Welcome to Barbados

Barbados is blessed with blue skies and balmy temperatures, powdery white-sand beaches and wild waves. There are strong ties to Afro-Caribbean culture and traditions, as well as Great Britain.

Within its compact 166 square miles, you’ll find the sophisticated capital, Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, world-class golf, an exciting cricket scene and, of course, fantastic beaches. The east coast boasts the raging surf of the Atlantic (a favorite spot of the world’s top surfers), while the lush interior is dotted with small villages and sugarcane plantations.

Have a soak in the Hot Pot – the island’s natural beach jacuzzi – tuck into the famous Oistins Friday Night Fish Fry, pick up souvenirs at the craft stalls and explore the estuaries of Long Pond. Toast another day in paradise with a Mount Gay rum cocktail, from the world’s oldest rum distillery. No matter how you fill your days, Barbados makes you feel alive.

Unique Facts

• Barbados is one of the best islands to visit to avoid hurricanes. The last time a hurricane made landfall was over 40 years.
• Cricket is the country’s national sport. Try to catch a match at the Kensington Oval during your stay.
• Barbados is unapologetically sunny! There are more than 3,000 hours of sunshine here per year.
• This is where to come if you love rum. There are approximately 1,500 rum shops throughout the island.
• The surfing is excellent in Barbados. November to June are the best time to ride the waves. You’ll find the biggest waves on the south and east coasts of the island.

Language

Barbados’ official language is Barbadian Creole, an English-based creole influenced by Africa and Britain.

When To Go

The best time to visit Barbados is between July and November. Hurricanes rarely hit Barbados. This is also a great time to attend one of the island’s lively Crop Over Festivals.

Airports

Grantley Adams International Airport, Bridgetown

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Not required for stays under 6 months.

Vaccinations

None

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 115V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Barbados Dollar.

Getting Around

Traffic operates on the left-hand side of the road. Main roads are generally well marked, but secondary rural roads are not often well marked and are rough, with blind curves. Use registered taxis and public buses to move about the island. Private vans and small buses are available, but they are generally crowded and travel at high speeds. Do not use private mini-buses, known as Z buses (license plate beings with letter Z) because the operators are known to drive erratically.

Driver’s License

Valid driver’s license required from your country of residence. You must also obtain a Barbados driver’s license/visitor’s permit.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
BridgetownACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Mount Gay Visitor Center
Exmouth Gap
Brandons Spring Garden Highway
Bridgetown, St. Michael
+1 (246) 227 8864
www.mountgayrum.com
sherry.small@remy-cointreau.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Police: 211
Fire: 311
Ambulance: 511

Safety and Security

Petty crime is occasional, but does occur, in Barbados, including larceny, burglary and automobile break-ins. There is a moderate level of violent crime. Use personal safety precautions when traveling.