Barbados

There are no extremist groups or areas of instability in Barbados. Some drug-related organized crime exists, but does not generally affect tourists. There has been a small increase in the incidence of tourists being robbed, and visitors are warned to be especially vigilant on the beaches at night. There has been an increase in attacks and rapes against foreigners and visitors should be alert at all times. Tropical storms and hurricanes may occur between June and November.

It is an offence to dress in camouflage clothing in Barbados as it is reserved for the military. Topless bathing is frowned upon and nudism is illegal.

Bridgetown is generally the centre of business in Barbados. Business protocol is fairly formal, including greetings (use Mr or Ms) and dress, which is smart. Handshaking between both men and women is expected and business cards are handed out on introduction. Punctuality is expected at meetings. Business hours are generally 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Banks and post offices close at 3pm.

The international access code for Barbados is +1, in common with the US, Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by 246. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom), no outgoing code is needed to call the US. Mobile phones operate on a GSM network. Cell phones can be rented through a number of companies. Internet cafes are widely available.

Travellers from Barbados do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 250g of other tobacco products; 1 litre of spirit or liquor over 22% alcohol or fortified wine (e.g.port or sherry), sparkling wine and alchoholic drinks up to 22% alcohol 2 litres. 16 litres of beer, 4 litres of wine (not sparking).  Goods up to the value of £390.  Prohibited items to be brought into Barbados include matches, fresh fruit, and articles of clothing or accessories made from camouflage material.

Trvellers to the UK can bring in:

• beer - 16 litres
• wine (not sparkling) - 4 litres

You can also bring in either:

• spirits and other liquors over 22% alcohol - 1 litre
• fortified wine (eg port, sherry), sparkling wine and alcoholic drinks up to 22% alcohol - 2 litres

You can split this last allowance, eg you could bring 1 litre of fortified wine and half a litre of spirits (both half of your allowance).

You can bring in one from the following:

• 200 cigarettes
• 100 cigarillos
• 50 cigars
• 250g tobacco

You can split this allowance - so you could bring in 100 cigarettes and 25 cigars (both half of your allowance).

Barbados has a lot to offer visitors in the way of beach life and sightseeing, making this a superb holiday destination for anyone. When not lazing on the beach, a visit to Harrison's Cave could prove rewarding and the Jacobean Mansions are also worth seeing. The little fishing village of Bathsheba is favoured by surfers and photographers alike, while Graeme Hall Swamp has even more to offer in the way of unusual sights. Tropical Barbados boasts sunny and fair weather, and the friendly locals also make this an irresistible option for that perfect coastal vacation.

The Barbados Dollar (BBD) is fixed to the US Dollar at a rate of Bd$2 to US$1 and does not fluctuate. Its rate is relative to other currencies fluctuations based on the particular currency's relation to the US Dollar. US Dollars are also widely accepted on the island, and well-known international credit cards and travellers cheques (best carried in US dollars to avoid additional charges) are accepted in most stores and restaurants. Banks and ATMs are freely available and cash withdrawals can be made.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British nationals require a valid passport. No visa for stays of up to six months is required, irrespective of endorsement in passport regarding national status.

Bridgetown has mild and dry summers with average temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C). Winters are mild and wet with average daytime highs reaching 72°F (22°C). The best time for visitors to travel is in the hotter and drier months of February to April when the weather is still warm and humidity is low. The hot conditions are tempered by the prevailing cool northeast tradewinds and hurricanes usually miss Barbados, which instead sees tropical rainstorms. These are usually short and heavy spells that dry up quickly.