Many International and all regional airlines fly in to Barbados' Grantley Adams International Airport. Barbados is one of the main hubs in the Eastern Caribbean.
Transfers from the airport to the south coast take 15-30 minutes, and to the west coast 40-60 minutes.
Barbados
Barbados
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Beaches
Overview of Island
Barbados' name, meaning "the bearded ones," was derived from the bearded fig trees that were in abundance on the Island when it was discovered.
Barbados is the most easterly island in the Caribbean island chain, situated above South America, northeast of Venezuela and north of Guyana and east of St. Lucia and St. Vincent and The Grenadines. It is 21 mile x14 miles. The capital city “Bridgetown” was originally named ‘Indian Bridge” for the bridge that was constructed over the river or Carenage by the Indians.
Capital: Bridgetown
Language: English
Population: 286,368
The Portuguese were the first to rediscover Barbados in the footsteps of the Arawaks and Caribs. In fact, Portuguese navigator Pedro a Campos is credited for naming the Island then, "Los Barbados."
The Island was colonized by the English early in the 16th century and remains the oldest continuing parliamentary democracy outside England. Britain fought over 200 years to retain their governance and protect it from France during which time many forts were built, some of which still exist. Historical sites such as Gun Hill Station and The Garrison can still be visited today. The latter is an underground network of tunnels that were used by soldiers for easy access to the forts, as well as the gateway to the sea to dump slaves killed by their owners. The introduction of sugar cane by the Dutch in 1640 propelled Barbados into having one of the largest sugar industries in the world which became the country's main source of commercial income and was divided into large plantation estates worked by the slave brought in from Africa. Sugar cane growth for export was prolific so much so that there was scarcely any land allocated to agriculture resulting in most of their food being imported from New England. Many plantation grounds still remain throughout the Island, although Barbados' economy mostly relies on tourism today.
One year after the British took control the Jews who came then to Barbados built what is now the oldest Jewish synagogue in the western Hemisphere in 1628, still open to the public to visit.
The Barbadian cultural roots come out of the plantation slavery economy, coupled with the rich heritage of the West African slaves which is still evident today; and noted as well in the arts and social structure throughout the Island. A heavy accent is also heard in their spoken English spiced with actual snippets of words from West Africa referred to as 'pidgin English' or simply 'bajan'.
And then there is the history of the Mount Gay Distillery which is home to one of the oldest rum distilleries in the world, open for you to visit and taste.
Highlights
Things to do
Bajan Pirates Floorshow & Dinner Cruise
Animal Flower Cave
JAMMIN' cruises
Mount Gay Rum Tours
Atlantis Submarine
Harrison's Caves
Island Safari Tours
Harbour Lights- Beach extravaganza dinner show
Mojo Bar and Grill
Where to stay
Tamarind Barbados
The All-Inclusive Active resort - where Mediterranean design meets Caribbean charm.
Treasure Beach Barbados
An adults only All-Inclusive boutique hotel for the senses... here you will find the intimate beach vacation you have been waiting for.
Silverpoint Hotel
Silverpoint Hotel is a unique boutique hotel that offers the services and amenities of a luxury hotel, set within an intimate environment, even though 10 mins from all of the entertainment of the Gap.
The Crane Luxury beach resort
You don't come here to be seen, you come here to disappear.
Crystal Cove Barbados (All Inclusive)
The All Inclusive escape for sophisticated romantics - where there is fun for everyone.
The House Barbados
Barefoot Elegance at this chic, Adult-Only All Inclusive hideaway!
Accra Beach Hotel & Spa
Discover one of the most beautiful, tropical getaways in the Caribbean; experience the Caribbean dream.
Starfish Discovery Bay Resort
Discovery Bay is a unique beach hotel providing the perfect location for a Barbados tropical escape. Something for everyone, from the solo traveler to family fun.
Sea Breeze Beach House
Escape to our idyllic island oasis set on 1000 feet of beachfront where you can relax and play all day and all night!
Savannah Beach Hotel (All Inclusive)
Forget everything you’ve ever known about all-inclusive resorts as you delve into the rich culture and history of the Savannah Beach Hotel and its surrounding location.
Sugar Cane Club
2021 Traveler's Choice Award Discover a harmonious blend of luxury, tranquility and seclusion at Sugar Cane Club Hotel and Spa, overlooking the exotic West Coast of Barbados.
Time Out Hotel
Time Out Hotel offers you the perfect contradiction of nightlife and relaxation. Family Resort - centrally located.
Worthing Court Hotel
Ideally situated from the sun-kissed sand and crystal clear waters at Worthing Beach is our cozy, self-catering apartment hotel, surrounded by sports bars, restaurants, and duty free shopping.
South Beach Hotel
Escape to this Resort on the South Coast at this chic boutique hotel and resort on Rockley Beach, near all the fun and excitement that Barbados has to offer.
Bougainvillea Barbados
Perched along two spectacular white sand beaches our resort offers a truly enchanting setting for romantic couple's getaways and unforgettable family vacations.
Sugar Bay Barbados
Escape to our All-Inclusive Barbados Resort on the beach, one of the newest 4*** resorts on the Island. Stunning views, first rate dining, exceptional activities and amenities.
Dover Beach Hotel
Where your vacation is your home away from home in this affordable family-owned hotel.
Infinity on the Beach
Escape to Infinity on the Beach one of Barbados’ newest boutique hotels ,where you will discover the best mix of island and beach life in St. Lawrence Gap.
Sweetfield Manor Boutique Hotel
Sweetfield Manor is more than a place to rest your head! It has old world charm that speaks of its historic past yet very much living with all of the modern amenities.
Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados
Ideal for singles, couples and families looking for a quiet escape in the Caribbean.
Turtle Beach Barbados (All Inclusive)
Fun for all and all for fun! Enjoy a lively atmosphere with gracious hospitality at our family friendly south coast retreat .
The Abidah By Accra
Welcome to the Abidah, a luxury All-Inclusive Adult Only Getaway allowing for an intimate ambience and unique charm.
Avila Beach Hotel (COPY)
Barbados is an eastern Caribbean island and an independent British Commonwealth nation.
Coconut Court Beach Hotel
Stay with us! Enjoy beautiful ocean view and comforts of home. An authentic Caribbean Beach Hotel with the atmosphere of the islands.
South Gap Hotel
If you are seeking to truly experience Barbados and its people, culture and food then look no more!
Beach View Hotel
Gallery
FAQs
CUISINE KNOWN FOR
Barbados is known as ‘The Land of the Flying Fish’, so it seems apt that its national dish is 'flying fish with coucou'. Versatile as well as delicious, this wonderful fish can be fried, steamed or pickled and it comes out tasting truly delicious every time.
Looking for more quintessential Caribbean and Barbados treats? Try a dish of pickled pork with spiced sweet potatoes which is known as Pudding and Souse. Don't forget to add a touch of Bajan Pepper sauce .
If you want to eat like a local then ask for the staple food of ‘Bakes’, which is also known as survival food. This is made up of just three ingredients – sugar, water and flour, and other staple ingredients of the local cuisine include rice, vegetables, chicken and fish.
Popular events/ festivals
The Holetown Festival
Ostin's Fish Festival
Barbados Reggae Festival
Barbados Gospel fest
Barbados Celtic Festival
Sol Rally Barbados
Barbados Crop-Over Festival
Barbados Jazz Excursion
Barbados Food & Rum Festival
Barbados Run
What is our terrain like?
Barbados is largely made up of coral formation, with a terrain that is generally flat, except for the Scotland district in the North-east where the terrain is hilly and rugged.
It is the only coral Island in the region with all white sand beaches
https://www.investbarbados.org/profile_of_barbados.php
What is the climate like?
The temperature in Barbados does not usually rise above the mid-80s F (about 30 °C) or fall below the low 70s F (about 22 °C).
There are two seasons: the dry season, from early December to May, and the wet season, which lasts for the rest of the year.
Average rainfall is about 60 inches (1,525 mm) annually but, despite the small size of the island rainfall varies, rising from the low-lying coastal areas to the high central district.
Barbados experiences 8 to 9 hours of sunshine most days
https://www.britannica.com/place/Barbados/Climate
What Are The Entry Requirements?
Basic requirements:
A valid passport (3-6 months) is required for entry.
A return airline ticket and/or proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay
Intended address in Barbados
Entry visa (if required based on length of stay beyond ticket duration
Children under the age of 18 without a parent/guardian must have a letter of authorization from their parent/guardian
https://immigration.gov.bb/pages/Visa_Requirements.asp
What Are The Marriage Requirements?
Getting married in Barbados is easy.
- There is no waiting period or minimum length of stay.
- Application for a marriage license must be made in person by both parties at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Documents required to apply for the license include a valid passport, original birth certificate or a certified copy, and the return tickets for both parties.
- If either party has been divorced, the original divorce decree or a certified copy must be presented.
- Likewise, if either party is widowed, a certified copy of the previous marriage certificate and death certificate are required.
- All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
- If neither party is a citizen or resident of Barbados, the fee is BDS$150.00 cash, with an additional $25.00 stamp fee.
http://www.visailing.com/articles/married-in-Caribbean/married-in-Caribbean
What Are The Healthcare Options?
The HDI in 2013 placed Barbados 38th of 187 developing and developed countries globally.
Barbados Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) is the country's primary acute care medical facility. Affiliated with the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
Smaller and privately run Bayview Hospital offers specialty services including reconstructive surgery. Barbados has the only Fertility Centre in the Caribbean.
Also available are the Sandy Crescent Medical Centre on the west coat and the FMH emergency Medical Clinic in St. Michael, both privately run medical clinics
There are other supporting Government run Polyclinics all over the Island providing medical treatment for minor and general health ailments.
Best-dosSantos Public Health Lab - first in the Caribbean to acquire test kits and reagents for COVID-19 detection
With the growing interest in non-traditional treatment methods, there are also many alternative health practitioners all over the island offering services such as herbal medicine, life coaching and Reiki practice.
Other Useful Facts
Water: is good to drink
Utilities: available 100% Island-wide
Telecommunications: Good
Barbados is easily accessible from most places in the world
Currency: Barbados Dollar (1US$ = BDS$2.00 approximately
Most credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and businesses: Visa, Amex, Master Card, Diners Club, En Route, Eurocard and Barclaycard.
Smaller restaurants and businesses operate on a cash-only basis.
Banks - mostly British and Canadian Banks, with ABM's that will accept credit cards but dispense only Barbados dollars.
Customs: 1 litre of potable spirits