3:56 pm
-4h from you
Weather in Barbados
Barbados
28°
Light drizzle
Sun
24
28
Mon
24
28
Tue
24
28
Wed
24
28
Thu
24
28
SPF level in Barbados
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Barbados
Tipping in Barbados
Tipping is customary in Barbados for good service. It's usually expected in restaurants and for other service-related roles.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill
Taxi
10% of the fare, or round up
Hotel Porter
1-2 BBD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 BBD per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour cost, or a fixed amount depending on the tour length and quality
Safety & security in Barbados
Tips for British travellers
Barbados is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark.
Take particular care around large gatherings, including street and beach parties, especially after dark or during the festival season.
Only use licensed taxis, and agree the fare in Barbados dollars before you set off.
Always take great care when swimming as currents can be deceptively strong and some beaches lack lifeguards or warning flags.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery.
Bonus tips:
It is illegal for anyone, including children, to wear camouflage clothing.
Do not show affection in public, such as holding hands or kissing, as it may attract unwanted negative attention.
Driving in Barbados
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
80 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
211
Ambulance
511
Fire
311
Save 211 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Barbados
Voltage
115V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
Cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in tourist areas, but smaller businesses may prefer cash. Always check before making a purchase.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Barbados
Good, especially in tourist areas and towns.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are widely available in Barbados, particularly in Bridgetown and other tourist hotspots. Ensure your card has a chip and PIN for easy transactions. Check with your bank about international transaction fees before you travel.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Barbados. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 100 BBD (~£40)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, GSM
Local carriers
Flow, Digicel
WiFi & internet
WiFi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist areas. Some public spaces may also offer free WiFi.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Internet access is generally good in Barbados, with many establishments offering WiFi. Mobile data is also an option, but can be expensive without a local SIM.
Health & vaccinations
While Barbados offers some free healthcare services to visitors, it's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including potential hospital stays and repatriation. Ensure your policy covers pre-existing conditions and a range of medical scenarios. GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Barbados.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
It's recommended to consult your GP or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date health advice before travelling to Barbados. Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations. Dengue fever, chikungunya and Zika virus are transmitted by mosquitoes, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, especially during dawn and dusk. Boil tap water before drinking, or drink bottled water.
Calling Barbados
Country code
+1-246
To call Barbados from the UK, dial 00 1-246 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Barbados from the UK, you would dial 00 1-246 430 7800.
The country code for Barbados is 1-246. When calling Barbados from abroad, you'll need to dial your country's exit code, followed by 1-246, and then the local number.
UK Embassy in Barbados
British High Commission Bridgetown
Lower Collymore Rock, St. Michael, Barbados
Frequently asked questions about Barbados
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.