Bridgetown

possibly the best climate in all the West Indies

Fanned by trade winds, the island paradise of Barbados has possibly the best climate in all of the West Indies.

A small pear-shaped island just 21 miles long and 14 miles across,home to over 250,000 people, it's welcoming atmosphere is as warm as the weather.

Along with its relaxed atmosphere and tropical beauty, one of the most striking things about Barbados is its Britishness. There are churches and government buildings which would sit happily in any British town.

Barbados really is a place of discovery - a maze of little roads ,rolling hills of sugar cane, luxuriant dales, sandy beaches and beautiful rocky bays. To gain an even more spectacular view of Barbados there are a number of ways to take in its splendour: helicopter rides, submarine trips and a choice of boat excursions.

The island differs from many other Caribbean islands in that it isn’t volcanic and mountainous. It’s the result rather of huge slabs of limestone and coral that have risen slowly out of the sea. Consequently, much of the east coast is made up of rugged cliffs that emerge straight from the Atlantic breakers. The land then rises in a series of small steps before sloping gently down to the calmer, sandy beaches on the west coast. It’s on this side that you encounter some of the most incredible blue and aquamarine water imaginable.

As well as providing a wonderful opportunity for you to spend leisurely hours exploring and sight-seeing, Barbados hosts an array of exciting activities such as riding, championship golf and watersports.

The cuisine in the Caribbean has improved immeasurably in recent years and Barbados is no exception. Local and international dishes are available in the hotels and restaurants, and you’ll find a delicious selection of exotic fruits, chicken and fresh fish high on the list of any menu throughout Barbados. Living up to its reputation for elegance, Barbados houses some of the most sophisticated shops in the Caribbean. You can purchase duty-free goods in Bridgetown, and stroll around boutiques selling a wide range of smart casual wear in the resorts and capital. Barbados - the holiday island where paradise awaits your arrival.

Open for Business/Shopping:
Business and shopping hours are generally 8am-4pm or 5pm on weekdays and 8am-12pm on Saturdays. Banks are open Monday to Friday, 8am-3pm and generally shut on Saturdays. These days there is an increasing number of ATMs from which you can draw cash with Visa, Cirrus, Plus and MasterCards. Many shoppers in Barbados, as elsewhere in the region, are in search of tax free bargains. Although the shops and malls aren’t exactly giving things away, foreign visitors (bearing passports and tickets) are likely to come across some good deals on expensive items like jewellery, gems, cameras, watches and cosmetics. There’s also a surprisingly vibrant local rag trade on the island, so you’ll find no shortage of brightly coloured clothes and painted tee-shirts. Mount Gay is perhaps the world’s best known rum which is available everywhere.

Money Matters:
Major credit cards are welcome in most decent sized outlets. In many shops, bars and restaurants you can also pay with US dollars.

Getting Around:
Barbados is a small island and easy to get around. Some people choose to be totally independent and hire cars. Although the roads are reasonable and the driving generally level-headed, caution is still recommended. Rental prices however can be relatively high. You will also need to purchase a local driving license which is very cheap and just required as a formality.

Electricity:
Barbados uses 110v, but British-style three prong plugs are becoming more common.