Holetown City Guide

Local dishes include flying fish and cou-cou, fish cakes, and macaroni pie. International options are common in tourist areas. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food is available near nightlife spots.

Holetown has several bars and restaurants with a lively but relaxed nightlife.

The coffee scene is growing with specialty cafes and roasters, but not a major feature yet.

Tipping is common but not always required if a service charge is added. Restaurants usually include 10-15% service charge. Taxi tips are discretionary, about 10%.

SIM cards from Digicel and Flow are available on arrival. ID/passport registration is needed. eSIM is becoming more common but check providers for details.

Tourist areas like Holetown are generally clean with regular waste pickup and developing recycling.

Some pharmacies and minimarts have late hours, but 24/7 services are limited. Emergency clinics operate but are not always open overnight.

Massy Stores carries international products. Most supermarkets are open from morning to late evening but may close on Sundays or public holidays. Bargaining is not common.

Most restaurants and hotels accept Visa and Mastercard. Barbados Dollar (BBD) is primary, but US Dollar (USD) is also widely accepted.

ATMs are available near commercial areas like One Welches, a short drive from Holetown. Expect a 2:1 exchange rate with the US Dollar.

Barbados has both local and international schools. Welcome Stamp visa holders' children can enroll. English is the main language of instruction.

Barbados has a growing digital nomad scene with co-living spaces and meetups. Several coworking spots and online groups support remote workers.

There are green spaces and shaded walkways mostly outside Holetown. Parks and gardens are available island-wide.

Running along coastal roads and beaches is common. Safety is good but caution is advised on roads without sidewalks.

Gyms and CrossFit facilities are available on the island, mostly near major towns and resorts.

Tennis courts are available at resorts and private clubs, some with coaching and equipment rentals.

Padel is less common but may be found at some newer facilities.

Yoga studios like Sunshine Kula offer classes with English-speaking instructors. Wellness retreats are available.

Some martial arts schools exist, covering Karate, Taekwondo, and possibly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. English-speaking instructors are common.

No skiing in Barbados.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the calm west coast. Rentals and guided tours are common.

Surfing spots exist mainly on the south and east coasts. Holetown is on the west coast so surf breaks are a drive away, including Bathsheba and Oistins.

Excellent diving and snorkeling with clear water and abundant marine life at Folkestone Marine Park and other spots.

Hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff are available, mainly in Bridgetown. Private healthcare offers shorter wait times. Pharmacies provide common medications.

Tap water in Barbados is usually safe to drink.

Holetown offers kid-friendly beaches and attractions like marine parks. Playgrounds and cafes for children are available nearby.

Legal progress has been made recently but full equality is not yet achieved. General acceptance is growing; discrimination may still occur.

Pet policies vary. Veterinary services and some pet-friendly spots exist but confirm in advance. Strict import rules apply.