Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Barbados
Barbados, the easternmost island in the Caribbean, is a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a sunny and vibrant place to live and work. With its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and diverse offerings, Barbados has something for every type of digital nomad. In this article, we'll explore seven cities and towns that are ideal for digital nomads in Barbados, each with its unique charm and attractions.
Bridgetown
Bridgetown, the capital city, is a bustling hub of activity. It offers a range of co-working spaces, high-speed internet, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. The historic Garrison area is a must-visit, with its museums, forts, and the beautiful Constitution River. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,200-$1,500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $100-$150. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $25-$35.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Holetown Festival, held annually in February, which celebrates the island's rich history and cultural heritage.
Speightstown
Speightstown, a picturesque coastal town, is known for its colorful buildings, beautiful beaches, and lively markets. It's an ideal place for digital nomads who enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. The town is home to several co-working spaces and offers a range of accommodations. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $800-$1,000 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $70-$100. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $20-$30.
Nomad Tip: Spend an afternoon exploring the Speightstown Market, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious Bajan dishes.
Oistins
Oistins, a fishing village, is famous for its Friday Night Fish Fry. It's an excellent place for digital nomads who love seafood and a lively social scene. The village offers several co-working spaces and accommodations. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,000-$1,200 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $100-$150. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $25-$40.
Nomad Tip: Join the locals for a night of dancing and live music at the Oistins Bay Gardens during the Friday Night Fish Fry.
Holetown
Holetown, a historic town, is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and high-end shopping. It's an excellent place for digital nomads who seek a more upscale lifestyle. The town offers several co-working spaces and accommodations. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,500-$2,000 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $150-$200. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $35-$50.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the beautiful Andromeda Botanic Gardens, located just outside of Holetown, and enjoy the stunning flora and fauna.
St. Lawrence Gap
St. Lawrence Gap, also known as "The Gap," is a vibrant entertainment district with a lively nightlife scene. It's an excellent place for digital nomads who enjoy socializing and exploring the local nightlife. The area offers several co-working spaces and accommodations. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,000-$1,200 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $100-$150. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $25-$40.
Nomad Tip: Spend an evening at Daphne's, a popular restaurant located along the beach, and enjoy delicious Italian cuisine while watching the sunset.
Carlton
Carlton, a quiet residential area, is an excellent place for digital nomads who seek a peaceful and tranquil lifestyle. The area offers several co-working spaces and accommodations. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,200-$1,500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $100-$150. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $25-$40.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the beautiful Carlton Beach and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while working on your laptop.
Spencer's
Spencer's, a coastal town, is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back lifestyle. It's an excellent place for digital nomads who seek a tranquil and peaceful environment. The town offers several co-working spaces and accommodations. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $800-$1,000 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $70-$100. Dining out for dinner (moderate restaurant + 1 drink) costs around $20-$30.
Nomad Tip: Spend an afternoon exploring the beautiful Animal Flower Cave, located just north of Spencer's, and marvel at the unique geological formations and crystal-clear waters.
Where to Stay & Eat
Bridgetown and Speightstown offer a range of furnished apartments and hostels for digital nomads. Oistins and St. Lawrence Gap have several hotels and resorts with co-working spaces. Holetown and Carlton offer luxury villas and apartments for those seeking a more upscale lifestyle. Some popular restaurants for young people include the Tide Pool Restaurant & Bar in Speightstown, The Fish Pot in Oistins, and D'Costa's in Holetown.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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