About Barbados
Geography
Barbados is a coral island; pushed out of the sea by volcanic
activity in a far away time. The island is 21 miles long by 14
miles at its widest point, which equates to 166 square miles
Population
The population of Barbados is close to 300,000 with an ethnic mix
of 93% African descent 3% European descent 4% Others
Capital
The capital of Barbados is Bridgetown, with thriving retail trade
of local and duty free goods
Government
Independent from Britain since 1966 maintains the British style of
government with a Prime Minister and 2 parliamentary houses, the
third oldest parliament in existence.
Language
English, but a Barbadian dialect referred to as Bajan is spoken.
Currency
The Barbadian dollar is linked to the US dollar at $1.00 US to
$2.00 BD. US dollars are accepted along with most major credit
cards.
Banking Hours
Banks are open from 8a.m to 3.pm Mon – Thurs and until 5p.m on
Friday.
Electricity
Barbados runs on 110 volts, 50 cycles, and most European
appliances require adapters
Time
Barbados is -4 GMT or DST in winter and -5 GMT or EST in summer
Water
Islands water supply is clean and perfectly safe to drink.
Transportation
Bus fare is $2.00 BD or $1.00 US .Taxis are not hailed on the
street but must be called from Hotels, they are not metered so
price must be decided before journey. N.B free transportation will
be offered to and from selected hotels on Celebration days.
Climate
Always beautiful and sunny! Temperature hardly varies mid 20C
(80F) to low 30C (90F) Sun protection is recommended at all times
