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Barbados |
Barbados, the pearl of the Caribbean, is the eastern-most Caribbean island. It is actually an enormous and ancient coral reef that was formed approximately one million years ago. It has been dubbed 'the real fantasy island', an appellation that points to its exotic resorts and glorious beaches. It enjoys 340 days of sunshine a year, numerous well-developed amenities, a throbbing nightlife and friendly inhabitants, making it one of the most desirable holiday destinations. The islanders call themselves 'Bajans', West Indian by descent, although largely shaped by English custom and culture. These 'influences' pervades much of the island and is most evident in the Anglican stone churches (the island is divided into numerous parishes) and in the many cricket games played on the village greens. The 'Little England' legacy dates back to colonial days when the sugar industry reigned supreme. Barbados gained self-government in 1966, and now tourism rather than sugar is the mainstay of the local economy. |
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Barbados Travel Facts: Time: GMT –5.
Electricity: 110 volts, 50Hz. Most hotels provide adaptors and transformers for hairdryers and other appliances.
Money: The Barbados Dollar (BBD) is fixed to the US Dollar at a rate of Bd$1.98 to US$1 and does not fluctuate. Its rate relative to other currencies fluctuates based on the particular currency's relation to the US Dollar. US Dollars are also widely accepted on the island, and well-known international credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted in most stores and restaurants. Banks and ATMs are freely available and cash withdrawals can be made.
Language: English is the official language.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: British tourists require a valid passport, but no visa for stays of up to six months Passport/Visa Note: All tourists require a return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds and documents for onward travel. Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay.
Health: There are no mandatory requirements regarding vaccinations for visitors to Barbados, however a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from infected areas, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for those aged over two years. There have been occasional outbreaks of Dengue Fever and mosquito repellant is strongly recommended. Medical care is good but very expensive and serious cases are usually transferred overseas (usually to the USA). Health insurance is therefore strongly recommended. Ambulances take hours to respond and attendants may not administer life-saving techniques en route to hospital.
Tipping: Tipping is not necessary if a service charge has already been included in the bill, otherwise it is generally about 10%. Tipping is normal in bars.
Safety: There are no extremist groups or areas of instability in Barbados. Some drug-related organized crime exists, but does not generally affect tourists. There has been a small increase in the incidence of tourists being robbed, and visitors are warned to be especially vigilant on the beaches at night. There has been an increase in attacks and rapes against foreigners and visitors should be alert at all times. Tropical storms and hurricanes may occur between June and November.
Customs: It is an offence to dress in camouflage clothing.
Communications: The international access code for Barbados is +1, in common with the US, Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by 246. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom), no outgoing code is needed to call the US. Mobile phones operate on a GSM network. Cell phones can be rented through Cellcom. Internet cafes are widely available. |
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