TIPS FOR OUT OF TOWNERS

Visit once and you will return again and again....
This tiny island, the most easterly of the Caribbean island chain and measuring 21 miles long by 14 miles wide, is a mere dot on most world maps! The gorgeous coral island is surrounded by spectacular beaches and warm waters with ideal open water swim conditions on the west, south west and some south coast areas.

Carlisle Bay – the Open Water Swim Venue
This magnificent, yet tranquil, crescent shaped bay is located off the south-west region of the island and the Bay is lined by a white sand beach that stretches from the Pebbles Beach all the way to Bridgetown, the capital city. The calm, warm waters provide safe haven for the yachts moored there and the proliferation of fish and sea turtles that enjoy the protection of this “marine park”. Snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities abound especially at any of the man-made wrecks in the Bay. The Bay is very appealing to open-water swimmers especially the “Regulars” who swim the Bay weekly.

Batts Rock Beach & Sandy Beach - Other Open Water Swim Venues
Ahead of race weekend two of the three practice swims are at alternate locations allowing swimmers to experience other open water swim venues on the island.
They are very popular and highly social! Dinner after is optional. A great way to meet other swimmers ahead of race weekend. 

WEEKLY SWIM HOLIDAYS: In addition to the annual Barbados Open Water Festival we also offer weekly Swim Holidays in beautiful Barbados. See all the details HERE

Flight Info - There are many direct flights to Barbados during November. From the USA - Newark, New York, Boston, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. From Canada - Toronto.  From the UK: Gatwick and Manchester. From Germany: Frankfurt. 
From South America:  COPA airlines from Panama to Barbados. Connections from Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Panama and Chile.

Entry Requirements - All visitors must have a passport that is valid for duration of the stay, a return ticket to their country, know their intended address and be prepared to have a fantastic stay!  Visas are not required for most visitors but check if a Visa is required and other details here: visa-and-entry-requirements

Partner Hotels: We have partnered with a few hotels who will offer you a preferred rate, see partner hotels here: Hotels  

Driving Tips Measuring just 21 miles long and 14 miles wide, it’s never difficult to find a way to get around an island of this size. From public buses to taxis to car rentals to private limousines there is a transportation option suited to every preference and budget. Just remember that in Barbados you will be driving on the left side of the road. If you want to rent a car its best to organise ahead of arrival.

Weather The weather November is warm with daytime temperatures averaging about 28 degrees Celsius. Water temperatures average about 27 degrees Celsius.

Dress Code Lightweight, comfortable clothing is recommended. The dress code is casual (shorts or slacks and tee-shirts), though excessive exposure is frowned upon. Several of the fine dining restaurants require long pants especially on evening. Please do not wear bathing suits or skimpy beach wear beyond the beach. There are no nude beaches in Barbados. 

Currency Barbados has its own currency and US$ are also accepted. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted.

Medical Facilities: There are several doctors offices, after hour emergency centres, a small private hospital and the main public hospital minutes away from the swim site and from the south coast hotels. (FMH Medical, Elcourt Clinic, Diagnostic Clinic, Bay View Hospital & the Queen Elizabeth Hospital). On the west coast there is a 24 hour clinic (Sandy Crest Medical Centre). For medical care at your accommodation call Urgent Care Mobile (246) 538-3838

Private Ambulance service: Medic Response (246)-228-8633.  Dial 511 for QEH Ambulance.

Groceries there is a large grocery store (Massy) located just off the the south coast road.  The Imart at Lanterns Mall on the south coast is a useful convenience store.  Other large Massy Supermarkets at Haggatt Hall, Warrens and Sunset Crest.  These supermarkets have pharmacies.

Pharmacies There are numerous pharmacies in the south coast area. Lewis Drug Mart is located on the south coast road between Accra Beach and Bubbas Sports Bar. 

Internet Access Most hotels and some restaurants offer free WIFI. 

Capital City is Bridgetown. Offers duty free shopping, dining and sightseeing. Bridgetown is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Parliament buildings, Synagogue and Screw Dock are just some of the iconic landmarks to explore. 

Sightseeing & Attractions There is much to see and do in Barbados for the young and the more mature. Island attractions and activities abound. Browse the recommended Barbados Tourism Websites below.
www.myguidebarbados.com
www.totallybarbados.com
www.visitbarbados.org
www.beachesofbarbados.com

Churches - Numerous denominations are present on the island.