Barbados is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. It is one of the most popular and stable Caribbean islands. Barbados has a lower crime rate compared to other Caribbean nations. Violent crime is rare. Most tourists do not encounter serious safety issues.
Barbados has good healthcare facilities, and the risk of diseases is relatively low. However, make to follow standard health precautions, such as using sunscreen and staying hydrated. Have a good travel assurance in case of an emergency. There are Mosquitos in Barabado. Make sur to bring repellent.
Barbados lies outside the primary hurricane belt, making it less prone to hurricanes than other Caribbean islands. However, the risk is low during the hurricane season (June to November).
The official language is English, though a local dialect known as "Bajan" is also commonly spoken.
The Barbadian dollar (BBD) is the official currency, though U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. The exchange rate between the US dollar (USD) and the Barbadian dollar (BBD) is typically around 1 USD = 2 BBD.
Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted, especially in larger hotels, restaurants, shops, and other tourist-oriented businesses. However, it's always a good idea to confirm with individual establishments, as smaller businesses or rural areas might have limited options. Additionally, when traveling to Barbados, carrying both cash and credit cards is recommended for convenience. It is best to carry a combination of both, as not all establishments may accept credit cards. It is recommended to bring around $500 to $1000 in cash, depending on your length of stay and spending habits.
Barbados has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with a dry season from December to June and a rainy season from July to November. The average temperature typically ranges from 77°F (25°C) to 88°F (31°C). During the rainy season, showers are usually short and intense, with occasional storms, but it remains warm throughout. Overall, it enjoys sunny, pleasant weather that attracts tourists throughout the year.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. It is an offence for civilians to dress in camouflage clothing or to carry items made of camouflage material. It is an offence to bring into and out of Barbados items made from camouflage material.
The nearest medical center will be Sandy Crest Medical Centre in Holetown, just a short distance away from your villas. It is open 24 hours.
Yes, the tap water in Barbados is generally safe to drink. The island has a well-maintained public water supply system that meets international health standards. However, some visitors prefer bottled water due to differences in taste or personal preference.
Yes, you can bring food into Barbados, but there are certain restrictions on what is allowed. Prohibited Items: You cannot bring fresh fruits, vegetables Allowed Items: Packaged, canned, and processed foods (like snacks, dried fruits, and non-perishable items) are generally allowed as long as they are in unopened packaging and do not contain prohibited ingredients. Allowed Items: Meats, poultry, fish, dairy products. All meat and meat products must be in their original sealed commercial packaging, which is labelled to clearly show the type of meat, country of origin and inspection marks. You may bring up to a total combined amount of 25 lbs (11.5 kg) meat, poultry and dairy products per person. Upon arrival, you must DECLARE to the Customs Officer that you are carrying meat products. You must then present your import permit to the Agricultural Quarantine Officer who will inspect the product and pass it for entry. In order to obtain an import permit please contact Nadège Gustave. ABDS$25.00 application fee is needed.
If you see a monkey in Barbados, it’s likely one of the island's green monkeys, which are common there. Here are a few things you can do to stay safe and respectful to the animal: Don't Approach or Feed Them: While they may seem curious, it’s important not to get too close or feed them. Feeding them can encourage dependency on humans and lead to aggressive behavior. Plus, feeding them food that isn’t part of their natural diet can harm them. Observe from a Distance: Green monkeys are generally not aggressive, but they are wild animals and can become unpredictable if they feel threatened. Keeping your distance is the best way to enjoy the experience safely. Secure Your Belongings: Monkeys are known for being opportunistic and may grab anything they find interesting, such as bags, food, or cameras. Stay Calm: If the monkey seems curious or comes closer, remain calm and don’t try to startle it or make sudden movements. In most cases, the monkey will lose interest and move on.
Barbados can be considered an expensive island, depending on the type of travel experience you're looking for. The cost of your trip can vary based on accommodations, activities, dining, and transportation. Accommodation: Barbados offers a range of options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. However, the high-end resorts and beachfront villas can be quite pricey, particularly during the peak tourist season (December to April). Dining: Dining out in Barbados can be expensive, especially at upscale restaurants or resort dining options. Local food and street food tend to be more affordable, with many delicious options at lower prices. Transportation: Public transport is relatively inexpensive, but taxis and car rentals can add up, especially if you're exploring the island. Renting a car is common for tourists, but be prepared for costs, particularly for short-term rentals. Overall, while Barbados can be pricey in some areas, there are definitely ways to experience the island on a budget if you plan accordingly.
Barbados is known for its diverse beaches, each offering a unique experience. West Coast (Caribbean Sea) Beaches These beaches are calmer, with gentle waves and clear, warm waters—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The sand is soft and white. Popular beaches: Paynes Bay, Folkestone Marine Park, and Mullins Beach. South Coast Beaches These beaches offer a mix of calm waters and some areas with stronger waves. They’re great for swimming, water sports, and having easy access to nearby amenities. Popular beaches: Dover Beach, Accra Beach, and Miami Beach. East Coast (Atlantic Ocean) Beaches Known for their rugged beauty, these beaches feature strong waves and currents, making them more suitable for experienced surfers and those who enjoy a more secluded setting. Popular beaches: Bathsheba Beach, Cattlewash Beach, and Bottom Bay. North Coast Beaches These are quieter and less developed, offering stunning views and more isolated spots. They can be perfect for relaxation, although the waves here are also strong. Popular beaches: Animal Flower Cave Beach.
In Barbados, the emergency numbers are: Police: 211 Fire: 311 Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 511 These numbers can be dialed in case of any emergency situations to get immediate help.
Yes, Canada has a High Commission in Barbados. The Canadian High Commission in Bridgetown, Barbados, is the diplomatic mission that serves not only Barbados but also several other Caribbean nations. It provides consular services, including visa applications, passports, and assistance to Canadian citizens in the region https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/barbados-barbade/bridgetown.aspx?lang=eng
Yes, there is a U.S. Embassy in Barbados. It is located in the capital city, Bridgetown. The embassy provides a range of services for U.S. citizens, including passport renewals, visa applications, and emergency assistance. If you need specific details or services, it’s always a good idea to visit the embassy's official website or contact them directly https://bb.usembassy.gov/