What to Do

 Island Tips

What To Do

• Relax! Enjoy your holiday soaking up the sun on our beautiful sandy beaches.

• Take a guided bus tour of the island. See the beautiful scenery of our East Coast.

• Cruise the Caribbean Sea - Swim with the turtles on a catamaran, party on the Jolly Roger or relax on the Harbour Master river boat.

• Don't miss the magic of the Atlantis Submarine Tour and see the underwater world of Barbados!

• Spend a day shopping in the hustle and bustle of Bridgetown and pick up some great duty free bargains.

• Be Adventerous! Rent a car and visit every nook and cranny of the island.

• Show off your limbo skills and photograph the fabolous costumes at any one of the exciting dinner shows.

• Go to the Races!!! check with your rep to see if the horse racing is in season at the Garrison.

• Head into "The Gap" for a night out and experience another side of the Caribbean Lifestyle.

• Sample the Rum Punch!!!

Island Tips

To help you have a great time during your vacation in Barbados, we have compiled some helpful hints to make your stay more enjoyable.

Currency

The official currency in Barbados is the Barbados Dollar. However the US Dollar and Travellers Cheques are widely accepted around the island. Generally Banks give a better exchange rate but most hotels will exchange money for your convenience but may limit how much you change per day. Banking hours are from Monday to Thursday, 8am to 3pm and Friday 8am to 5pm. The Mutual Bank of the Caribbean has two branches that open to 7pm Mon - Fri and opens to 2pm on Saturdays. There are several ATM's on the South and West Coast and in Bridgetown. However, on the East Coast there is only one that is located in Belleplaine, St Andrew. Most Major Establishments will take credit cards but it is better to check before hand to avoid embarrasment.

Play Safe

Please remember that passports, tickets, extra jewellery and cash/travellers cheques should be locked away in a safety deposit box. Please be very careful with the key as there is usually a charge if you lose it. Don't carry around more cash than you will need. If you lose or have something stolen this should be reported to the police within 24 hours, please contact your Rep who will assist you in the procedure.

Shopping

Your rep will recommend some shops in the area in which you are staying and advise you of the location of the nearest Supermarket. Most Shopping areas are easily accessible by bus. Pharmacies in major areas open on Sundays half day. Shopping hours generally are Mon - Fri: 9am to 5pm. saturday: 9am to 12 noon. Sundays and Public Holidays - Closed.

Duty-Free Shopping

There is great duty free shopping in Bridgetown! Recent legislation has considerably relaxed the restrictions on duty free shopping to visitors. Most items purchased can now be delivered directly to customer over the store counter - without having to go to the air or sea port for collection on departure. This concession does not apply to certain items notably liquor and tobacco.

Transportation

Buses - These are extremely cheap for just B$1.50 per single trip. Don't forget to put your arm out to tell the bus driver to stop and always use a taxi at night. Check with your Rep who will explain the three different types of bus service.

Taxi's - They do not have meters so always ask the rate before setting off on your journey. Reception will be able to call one for you.

Car Rental - Contact your Rep who will be able to give you the best quality cars and special deals. You are required by law to obtain a Barbadian Driver's permit which the person who delivers the car will arrange for you.

Vendors

Legally, beach and street vendors must have a permit to sell their goods and they are restricted to sell within a designated area. Your rep will advise you of the location. Don't be afraid to bargain - it can be fun! To avoid unnecessary problems and disappointment please ensure you purchase your tour/cruise tickets from your appointed tour Rep only.

Taxes and Tipping

10% Service charge and 15% Gov't tax are added to most restaurant and bar bills. Dress - Swimsuits are for the beach and is not a good etiquette to go shopping or into a restaurant without covering up a bit. In the evening, restaurant are casual but elegant, and shorts are acceptable, except in the very exclusive ones.

Electricity - 110 V AC 50Hz

Hotel Information

Please see noticeboards or information folders for activities within your hotel. Your Rep will advise you of the day(s) for managers cocktail parties, buffets and barbeque nights and explain the hotel facilities.

Caution!

Tan - Don't Burn! The sun rays are strong between 11am and 3pm.

Even on a cloudy day you can burn badly. Use a good high factor protection lotion.

You should avoid a tree named a "Man Chineel" which bears a small green apple, resembling a crab apple. The apples are poisonous and the juice of this fruit will blister your skin. You should avoid sheltering under these trees when it is raining. The trees are usually recognisable by red painted rings around the trunk or warning signs.

Sea Urchins, recognised by their long black spikes are sometimes found on reefs and rocks and are extremely painful if stepped on. Snorkelers in particuler should use caution.

Remember to lock your room door and windows, just as you would at home, even if you stepped out for a few minutes.

Although scenic and naturally beautiful, the East Coast is not recommended for swimming due to big waves, strong undercurrents and undertows. The rugged coastline and ocean breakers make it ideal for those who enjoy natural beauty at it's best.