Know Before You Go: Barbados
Travel Seen has put together all the details you need to know before you go…
And it holds a special place in the hearts of the team here at Travel Seen too. Many of whom have visited multiple times and know all of Barbados’ best kept travel secrets.
Tempted to book your next luxury holiday to Barbados? Here are all the details we think you should know before you go…
Where is Barbados?
In the Caribbean, in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies, lies the island country of Barbados.
The most eastern of the islands, it is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean.
What is Barbados like?
If you’re looking for a destination that packs a (rum) punch, Barbados is it. The coral island has 80 white sand beaches to pick from, offering diverse stretches of coast ranging from surfing at the Soup Bowl on the east coast, to swimming with turtles on the famous platinum west coast.
Food and drink is a big part of Bajan culture, so you’ll discover 1,500 rum shops and plenty of fish shacks to try the island fare (find out more below).
The interior of the island is tropical, featuring everything from a wildlife reserve teaming with green monkeys to 53 acres of botanical gardens at The Flower Forest.
And while it might be famous for the likes of Rihanna and Sir Garfield Sobers, it’s the warm and welcoming local people that often leave the biggest imprint on visitors’ experience.
How do I get to Barbados?
A direct flight from London to Barbados Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) will take you around 8hours and 40minutes.
As with all destinations some months are cheaper to fly to Barbados than others; namely September and November.
British carriers to fly direct include Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and TUI.
What is the weather like in Barbados?
With 3,000 hours of sunshine a year there’s no bad time to visit Barbados. Average daily temperatures are a dreamy 26C, with water temperatures around the same… year-round!
Tradewinds offer a gentle breeze and the evenings are cooler.
The two seasons are dry (our winter and spring) when the temperatures are lower and there is less chance of rain; this is the peak Barbados holiday season. And wet season (our summer and autumn), which is warmer with more rain.
What is the food like in Barbados?
Delicious! As you’d expect from an island nation there is a strong focus on fish and seafood, teamed with homegrown produce and washed down with a classic rum punch.
Be sure to try the local favourites; rice and peas, West Indian curries and sweet plantains, as well as the national dish cou cou; made with corn meal, okras and flying fish.
The street food is incredible, where food trucks and fish shacks serve up tasty fast food. Ostin’s Fish Market is the pinnacle of this kind of experience and a must-do for every visitor.
But Barbados does high end culinary fare too. Try a dining and rum experience at the 1703 Mount Gay Rum Bar at The House. And the Lobster & Jazz Brunch at Colony Club.
Facts about Barbados for travellers
Language: English
Time zone: GMT – 5 hours
Currency: Barbados Dollar
Visas: British travellers don’t need a Visa for Barbados but do require (like all countries) a passport and valid return ticket, with your passport valid for the duration of your stay.
Best for: everyone! For a honeymoon Barbados has romance aplenty. Children love the beaches, watersports and forest experiences. There are spas, a high-end shopping mall, sports grounds and golf courses for grown-ups. And of course there are accommodation choices ranging from large villas for groups or families travelling together, to single occupancy rooms with a sunset view of the sea.
Will there be Covid restrictions at my Barbados hotel?
Covid-19 restrictions around the world are constantly being updated, and your Travel Seen Specialist will be able to advise on the most up-to-date guidance for Barbados before you travel.
This link offers some useful information from Visit Barbados. At the time of writing, fully vaccinated travellers do not need to test before travel to Barbados, and masks are only required in some indoor settings.
Did you know?
- ‘Road Tennis’ originated in Barbados around 1910. Today courts are marked out in car parks and other paved surfaces for players to have a fast-paced game.
- Cane sugar is one of the island’s most well-known exports, and even has its own festival each year: Crop Over.
- The capital city of the island Bridgetown, and its historic Garrison, have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.
Feel inspired to head to Barbados for your next luxury holiday? The Travel Seen team can help with offers, top tips and hotel inspiration. Check out our Been & Seen collection here.
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