Barbados, Caribbean, City Guides, Travel

Shit you probably haven’t thought of… but should know: Barbados

19 September

Okay… first and foremost, I know I have this in the “City Guides” section in my little corner of the digital universe, and Barbados is a whole ass country… however, for the sake of keeping shit simple, and because I’m exploring as much of this small Caribbean paradise as possible, I’m keeping this entry consistent with the other guides I’ve created thus far. The following info is up to date as of September 19, 2024, but as always, I’ll update this as I continue to live in and experience all Barbados has to offer.

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Finances:

Like South Korea, Cash is King in Barbados. Most establishments take cash or debit, with VERY FEW accepting Apple or Android Pay. The easiest thing about Barbados though is they take US currency, and for ease, process it at a rate of 2:1 ($1 USD = $2 BBD), so you don’t have to load up at the currency exchange before you come. However, paying with BBD will also be simplest, as the exchange rate has fluctuated from $1 USD:$1.96-$2.02 BBD since I’ve been here.

Food:

Hmmmmm… what can I say… Food here is EXPENSIVE! Much more so than I was expecting. Groceries were the biggest shock (I’ve included a pic below for reference), but being that we’re on an island, and a lot of the food in the stores is imported, it makes sense that its more expensive than we’re used to. While its not impossible to save money on food here, one has to be strategic. My best advice is to hit the local markets for fresh food, veg and protein, and stay away from the areas tourists frequent most (like Oistins, St. Lawrence Gap, etc) if you’re wanting to eat out. Long story short, whatever your food budget is, double it.

The total for this “haul”… $57.82 :/

Fresh Market Fruits 🙂 From Cheapside Public Market in Bridgetown.

Transportation:

Sidewalks: To be super general, there aren’t any, LOL. I mean yes, Barbados does have sidewalks, in some areas, at some times. But for the most part, sidewalks are few and far between, and pedestrians typically have to walk on either side of the already narrow roads. Can it be dangerous? Youbetcha. Does it make for an interesting and unique experience every journey? Absofuckinglutely. At the end of the day, just be vigilant and aware, and don’t be surprised if the metal water bottle in your hand gets clinked and clipped by a mirror (LOL but not really LOL, LOL). Also be prepared for a lot of hills and elevation changes. In my mind, everything under 2.5 km “is walkable”. That was before I got to Barbados, LOL. The elevation changes coupled with the heat, humidity and at times sporadic weather changes can turn any afternoon stroll into a fight for survival.

Public Transportation: The island has a number of transportation options, including Taxis, bikes, vans and buses. The most economical and easy to secure on the vans (think smaller 12-15 person passenger vans) and city buses. With routes to almost anywhere on the island and pick-up/drop-off being easy and relatively informal, there isn’t a cheaper or easier way to get to where you need to go (no matter how many stops away) for $1.75.

For the most part, sidewalks are few and far between, and pedestrians typically have to walk on either side of the already narrow roads. Can it be dangerous? Youbetcha. Does it make for an interesting and unique experience every journey? Absofuckinglutely.

Culture:

Kindness: I felt it the moment I got off the plane. Almost everyone smiles, speaks, says “Good Morning”, etc. Almost every interaction I’ve had has been kind, helpful and positive. Again, like in South Korea, I’ve had no issues leaving my personal items on the beach while I take a dip in the ocean, or while taking a call at Starbucks. Obviously, I’m not advocating for you to walk away from your stuff indefinitely, but to this point, I’ve had no issues.

Day-to-Day: Barbados is much calmer and more laid back than I expected. While it might just be the time of year (I arrived just after Crop Over, which is a MAJOR event for the island), but the nightlife is next to non-existent and the majority of shops, and even restaurants, are closed on Sundays. Not that either of these is necessarily a bad thing, just something to jeep in mind if your planning to visit.

Gyms & Wellness:

There are a number of local gyms that offer day, week and month passes, so if you’re here an extended period and want to get a few workouts in, you’ll have options. My gym of choice has been Beyond Limits. They’re fairly priced and have several locations on the island (and in Saint Lucia and Antigua & Barbuda), including one about 15 minutes from my Airbnb. The locations are clean, have a decent amount and variety of equipment, and are open 24 hours. Win, Win, Win.

A local health and wellness chain, Nature’s Discount, is in the same plaza as my gym and offers pretty much anything you need: Protein powder (including vegetarian/vegan options), supplements, vitamins, health foods and drinks, etc. They even have a rewards/discount program, so if you’re planning on being in the area awhile, a benefit to take advantage of.

I’m a beach gworl… of course I’m going to find a gym with a view!

Attractions:

Having been here less than a month, and trying to be very disciplined with my budget, I haven’t done too much on the “touristy/attraction” side of things. However, my best friend was here for about a week earlier this month, and I highlighted our shenanigans here. For the purpose of this guide, however, I’ll include the beach/day clubs we visited:

Boatyard Beach Club: Set off the north end of Brownes Beach, Boatyard has a $35 day pass that includes beach chairs and an umbrella, access to water toys, a snorkeling excursion to swim with the turtles, $20 credit on food and drinks, and a 2-for-1 morning happy hour. While we did find Dory during the snorkeling/shipwreck adventure, there was not a Crush or Squirt in site. However, you really can’t beat the atmosphere and value for money with this one. 10/10, no notes.

The Tiki Bar: Located at the edge of Accra/Rockley Beach, Tiki is a beachside bar and restaurant that offers a beach chair, umbrella, and $10 food and beverage credit for a total of $15 per person. If you’re looking for something more secluded and less busy than Boatyard, The Tiki Bar is your answer.

Exploring Bridgetown on the way to The Boatyard…

Not my fave pic of me… but do ya’ll see these colors!!

Environment:

Weather: Even though I’m here during the height of hurricane season, and arrived about six weeks after Hurricane Beryl, I haven’t had too many issues with the weather. In fact, there have only been two days that I stayed inside all day because the weather was bad. That being said, there is a small shower or two somewhere on the island at least a few times a day. However, they usually pass within 20 minutes and sunny skies prevail. Keep a light jacket and/or umbrella on you and you’ll be good. And for what might be obvious… it’s HOT and HUMID from sun up to well, sun up. It’s hot all the time and not every business or hotel or Airbnb is equipped with AC. Save your one comfort/emergency hoodie and/or sweatpants, there’s no need to pack heavy clothes or long sleeves.