Barbados is the eastern most country in the Caribbean Sea. It is 13 degrees north of the equator. Barbados is 166 square miles, 21 miles long and 14 miles wide.
Barbados is a country located in the Lesser Antilles region of the West Indies. Guests will need a passport to enter the country; a visa is not required. Your passport must be valid for 6 months post travel.
Most prices are quoted in the Barbados Dollar, but U.S. dollars are accepted in many shops and restaurants. $1 US = $2 Bajan.
Temperatures range from 75 - 85 degrees fahrenheit.
All beaches in Barbados are open to the public, and there are public access points in various locations. Chairs and umbrellas can be rented at most beaches. Barbados beaches are safe for swimming: The West Coast and the South Coast are recommended as the waters are calm. As you would anywhere, be aware of marine traffic and stay within the designated swimming areas. Many beaches will have lifeguards on duty, and colored flags to indicate water conditions. The East Coast and North Coast are beautiful, but do not swim there as they are rugged coral coastlines. Wear sunscreen - the Barbados sun is very very strong! Avoid sitting under the Manchineel Trees which are usually marked by a red band painted around the trunk. When you are swimming, snorkeling, or diving, be careful of the reefs and say hi to the sea turtles.
Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown, the capital, and in main towns. Agree on a fare in advance. Blue public buses are affordable (less than $4 BDS per journey).
In Barbados, they drive on the left side of the road. The roads are narrow so take your time. If you choose to rent a car, you will need to purchase a $5 temporary Barbados license (available through the car rental company).
Barbados has earned a reputation as one of the safest Caribbean Islands, however, you should maintain the same level of personal awareness as you would at home. Additionally, in Barbados, all forms of camouflage are strictly reserved for armed forces personnel. As many of you know, the Zika virus has been present in the Caribbean, including some past cases in Barbados. Here is a link to the CDC for more information. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html. All guests should wear bug spray as a precaution.
The emergency service numbers in Barbados are as follows...Police: 211 - Ambulance: 511 - Fire: 311 - Directory Assistance: 411 - Operator: (zero)