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Barbados
Discover Barbados, a Caribbean gem with golden beaches, historic sites, and lively festivals. Savor Bajan cuisine, explore Harrison’s Cave, and relax in a true island paradise.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
04. April, 01. January, 02. February, 03. March, 12. December
Vacation type
Couple, Beach, Family, Nature
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Central America
Currency
Barbadian dollar
Languages
English, Bajan Creole
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Barbados is from December to April. During these months, the weather is warm and dry with pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island. This period is also the peak tourist season, so while you'll experience the best weather, prices and crowds will be higher.
If you prefer fewer tourists and more affordable rates, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May and November. The weather is still generally good, though there's a slightly higher chance of rain.
Avoid the hurricane season from June to November, as it brings a higher risk of storms and heavy rainfall.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: December-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($70-120/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (budget hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $20-30/day (local eateries, food trucks).
Activities: $10-20/day (beaches, free attractions).
Transportation: $10-15/day (buses, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($150-250/day)
Accommodation: $70-150/night (mid-range hotels, Airbnbs).
Food: $30-50/day (restaurants, local food).
Activities: $30-60/day (sailing, guided tours).
Transportation: $20-30/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $15-20/day (shopping, extra excursions).
Luxury Vacation ($350+/day)
Accommodation: $150+/night (luxury resorts, beachfront properties).
Food: $60+/day (fine dining, exclusive experiences).
Activities: $70+/day (private yacht tours, exclusive diving).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $25+/day (luxury shopping, spa).
Off-Peak Season: May-November (Hurricane Season)
Budget Vacation ($50-90/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget accommodations).
Food: $10-20/day (local eateries).
Activities: $5-10/day (self-guided tours, beaches).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal extras).
Mid-Range Vacation ($100-180/day)
Accommodation: $40-80/night (comfortable hotels, Airbnbs).
Food: $20-40/day (mid-range dining).
Activities: $15-30/day (sightseeing, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $10-20/day (car rentals).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels).
Food: $40+/day (exclusive dining).
Activities: $40+/day (private tours, snorkeling).
Transportation: $20+/day (luxury transport).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury extras).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Bridgetown
- The capital city, Bridgetown, is known for its historic sites, including the Garrison Historic Area, the Parliament Buildings, and the Barbados Museum. The city also offers vibrant shopping areas and dining options.
2. Holetown
- Located on the western coast, Holetown is known for its beautiful beaches and upscale resorts. Key attractions include Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, which offers high-end shopping and dining, and the nearby beaches.
3. Oistins
- Famous for its lively Friday night fish fry, Oistins is a town with a vibrant local atmosphere. It offers fresh seafood, local music, and a chance to experience Barbadian culture.
4. Speightstown
- This historic town on the northern coast has a charming, relaxed atmosphere with colonial architecture, local markets, and beautiful beaches. It’s a good place to explore traditional Barbadian life.
5. Bathsheba
- Known for its dramatic coastal scenery and surf-friendly waves, Bathsheba is a popular spot for those interested in natural beauty and surfing. The area is also known for its rugged coastline and unique rock formations.
Bridgetown
Islands
1. Pelican Island
- Located just off the coast of Bridgetown, Pelican Island is a small, uninhabited island known for its scenic views and natural beauty. It is often visited by boat tours and provides a quiet retreat.
2. Carlisle Bay
- While not an island, Carlisle Bay is a notable area in Barbados with beautiful beaches and clear waters. It is popular for snorkeling and diving among shipwrecks and coral reefs.
3. Dover Beach
- Located near the town of St. Lawrence Gap, Dover Beach is renowned for its fine sand and calm waters, making it a popular spot for relaxation and water activities.
Barbados
Things to see
In Nature
1. Harrison’s Cave
- A stunning limestone cave system with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. You can explore it via a tram tour.
2. Bathsheba Beach
- Known for its dramatic rock formations and powerful waves, it's a great spot for enjoying nature and taking photographs.
3. Andromeda Botanic Gardens
- Located in the parish of St. Joseph, this lush garden features a wide variety of tropical plants and beautiful views.
4. Animal Flower Cave
- Situated at the northern tip of the island, this sea cave offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and interesting rock formations.
5. Mount Gay Distilleries
- Tour the oldest rum distillery in the world, where you can learn about rum production and enjoy tastings.
6. Carlisle Bay
- A popular beach with clear blue waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
7. Welchman Hall Gully
- A tropical rainforest gully with walking trails, exotic plants, and wildlife. It’s a serene spot for nature lovers.
8. Farley Hill National Park
- A scenic park with historical ruins and panoramic views of the island’s east coast.
9. Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary
- A wetland area offering birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful environment for nature walks.
10. Paynes Bay
- A beautiful beach known for its clear waters and excellent conditions for snorkeling and swimming.
Cultural and Historical Sites
1. Bridgetown and its Garrison
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical buildings and the garrison area, showcasing Barbados's colonial history.
2. St. Nicholas Abbey
- An historic plantation house offering insight into the island's history and rum production.
3. Barbados Museum & Historical Society
- Located in Bridgetown, this museum provides a comprehensive overview of Barbados’s history and culture.
4. George Washington House
- The former residence of George Washington during his visit in 1751, now a historical site with informative tours.
5. The Barbados Heritage Tour
- A guided tour that takes you through key historical sites and landmarks across the island.
6. Holetown
- The site of the first settlement in Barbados, featuring historical landmarks and a vibrant atmosphere.
7. St. Peter’s Church
- An 18th-century church in Speightstown with beautiful architecture and historical significance.
8. Oistins Fish Fry
- A cultural experience where you can enjoy local seafood, music, and dancing in a lively community setting.
9. The Chattel Village
- A collection of colorful shops and boutiques built in traditional Barbadian architectural style.
10. The Bussa Emancipation Statue
- Located in the capital, Bridgetown, this statue commemorates the leader of the 1816 slave rebellion and the abolition of slavery.
How to get around
1. Taxis
- Taxis are widely available and operate on a fixed-rate basis for different zones. It’s a good idea to agree on the fare before starting your journey, as taxis don’t use meters.
2. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring the island at your own pace. Driving is on the left side of the road, and roads are generally in good condition.
3. Public Buses
- Barbados has an affordable and extensive bus system operated by the Transport Board. Buses run regularly between major towns and tourist areas, though they might not always be punctual.
4. ZRs (Zebras)
- These are small, shared minivans that operate on fixed routes across the island. They are a budget-friendly option but can be crowded and less predictable.
5. Cycling
- Renting a bicycle is a good way to explore coastal areas or towns. Some areas offer bike rentals and bike-friendly paths.
6. Ferries
- For scenic trips or visiting specific spots, such as certain beaches or coastal areas, ferries and boat tours are available.
For ease and flexibility, renting a car or using taxis is typically the best option, while public buses and ZRs offer budget-friendly alternatives for getting around the island.
What to eat
1. Flying Fish and Cou-Cou
- The national dish of Barbados, featuring fried or steamed flying fish served with cou-cou, a polenta-like dish made from cornmeal and okra.
2. Macaroni Pie
- A baked macaroni and cheese dish, often seasoned with spices and sometimes includes additional ingredients like ham or vegetables.
3. Pepperpot
- A rich stew made with beef, spices, and herbs, often slow-cooked for a deep flavor, traditionally served during Christmas.
4. Fish Cakes
- Fried cakes made from salted cod, flour, and spices, often served with a spicy sauce or relish.
5. Bajan Bread Pudding
- A sweet dessert made from stale bread, mixed with spices, sugar, and sometimes raisins, baked until golden and often served warm.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €600 to €1,000.
- Cheapest Months: September and October.
- Peak Prices: Winter (December to March).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: Late summer and autumn.
- Peak Prices: Winter and spring break.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: Off-season (September and October).
- Peak Prices: December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,500 to $2,500.
- Cheapest Months: May and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: December and summer.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers can enter Barbados visa-free for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and many EU countries.
2. Visa-Free Countries
- Citizens from over 100 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, can enter without a visa for stays of up to six months.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply at a Barbadian embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as visitor visas for leisure travel, typically valid for stays of up to six months.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to six months, with possible extensions available through local immigration offices.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are mandatory, but having travel insurance is recommended for medical emergencies.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as these may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD), which is pegged to the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 115V, and plug types A and B (two flat pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 10-15% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Digicel and Flow. They can be purchased at stores and kiosks, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In Barbados, people drive on the left side of the road.