Barbados

Introduction to Barbados

Barbados is an island nation located towards the east of the Caribbean Sea and in the west of the Atlantic Ocean, part of the eastern islands of the Lesser Antilles, with the nations of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines being its closest neighbors. The island is 430 km2 (166 square miles), and is primarily low-lying, with some higher areas in the island's interior. It is located 13º north of the Equator and 59º west of the Prime Meridian, about 434.5 km (270 miles) northeast of Venezuela.

Barbados is predominantly composed of coral and limestone. It is tropical with constant tradewinds and contains of some marshes and mangrove swamps. Some parts of the island's interior are also dotted with large sugarcane estates and wide pastures with many good views to the sea.

Barbados has one of the highest standards of living and literacy rates in the world and is currently according to the UN's UNDP, the #1 developing country in the world. The island is a major tourist destination.

Cultural notes about Barbados

The influence of the English on Barbados is more noticeable than on other islands in the West Indies. A good example of this is the island's national sport: cricket. Barbados has brought forth several great cricket players, including Garfield Sobers and Frank Worrell.

Citizens are officially called Barbadian, however residents of Barbados colloquially refer to themselves or the products of the country as "Bajan". The term "Bajan", may have come from a localized pronunciation of the word Barbadian which at times can sound more like "Bar-bajan". The term Barbadian, is used less frequently than is "Bajan".

The largest Carnival cultural events which take place in Barbados are the Congaline Festival and Crop Over Festival as known internationally.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Barbados

Petty crime is common. Incidents of violent crime occur. Visitors to Barbados should not become complacent about their safety and security, but rather aim to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as is exercised in Canada.

Rapes against foreigners have occurred in the past year. Visitors are therefore cautioned to avoid isolated areas, including beaches after dark, and to ensure living accommodation is totally secure. The Canadian government and Canadian Content publishes a booklet, Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform and help Canadian women travel safely.

Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. Personal belongings and travel documents should be left, where possible, in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes. In case of an emergency, dial 211 for the police, and 511 for an ambulance.