Andrew’s local knowledge very quickly becomes apparent, and all of a sudden, the chance encounter leads to an unofficial tour of the stunning sights at Cove Bay and Little Bay. A very worthwhile and educating 45-minute, unplanned tour, including links to Tenerife and Billy Ocean!

Calum then moves to Oistins where on a Friday night, the Fish Fry sends the town into party mode! Oistins is a historic town of Barbados as it was the scene of the planned Barbados Civil War; a war that ended without a shot as the leader retired to the tavern to write what became the charter of Barbados. Way ahead of its time, it laid out rights and a form of self goverment unheard of in the region.

Calum highlights his favourite restaurant, ‘Chillin & Grillin’ in Oistins Bay Gardens. Food, service and location for people watching is second to none thanks to Lana who is assisted by Shonte, Phillip, and Allan, among others

In a previous trip Calum met local author Ian R. Clayton who gave him an advance copy of his unpublished book Rogues in Paradise.

He says Ian’s Book is fascinating. It is funny and solemn and guaranteed to amuse and enrich the reader’s knowledge of Barbados. Calum notes that with every visit, he recognises similar characters (rogues) when wandering the island. Calum’s theory that ‘The people make Barbados and Barbados is its people!’ is confirmed in Rogues in Paradise.

Concluding, Calum mentions the respect shown on the island to all people, whether locals or visitors. One incident In Barbados stands out as a prime example and shows Bajan people at their very best!

Video Summary

Author

Calum Glenny- The Avid Traveller

See the full blog ar https://barbados.org/blog/barbados-local-guides-experiences

astrology, barbados, caribbean culture and heritage tourism, rogues in paradise, surfing, TravelWatchNews, wind hunters

Barbados Innovations in Tourism

Passion and Invention

Barbadians are extraordinary people; they are superb hosts, keen to please, unassuming, obliging, and witty. Barbados Innovations in Tourism result from its creativity and passion. This passion for innovation has produced a treasure trove of different and unique ways to explore and experience the island. Land, sea, underwater, underground, in the air, and up in the sky are the palette of their creativity.

Above the Ground and Into The Cosmos

Take the sky, for example, which is free and filled with wonder. On a clear Barbados night, you can see forever. Barbadian ingenuity has enhanced what you can see and how you can experience the wonders of the universe by the work and passion of the man who created a new way to understand the cosmos. He is cosmic pioneer Leo Branch.

Cosmic Pioneer Leo Branch

Renowned astronomer, Leo Branch, pioneered nighttime beach gazing at the stars. Small groups gather on the beach at night to explore the cosmos with his 10-inch portable telescope. He is filled with passion and has dedicated his life to helping people understand the cosmos. With fifty-four years of studying the stars, he is a walking encyclopedia with a profound knowledge of the universe. With humour and insight, he makes astronomy exciting and easy to understand. In addition to his signature beach events, Leo offers private lectures to groups in their homes and in other venues. Now in semi-retirement, he has been sought by major media including the BBC, and has entertained earthly stars with his knowledge of creation.

I looked through his telescope to my zodiac sign, Sagittarius, which he explained is the largest constellation in the Southern Hemisphere. Its many bright stars shining through the night are visible to the naked eye. The constellation was recorded in the 2nd century by the Greek astronomer Ptolemy, he named it Sagittarius, latin for the Archer. In the Sagittarius constellation, Nunki marks the vane of Archer’s arrow. He said Nunki is an important star nine times bigger than the sun. Pronounced as NunKee I heard Nookie and mused that it was more carnal than cosmic, which prompted a few giggles. Later, he explained to Anny that her sign, the constellation of Aries, the ram, is most compatible with Sagittarius. All eyes landed on me, they were eager for a confirmation of a budding romance: “Ah!” I said rather cheekily. “She just likes Nookie.”

Leo Branch Astronomer – leobranchbarbados (at) gmail.com
Telephone: land line (246) 420 6384 ,
Mobile ,whatsapp app (246 ) 230 0572

Underground Innovations

Underground are the caves. Harrison cave tour is one of the most popular activities on the island. The tour includes an educational video explaining the geological history of Barbados. A submerged coral formation that was pushed out of the ocean by volcanic activity, it is unlike any other Caribbean island in many respects.

Again Bajan ingenuity created a unique cave train that takes visitors up to a hundred feet below the surface, in comfort and style. The buggy carriages look like modified golf carts. The winds along the twisting paths like a snake, a string of rubber-wheeled carts pulled by a custom-built, non-polluting engine.

Underwater Submarines

Under the ocean, there are shipwrecks, corals, technicolor fish, turtles, firns, and sea plants. You can swim with the fish, in fact, swimming with the turtles is one of the most popular activities.

Specially built Catamaran sailing ships leave from the wharf in Bridgetown and sail to favorite picnic spots where guests dine onboard, as well as swim, snorkel, and relax.

You can snorkel or scuba dive right off the beaches in Barbados, many of the underwater features are within easy reach of the shore. Also, inshore reefs are within wading distance and are favorite spots for beach walks and interpretive tours. Local fishers cast their nets from the shore and fish with line and sinker from the rocks.

You can jump aboard the Atlantis submarine if you don’t want to get wet. This is a real submarine built in Canada as a recreational vehicle. The Barbados Atlantis operation has several vacation submarines which are piloted and managed by accredited Bajans.

Surfing the Wind and Waves

Bajans excel at surfing on the water, and the island has been called the “Surf Capital of the Caribbean”. The book Rogues in Paradise has an entire chapter about the wild sport of windsurfing and kitesurfing with wind hunters in the waves. In Rogues in Paradise, the true story of Barbados’ extraordinary-ordinary people, outrageous characters, rogues, heroes, places, and history, you will meet world-renowned windsurfer Brian Talma and some of his inspired guests who join him in hunting the perfect wind to jump the perfect wave.

See this and more about surfing with the Wind Hunters on the Barbados Blog Wind Hunters