Barbados Overview

Known affectionately to Barbadians as “Bim” or "de rock", Barbados is located in the south east of the Caribbean at 13 10 N, 59 32 W . It is the most easterly island of the Caribbean region and is located 168km away from the Caribbean Island chain. Please do not get confused with the Bahamas which is a group of numerous islands located at the north of the Caribbean. Barbados is just ONE island.

Islands

Located off the east coast of Barbados is a tiny uninhabited island called Culpepper Island. Years ago there was also another tiny island located off the west coast of the island called Pelican Island, which was joined to the mainland during the building of the deep water harbour in Bridgetown.

Geography

Despite the fact that Barbados is only 431 sq km (166 sq miles), the island is home to approximately 279,912 (July 2006 est.) people. In fact, Barbados is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with an average population density of 647 persons per sq km. The island is 34 km (21 miles) long and 23 km (14 miles) wide at its widest part.

People of Barbados

The official name for the people of Barbados is "Barbadians". Nevertheless, in our Barbadian parlance we are called "Bajans". The majority of the Barbadian population is of African descent. However, there are whites, people of mixed race, Chinese and a steadily growing number of East-Indians coming mainly from India, Guyana and Trinidad. Even though our official language is English, an English based dialect called Bajan Dialect is widely spoken. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to learn Bajan dialect to communicate with Barbadians.

Administrative divisions Parishes

The capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, is located in the parish of St Michael. The island is divided into 11 parishes: St Lucy, St Peter, St Andrew, St Joseph, St James, St John, St George, St Thomas, St Philip, St Michael and Christ Church.

Climate & Seasons

The climate is tropical and the mean annual temperature is about 26°C (about 79°F). Barbados experiences two seasons: a rainy season which runs from June to December and a dry season.

Government

Barbados was a British colony from 1627 until it achieved its independence on November 30th, 1966 under the leadership of the third premier of the island, the Rt. Hon Errol Walton Barrow. On the country’s attainment of independence, he became Barbados’ first Prime Minister. Although Barbados is presently a constitutional monarchy, plans are being made for the island to become a republic in the near future.

Please note that the Queen has no power in Barbados. Her post is merely ceremonial.

The main power of the land goes to the Head of Government, who is the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister and his Cabinet Ministers make up the Government of Barbados.

Economy

The Barbadian economy, which once relied on the export of sugar, is now based mainly on tourism, offshore banking and light manufacturing.

Real Estate

Although many celebrities and affluent people from North America and Europe own vacation homes in Barbados, you do not have to be rich to own a retirement home or vacation home here. Whether you are looking to purchase land or property or are looking for property for long-term or short-term rent, you will find that dream home to suit your taste and budget.

You can choose from luxurious and attractive plantation houses, villas, cottages, town houses, beach houses and bungalows. Barbadian homes are well known for their stunning and elegant architecture, and many of these houses come equipped with beautifully landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, access to golf or tennis, beach/water front and a panoramic view of the island.

You would be pleased to know that there are no restrictions on non-nationals and permanent residents who wish to purchase or rent property. However, since they are not eligible for funding in Barbados, they have to make sure they have the money available upfront, which must then be registered with the Central Bank of Barbados.