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Getting There & Away Air Travel

Getting There & Away Air Travel

Barbados

Airport Connectivity

Grantley Adams International Airport BGI

Barbados' only airport, located 16 kilometers southeast of Bridgetown. All international and regional flights arrive and depart from BGI.

Airport Services

  • Duty-Free Shops for international brands and local products.
  • Restaurants and Cafes for meals and beverages.
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.

Airlines & Routes

BGI enjoys excellent air connectivity with numerous airlines operating routes from various global regions.

Direct Flights

  • North America: American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, United, Air Canada, WestJet.
  • Europe: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic (from UK), Condor (seasonal from Frankfurt).
  • Caribbean: Caribbean Airlines, interCaribbean Airways, SVG Air for regional travel.

Peak Season Dec-May

Highest flight frequency and prices. Book well in advance for travel around holidays.

Low Season Jul-Oct

Flight options slightly reduced, but prices generally lower.

Shoulder Season May-Jun, Nov-mid Dec

Balance of good flight availability and more reasonable prices.

Airport Transfers to Bridgetown

Taxi Services

  • Taxis readily available outside arrivals hall.
  • Fares fixed by government; confirm price with driver upfront.
  • Typically BBD $50-60 (USD $25-30) to Bridgetown.
  • Takes about 20-30 minutes, traffic depending.

Public Transport & Private

  • Public blue buses (Barbados Transport Board) near airport (BBD $3.50 flat fare).
  • Less convenient with large luggage.
  • Pre-booked private transfers available through hotels or tour operators.
  • Convenient for late arrivals or large groups.

Airport Services

Car Rental Desks

Major international and local car rental companies have counters in the arrivals hall.

Currency Exchange & ATMs

Facilities for exchanging currency and ATMs dispensing Barbadian Dollars are available.

VIP Lounge

A lounge offers a quieter space with amenities for eligible passengers.

Land Transportation

Bus Services

Barbados has no land borders or train systems. Public transportation relies entirely on buses and private vehicles.

Public & Private Buses

  • Barbados Transport Board (Blue Buses): Fixed routes, designated stops, cover entire island.
  • ZR Vans (Yellow with Blue Stripe): Privately owned, faster, frequent, wave down anywhere.
  • Flat fare of BBD $3.50 per ride for all buses. Exact cash fare required.

Self-Driving & Requirements

A temporary Barbadian driving permit is for all visitors who wish to drive.

Driving Requirements

  • Temporary Barbadian driving permit (BBD $100 for one year), obtain with national license.
  • Driving on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Road conditions vary; main roads fair, secondary roads narrow/winding.

Road Conditions

Main roads are generally fair, but secondary roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes poorly maintained with potholes.

Driving Safety

Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and stray animals. Strict drink-driving laws. Drive defensively.

Parking in Bridgetown

Metered street parking available, public parking lots near Wharf or Bridgetown Port. Challenging in busy city center.

Important Notes for Drivers

  • Adjust to driving on the left if you are from a right-hand driving country.
  • Road signage can be limited. GPS or good map highly recommended.
  • Traffic in Bridgetown can be heavy during rush hours.
  • Be alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals, especially at night.
  • Check minimum age for car rentals (21 or 25).
  • Car rental daily prices exclude fuel and insurance.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Port & Ferries

The Bridgetown Port, also known as the Deep Water Harbour, is a significant cruise ship terminal located just west of the city center.

Port Facilities

  • Accommodates large cruise vessels.
  • Offers duty-free shopping and amenities.
  • No regular international ferry services connecting Barbados to other countries.

River Transportation

The Careenage, the historic inner harbor in Bridgetown, is mainly used by small pleasure boats, fishing vessels.

Local Water Options

  • Mainly used by water taxis for short distances within the city.
  • Offers an unique perspective of the city from the water.
  • Catamaran cruises and fishing charters depart from the port area.

Immigration at Seaports

Cruise passengers clear immigration upon disembarkation with passport and required forms.

Land Connections from Port

Taxis readily available, often with fixed fares. Cruise lines offer shuttle services.

No Unique Local Transport

Barbados does not have cable cars, funiculars, tuk-tuks, or jeepneys. Public buses and taxis are main modes.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

For flights departing Barbados, the departure tax is typically included in the price of your airline ticket.

Fees Covered

  • No additional airport fee payment needed.
  • Cruise passengers' port fees may be included in cruise fare.
  • Check your cruise line's details for clarity on included fees.

Departure Procedures & Timing

Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Airport Timing

  • Arrive at BGI at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure for international flights.
  • Time for check-in, security screening, and immigration.
  • Timing can be longer during peak travel seasons.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Duty-Free Shopping

A variety of shops for last-minute purchases, including spirits, tobacco, perfumes, and local crafts.

Dining Options

Restaurants and lounges for a final meal or drink before your flight.

Essential Services

ATMs available for cash needs. VIP Lounges for eligible passengers.

Departure Checklist

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents (passport, boarding pass) readily accessible for check-in and security.