Compare Barbados Holidays

Barbados Overview

Barbados, the pearl of the Caribbean, is the eastern-most Caribbean island. It is actually an enormous and ancient coral reef that was formed approximately one million years ago. It has been dubbed 'the real fantasy island', an appellation that points to its exotic resorts and glorious beaches.

It enjoys 340 days of sunshine a year, numerous well-developed amenities, a throbbing nightlife and friendly inhabitants, making it one of the most desirable holiday destinations.

The islanders call themselves 'Bajans', West Indian by descent, although largely shaped by English custom and culture. These 'influences' pervade much of the island, most evident in the Anglican stone churches (the island is divided into numerous parishes) and in the many cricket games played on the village greens.

The 'Little England' legacy dates back to colonial days when the sugar industry reigned supreme. Barbados gained self-government in 1966, and now tourism rather than sugar is the mainstay of the local economy.

The island is a pear-shaped, 20-mile (32km) stretch of soft coral, which is permeated by water and over time has formed fascinating underground caverns. The coral reefs enveloping most of the island entice tourists to its picturesque shores.

Money

The Barbados Dollar (BBD) is fixed to the US Dollar at a rate of Bd$1.98 to US$1 and does not fluctuate. Its rate is relative to other currencies fluctuations based on the particular currency's relation to the US Dollar. US Dollars are also widely accepted on the island, and well-known international credit cards and travellers cheques (best carried in US dollars to avoid additional charges) are accepted in most stores and restaurants. Banks and ATMs are freely available and cash withdrawals can be made.

Time

GMT -5.

Language

English is the official language.

Climate

The weather is mostly sunny and fair in tropical Barbados, withan average of high daytime temperatures of 75 to 85°F (24 to29°C). These hot conditions are tempered by the prevailing cool northeast tradewinds. The dry season occurs from January to June and the hurricane season extends from June to October. Hurricanes, however, usually miss Barbados. Instead the island experiences some spectacular tropical rainstorms. These are usually short and heavy spells that dry up quickly.

Current Weather Conditions for Bridgetown, , BB

Now 25°C Windchill: 25°C Mostly Cloudy

Location: Bridgetown, , BB Wind: 32 kph E Humidity: 78% Visibility: 0.1 km Pressure: 1,013 mb steady Sunrise: 6:16 am Sunset: 6:04 pm

Thu High: 28°C Low: 24°C Scattered Showers/Wind

Fri High: 28°C Low: 24°C Scattered Showers

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