Barbados is an island nation located in the eastern Caribbean Sea and forms part of the Lesser Antilles. It lies east of the Windward Islands, north-east of Venezuela, and south-east of Saint Lucia, with the Atlantic Ocean along its eastern coastline. Unlike many Caribbean islands, Barbados sits outside the main hurricane belt, enhancing its appeal for tourism and real estate investment. The island covers around 430 square kilometers and features mainly flat coral limestone terrain. The capital city, Bridgetown, is located on the south-west coast and serves as the island's primary port and commercial center.