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 Barbados is a diverse island with a
beautiful, calm coastline on the west of
the island, known for
fantastic beaches
and a rugged eastern coast renowned
for its natural beauty.
Language
The official language of Barbados is English.
Capital
The capital of Barbados is Bridgetown
Politics
Barbados is an independent state within the British Commonwealth.
Population
Approximately 280,000 - locals are called Bajans. Barbados has one a well-earned reputation for some of the best educated people in the Caribbean and one of the highest populations per square mile in the Caribbean.
The People
The majority of the population are descended from African slaves that were brought to Barbados during the 17th century, along with descendants of the original European settlers and plantocrats. There are also many transplanted nationals from other Caribbean islands such as Trinidad & Tobago, as well as Indian, Middle Eastern and many other cultures.
Economy
The Barbados economy is primarily based on tourism. Major exports include clothing, food products (hot sauces & other products) electronic components, building cement, sugar and rum.
Money
The Barbados dollar (BDS$) is the official currency. The exchange rate is about $2.00 Bds. to U.S.$1.00, although commercial banks will usually exchange for slightly less.
Credit Cards are widely accepted and can be used at the majority of ATM cash machines across the island. Most establishments also accept travelers checks.
Barbados has a 15% value added tax on most services, although this has been reduced to 7.5% for many tourism related services such as hotels, villa rentals etc.
Sunrise
Because of its position relative to the equator, the sun
rises at approximately 5:30 a.m. and sets at approximately
6:00 p.m. year round.
Electricity Supply
110 Volts AC/50 Cycles
Timezone
Atlantic Standard Time (four hours later than Greenwich Meantime, one hour earlier than Eastern Standard Time) - Barbados does not follow daylight savings time and therefore the timezone varies slightly depending on the time of year.
Water
The water around the island is filtered through the coral rock, with very little chemical treatment, so it is safe to drink.
Religions
Anglican, Baptist, Christian Science, Jewish, Methodist, Moravian and Roman Catholic are represented.
Most guidebooks will be able to advise of locations.
Communications and Media
Telephone (direct-dial to most places in the world), television (one local station and cable services) and several newspapers. The area code for Barbados is 246.
Postal Service
The General Post Office is located at Cheapside in Bridgetown, and there are district Post Offices in every parish. Red post boxes can also be found and set in walls throughout the island. The Barbados Postal Service offers a modern and efficient service, including parcel post, registered mail and guaranteed delivery. |
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