Plan
your perfect island escape with our Barbados travel guide. Discover
essential travel information, culture, and practical tips for
exploring this sun-soaked Caribbean paradise.
Country: Barbados
Continent / Region: Caribbean / North America
Capital City: Bridgetown
Government Type: Parliamentary Republic
Population: Approx. 280,000
Official Language(s): English Local Dialect: Bajan (widely spoken)
Currency: Barbadian Dollar (BBD)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−4
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B – 115V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter + voltage consideration
Emergency Numbers: 211 (Police), 311 (Fire), 511 (Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 8–9 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: December–April (dry season)
Main International Airport:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 6 months; free entry
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; Hepatitis A recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Barbados):
Average Daily Costs: £50 / £100 / £200+
Tipping Culture: 10–15% common; many restaurants add service charge
Public Transport Options: Buses, minibuses, ZR vans, taxis
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: BBD 3.50 (standard bus fare)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Digicel, Flow
Main Climate Type: Tropical
Average Temperature: 26–31°C year-round
Major Areas: Bridgetown, Holetown, Oistins, Speightstown, St. Lawrence Gap
Natural Attractions: Coral reefs, beaches, surf breaks, caves, limestone cliffs
Popular Destinations: Carlisle Bay, Bathsheba, Oistins, Animal Flower Cave, St. Lawrence Gap
Main Religions: Christianity (majority)
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Flying fish & cou-cou, macaroni pie, fish cutters, Bajan pepper sauce, rum cake
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Harrison’s Cave, St. Nicholas Abbey, Animal Flower Cave, Parliament Buildings
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe; tourist areas well-policed
Common Scams: Taxi overcharging, beach vendors
Health Risks: Sun exposure, dehydration, occasional mosquito activity
Recommended Clinics: High-quality private clinics across the island
Insurance Recommendation: Strongly recommended
Internet Speed: Good 4G/5G in most areas
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Carlisle Bay turtles, Bathsheba surf, Harrison’s Cave, Oistins Fish Fry, Mount Gay Rum tours
Unique Experiences: Catamaran cruises, rum distillery tasting, island safaris, snorkelling shipwrecks
Hidden Gems: Bottom Bay, Hunte’s Gardens, Animal Flower Cave viewpoints, Speightstown heritage streets
Popular Areas to Stay: St. Lawrence Gap, Holetown, Bridgetown, Oistins, West Coast luxury resorts
Average Hotel Prices: £50 / £120 / £250+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: St. Lawrence Gap, Holetown, Oistins weekend parties
Local Drinks: Rum punch, Mount Gay rum, Banks beer
Entertainment: Live calypso, beach bars, clubs, fish fry nights
Car Rental: Popular and convenient
Buses: Frequent and affordable
ZR Vans: Fast, lively minivans (local experience)
Taxis: Widely available; negotiate prices
Ride Apps: PickUp Barbados (limited availability)
Best Markets: Bridgetown markets, Chattel Village (Holetown), Oistins craft stalls
Popular Souvenirs: Rum, spices, hot sauces, pottery, local art, rum cake
Local SIM Card Providers: Digicel, Flow
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (Mon–Fri), limited hours Sat
Tap Water Safety: Safe to drink — excellent quality
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Barbados is the birthplace of rum, with Mount Gay Rum dating back to 1703, the oldest rum distillery in the world.