Currency

Local currency is in Barbados Dollars ($Bdos.) and is tied to the U.S. dollar at a rate of $1.98 Bdos. to $1.00 U.S. dollar., $1.00 Canadian = $1.42 Bdos. Other foreign currencies fluctuate daily against that standard. Check with your local branch for current rates.

Banking

Banks currently operating in Barbados include: Barbados National Bank, Caribbean Commercial Bank, Barclay's Bank PLC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Royal Bank of Canada, and the Bank of Nova Scotia. All their main offices are in Bridgetown. Most are open from 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday, and Fridays from 9 a.m to 1:00 p.m. and additional hours from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

A.T.M. (Automated Teller Machines) are now available on the Island. Please check with your bank to see if your banking card will be accepted at the ATM's.

There is a currency exchange counter in the arrivals level of the airport open from 8 a.m. to 12:00 midnight daily.

Transportation

Taxis are not metered with set rates for locations throughout the island. Ask the taxi driver for a rate card before hiring.Taxi fare to Surfview Villas should run $20 Bdos.

Buses are clean and run about every 20 minutes to Bridgetown. The Bus Stop is about a five minute walk from Surfview Villas located near Buffy's Bar (just one of the 1,600 rum shops on the island!) Bus fare is $1.50 one way and will take your anywhere on the island. It is recommended to have the correct change. To return from Bridgetown to Surfview, take the #13 Silver Sands Bus.

There are also mini buses called ZR's that compete with with local bus service. Their fare is also $1.50 but run at a more frequent basis. You may have to flag one down like a taxi if you wish to try one.

Car Rentals

Driving in Barbados is on the left. Great sport especially in the round-abouts you'll find out what we mean. You must have a Barbados Driving Permit. This requires either a full physical exam or $10 Bdos your choice! These permits can be arranged by the car rental company or at any local Police Station. Licence is valid for one year. You must present your current drivers licence at the time of application. Mini-mokes (miniature Jeeps) seat 4 adults and are great fun to drive. They come with a canvas removable top (wear your suntan lotion), and open sides. Be sure to ask for a moke with a trunk so you can lock your valuables when you go shopping, or stop at one of the many beaches for a swim.

Rental is approximately $90 Bdos. per day or $525 per week for unlimited mileage. You pay for your own gas. Price includes pick up and delivery. Other vehicles from cars to vans are also available to rent as well. Our villa manager, would be happy to help you choose a reputable car rental agency. The speed limit on the island is 60 km or 37 mph in the countryside and 35km or 21 mph in town. The roads are all paved and well maintained.

Sports

Barbados is a virtual playground in the sun. Here's a brief overview of the sports to enjoy on the island.

Windsurfing and Surfing is becoming popular due to the steady breezes and ever-present sunshine.

Yachting is also very popular due to the steady trade winds that surround the island. You can charter large catamarans, and also enjoy a guided tour on a yacht. The beaches offer smaller craft rentals such as Hobie Cats.

There is an incredible variety of tropical marine life that exists on the coral reefs and in three sunken wrecks. Diving gear and instructions are easily found on the island.

Skiing and Para-sailing are both popular on the calm waters of the west coast.

Cricket is the national sport of Barbados and you can catch a good game almost any time either professional games or a friendly match played on the beach, open pasture or a village road.

Horseback riding is great fun with at least five stables to choose from.

Tennis is played extensively on the islands with many courts at many hotels as well as the public court at Folkstone Park in Holetown.

Golfers will be happy with the sunny warm weather. There are four courses to choose from- The Royal Westmoreland (18 holes), Almond Beach Village (9 holes), Sandy Lane (18 holes) and Club Rockley (9 holes).

If squash is your game, there are ten different locations to enjoy.

 

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