£1 BBD 2.78
Today
1:52 pm
-4h from you
Weather in Barbados
Barbados
28°
Partly cloudy
Wed
26
28
Thu
26
28
Fri
26
28
Sat
26
27
Sun
24
27
SPF level in Barbados
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Barbados
Tipping in Barbados
Tipping in Barbados is customary for good service. While not mandatory, it's a recognized way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill if a service charge isn't included. Check the bill first.
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill for good service
Taxi
10% of the fare is appreciated, especially for longer distances or assistance with luggage.
Hotel Porter
BBD 2-5 per bag, depending on the hotel.
Hotel Housekeeper
BBD 5-10 per day depending on service and type of accommodation.
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price for a good tour.
Safety & security in Barbados
Tips for British travellers
Barbados is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark to reduce the risk of crime.
Only use licensed taxis and agree the fare in Barbados dollars with the driver before you set off.
Leave valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or secure hotel safe.
Be mindful of motorized water sports equipment and strong currents when swimming at popular beaches.
It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing, even for children.
Bonus tips:
Always check current and warning flags before swimming as many beaches lack lifeguards and strong currents are common.
During the hurricane season from June to November, monitor local weather reports and official warnings closely.
Driving in Barbados
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
80 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.03%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
511
Save 511 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Barbados
Voltage
115V / 50 Hz
Plug types
A, B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
Card acceptance
Widely accepted
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: Check with your card provider for the international number
ATMs in Barbados
Availability
Good
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are widely available in Barbados, particularly in tourist areas and major towns. Chip and PIN are generally required.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider regarding international roaming charges in Barbados. Consider purchasing a local SIM card if you plan to use a lot of data.
Local SIM data package
5GB for BBD 50
Network coverage
4G, LTE, GSM
Local carriers
Flow, Digicel
WiFi & internet
WiFi coverage
Widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist zones.
Average speed
Varies
WiFi is usually available, though speed depends on the service. Many establishments offer free WiFi to customers. Check before purchase.
Health & vaccinations
Vaccinations required?
No
Health insurance
The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are not valid in Barbados. You should ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover the cost of any medical treatment you may need, repatriation, and other expenses.
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations, malaria prevention, and other health precautions. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.
Calling Barbados
Country code
+1246
Dial from UK
To call Barbados from the UK, dial 00 1 246 followed by the 7-digit local number.
Example
To call 430-7800 in Barbados from the UK, you would dial 00 1 246 430 7800.
Remember to dial the exit code 00, then the country code 1 followed by the area code 246 and the local number.
UK Embassy in Barbados
British High Commission Bridgetown
Lower Collymore Rock, St. Michael, Barbados
Frequently asked questions about Barbados
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.