Holidays in Barbados
Barbados is famous for its legendary golf courses. You will recognise many familiar English place names such as Brighton, Dover, and Newcastle although Trafalgar Square in Bridgetown has been renamed National Heroes Square.
The island has a rich history as a former British colony and the people are very friendly and welcoming. Try the local street food at Oistins every Friday or take a walk in Bridgetown and sample even more eateries.
- Popular
- Wide choice of accommodation
- Good beaches
We love Barbados for
When to go to Barbados
The high season runs from mid December to mid April when hotel prices will rise and you will need to book up to a year in advance to get the best deals.
We recommend that you try travelling to Barbados at other times if you are not bound by school holidays, where you will find some great hotel and airfare deals. Check out our latest deals to Barbados with Virgin Atlantic or British Airways.
Weather in Barbados
February to May are the driest months in Barbados. The average temperature during the dry season is 27°C and 29°C during the wet season from June to November. Hurricanes are most likely between June and October and July is the wettest month.
Flight time
Approx 9 Hours
Time difference
GMT -5 Hours (Atlantic Standard Time)
High season
Mid Dec – Mid April
Temperature
29°/23°
Barbados in essence
Local information
Currency – The Barbados dollar is pegged to the US dollar at B$2 to US$1
Tipping – Restaurant and hotel staff expect 10-15% of the bill and a small amount if the service is already included.
Voltage – This varies from 110 to 220 volts depending on the hotel so best to check directly.
Country dialing code is +246
Departure tax – This is normally included in the price of your air ticket.
Need to know
Emergencies - Dial 211 for police emergencies and 311 for Fire and 511 for an ambulance.
Security in Barbados – Many visitors travel to the island each year and do not have any incidents however we recommend that you do not walk about in Nelson Street in Bridgetown at night and exercise caution at all times. Take advice from the locals as to any city areas you should avoid at all times and do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach. Use your hotel safe or security boxes to store your valuables. Avoid driving at night outside towns.
Other risks - When taking a boat trip check that the boat operator has sails or oars in the event of an engine breakdown, a radio and lifejackets and equipment in the event of a fire. Accidents do happen and boats can break down. When sourcing a water sport provider that is not affiliated to your hotel, make sure they are properly licenced to provide those services, avoid approaches on the beach from vendors offering water sport.