Barbados - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: There are severe penalties for all those caught possessing or dealing in illegal drugs.

The wearing of camouflage or military clothing, even by children, is illegal.

Casual dress is widely accepted, though visitors must cover up their swimwear when away from beach areas. Handshaking is the usual form of greeting.

Many of the larger hotels have excellent conference facilities, equipped to handle international conferences and trade shows. Office hours are Mon–Fri 0800–1600.

Immigration and customs: Passports must be valid for the intended length of stay. Visa requirements differ for each country and should be checked well in advance of travel.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate will be requested from those arriving from infected countries.

Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the left and car hire is available with a local driving permit. These can be purchased from car hire firms, the Ministry of Transport, or local police stations on production of a national driving licence.

The national speed limits are 40kph, 60kph and 80kph. The road network is good on most of the island.

An efficient, frequent and inexpensive bus service connects all major points on the island.

Taxis are widely available in Bridgetown as well as elsewhere on the island. Fares are government controlled but it is advisable to check the price of the journey before stepping into a taxi. Visitors can pay with US dollars as well as with local currency.

Mini-vans operate in much the same way as buses and are a fast and efficient means of getting around. There are no fixed schedules, but they can be flagged down anywhere on the island.

Travel health: Barbados has very good medical facilities. The country has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK, which allows British citizens access to free hospital treatment. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised for all other nationals.

Hepatitis B is present on Barbados and vaccination is sometimes advised. There is a low risk of dengue fever.

Those with asthma and hay fever may find that their symptoms are exacerbated during the sugar cane harvesting period.

Money: Local currency is the Barbados dollar. Commercial banks provide the best exchange rates and ATMs are available all over the island. The major credit cards are accepted in most resort areas, and travellers cheques can be cashed at any bank or at most of the larger hotels. Visitors are advised to take travellers cheques in US dollars or pounds sterling to avoid additional exchange charges. Banking hours are Mon–Thur 0800–1500 and Fri 0800–1700.

There were 547,534 tourist arrivals in 2005.