Visiting Countries and Communities

Barbados Visitor Guide ...

Find places to stay and things to do in Barbados

Barbados is a beautiful Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here's a comprehensive guide for visitors, including the best places to visit and the ideal times of the year to go.

Best Times to Visit Barbados

Probably the best time to visit Barbados is from late November/December to April. During this period, the weather is dry, sunny, and warm, making it perfect for beach lounging and outdoor adventures. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you're looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons: May to June: Still relatively dry, but with fewer tourists. November: Right before the high season starts, offering pleasant weather and more affordable rates.

Key Attractions and Activities

Beaches

Crane Beach: Known for its pink sand and powerful waves, it's ideal for both relaxation and surfing.

Carlisle Bay: Famous for its calm, turquoise waters and shipwrecks, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Bottom Bay: A more secluded spot with dramatic cliffs and coconut trees.

Historical Sites

George Washington House: Visit the house where the first U.S. president stayed, offering a glimpse into Barbados' colonial history.

St. Nicholas Abbey: A well-preserved plantation house, distillery, and museum that dates back to the 17th century.

Natural Wonders

Harrison's Cave: Explore this stunning limestone cave system with underground streams, waterfalls, and stalactites.

Andromeda Botanic Gardens: A beautiful garden featuring tropical plants, flowers, and trees.

Cultural Experiences

Oistins Fish Fry: Held every Friday night, this lively event features fresh seafood, music, and dancing.

Crop Over Festival: Barbados' most significant festival, celebrating the end of the sugar cane harvest with music, dancing, and parades. It usually takes place from June to the first Monday in August.

Water Activities

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Carlisle Bay and Folkestone Marine Park are excellent spots.

Surfing and Wind Surfing: Bathsheba Beach, especially the Soup Bowl, is renowned for its waves.

Catamaran Cruises: Enjoy a day on the water, with stops for snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles.

Where to Stay

Luxury: Sandy Lane, The Crane Resort

Mid-range: Bougainvillea Barbados, Sugar Bay Barbados

Budget: Butterfly Beach Hotel, Dover Beach Hotel

Dining and Cuisine

Barbados offers a mix of Caribbean flavors with international influences. Some must-try dishes include: Flying Fish and Cou-Cou (the national dish).

Macaroni Pie: A Bajan twist on mac and cheese.

Pepperpot: A rich stew made with pork, beef, and spices.

Travel Tips

Currency: Barbadian Dollar (BBD). U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island. Taxis and buses are also available.

Safety: Barbados is generally safe for tourists, but always practice standard precautions. By planning your visit around these highlights and tips, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Barbados!

Find more detailed information about

Barbados for visitors and residents at

barbados.org

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BARBADOS DIRECTORY

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