The barbecues are crowded with swordfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, lobster and chicken, and the grill cooks manning them are ninjas at flipping, rotating and tossing food into takeout containers. None of the locals seem fazed by the soaring temperatures. The excessive heat coupled with the lineup of flaming grills creates an extra layer of moisture and smoke that contribute to my continuous stream of underboob sweat and glowing face. The smell of fried fish continuously wafts through the air against the backdrop of calypso beats, live music and so much dancing. Unlike other festivals, where all events take place in one venue or neighbourhood, the Barbados Rum and Food Festival spans the entire island. The first event of the festival is Oistins Under the Stars, located in the popular fishing town of the same name.
