Barbados |
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Barbados |
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Language: English. Climate: Storms are common especially between June and November although Barbados tends to avoid the worst of them - most of the time they are nothing more than heavy downpours. The last hurricane to hit was in 1955 ! During severe weather hoteliers will inform all the guests and advise on safety procedures. Humidity is at its highest from August to October. Tip: Choose accommodation with air-conditioning. Ceiling fans on their own are not always sufficient. Currency: Barbados dollar which is fixed to the US dollar. Flight Time From UK: Approx 8½ hours Time Difference: 4 hours behind GMT. 20 miles long and 15 miles across at its widest point, Barbados is one of the smaller of the Caribbean islands although it is fairly densely populated. Aside from the capital, Bridgetown which is a working city the other main towns are little more than villages with a scattering of shops and bars. The best time to visit for the weather is between November and May. Barbados boasts a lower crime rate than some of its neighbours although the usual precautions should be taken. Laws have been passed which should ensure you're not bothered by traders on the beaches and police patrols are regular. A survey of visitors to Barbados during 2003 revealed a few things they would like changed, including lack of pavements (sidewalks). Holidaymakers lamented time and time again about the dangers of competing with traffic on the roads. There were also calls for more lifeguards on the beaches and bus drivers paying more attention to the speed limits on the roads. Southcoast: Famous for its white, soft sandy beaches which are wider than those on the west. A cooling breeze creates good conditions for windsurfers, body surfers. Annual competitions attract international interest. It's possible to stroll for miles along the shore and visit the sand dunes in Long Bay. Tourist areas on this side of the island offer a few commercial centres within walking distance or a short taxi-ride from the hotels.
Westcoast: Often referred to as "The Platinum Coast" Accommodation here tends to be more up market and expensive, scattered along a fairly narrow stretch of coastline. Paynes Bay is one of the island's best beaches. The sand is coarse but comfortable to walk on and the sea is better protected from the ravages of the Atlantic so remains calm except in extreme weather conditions. Children and non-swimmers should beware of currents and steep shelves offshore.
Eastcoast: Beaches here are usually deserted due to the sea conditions. The Atlantic can be wild with high waves and swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. Bridgetown is a Mecca for shoppers starved of any great choice in resort British influence is everywhere including a few rules-of-the-road like driving on the left Stall-holders along the streets will also compete, sometimes quite vigorously for your cash. Tours of rum factories and sugar plantations are popular. Also boat trips to the coral reefs and deep sea fishing. St Lawrence attracts clubbers and offers a good range of 'live' music bars. Restaurants specialise in every international menu from Chinese to Mexican. Golf: Three superb 18-hole courses and several 9-hole courses. Some are members only so check before you travel. Bucket and Spade Brigade: Strictly for undemanding beach babes so make sure your hotel has entertainment laid on. The climate may not suit the very young. |
