Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Barbados depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for BarbadosEmergency Numbers
- General
- 911
Currency
- Name
- Barbadian Dollar
- Code
- BBD
- Symbol
- Bds$
Pegged at 2:1 to the USD, which is also universally accepted. ATMs widespread. Cards accepted almost everywhere. One of the Caribbean's most developed tourist infrastructures.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type A, Type B
- Voltage
- 115V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
AST (UTC−4) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
December–April is dry season — peak season with the best weather. July–August brings the Crop Over festival (the Caribbean's most spectacular carnival after Trinidad). The Atlantic east coast has powerful surf; the calm Caribbean west coast is best for swimming.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10–15% | Service charge (10%) usually included — check the bill; additional tip appreciated |
| Taxis | 10% | — |
| Hotels | Bds$2–5 for porters | — |
| Water sports operators | $5–10 USD | — |
Dress Code
- Casual and tropical throughout
- Modest dress in Bridgetown (capital) and away from the beach
- Smart casual for upmarket restaurants on the Platinum Coast
Social Etiquette
- Bajans (Barbadians) are warm, proud, and direct — they will tell you exactly what they think
- Cricket is the national religion — any knowledge of the West Indies' cricket history will endear you immediately
- Barbados became a republic in 2021 — removing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state was a significant moment; Barbadians remain proud of their history and identity
- Rum shops (local bars) are the social heart of every community — welcome all
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- LGBTQ+ activity was decriminalised in 2022 — a landmark ruling; social attitudes vary
- Marijuana was decriminalised in 2019 — personal possession of small amounts
- Swimming at Accra Beach and many public beaches: beware of strong rip currents on the east coast
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Bajan English) | Wuh gine on? / Hey man! | wuh GINE on — 'what's going on' |
| Everything's fine (Bajan) | Sweet | SWEET — the ultimate Bajan affirmation |
| No problem (Bajan) | No worries / Everything's cool | standard Bajan response to almost anything |
| Cheers! | Cheers! / Here's to it! | with a Banks beer or Mount Gay rum |
| Friend (Bajan slang) | Me son / Me bredren | meh SON / meh BRED-ren |
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