Country guide - Barbados  

 
 

Introduction: Barbados is an island that offers sun, two seas & salt-water bathing The island abounds with exotic locations and exciting history. The extensive variety of culture, sports and activities make Barbados the pearl of the Caribbean island world. Barbados has a well developed standard of living, education, medical care and transportation. The people are friendly and the climate warm year-round.

Official Name: Barbados
Area: 431 sq km (166 sq miles)
Population: 277,000
Continent: Caribbean/North America
Density per square mile: 1,666
Capital City: Bridgetown
Religions: Anglican 40%, Methodist 7%, Pentecostal 8%, Roman Catholic 4%.

Language: English
Government: Independent state within the British Commonwealth

Currency: Barbados dollar
GDP: $4 Billion
GDP Per Head: $14,500

Natural Resources: Fish, Natural Gas & Petroleum.
Land Use: Arable Land 37%
Agriculture: Cotton, Sugarcane & Vegetables.
Industry: Agriculture, Fishing, Sugar, Tourism, Light Manufacturing & Component assembly for export.

Tourism: Barbados is a relatively flat island with an abundant supply of large gradually sloping beaches fringing the land. Barbados has a number of sites of historical, architectural and natural interest. The best time to go to Barbados is during the cooler, drier months of late winter and early spring (February to May).

Natural Hazards: Infrequent Hurricanes & Periodic Landslides
Health Risks: Dengue fever, diarrhea and intestinal parasites; leptospirosis can be present in freshwater streams

Climate: Barbados has a tropical maritime climate.The dry season is relatively cool and occurs between December to May. The wet season between June and December, is hotter with higher humidity and greater rainfall. Average annual precipitation varies from around 1,000 mm (39 inches) in the coastal areas to 2,280 mm (90 inches) in the central ridge area. Average temperature ranges for Bridgetown are from 21 to 28 degrees Celsius in February to 23 to 30 degrees Celsius in June or September.

Time: GMT/UTC hours
National Days: November 30

Visas: Visas are required for citizens from the People's Republic of China, Taiwan, Pakistan, non-Commonwealth African countries and all South American countries except Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela. All visitors are officially required to be in possession of an onward or return ticket.

British Embassy Details

 

The contents above, from www.bestbackpackersinsurance.co.uk is for information purposes only and we have tried to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible. We cannot accept any responsibility for any inconvenience, loss or injury as a result of the information above. You should always check and verify any critical information like visas, health and safety and customs with the relevant authorities before you travel since information can change at any time.