Moving to BARBADOS

Have you decided to Move to Barbados ?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

General Overview

• Official country name: Barbados
• Location: Caribbean, North America
• Capital city: Bridgetown
• Official language: English
• Currency: Barbadian Dollar (BBD)
• Time zone: UTC -4

Culture & Traditions

• Key customs: Bajans are friendly and polite; greetings are important. Punctuality is relaxed. Respect for elders is valued.
• Number of official public holidays: 12 days
  • New Year’s Day, Errol Barrow Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, National Heroes Day, Labour Day, Whit Monday, Emancipation Day, Kadooment Day, Independence Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day
• Main traditional dishes & local drinks:
  • Dishes: Flying fish and cou-cou, macaroni pie, pudding and souse, fish cakes
  • Drinks: Rum punch, mauby, sorrel drink
• Languages spoken daily: English (official), Bajan Creole (informally spoken)
• Common expressions:
  • “Wuh gine on?” (What’s going on?)
  • “Lime” (Hang out/socialize)
• Clothing & behavioral norms: Casual wear is common, but beachwear is inappropriate in cities. Business settings require formal attire.

Demographics & Society

• Total population: Approximately 280,000
• Major ethnic groups: Predominantly of African descent, with small European and mixed communities
• Main religion(s): Christianity (mostly Anglican, Pentecostal, and Catholic)
• General safety level: Generally safe, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas
• Attitude towards foreigners & diversity: Warm and welcoming; tourism is a major industry, so visitors and expatriates are well received

Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city: Bridgetown (110,000 people) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture and vibrant markets
• Other major cities:
  • Speightstown (4,000 people) – Historic port town with museums and beachside cafes
  • Oistins (3,000 people) – Famous for its lively Friday night fish fry
  • Holetown (1,500 people) – The first English settlement in Barbados, now a luxury shopping and dining hub
• Must-visit regions & landmarks:
  • Harrison’s Cave (stalactites and underground waterfalls)
  • Bathsheba Beach (scenic surf spot)
  • St. Nicholas Abbey (historic plantation house and rum distillery)

Weather & Climate

• Type of climate: Tropical, warm year-round
• Average seasonal temperatures:
  • Winter: 24-28°C
  • Summer: 26-31°C
• Best times to visit: December to April (dry season)

Practical Information

• Entry requirements: Passport required; visa-free entry for many nationalities for short stays
• Local transportation: Public minibuses, ZR vans (shared taxis), regular taxis, and rental cars
• Cost of living:
  • Housing: $800–$2,500 USD/month (varies by location)
  • Food: Mid-range dining costs around $10–$30 per meal
  • Transportation: $1 USD per bus ride, taxis are costly
• Electrical outlets & voltage: Type A/B, 115V
• Emergency numbers: 211 (police), 311 (fire), 511 (ambulance)

Visitor Tips

• Gestures & taboos: Avoid swearing in public (can lead to fines). Showing disrespect to local culture is frowned upon.
• Specific regulations: Public drinking is allowed, but drunk behavior is not tolerated. Strict drug laws.
• Tips for integrating locally: Engage in local events, be polite, and respect cultural traditions.
• Potential risks: Mosquito-borne illnesses (use repellent), hurricane season from June to November.