© Mark Janssen
Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands. Flying-time from the United Kingdom is approximately 8 ½ hours. Most airlines offer a direct flight that arrives into Grantley Adams International Airport at approximately 3PM in the afternoon.
Barbados is now independent and has a democratic regime. Independence day is celebrated on the 30th November each year.
Barbados is an island and therefore is surrounded by water. The east of the island borders the Atlantic Ocean and the west of the island the Caribbean Sea. This makes for two different types of coastline. The beaches in the West are those most associated with the Caribbean, whilst the eastern beaches are mostly deserted with big waves ideal for windsurfing. It is not recommended to venture into the Atlantic Ocean due to the strong currents and high waves. The Caribbean Sea is warm all year round and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Because Barbados is in the Caribbean, it enjoys sunshine throughout the year. The average daily temperature fluctuates between 25 and 32 degrees in the day and between 20 and 25 degrees in the evening throughout the year. Rainfall is more prevalent during the winter months where a small drop in temperature can also be felt (temperatures are more likely to be at the lower scale of the aforementioned temperatures).
Electricity is supplied on a 220V cycle, so do not expect your English electrical equipment you took with you to work on full power. You will also need a two-pin adapter.
Tap water is safe to drink and in my opinion it tastes better than back home!
The official language spoken in Barbados is English, though most local people speak with a local accent and Bajan dialect. The official currency is the Barbados Dollar but the US Dollar is widely accepted. Both currencies are linked with approximately 2 Barbados Dollars to the US Dollar.
Click here to continue with the tour of the island of Barbados.