Barbados

Barbados, known as the 'pearl of the Caribbean', is the eastern-most Caribbean island, and is actually an enormous and ancient coral reef that was formed approximately one million years ago. It has been dubbed 'the real fantasy island', an appellation that points to its exotic resorts and glorious beaches. Enjoying 340 days of sunshine a year, numerous well-developed amenities, a throbbing nightlife and friendly inhabitants, it is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean.

Barbados islanders, calling themselves 'Bajans', are West Indian by descent, although largely shaped by English customs and culture. These influences pervade much of the island, most evident in the Anglican stone churches (the island is divided into numerous parishes) and in the many cricket games played on the village greens. The 'Little England' legacy dates back to colonial days when the sugar industry reigned supreme. Barbados gained self-government in 1966, and now tourism, rather than sugar, is the mainstay of the local economy.

The island is a pear-shaped, 20-mile (32km) stretch of soft coral, which is permeated by water and over time has formed fascinating underground caverns. The coral reefs enveloping most of the island entice tourists to its picturesque shores for activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and watersports.

Climate

The weather is mostly sunny and fair in tropical Barbados, with an average of high daytime temperatures of 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C). These hot conditions are tempered by the prevailing cool northeast tradewinds. The dry season occurs from January to June and the hurricane season extends from June to October. Hurricanes, however, usually miss Barbados. Instead the island experiences some spectacular tropical rainstorms. These are usually short and heavy spells that dry up quickly.

Money

The Barbados Dollar (BBD) is fixed to the US Dollar at a rate of Bd$1.98 to US$1 and does not fluctuate. Its rate is relative to other currencies fluctuations based on the particular currency's relation to the US Dollar. US Dollars are also widely accepted on the island, and well-known international credit cards and travellers cheques (best carried in US dollars to avoid additional charges) are accepted in most stores and restaurants. Banks and ATMs are freely available and cash withdrawals can be made.

Passport Visa

All tourists require a return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds and documents for onward travel. Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay.

Entry Requirements

• US nationals require a valid passport. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.
• British nationals require a valid passport. No visa for stays of up to six months is required, irrespective of endorsement in passport regarding national status.
• Canadian nationals require a valid passport, but no visa for stays up to six months.
• Australian nationals require a valid passport, but no visa for stays of up to six months.
• South African nationals require a valid passport. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.
• Irish nationals require a valid passport, but no visa for stays of up to six months.
• New Zealand nationals require a valid passport, but no visa for stays of up to six months.

Health

There are no mandatory requirements regarding vaccinations for visitors to Barbados, however a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from infected areas, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for those aged over two years. There has been an increase in the outbreaks of dengue fever and mosquito repellent is strongly recommended. Medical care is good but very expensive and serious cases are usually transferred overseas (usually to the USA). Health insurance is therefore strongly recommended.

Embassy Consulates

• Embassy of Barbados, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 939 9200.
• Barbados High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for South Africa): +44 020 7631 4975.
• High Commission of Barbados, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 9517.
• Consulate of Barbados, Auckland, New Zealand: +64 09 473 5949.

Foreign Embassies

• Embassy of the United States of America, Bridgetown: +1 246 227 4000.
• British High Commission, Bridgetown: +1 246 430 7800.
• Canadian High Commission, Bridgetown: +1 246 629 3550.
• Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for Barbados): +1 868 822 5450.
• South African High Commission, Kingston, Jamaica (also responsible for Barbados): + 1 876 620 4840.
• Mission of Ireland to the UN, New York, United States (also responsible for Barbados): +1 212 421 6934.
• New Zealand High Commission, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Barbados): +1 613 238 5991.