Overview of Barbados

Quick Overview

Barbados is a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, slightly off-centre (to the east) compared to the rest of the Antilles. Unlike other islands in the region, it is relatively flat and not of volcanic origin.

Key Facts

• Location: in the Caribbean Sea, near Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia.

• Latitude/longitude: 13.10' N, 59.32' W.

• Local time: Heure : 2741.

• Capital: Bridgetown.

• Nature of the state: parliamentary democracy and Commonwealth member.

• Official language: English. Barbadian Creole (Bajan) is also spoken.

• Currency: Barbadian dollar.

• Population: 293,131 (2018).

• Area: 431 km².

• Density: 680 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Hillaby (336 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 97 km.

• Driving: on the left.

• Flag: [drapeau: Barbade]

Tourism

Barbados is a dream destination with stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful marine landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for golf, surfing, windsurfing, or simply soaking up the sun on one of its 60 beaches. The island is also known for its duty-free shopping, particularly among cruise passengers stopping over. It’s no surprise that Barbados attracts around half a million visitors each year (680,000 in 2018), mostly English-speaking.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: beginner-friendly.

• By air: France-Bridgetown

• Entry requirements: passport + return/onward ticket.

• Currency to bring: US dollar.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget: from 45 to 65 € per person.

• Best for accommodation: guesthouses or weekly rentals.

• Best for getting around: buses.

• Risks: relatively low in terms of health and safety.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★; Adventure ⊘; Culture ★★; Relaxation/Holidays ★★★.

Addresses in France

Tourist Office: online only (in English).

Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 58/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $18,600 (2017)

• Average monthly income: $1,257 (2012)

• Inflation: +4.4% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 10.1% (2017)

• Population below poverty line:

• Life expectancy: 75.7 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.3 (2017)

• Population growth: +0.26% (2018)

• Literacy rate:

• Urban population: 31.1% (2018)

• Press freedom: 35/180 (2018 ranking)

• Political regime:

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook