Barbados
Endless miles of white, powdery sand, exotic, lush green botanical gardens, a rich Colonial history, acres of sugar plantations and some of the warmest and friendliest people in the Caribbean - that’s Barbados! Its special character comes from the huge Afro-Caribbean influence which is evident in the island’s music, dance and cuisine. The capital, Bridgetown, is home to the third oldest Parliament in the Commonwealth and the statue of Lord Nelson in National Heroes Square (formerly Trafalgar Square) is older than the one in Trafalgar Square, London by some 30 years. Tax-free shopping is a big draw with trendy boutiques carrying designer labels and department stores offering all the best-known brands.
The sights
Historic plantation houses offer an insight into Bajan life under Colonial rule. While some may now be reduced to ruin there are frequently parks on these premises which offer stunning views of the coast. There is much to captivate all ages at the Barbados Museum, once the British Detention Barracks. Many of the galleries here are in renovated prison cells. Enjoy an afternoon at one of the rum distilleries or see where Barbados’ prize-winning Banks beer is brewed, or if it’s a family day you’re after, unleash the history stored within the walls of an old sugar cane factory. Snorkelling and submarine trips are popular ways to view the treasures of the depths or alternatively, choose from numerous yachts and sailing excursions around the island.
In a nutshell
Barbados claims to be the most visited island in the Caribbean and has its own very special warmth and charm. Driving on the left gives a feeling of home, but there is no mistaking that you are far from our cooler shores. A holiday in Barbados can be as leisurely or as active as you wish with glorious beaches, sightseeing and countless restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Don’t forget to try the island’s famous (or should that be infamous) rum punch!
The facts
Geography: Located in the southern Caribbean a mere 14 miles by 21 miles and covering 166 square miles with St Vincent and St Lucia being its closest neighbours. The population is some 266,800 (92% is of African descent, 4% European, 3% of mixed descent and 1% Indian and Asian). It became a British Colony in 1627, but gained its independence on 30 November 1966 whilst continuing to be part of the British Commonwealth.
Language: English, but the Bajan dialect is widely spoken.
Passports: You will need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months beyond your date of return.
Visas: Not required for British passport holders for stays of less than three months as long as you have a return ticket.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and BWIA fly to Barbados. The travelling time from London to Barbados is around 8 hours.
Local time: GMT -4 hours.
Currency: Barbados dollar. US dollars are readily accepted and US traveller’s cheques are probably more useful than sterling. However, sterling can be changed to Barbados dollars at any bank on the island as well as at most hotels and at the end of the holiday any remaining Barbados dollars can be reconverted to sterling at the exchange bureau at the airport.
Best times to travel: With 3000 hours of sunshine a year and the north east trade winds keeping the temperature at a constant 27-30ºC and just enough rainfall to keep things green, almost any time of the year is good. The driest period, though, is from January to April and June to December can be wetter, although the rain never lasts long. November is the most unpredictable time to travel. Hurricane season is not such a threat here, as generally hurricanes cross the region further north.
