The Segmental Info System

Welcome to Barbados

The Barbados Guide is your comprehensive guide to "Little England" - one of the most diverse islands in the Caribbean. From the influence of British forebears to the shopping and nightlife that make it famous, learn more about the hidden gem that is Barbados.

 

Situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Barbados boasts a balmy, tropical climate that is cooled by continual trade winds blowing in from the east. The fresh breezes, warm sunshine, and sufficient rainfall are a recipe for year-round terrific weather with an average temperature in the mid 80's. However, travelers should be aware of the possibility of short tropical rainstorms, as well as the much less frequent chance of having your plans disrupted by a hurricane. So be sure to check out our extraordinarily detailed, month-by-month weather guide in order to know exactly what you can expect during your vacation...

January
May 
September
February     June October
March July November
April August    
December

 

There is no shortage of hotels and resorts in Barbados, from the ease and convenience of an All-Inclusive resort to the carefree independence afforded by a rental property, you're sure to find accommodations to suit your tastes...

 

Information on subjects such as entry requirements, hotels, and where to find tourist offices, embassies, and consulates in Barbados are important to know before you go...

Currency and Credit Cards

The Barbadian Dollar is the official currency of Barbados, and banks on the island will exchange foreign currency for free.  Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are also often accepted...

Customs

To make your journey through customs a little easier on your return trip by keeping all purchases you made on the island readily accessible, and receipts on hand as well...

Driving Passports
Electricity Postal Services
Embassies Telephones
Health and Medical Time Zones
Hours of Operation Tipping
Languages Tourist Offices

 

The history and culture of Barbados has long been tied to Great Britain.  Today, the government of Barbados, as well as many cultural events mirror English customs.  Learning about the history, culture, and economy of Barbados before you go lessens the culture shock when you arrive...

History

It is believed that the first inhabitants of Barbados were Amerindians who arrived at the island in 1623 B.C.  There are few artifacts that give us a hint into what life was like for the island's first settlers, but much more is known about the next group of settlers, the Arawaks...

Economy

Cotton, tobacco, and sugar cane were Barbados' first big money makers, and remained so for many years.  After World War II, however, the economy made a switch and began depending on finance and tourism...

Crime

You can stay safe in Barbados by leaving valuables in your hotel safe, staying off the beaches at night, and not flaunting large sums of money or fancy accessories...

 

Travelers with many diverse interests are drawn to the island of Barbados. Not only can vacationers enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor diversions like golfing, diving, and fishing, but they can also have great fun enjoying museums, nightclubs, live performances, and theatrical events. Whatever activities you enjoy, your vacation can be truly unforgettable...

Diving and Snorkeling

Water visibility in Barbados is between 80 and 98 feet much of the time.  This means great things for divers and snorkelers, who can view underwater wonders at a greater distance...

Fishing and Chartering

Find out which fish are going to be relatively easy to catch during your trip to Barbados by reading our guide to Fishing and Chartering, and checking with the Barbados Game Fishing Association...

Golf

Renovations to the island's golf courses in the last ten years have made golf courses in Barbados some of the best in the Caribbean.  Find out which hotels and resorts have golf courses and get your green fix by booking your tee time in advance...

 

Your dream vacation is closer than you think. We've got plenty of tips to help you with everything from getting information about the best hotels in Barbados to planning and booking a trip within your budget. We want to help you make this dream a reality...

When to Go

While most people visit Barbados during the winter months, a number of factors may go into planning when the best time to go is for you.  Regardless of when you choose, the weather is always warm, and the people inviting...

Clothing and Attire

Though Barbados tends to be drier than many of the other Caribbean islands, it is always best to arrive prepared - whether it's the rainy season or not.  A light-weight rain coat, or a small umbrella will work just fine...

 

 

Find the perfect hotel using our powerful advanced search tool.


 

Culinary Styles

Most travelers will be eager to sample the island's local food in addition to the gourmet international dishes. Barbados culinary styles tend to incorporate many fresh, regional ingredients, including a great variety of seafood provided by local fishermen, including snapper, mahi mahi, and many types of shellfish. Additionally, flying fish is a national treat that is prominently featured on many menus. Fast food is even available on the island but with innovative interpretations. The traditional hamburger or pizza may be accompanied by Bajan menu items. Unique drinks offered on the island, such as a rum liqueur called 'falernum', acts as the perfect complement to any meal...

Restaurants

The prevalence of traditional English breakfasts, afternoon teas, and long, leisurely dinners reveal both British and continental influences behind the dining traditions on Barbados. Compared with other nearby islands, dining on Barbados tends to be a bit more dressy affair, so you'll want to be sensitive to nuances in each establishment's dress code. Vacationers should also note that due to the busy nature of peak season, reservations are often necessary. Our comprehensive dining guide includes all the information you need, including detailed restaurant listings which make it easy to find exactly what you are looking for...

 

Beaches

With 70 square miles of beaches along each coast in Barbados, there is definitely a beach for everyone.  Beaches on the north and east coasts are known for large waves that make swimming unsafe much of the time; south coast beaches are great for swimming and water sports; and west coach beaches are the calmest on the island...

 

Air Travel and cruises are two of the most popular ways to reach the island, but adventurous visitors will be happy to learn that sailing and private yachts are also welcomed. Learn more about the advantages of each method before deciding on the perfect choice for you...

 

There are plenty of transportation options for travelers who wish to explore the island of Barbados.  If you don't mind traveling in a group, buses are the perfect option for you.  Those who prefer privacy, or want to be in charge of their own schedule should rent a car or a scooter...

Taxis

Because people drive on the left side of the road in Barbados, many American travelers find it easier, and feel safer, hiring a taxi cab to transport them from place to place...

Buses

There are both public and private bus systems available in Barbados.  You can tell the difference between the two simply by looking at the color.  Public buses are blue with a yellow stripe, while private buses are yellow with a blue stripe...

Ferries and Boats

There are no ferry services to speak of in Barbados, however, visitors wishing to travel the seas can charter a yacht or catamaran...