Like much of the Caribbean, Barbados’ history is steeped in origins of Carib and Arawak Indians, African slaves, and Portuguese, Spanish, and English settlers. The Portuguese, en route to Brazil, called the island Los Barbados, or bearded ones—presumably after the island’s fig trees, which have a beard-like appearance. At one time, Barbados dominated the slave-powered Caribbean sugar cane industry. Barbados gained complete independence from Britain in the 1960s, and today is a member of the Commonwealth.
Barbados offers an abundant supply of large sloping beaches bordering the land. In some parts of the island, coral and sandstone cliffs drop directly into the sea, pocketed by sandy beaches and small bays. The ideal windsurfing area is Silver Sands, reported by some to be the next-best spot to Hawaii with its shifting winds and shallow reef. Advanced windsurfers flock to the spot from all over the world.
Vacationers to Barbados will not be disappointed in the variety of activities, nightlife, and watersports conditions. The nightlife offers dinner shows, nightclubs, fine dining, and romantic cruises. Points of interest include the famous Jewish synagogue; Harrison’s Cave; the Baobab Tree; Morgan Lewis Mill; a collection of rare and historic cannons; and two historic Jacobean mansions. And when all else fails, there is always an opportunity to bask in the warm Caribbean sun, leaving the cares of the world for another day.
Surfer’s Point
Along the southeastern coast, surfers head for Surfer’s Point for consistent breaks and sparse crowds. If all you need is sand, surf, and sun, this beach is for you, as it’s off the beaten path but still accessible. The Barbados Surf Center recently opened here, offering equipment and refreshments.
Daily international flights arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport on the southern tip of Barbados.
Departure Tax
BD$25 for all adult departures?children under 12 exempt
Barbados is sunny and balmy most of the time, with average temperatures ranging from 84° to 88°F during the day and a cooler 70° to 75°F at night. Trade winds keep the days pleasant most of the year. The rainy season runs from June to November with the wettest months from August through October. Dry season is from December to June, when rates and crowds increase (especially between February and May).
Area code: 246. From the US, simply dial 1 then 246 and the local number. From within the island, only the local number is needed. MCI’s number is 800/888-8000. For a temporary Internet account and 15 or more hours of access, contact Sunbeach Communications at Sunbeach.net. Several hotels offer Internet access?contact your accommodations provider.
Currency: the Barbados dollar (BD$). US currency and traveler’s checks are accepted at many stores; however it’s best to use Barbados dollars.
Meals
- Low-end: BD$5-20
- Middle: BD$20-30
- High: BD$30-50
- Gourmet: BD$50+
Lodging
- Low-end: BD$40-100
- Middle: BD$100-250
- High: BD$250-300
- Deluxe: BD$300+
Passport & Visa
U.S. or Canadian citizens must have a passport and proof of an ongoing or return ticket. British and Australian citizens need a passport.
Barbados operates on a 110V/60Hz cycle electric current.
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all visitors.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for those who may make intimate contact with local residents, especially for stays longer than 6 months.
- Yellow Fever: Required for visitors arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area in Africa or the Americas.
- Routine Immunizations: All visitors should have up-to-date tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, polio, and varicella immunizations.
Official language: English
In recent years, crime is on the increase with some incidents of pickpocketing, armed robbery, and sexual assault. Valuables should be kept in a hotel safe and not left in plain view. Be cautious of purse snatching while walking, on the beach, or at attractions. Keep a watchful eye while driving in remote areas.
Standard time zone: UTC/GMT -4 hours
Hotel rooms, particularly hotels with meal plans, face several taxes and fees. The government sales tax on rooms is 7.5%; the service charge is 10%; plus a 15% value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on all meals. Added together, the fees are quite steep. Restaurants usually add a 10% service charge; feel free to supplement it when service deserves it. Taxis are usually tipped at 10%.
