Bridgetown, Barbados

• Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados, a UNESCO site with British colonial buildings mixed with Caribbean life. Police are visible during the day, but expect persistent catcalling and approaches from men - this happens even in busy areas in daylight. It's not a safety issue as much as an annoyance you'll need to deal with.
• The currency is Barbadian dollars, pegged 2:1 to USD, and both are accepted everywhere. Everyone speaks English, which makes basic communication easy. Locals are generally friendly, though you'll need to figure out who's being genuinely helpful versus who's trying to sell you something.
• Government buses have WiFi and AC for $3.50 BBD ($1.75 USD), but they get packed and pickpocketing happens. ZR vans are privately run minibuses that cover the island. At night, use registered taxis or ride apps - it's safer and more straightforward. Downtown is walkable but stay alert in markets and shopping areas.
• Barbados doesn't do daylight saving time (Atlantic Standard Time year-round). Temperature stays around 76-87°F, so weather is consistent. Crime has dropped but petty theft is still common in tourist spots - keep your valuables out of sight, especially at crowded places like Oistins Fish Fry and Broad Street.

English is the official language. Everyone speaks it, though locals use Bajan dialect that adds some flavor. Tourist areas and emergency services all speak standard English. Emergency numbers (911, 211, etc.) have English-speaking operators.

• Barbados is conservative - keep beachwear on the beach. Cover up when you go into shops, restaurants, or walk around town. Men can't go shirtless in public, and topless sunbathing is illegal.
• Greet people with 'Good morning,' 'Good afternoon,' or 'Good evening' based on time of day. Say hello when you enter shops or rum shops. Use 'Sir' or 'Ma'am' when speaking to older people.
• For evenings and nicer restaurants, dress smart casual. Churches require shoulders and knees covered. In Holetown and upscale areas, people dress up more than in beach towns.
• Be on time for business, though social events run on island time. Ask before taking photos at ceremonies or religious events. Locals care about environmental conservation - don't trash beaches.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Police: 211. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Government buses have WiFi and AC, cost $3.50 BBD ($1.75 USD) flat rate, running from Bridgetown and Speightstown terminals. Safe during the day but get packed during rush hour. The BeepBus app helps with routes.
• ZR vans (white with maroon stripe) are private minibuses covering 11 routes. Cheaper than taxis but they drive aggressively and accidents happen. Pickpockets work crowded buses, so watch your stuff.
• Taxis don't have meters - agree on the price before you get in. The pickUp Barbados app connects you with registered drivers. At night, taxis are safer than walking or taking buses.
• Downtown Bridgetown and the Careenage boardwalk are walkable during the day, as are Holetown and St Lawrence Gap. Between towns you'll need transport. Don't walk alone at night.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Bridgetown with local guides and curated experiences.