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Digital Nomad Guide to Barbados | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Bottom Bay, Barbados

Digital Nomad Life in Barbados

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Barbados is a popular destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Barbados are Bridgetown, Speightstown, and Holetown. Digital nomads like living in Barbados because of its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and low cost of living. A digital nomad can live on a monthly budget of around $2,000 in Barbados. The culture of Barbados is a mix of African, British, and Caribbean influences. Popular foods in Barbados include flying fish, cou-cou, macaroni pie, and fish cakes.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

How do I meet people in Barbados?

When we asked people living in Barbados about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Barbados often join clubs and activities such as sailing, golf, tennis, and beach volleyball. Expats can also join local organizations such as the Barbados International Business Association, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Expats can also meet people by attending church services, joining a book club, or taking a cooking class. Finally, expats can meet people by simply striking up conversations with locals in cafes, bars, and other public places," said one person in Barbados.

What is life like in Barbados?

When we asked people living in Barbados what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Barbados is generally quite pleasant. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the island's culture and attractions. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to work from. The island also offers a variety of activities, from snorkeling and diving to horseback riding and golf. With its vibrant nightlife and diverse cuisine, Barbados is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique and exciting experience," said one person in Barbados.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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Where should I live in Barbados?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Barbados is to use online resources such as real estate websites. These websites typically list a variety of properties for rent or sale, including apartments, villas, and houses. Additionally, you can search for properties on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. You can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find the perfect place to live in Barbados. Additionally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers and magazines. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Barbados for recommendations," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Barbados.

What do I need to know before moving to Barbados?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Barbados, they said:

"Before retiring in Barbados, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other Caribbean countries. They should also research the local healthcare system and the availability of medical services. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations, as well as the tax system. It is also important to consider the climate and the type of housing available. Finally, expats should research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into their new home," remarked one member in Barbados.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Barbados?

"The friendliness, the openness, and the love of life. The Bajans enjoy life, they don't take work as seriously as we do in America or Europe which can be frustrating but also can be liberating depending on how you approach the change. If you learn to relax and live a slower paced life you will enjoy the island life here in Barbados," explained one expat living in Hastings, Barbados.

"Expats in Barbados appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people, the laid-back atmosphere, and the vibrant culture that includes a variety of music, art, and cuisine. They also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the island, with its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical forests. The relaxed pace of life and the strong sense of community are also highly valued by expats in Barbados," said one person in Barbados.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Barbados?

"Expats in Barbados often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The pace of life is slower and more relaxed than in many other countries, and the local customs and traditions can be unfamiliar. Additionally, the local language, Bajan Creole, can be difficult to understand for those who are not native speakers. Furthermore, the cost of living in Barbados is higher than in many other countries, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Finally, the tropical climate can be challenging for those who are not used to the heat and humidity," said one expat in Barbados.

"Getting anything done in a timely matter. Do not expect quick service for anything from restaurants to building a new home. Everything takes more time then you would be use to in America or Europe," remarked one member in Hastings.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Barbados for a while?

"Getting residency as an expat is mostly based on proving you can afford to live here on your own. You will need to show you have an adequate source of income from outside of Barbados. It is quite simple but best to contact a local lawyer to help you through the process," said one expat in Clapham Ridge.

"If you plan to stay in Barbados for an extended period of time, you will need to apply for a residency visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term residency visa or a permanent residency visa. You will also need to provide supporting documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, and a valid return ticket. Additionally, you may need to provide a police clearance certificate and a medical certificate," remarked one member in Barbados.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Barbados?

We asked people in Barbados if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Barbados. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using profanity. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and to avoid engaging in activities that are illegal in Barbados. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local people and to avoid making assumptions about their culture," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Barbados.

"My first time at the Oistins fish fry I saw "Dolphin" on the menu and was a bit upset at the thought of eating dolphin and went on a bit of a rant about saving the dolphins... only to find out that in Barbados "dolphin fish" is actually Dorado or Maui Maui and not a Dolphin at all," explained one person living in Hastings, Barbados.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are healthcare services like in Barbados?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Barbados, they replied:

"Barbados has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a range of services to its citizens and foreign residents. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a range of services available including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay for some services. Expats in Barbados can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats can also access private healthcare services, which are generally of a higher quality than the public system," explained one expat living in Barbados.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Barbados?

"relatively safe much too expensive blacks and whites seem to live and socialize in their own separate group and mostly avoid each other," explained one expat living in Bridgetown, Barbados.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Barbados often appreciate the island's laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches. They also enjoy the warm climate and the friendly locals. Additionally, Barbados is known for its excellent infrastructure, making it easy to get around and access amenities. On the downside, the cost of living in Barbados can be quite high, and the island is prone to hurricanes during the summer months," said one digital nomad in Barbados.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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Find essential information about the digital nomad visa for working in Barbados.

Contribute to Barbados Network Contribute
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Cigna Global Health

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