Barbados is the easternmost island in the Caribbean, sitting at around 13°N and 59°W. It spans approximately 166.4 square miles and is divided into 11 parishes. Four well-known towns—Speightstown, Holetown, Oistins, and the capital, Bridgetown—are each located in different parishes.
With over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, Barbados enjoys warm, pleasant weather year-round. Gentle northeast trade winds help keep temperatures comfortable, usually between 84–88°F (29–31°C). During the summer, it’s rare for the temperature to go above 90°F (32°C).
English is the official language, though you’ll often hear locals chatting in the lively Bajan dialect.
The country is a democracy. Its House of Assembly, modeled after Britain’s parliamentary system, is the third-oldest legislative body in the Western Hemisphere.
As of 2019, Barbados has about 287,025 residents, with a workforce of roughly 154,988 people.
Barbados has some of the best healthcare facilities in the Eastern Caribbean, with two main hospitals—The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Bayview Hospital—plus well-equipped clinics like the 24-hour Randall Philips Polyclinic and the Winston Scott Polyclinic. There are also several health centers, nursing homes, and private emergency clinics, including FMH Emergency Medical Clinic and Sandy Crest Medical Centre.
GDP US $2.10 billion (2019) Per Capita Income (2018): US $9,411.39 Unemployment (2017): 9.49% Average Inflation (2018): 3.69%
The Barbados dollar (BDS) is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of US$1.00 = BDS$1.98. Approximate exchange rates: £1.00 = BDS$2.48 CAD$1.00 = BDS$1.43 €1.00 = BDS$2.18 U.S. currency is widely accepted, and most hotels, restaurants, and large retail stores accept traveler’s checks and major credit cards.
In Bridgetown, shops typically operate Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Malls and other retail outlets outside the city generally open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Most businesses are closed on Sundays, though some supermarkets and convenience stores remain open.
Barbados is four hours behind GMT in winter and five hours behind in summer. It is one hour ahead of US Eastern Standard Time in winter and aligns with Eastern Daylight Saving Time during summer.
Barbados has a state-of-the-art telecommunications network with digital and fiber-optic technology. International direct dialing, fax, satellite services, internet access, email, express mail, and courier deliveries are readily available. The country code is (1-246), followed by a seven-digit local number.
GDP US $2.10 billion (2019) Per Capita Income (2018): US $9,411.39 Unemployment (2017): 9.49% Average Inflation (2018): 3.69%
The Barbados dollar (BDS) is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of US$1.00 = BDS$1.98. Approximate exchange rates: £1.00 = BDS$2.48 CAD$1.00 = BDS$1.43 €1.00 = BDS$2.18 U.S. currency is widely accepted, and most hotels, restaurants, and large retail stores accept traveler’s checks and major credit cards.
In Bridgetown, shops typically operate Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Malls and other retail outlets outside the city generally open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Most businesses are closed on Sundays, though some supermarkets and convenience stores remain open.
Barbados is four hours behind GMT in winter and five hours behind in summer. It is one hour ahead of US Eastern Standard Time in winter and aligns with Eastern Daylight Saving Time during summer.
Barbados has a state-of-the-art telecommunications network with digital and fiber-optic technology. International direct dialing, fax, satellite services, internet access, email, express mail, and courier deliveries are readily available. The country code is (1-246), followed by a seven-digit local number.
A range of well-maintained vehicles is available from reputable local agencies. Visitors must be over 25 and present a valid driver’s license to obtain a Barbadian driving permit, which costs BDS$100.00 (US$50.00). Many rental companies can issue this permit upon vehicle delivery.
Taxis are not metered, with fares set between specific points. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
A 17.5% VAT is included in shop and supermarket prices. Hotels add a 7.5% VAT and a 10% service charge. When dining, a tip of 10–15% is customary, but check your bill first—some restaurants already add a 10% service fee.
Since the weather is warm and tropical, pack light, breathable clothing like shorts, T-shirts, wraps, and sundresses for day-to-day wear. Evenings tend to be “elegantly casual.” Keep swimwear for the beach, and dress more modestly when shopping or dining.
Feel free to enjoy the tap water! It’s safe, clean, and refreshing.
Barbados uses 110/220 volts, 50 cycle electricity. Many hotels offer converters if you need one. North American appliances typically work without any adapter.
© The Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association 2025
