The "Flyin' Fish" Story

It was an ordinary day. Heading across the street to try and catch a bus to Oistins for supper. Oistins is in Christ Church Parish, Barbados, and is home to the world famous Friday night fish fry. A few years ago, when we visited Barbados for the first time, we received a booklet of coupons upon arrival at "The Divi", our resort for our two week stay. One coupon gave us two free meals at the Oistins' Fish Fry. Hey, anything free, we definitely had to do it! Had a fantastic evening eating flying fish, macaroni pie, slaw, and rice and peas. If you're wondering about the flying fish, they are common to tropical seas andare found in the warm waters surrounding the island of Barbados. Just like birds, they break the water’s surface, and fly distances of up to 100 yards at about 30 miles per hour. Flying Fish do not actually fly the same way as birds, because birds vibrate their wings during flight. This fish gets its power and speed from its tail fin, which it moves from side to side with powerful strokes.It is much easier to move through the air than it is through the water, (there is less resistance in air), and the Flying Fish launch themselves from the water like rockets. Really neat to see them skim the water in front of you when you are swimming. Historically, the country of Barbados was nicknamed "land of the flying fish", where today it is the official national fish. And, once again, we are heading to the Friday night fish fry in Oistins. Seems like the entire island is joining us as we walk up and down the waterfront, looking at all the stands and what they have to offer. Banks beer naturally is the choice of drink, since it is brewed on the island. Oistins is a no frills experience, the food is cheap - around $8 for a plate of food and seating is on picnic tables spread around the waterfront. At one end of the waterfront is a band shelter where music plays most of the evening. At times they have an open mike for those willing to give it a try. After your meal, you can wonder through a few of the many craft stalls and see the local goods and jewelry. Fun evening in an environment that is truly a Bajan experience. It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy. PS - photos show the flying fish, our meal at Oistins, and one of the stands. Below is a chance to see Oistins in action.