The Barbados Dollar (BBD) is fixed to the U.S. Dollar at a rate of Bd$1.98 to US$1 and does not fluctuate. Its rate relative to other currencies fluctuates based on the particular currency's relation to the U.S. Dollar. U.S. Dollars are also widely accepted on the island, and well-known international credit cards and travelers checks (best carried in U.S. dollars to avoid additional charges) are accepted in most stores and restaurants.
Banks and ATMs are freely available and cash withdrawals can be made. However, it's advisable that you exchange money, if necessary, prior to boarding your Barbados flight..
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The international access code for Barbados is +1, in common with the U.S., Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by 246. Mobile phones operate on a GSM network. Cell phones can be rented through Cellcom. Internet cafes are widely available.
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Tipping is not necessary if a service charge has already been included in the bill, otherwise it is generally about 10-15 percent. Tipping is normal in bars.
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There are no extremist groups or areas of instability in Barbados. Some drug-related organized crime exists, but does not generally affect tourists.
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There are no mandatory requirements regarding vaccinations for visitors to Barbados, however a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over one year of age coming from infected areas, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for those aged over two years. There have been occasional outbreaks of Dengue Fever and mosquito repellent is strongly recommended. Medical care is good but very expensive and serious cases are usually transferred overseas (usually to the USA). Health insurance is therefore strongly recommended. Ambulances take hours to respond and attendants may not administer life-saving techniques en route to hospital.
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110 volts, 50Hz. Most hotels provide adaptors and transformers for hairdryers and other appliances.
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