How to make the most of your Barbados vacation

Numerous celebrities are often spotted vacationing in Barbados

  • Rihanna, the renowned singer, actress, and entrepreneur, was born and raised in Barbados. She has maintained strong connections to the island throughout her career. In 2018, she received an ambassadorship from the Government of Barbados and was honored as a National Hero of Barbados in 2021.
  • Simon Cowell, the music mogul and television personality, is rumored to possess a lavish mansion in Barbados, a destination he purportedly frequents.

Many celebrities, spanning actors, musicians, and athletes, are frequently seen vacationing in Barbados, relishing its opulent resorts, stunning beaches, and lively ambiance. However, it’s worth mentioning that while some enjoy temporary stays, they might not maintain permanent residences on the island.

Travel and Home respects celebrities’ privacy, recognizing that details about their living arrangements can be elusive to confirm. Consequently, the provided list may not encompass all instances, and circumstances may evolve over time.

Plan your trip to Barbados

Choose the best time for you based on weather, crowds, and personal preferences to enjoy Speightstown to the fullest.

For the best weather, go in the dry season (December – April): Peak tourist season in Barbados offers sunshine, calm seas, and minimal rain, ideal for outdoor activities.

For fewer crowds and lower prices, go in the shoulder seasons (May, June, November): Enjoy decent weather with the occasional showers, with fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to peak season.

For cultural events, go in the festival season (July – August): Experience vibrant celebrations of Barbadian culture with music, dance, and colorful costumes, though expect larger crowds. The Barbados Food and Rum Festival walked away with World Culinary Awards’ award for Caribbean’s Best Culinary Festival 2023! See you at the next one! It usually is held during the month of October.

Avoid the hurricane season from June to November: Rare direct hits, and occasional storms. Consider traveling outside this period if concerned about hurricanes.

If your personal preferences prioritize peace, avoid peak season and consider shoulder seasons or early rainy season (September-October) for fewer crowds.

In Speightstown, use Barbadian dollars (BBD), though credit cards are widely accepted. Keep cash for small purchases and local vendors.

English is spoken.

Pack comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Electrical sockets are like those in the US and Canada (110-120 volts, 60 Hz), but bring a travel adapter if needed.

Barbados is widely regarded as a safe destination for travelers. It reportedly has a lower crime rate compared to the United States. 

However, it’s wise to stay vigilant and follow standard safety measures, as you would in any locale. Here are some tips:

  • Stay alert: Keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded places.
  • Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially if unfamiliar with the surroundings.
  • Opt for licensed taxis: Refrain from using unmarked or unofficial transportation.
  • Minimize valuables: Keep cash and jewelry to a minimum, storing valuables in your hotel safe.
  • Respect local customs and laws: Dress appropriately at religious sites and adhere to cultural norms.

 

For a safe and delightful vacation in Barbados, remember these tips. Additionally, check out these resources:

  • U.S. Department of State travel advisory for Barbados: link

 

Barbados is a stunning and hospitable island with much to explore. With basic precautions and awareness, you can fully enjoy your trip.

Yes, Barbados is expensive BUT there are ways around it!

Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Barbados tends to be pricier due to imported goods, notably food and beverages.

Travel Tip(s)

There are ways how you can make Barbados more budget-friendly:

  • Explore free attractions like beaches and towns to save on entrance fees.
  • Opt for local eateries over upscale restaurants for budget-friendly dining experiences. Anc check your bill. Most restaurants add a 10% service fee to the bill before it ends up on your table for payment.
  • Street food offers tasty and affordable options to savor local cuisine. Like roti, it’s a must! 
  • Picnic in parks like Welchman Hall Gully, and Hunte’s Botanical Gardens.
  • Use buses instead of taxis for affordable and convenient island transportation. Look out for the yellow “reggae buses” which will take you almost everywhere. It’s also a sure way to experience local life.
  • Take your own beach towels and relax next to the areas with the paid sun loungers. The same sun is shining on both areas!  Try Reeds Bay on the West Coast. It a go-to swimming beach and a bit tucked away. 
  • Water activities are expensive when you add renting equipment. Instead, bring your own things like your snorkel and mask.
  • Instead of October’s food festival, you may opt to go in August during the traditional “Crop Over” harvest festival.
  • Stay in self-catering apartments and home rentals. This way you can stay longer and prepare your own meals.
  • Alcohol is expensive, so go for the more cheaper and local alternative: Mount Gay rum. Especially when you buy it from a local rum shack.
  • Book your flights well in advance. 
 

For the best deals on flight tickets, check out a variety of airlines and flight comparison platforms by scrolling down to “Ready to take flight?“. 

Bridgetown, Barbados
Bridgetown, Barbados.
barbados beach, lifeguard tower
Lifeguard Tower.
saint john's church in barbados
St John's Church. Address: Church View, Saint John Barbados.

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Top Activities to Enjoy on Your Barbados Vacation

On the west coast, visit historic Bridgetown, also the capital city of Barbados. See the Agapey Chocolate Factory, Pelican Art and Craft Centre, Nidhe Isreal Synagogue, the Kensington Oval, the Cricket Legends Museum and Holetown, St. James Anglican Church, and Speightstown.

On the north coast, visit Animal Flower Cave, St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation, the Wildlife Reserve, Farley Hill Park, Cherry Tree Hill, and the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill.

Popular beaches: Crane Beach, Miami Beach, Rockley Beach, Carlisle Bay, Pirates Cove, Paynes Bay, and Mullins Beach.

Places of interest:  Oistin Town, the Parliament Museum, Bathsheba, Andromeda Gardens, St. John’s Anglican Church, Codrington Collage, Sunbury Great House Plantation, Four Square Rum Factory, and Banks Brewery. See Harrison’s Cave and Hunte’s Gardens, Welchman Hall Gully, Earth Works Pottery and Batik Studio, the Flower Forest, Gun Hill Signal Station, Orchid World, and St. George Valley.

Historic Garrison fascinates with stories about the Garrison Savannah, Barbados Museum, and the famous house where George Washington stayed.

Don’t forget your timeless little black dress!  It’s a versatile must-have that can easily transition from a casual daytime look with sandals to a glamorous evening outfit with the right accessories. Save suitcase space and be ready for any occasion! 

Barbados' Award-Winning Accommodation

Award-Winning Hotels & Resorts
  • Sandals Royal Barbados: Caribbean’s Leading Resort 2020 to 2023. Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Resort 2022.
  • Sandy Lane: Barbados’ Leading Boutique Resort 2023 to 2021, as well as Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Resort 2021.
  • Cobblers Cove: Barbados’ Leading Hotel 2020 to 2023.
  • Coral Reef Club: Barbados’ Leading Resort 2023.
  • Fairmont Royal Pavilion: Barbados’ Leading Resort 2020 to 2022.
  • Mangobay Barbados: Barbados’ Leading Boutique Resort 2020
Where to stay in Speightstown, Cobblers Cove Barbados

Cobblers Cove - Barbados

Indulge in luxury at Cobblers Cove, featuring breathtaking ocean vistas, lavish accommodations, a spa, diverse dining options, and an infinity pool. Ideal for those craving pampering and exclusivity, Cobblers Cove promises an unparalleled retreat by the beach.