Resources
A wide range of professional services we have gathered from social media, personal referrals and experience.
Apps and software we use
Room Planner
Cabinets.com
Canva
Sketchup
Morpholio Board
Helpful Links
Explore various websites that can provide valuable information on the building process and the cost associated with building and living in Barbados.
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Purchasing Barbados Property Consideration Guide
Whether you are currently living in Barbados, or looking to invest from overseas, there are several things to consider when buying or selling your property. This Guide will help answer some of the many questions you may have. For additional information, please feel free to contact us directly.
To start, here are a few guidelines for non-Barbadian buyers of Barbados real estate:
- Land and property are available without restrictions to non-nationals.
- A non-Barbadian buyer must first receive permission from the Central Bank of Barbados. This step is merely a formality.
- Vendors are liable for the property transfer tax which is charged at the rate as outlined in the table below.
- Financing is available locally for non-Barbadians, however, various regulations apply. (See, Residence and Exchange, below.)
- You must retain the services of an Attorney-at-Law on the island to represent your interests.(See, Retaining Legal Advice, below.)
The remainder of this Guide outlines other considerations to be considered in deciding to invest in Barbados Real Estate. It also gives a very simple outline of the process of buying real estate in Barbados.
Legal Considerations
The Barbados legal system is derived from English common law statutes.
Retaining Legal Advice
Any person intending to buy or sell real estate in Barbados must retain the services of an Attorney-at-Law on the island to represent their interests. The Agreement for Sale, the Deed of Conveyance and the Deed of Transfer must all be prepared by an Attorney-at-Law. The peculiarities of Barbados' Conveyancing Laws, the absence of any scheme of insurance, and the predominance of unregistered title to land are factors that may render real estate transactions in Barbados potentially risky for the unfamiliar purchaser.
The Agreement for Sale
Once you have found the appropriate property, and the negotiations are complete, the starting point of the sales transaction is the Agreement for Sale, which is usually prepared by the Attorney-at-Law acting for the Vendor. At the time of signing, the Purchaser signs the Agreement in duplicate and pays a deposit-typically 10% of the purchase price. The Agreement, together with the deposit, is then delivered to the vendor's Attorney-at-law. The Vendor will then execute the Agreement and a copy of the duly executed agreement is then delivered to the Purchaser's Attorney-at-Law.
Investigation of Title
After the Agreement is signed, the Purchaser's Attorney-at-Law conducts a search against the title to the property to ensure that the Vendor holds a good legal title to the property and there are no encumbrances such as mortgages or charges of liens affecting the property. Encumbrances may also take the form of unpaid judgments, outstanding water bills, and unpaid land taxes.
Completion of the Sale and Purchase
Once the investigation of title is completed, the Vendor's Attorney-at-Law prepares the instrument used to convey the title to the Purchaser. Upon closing, the Vendor's Attorney-at-Law will normally exchange that instrument, along with prior deeds, for the balance of the purchase money.
Closing Costs
The Vendor of the property will be liable to pay the Stamp Duty and Property Transfer Tax. Legal fees are usually 1.5% to 2% of the purchase price of the property plus applicable VAT.
Taxation Considerations
Land Tax
Land Tax, or Property Tax, is payable annually and is computed as follows:
There is a ceiling of US $30,000 where the dwelling house is used exclusively as a residence by the person who owns the land on which the dwelling house is erected. For additional information, please see Barbados Land Tax info.
Property Transfer Tax
The land tax rate is 2.5%, payable by the vendor upon the sale of the property. Where the transaction is land only, the property tax is paid on the full amount. However, if the transaction includes a dwelling house, the first BBD$150,000.00 is exempt from the tax. For additional information, please see Barbados Land Registry.
Stamp Duty
This is payable by the vendor at the rate of 1% on the gross consideration.
Personal Tax vs Corporate Tax
The property owner can hold the real estate investment personally or they may set-up a holding company to do so. In either case, so long as the owner and/or the holding company are non-residents for Barbados tax purposes, there will be a withholding tax at a rate of 25% on the gross rental income earned from the property.
It is possible to obtain permission from the local tax authorities to file a Barbados tax return which would include the gross rental income less the related expenses. In such a case, if the property is owned personally, the applicable tax rate is 15% on the net rental income. The rate also applies if a company owns and rents the residential property.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Where the property is rented on a short term basis and income exceeds BBD$5,000 monthly or BBD$60,000 per annum, the owner will be required to register for VAT and charge VAT accordingly. In Barbados, VAT is imposed on the supply of a dwelling house that is rented to persons for use as a vacation or holiday home at the rate of 7.5%.
The owner may also claim VAT that is charged by suppliers on the maintenance of the property etc. against the VAT charges on the tenants. However, long term rentals are exempt from VAT.
Other Considerations
There is no Capital Gains Tax in Barbados; nor is there any Estate, Inheritance or Gift Tax. The title may be taken in a person's name or a company may be set up to own the property. In case of ownership by a company, if it is incorporated outside of Barbados, it must be registered in Barbados.
Property Management Fees
This cost can vary depending on the needs of the client. The property management companies on the island are excellent and the services are customized to suit every property owner's needs.
Deposits
Contract deposits are usually 10% of the purchase price. A refundable reservation deposit is required if the Buyer is purchasing at the pre-construction phase. Stage payments are then made in accordance with the sale agreement schedule.
Bank Accounts
A non-national may open a bank account with the proper identification and bank and professional references. Anti-money laundering legislation requires non-nationals to provide evidence of Source of Funds.
Agency Fees
The unofficial commission rate for real estate agents is 5% of the sale price plus applicable VAT.
Residence and Exchange Controls
Non-residents are required to apply to the Exchange Control Authority for permission to bring in and register their foreign currency for the purchase of property in Barbados. This is to facilitate the future repatriation of funds. Failure to do so could prevent or delay such repatriation. In the statement made by the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance on March 14th 2007, it was proposed where there was sale of a property by a non-resident to another non-resident and there is no foreign exchange loss, the proceeds of the sale can be repatriated without restrictions.
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Things To Know About Buying A Property
A Buyers Guide to purchasing property in barbados by Barbados Real Estate 246
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The legal and financial process for buying a property in Barbados
To ensure a seamless property purchase process in Barbados, it’s essential to do the following;
- Secure permission from the Central Bank of Barbados (if applicable).
- Conduct thorough due diligence on the property.
- Engage a local attorney with expertise in property law.
- Negotiate and sign a sales agreement.
- Pay the required deposit and complete the conveyancing process.
- Register the property title with the Land Registry.
- Finalise the transaction and settle all outstanding taxes and fees.
To lean more about the process visit Residence Barbados Blog
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Understanding the Building Process.
How to successfully build your Dream Home by M+ Architect.
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Architectural and Design Trends for 2024
The Architectural and Design Trends blog by Berkan Construction Services Inc provides all the key features we desire in a home.
- Sustainable and Eco-Consious Designs
- Open-Air Living Spaces
- Smart Homes and Automation
- Natural and Sustainable Materials
- Indoor - Outdoor Living
- Sustainable Roofing
- Resilient Architecture
- Open Concept Living
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The Rise in Construction Costs and Insurance
RED by Terra Caribbean reports that BCQS International's recent review showed construction costs in the Caribbean increased between 13-30% from 2020-2022. Curacao saw the lowest rise at 13.10%, while Anguilla had the highest at 29.99%, with Barbados averaging a 16% increase over the three years.
Read the entire article HERE
Professionals
In this section, you will find a list of professionals in various fields with whom we are in communication with or are presently evaluating based on specific criteria
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Realtors
Annissa Ram
Sales & Long Term Rentals Agent
Elville House, Church Point, St. James, Barbados, BB24016
Telephone: 246.432.5050
Fax: 246.432.5051
Cell/Whatsapp: 246-230-6501
Email: annissa@barbadossothebysrealty.com
Cherita O’dell
Real Estate Broker
Tel#:(246)233-8888
Kylee Lee Kum (our highly recommended top choice)
Real Estate Advisor
Tel/Whatsapp: (246) 2328721
Office : +1 246-247-2229
Mobile : +1 246-247-2229
WhatsApp : +1 246-247-2229
Email : travel@inspiredbythecaribbean.com
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Attorneys
Year Admitted To Bar: 1993
Areas of Specialty - Conveyancing, Banking, Contract, Offshore Services, Estate
Law School Attended Norman Manley 1991-1993 (Jamaica, St. Lucia) 1998 (Barbados)
"Brigade House"
The Garrison
St. Michael
Barbados
Tel: 246 538-2556 Fax: 246 538-2557
Cell phone: 246-233-7965
E-mail: calewis@lewislawchambers.com
Patricia M White (our highly recommended top choice)
Attorney At Law
Ellangowan”, Strathclyde Drive , Strathclyde, St Michael, BB11077
Tel: 246-271-0581
Fax: 246 426-2049
Cell/Whatsapp: (246) 248 0268
Email: pwhite@leslieslaw.net
Ryan Moseley Partner
"Penrith" 11th Ave Bellville
St.Michael, Barbados
Work : +1 246 436 - 3950
Cell : +1 246 - 231- 4220
Email : Ryan@moseleypersaud.com
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Shipping Companies
SWF
28 Stone Castle Road
Rock Tavern NY 12575
United States
Phone: 718-656-8356
BIM Phone: 246-622-1777 ,( 1700), (1999)
WhatsApp 246-231-7439
US Phone: (786) 543-8714 or (786) 678-8024
Email: info@bajanpack.com
BDL - 3
315 ELLA GRASSO TURNPIKE
C/O Forward Air
Windsor Locks CT 06096
United States
Phone: 718-656-8356
7500 NW 81st Place
Miami, Fl 33166
Phone: 305-705-6775
Office: +1 305 994 7232
Customer Care: +1 305 994 7232
Email:receiving@pascargousa.com
Shipping service in Kearny, New Jersey
Service options: Onsite services
1200 Newark Tpke, Kearny, NJ 07032
Hours: 8AM - 3 PM
Phone: (201) 246-7740
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Insurance / Brokers
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Quantity Surveyor
Emerson Webster
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Designers/Engineers/Contractors/Others
Provides services in structural engineering and civil engineering.
Durants, Christ Church, Barbados
E: cbellamy@atlanticengineeringbarbados.com
P: (246) 228-7252
DKF Construction
Dale Franklyn
P: (246) 284-8250
Building Renovations - Home Improvements - Pools - Small Projects
Rudolph / Rudy Sealy
RRS Designs & Build LTD
P: (246) 253 4660
Kevin Young
Draughtsman, Architectural Designer
Barbados , West Indies
E: sketchwaystudios@gmail.com
T or Whatsapp: 246-263-0198
FB: www.facebook.com/sketchwaystudios
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Full Service Builders
Blue Print Management
Project Management, Architectural and Interior Services, and Procurement.
Tel: 1 (246) 573-8858
Email info@blueprintbarbados.com
2nd Floor, Hastings Financial Centre
Hastings, Christ Church
Barbados BB 15154
GSA (Gillespie & Steel Associates Ltd.)
Architecture, Interior Designs, and Master Planning.
Dormers, Prior Park, St. James Barbados WI Tel (246) 425 - 1356
M Plus Architure
Marco De Bortoli, Director
#4b Dolphin Court, The Garrison,
St. Michael, Barbados W.I. – BB14038
M: +1-246-823 1408
Skype: marco_de_bortoli
www.mplusarchitecture.com
Studio Blue Architects
Neil Hutchinson, B.A (hons), Dip. Arch, RIBA, BIA Management Director
PO Box 25
Worthing
Christ Church
Barbados / BB 15130
E: info@studiobluearchitects.com
T:246-228-1666
Whatsapp: 246-826-2583
SKYPE: studio-blue-architects
Vicki Telford Architects Inc
Vicki S. Telford, B. Arch, MBC, RA, BIA Director, Principal Architect & Project Manager
Letchworth House Annex - Suite #1
The Garrison, St. Michael
T: (246) 427-8108
F: (246) 228-7456
E: architect@vtabarbados.com
Government + NGO Contacts
Directory of Barbados Government and Non-Government Agencies, Departments & Services.
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Government Agencies, Departments & Services
Architects Registration Board (ARB)
C/O Ministry of Transport, Works
and Water Resources
Pine East-West Boulevard
The Pine, St Michael
Tel: (246) 536-0101
Barbados Fire Service Headquarters
Level 5 General Post Office Building
Cheapside, Bridgetown
Tel: (246) 535-7800
Fax: (246) 435-0794
Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI)
Ministry of Small Business, Entrepreneurship
and Commerce
Small Business Centre
Fontabelle, St. Michael
BB11000
PBX: (246) 426-3870
Tel: (246) 426-3871
(246) 426-3873
(246) 426-38-78
Fax: (246) 436-1495
Email: office@bnsi.com.bb
Barbados Water Authority (BWA)
Pine Commercial Estate
The Pine, St Michael
Tel: (246) 434-4200
Fax: (246) 228-0155
Email: customercare@bwa.gov.bb
Coastal Zone Management Unit (CZMU)
8th Floor, Warrens Tower II, Warrens
St Michael BB12001
Tel: (246) 535-5700
Fax: (246) 535-5741
Email: info@coastal.gov.bb
Department of Emergency Management
#30 Warrens Industrial Park
Warrens, St. Michael
Tel: (246) 438-7575
Fax: (246) 421-8612
Email: deminfo@barbados.gov.bb
Electrical Engineering Department
Verona House,
Bank Hall Main Road
St. Michael
Tel: (246) 535-7102 or 535-7103
Fax: (246) 426-9238
- Chief Electrical Officer: (246) 535-7105
- Deputy Chief Electrical Officer: (246) 535-7106
- Chief Electrical Inspector : (246) 535-7107
- Maintenance Supervisor : (246) 535-7108
Engineers Registration Board (ERB)
Christie Building, The Garrison
St Michael BB 14038
Tel: (246) 243-4779
Email: erb@caribsurf.com
Environmental Protection Department
Ministry of Environment and National Beautification
L V Harcourt Lewis Building
Dalkeith, St. Michael
Tel: (246) 535-4600
Chief Building Department Officer
Tel: (246) 535-4604
Fax: (246)228-7103
Email: epd.secretary@epd.gov.bb
Good Hope
Green Hill, St Michael
Tel: (246) 424-0260
Fax: (246) 424-0300
Email: info@ftc.gov.bb
Ground Floor East
Warrens Office Complex
Warrens, St. Michael
Tel: (246) 310-2000
Fax: (246) 424-2310
Email: lsdept@babrbados.gov.bb
Planning and Development Department
Warrens Office Complex
Warrens, St. Michael
TelPBX: (246) 535-3000
Director of Planning: (246) 535-3070
Deputy Director of Planning: (246) 535-3080
Customer Service: (246) 535-3025 or 3027
Email: contact@planning.gov.bb
Ministry of Transport, Works and Water Resources
The Pine, St. Michael
PBX: (246) 536-0000
Building Unit
Tel: (246) 536-0194
Fax: (246) 426-9706
Senior Building officer
Tel: (246) 536-0188
Fax: (246) 426-9706
Barbados Building Standards Authority (BSA)
Director Tel: (246) 536-0196
(246) 536-0197
Fax: (246) 427-5078
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Associations
Barbados Association of Architectural Technologists
c/o Interior Design Group
White Hall Road, St. Michael
Tel: (246) 425-2695
Email: baat2003@gmail.com
Barbados Association of Professional Engineers (BAPE)
Christie Building, The Garrison
St Michael BB 14038
Tel: (246) 429-6105
Email: engineers@caribsurf.com
Barbados Association of Quantity Surveyors
c/o Henry L. Taylor Associates Ltd
"Sherwood"
Corner Hoytes and Government Hill,
St. Michael
Tel: (246) 228-1578
Fax: (246) 426-0774
Email: hentay@caribsurf.com
Barbados Land Surveyors Association
c/o Mr. Andrew Weeks
Penrith, 11th Avenue Belleville, St. Michael
Tel: (246) 427-7019
Barbados Real Estate and Valuers Association
P. O. Box 130 Worthing , Christ Church
Tel: (246) 624-1811/836-0650
Email: info@beavainc.com
Barbados Town Planning Society
c/o Richard Gill Associates Ltd
Prior Park House, St. James
Tel: (246) 425-1488/9
Fax: (246) 421-7638
Email: barbadostownplanningsociety@gmail.com
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Non-Governmental
Barbados Light & Power Company Limited
Garrison, St. Michael
Tel: 626-1800
Fax: 228-1396
Email: customerservice@blpc.com.bb
Barbados Coalition of Service Industries (BCSI)
Building #3 Unit 2B,
Harbour Industrial Estate
St. Michael
Tel: (246) 429-5357
Fax: (246) 429-5352
Email: info@bcsi.org.bb
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Regional Associations
CAA
Common Wealth Association of Architects
Website: http://www.comarchitect.org/
FCAA
Federation of Caribbean Association of Architects
Website: https://www.facebook.com/fcaainfo/
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua & Barbuda Institute of Architects
P.O. Box 2844 - St. John’s, Antigua, W.I.
Email: admin@instituteofarchitectsab.com
Website: https://instituteofarchitectsab.com
Council of Architects of Antigua & Barbuda
P.O. Box 2844 - St. John’s, Antigua, W.I.
Website: efa@candw.ag
Bahamas
Institute of Bahamian Architects
P O Box 3187 Nassau Bahamas
Email: baharchitect2015@gmail.com
Website: https://www.ibabahamas.org/ibahistory.php
Professional Architects Board
P O Box C B 13040 Nassau Bahamas
Email: bdmanager@coralwave.com
Belize
Association of Professional Architects of Belize
#10 Taiwan Street, Belize City, Belize
Email: belizearchitects@gmail.com
Website: https://www.architectsofbelize.com/
Dominica
DOMINICA SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTS
Hanover St, Roseau, Dominica
Email: president@architectsdominica.org
Website: architectsdominica.org
Grenada
Grenada Society of Architects
Sherbourne House, Sunset Drive, St. Georges
Tel: (473) 404 9220
Email: mjohannatamar@gmail.com
Website: https://www.buildgrenada.com/architects.html
Guyana
Guyana Institute of Architects
C/o 150 Crown Street, Queenstown,
Georgetown, GUYANA.
Email: rjaincorp@yahoo.com
Website: https://guyanabusiness.biz/pages/details.php?comId=3577
Jamaica
Jamaican Institute of Architects
Office No. 1, Ground Floor
Incorporated Masterbuilders Building
5 Oxford Park Avenue, Kingston
Email: jiapresident2021.ja@gmail.com
Architects Registration Board of Jamaica
Office No. 1, Ground Floor
Incorporated Masterbuilders Building
5 Oxford Park Avenue
Kingston 5
chairman@arb.com.jm
Caribbean School of Architects
University of Technology Jamaica
237 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6
Email: jtlawton@utech.edu.jm
Website: https://www.utech.edu.jm/
St. Kitts & Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis Institute of Architects
P O Box 519, Bassaterre, St Kitts and Nevis
Email: djcf_architect@outlook.com>
St. Lucia
Saint Lucia Institute of Architects
Email: slia-slu@gmail.com
Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago Institute of Architects
Email: president@ttia-architects.org
Board of Architecture of Trinidad and Tobago
19 Stanmore Avenue
Port of Spain | Trinidad & Tobago
https://boa-tt.org
St. Vincent & The Grenadines
St Vincent & the Grenadines Institute of Architects
POBox 1181 , Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines
Email: calvertb@hotmail.co
Website: https://www.comarchitect.org/st-vincent-the-grenadines/
Tips & Guides
New Paragraph
Home Lighting Choices
- Floor Lamps
- Table Lamps
- Chandeliers & Pendants
- Wall Scones
- Understands Bulbs
Professionals
Referrals we've received from others.
These recommendations from satisfied clients, partners, and industry colleagues
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Attorneys
- Year Admitted To Bar: 1993
- Areas of Specialty - Conveyancing, Banking, Contract, Offshore Services, Estate
- Law School Attended Norman Manley 1991-1993 (Jamaica, St. Lucia) 1998 (Barbados)
Ryan Moseley Partner
"Penrith" 11th Ave Bellville
St.Michael, Barbados
Work : +1 246 436 - 3950
Cell : +1 246 - 231- 4220
Email : Ryan@moseleypersaud.com
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Movers/Moving Companies
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Shipping Companies
Shipping service in Kearny, New Jersey
Service options: Onsite services
1200 Newark Tpke, Kearny, NJ 07032
Hours: 8AM - 3 PM
Phone: (201) 246-7740
Bajan Pack
https://www.bajanpack.com/contact
info@bajanpack.com
PasCargo
https://pascargousa.com/contact/
Swift Pac
West Tech
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Service and Repair
BWC Services Ltd
Maintainance
Renovation
Window Cleaning
Power washing
A/C Weather Covers
Project Management
246.259.3224
Keep It Cool
Repair, service and install
246-822-7742 (Glen)
Oxley Raod, Black Rock, St Michael
Mason
Isaac Screon
(246) 263-4548
FENCE
- Fencit - Sammy (246) 243-2590
- Adrian (246) 244 1448
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Realtors
- Maisha Ward
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Landscape/Gardening
Gardeners
- Malcolm (246) 285-0189
- Winfield Sobers (246) 238 2718
Efficiency has a shape: the triangle
The basic work triangle is comprised of an imaginary line drawn between the kitchen’s primary work areas: food storage (refrigerator, pantry, etc.), food preparation (stove) and clean-up (sink). For maximum efficiency, the sum total of the triangle should be 26 linear feet, with the sink being the center point.
Have service to list? We’re here to help!
We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. Let us know what you want and we’ll do our best to help.
Learn About Barbados
Barbados, a Caribbean island, offers stunning beauty, vibrant culture, rich history, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year round sunshine.
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A Brief History
Barbados, located in the eastern Caribbean, has a rich and diverse history. Originally inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Arawaks and Caribs, the island was later claimed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. However, it was the English who established the first permanent settlement in 1627, leading to centuries of British colonial rule. Barbados became a center of the Atlantic slave trade, with enslaved Africans brought to work on sugar plantations, shaping the island's economy and society. The abolition of slavery in 1834 marked a significant turning point, leading to a transition to a plantation-based economy dependent on indentured laborers from India. Barbados gained independence from Britain in 1966, becoming a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth. Today, its history is reflected in its diverse cultural heritage, from its colonial architecture to its vibrant music and festivals, making it a fascinating destination for visitors and scholars alike.
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The Facts
Population: About 303,000
Geography: Barbados is a small island with a length of 21 miles (34km) and a breadth of 14 miles (23km) at its broadest point. The island's terrain is relatively flat, with some small hills.
Capital city: Bridgetown - largest city, cultural and commercial hub.
Climate in Barbados: Temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F with rainy season (June-Nov) and dry season (Dec-May). High humidity all year.
Economy: Relies on agriculture, especially sugar, rum, and molasses exports, as well as tourism and offshore financial services. Job opportunities are competitive, with a preference for locals.
Cost of living: Cost of living is, on average, 8.2% higher than in US. Budget for imported goods. Choose eco friendly smart housing. Check utility costs. Shop local for savings. Use public transport or consider car expenses.
Healthcare: The island offers excellent healthcare options, including private and public facilities.
Transport and driving: Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road. The island's compact size makes it easy to get around. Public transport, such as minivans, buses and taxis, is available.
Neighbouring countries: Barbados is an island in the eastern part of the Caribbean Sea. Nearby islands include St Lucia, Puerto Rico, Martinique and Trinidad and Tobago.
Geography: Barbados is a small island with a length of 21 miles (34km) and a breadth of 14 miles (23km) at its broadest point. The island's terrain is relatively flat, with some small hills.
Political system: Parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Main languages: English and Bajan (a local English dialect which can nevertheless be difficult for even native English speakers to understand).
Money: The Barbadian Dollar (BBD) is divided into 100 cents.
Time: GMT-4
Electricity: 110 V, 50 Hz. 'Type A' two-prong and 'type B' three-prong plugs are used.
Internet domain: .bb
International dialling code: +1 246
Emergency contacts: 511 (ambulance), 311 (fire), 211 (police)
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Bajan Dialect
Here is a list of popular Barbadian dialect words and phrases:
These words and phrases are commonly used in Barbados and reflect the island's unique linguistic and cultural heritage.
"Bajan" - A person from Barbados or something related to Barbados
"Lime" - To hang out or socialize
"Wunna" - You all (plural)
"Ting" - Thing
"Ole" - Old
"Braff" - A large and lively party or celebration
"Gaff" - House or home
"Wuk" - Work
"Wuk up" - style of dancing characterized by gyrating the waist and hips in a provocative or energetic manner.
"Pickeny" - Child or children
"Lef" - Leave or depart
"Cut eye" - To give a disapproving or scornful look
"Hot sun" - Very sunny weather
"Breadfruit" - A popular Caribbean fruit, often used in cooking
"Conkies" - Traditional Barbadian cornmeal and coconut dessert
"Zouk" - A style of Caribbean music and dance
to be continued...
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Fun Facts
These fun facts offer just a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural wonders of Barbados:
- Birthplace of Rum: Barbados is often referred to as the birthplace of rum. The island has a long history of rum production dating back to the 17th century, and today, visitors can explore rum distilleries and enjoy tastings of the island's famous spirit.
- George Washington's Barbados Visit: In 1751, a young George Washington visited Barbados with his ailing brother, Lawrence. This trip is believed to have influenced Washington's later political career, as he was exposed to British military and political structures during his stay.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a well-preserved colonial area in Barbados, has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. It's recognized for its significance in British colonial history and its well-maintained forts and buildings.
- Flying Fish: The flying fish is the national fish of Barbados and a symbol of the island's culture. These fish are known for their ability to glide over water, and they're also a staple in Bajan cuisine, often served fried or in a savory dish called "cou-cou and flying fish."
- Harrison's Cave: One of Barbados' top attractions is Harrison's Cave, a breathtaking limestone cave system located in the central uplands of the island. Visitors can take tram tours through the cave to marvel at its stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams.
- Crop Over Festival: Barbados' biggest cultural event is the Crop Over Festival, which dates back to the 1780s when sugar cane was harvested. Today, it's a vibrant celebration featuring colorful costumes, music, dancing, and street parties, culminating in a grand carnival parade.
- Green Monkeys: Barbados is home to the green monkey, which is found nowhere else in the world outside of West Africa. These monkeys were introduced to the island by early settlers and have since thrived in Barbados' lush forests and countryside.
