BARBADOS

Nestled within the azure embrace of the Caribbean Sea, Barbados unfolds as a captivating tapestry of experiences, enticing a diverse array of travelers to its sun-kissed shores. This enchanting island destination beckons not only to the sunseeker, but to the connoisseur of culinary delights, the intrepid explorer, the avid historian, and the thrill-seeking adventurer.

The very name “Barbados” carries a sense of mystery and history, originating from either the Portuguese term “os barbudos” or the Spanish equivalent, “los barbudos,” both translating to “the bearded ones.” The etymology weaves tales of speculation, whether the term alludes to the cascading roots of the indigenous bearded fig-tree, the once-bearded Caribs who once called the island home, or perhaps whimsically conjures an image of a maritime beard formed by the frothy sea foam adorning the coral reefs that dance along its shores. In this rich blend of natural wonders and cultural intrigue, Barbados unfolds as a destination where every corner reveals a new facet of its captivating story.

Total Area: 439 km2 (169 sq mi)

Capital: Bridgetown

Country Code: +1 -246

Country Population: 287,025

Credit Cards: Visa, Amex, MasterCard, Diners Club, EnRoute, Eurocard, Barclaycard.

Currency: Barbadian dollar ($) (BBD)

Departure Tax: Departure Tax of BDS $55 (US $ 27.50) applies for all passengers over 2 years old leaving Barbados. Effective October 1, 2018 an additional fee has been added – passengers flying outside of the Caribbean region pay US$70 per person, and those flying within the Caribbean pay US$35 per person.

Drives: Left

Electricity: Electricity in Barbados is 110 volts/50 cycles.

Ethnic Groups: 91% Black, 4% White, 3.5% Multiracial, 1% Indian, 0.5% Other/Unspecified

Official Language(s): English, Creole

Religion: 75.6% Christianity, 20.6% No religion, 2.5% Others, 1.3% Unspecified

Time Zone: GMT -4

Tipping: Tipping in Barbados is discretionary and should reflect the service you have received, however, a service charge of between 10 to 15% is typically added to your bill in hotels and restaurants.