UK
Coral Reefs, Colonial Charm & Caribbean
Cool Barbados blends British heritage with island soul—where cricket meets calypso and rum flows as freely as the sea breeze. For UK travellers, it’s a refined yet relaxed escape, offering golden beaches, botanical gardens, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) take around 8–9 hours, often direct. Barbados is also a popular embarkation point for Caribbean cruises.
Airlines
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct service. Other carriers include TUI, American Airlines, and JetBlue.
Landmark
Travel Season
- December–April: Dry season, ideal for beach holidays and festivals
- May–November: Wet season with tropical showers and hurricane risk
- July–August: Crop Over Festival season—Barbados’ biggest cultural celebration
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Barbadian Dollar (BBD); US dollars widely accepted
- Cards accepted in resorts and restaurants; cash preferred in markets
- ATMs available in Bridgetown and major towns
- Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants is standard
Connectivity
- Good Wi-Fi in hotels and resorts
- Local SIMs: Digicel, Flow
- Coverage is solid across the island
Getting Around
- Taxis and rental cars are common
- Driving is on the left (UK-style)
- Public minibuses and ZR vans offer budget transport
- No rail network
Time Zone
- Atlantic Standard Time (AST) – GMT-4 (no daylight saving)
Etiquette & Culture
- English is the official language
- Bajans are friendly, proud, and community-oriented
- Greet with a smile or handshake
- Respect for local customs and Crop Over traditions is appreciated
Top Destinations
- Bridgetown: Historic sites, shopping, and nightlife
- Holetown: Upscale dining and boutique shopping
- St. Lawrence Gap: Bars, restaurants, and beach clubs
- Bathsheba: Surfing and dramatic coastal views
- Speightstown: Local charm and art galleries
- Hunte’s Gardens: Lush botanical escape in the hills
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Cou-cou and flying fish (national dish), Macaroni pie, Fish cakes, Pudding and souse
- Drinks: Rum punch, Mauby, Banks beer, coconut water
- Tap water is safe
- Friday night fish fries in Oistins are a must for local flavour
personal_bag What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen
- Power adapter (Type A/B – 115V)
- Insect repellent and waterproof gear (wet season)
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (Dec–Apr): Ideal for beach holidays and outdoor activities
- Crop Over Festival (Jul–Aug): Parades, music, and cultural pride
- Shoulder season (May & Nov): Fewer crowds and lush scenery
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Barbados is safe in tourist areas; exercise caution at night in isolated spots
- Emergency number: 211 (police), 511 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid; mosquito precautions advised
- UK citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 6 months