Whether you’re looking to relax, or start an adventure, Barbados is your perfect island getaway! Friendly people, exceptional cuisine, quintessential experiences – it really has it all! Plus, they enjoy 3,000 hours of sunshine and an average temperature of 28 degrees all year round. Sounds perfect for this winter, doesn’t it?
It is home to some of the best hotels and restaurants in the Caribbean and amazing varied beaches.
And while in other Caribbean countries you have to venture out with organised excursions, in Barbados you can explore independently without worrying about your security!
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Barbados is July to November. Luxury resorts drop their prices as much as 50% and there are several festivals to attend. Temperatures stay between mid 20s and 30s year-round. So there’s really no reason to visit during their peak season (December-April)!
Where to go
We’ve divided the island into six parts:
North coast
You’ll find high cliffs that overlook small bays and coves. It’s a great place to take some pictures, have a picnic, but it’s definitely NOT recommended for swimming.
West coast
You’ll find narrow, picture perfect beaches with white sand and turquoise, calm, clear waters. As the location for many of the most exclusive luxury hotels and villas in the island, you will also find a great deal of bars and restaurants along the beaches.
The boardwalk is located in the Holetown area and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a beachside stroll and spectacular sunsets.
South coast
This area is famous for its lively beaches suitable for all sorts of water sports: boogie boarding, windsurfing, kite surfing and surfing!
East coast
The unspoiled part of the island; where you’ll find natural swimming pools formed by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. But if you’re looking for a tranquil place to sunbathe and have a picnic, head over to Bath beach. Be sure to book in advance because it has limited places to stay!
Interior
You’ll find magnificent sights in the island’s interior such as botanic gardens, plantation houses and caves nestled among the fields of sugar cane.
Bridgetown
The historic Garrison area was recently added to the UNESCO’s world heritage list. You’ll find all the duty-free shops, historic buildings, churches, synagogues, parks and a beautiful waterfront. A day tour is still a must!
Know before you go…
Although Barbados is one of the safer islands in the Caribbean, be wary of your surroundings whenever you’re exposing valuables in public.
Topless sunbathing is against the law on Barbados.
Flight time: Around 8 1/2 hours from London.
Currency: Most things are priced in Barbados dollars (BDS $) but larger payments can be made in US dollars, though you’ll be given change in Barbados dollars. The common exchange rate is fixed at BDS$1.98 to US$1.
Health: Barbados has got excellent medical facilities in Bridgetown. For minor sicknesses, hotels will have a doctor on call.
Don’t worry about the water because their tap water is safe to drink!
Tipping: The usual norm in restaurants is 10-15% of your bill (but it’s often added to the bill automatically), 10% in hotels and 10% in taxis.
Emergency numbers:
- British High Commission: 001 246 430 7800
- Police: 211
- Fire: 311
- Ambulance: 511
Have we convinced you yet? Explore the diversity and tranquillity of the beautiful island of Barbados!
