Area
430 sq. km. (166 sq. miles)
Location
Caribbean, Windward Islands
Population
279,000 (as per estimates of 2006) and Population Density of 648.8 per sq. km.
Capital City
Bridgetown with a total population of 98,900 (as per estimates of 2003).
Language
English is the official and most popular language of Barbados. Some local Bajan dialect is also widely spoken in different parts of the country.
Electricity
AC 110-115 volts, 50Hz. American style two-pin plugs are commonly used.
Currency
Barbados Dollar (BBD, Symbol BD$). 1BD$ = 100 Cents
Notes prevalent = BD$ 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100
Coins prevalent = BD 1; Cents 1, 5, 10, and 25
Barbados Dollar is tied to the US Dollar
Currency Exchange
Currency Exchange facility is available at commercial banks offering best exchange rates. The main bank operating in Barbados is the Barbados National Bank, in addition to branches of leading international banks in places like Bridgetown, Hastings, Holetown, Speightstown, and Worthing. For more details and exchange rates, travellers are advised to consult their banks.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs
Credit/Debit/ATM Cards of all major companies like Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express, etc. accepted in resorts and hotels. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as well for customs duty payment. ATMs are also conveniently situated in the country.
Traveller's Cheques
Travellers Cheques are widely accepted by all banks and major hotels. In order to avoid extra exchange rate charges, the travellers would do well to carry traveller’s cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.
Banking Hours
Banks in Barbados normally function from Monday to Thursday from 0800-1500/1600 and Friday from 0800-1700.