Barbados
Pros and Cons of Living in Barbados
Last updated on Dec 03, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Barbados include its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly people. The island is also known for its excellent healthcare system and low crime rate. Additionally, Barbados is a great place to retire due to its low cost of living and tax incentives. The cons of living in Barbados include its high cost of living, limited job opportunities, and lack of public transportation. Additionally, the island is prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters, which can cause significant damage. Finally, the island is relatively small, so there are limited entertainment and cultural activities available.
What are the pros and cons of living in Barbados?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Barbados responded:
"relatively safe much too expensive blacks and whites seem to live and socialize in their own separate group and mostly avoid each other," said one in Bridgetown.
"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," explained one expat 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'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 expats in Barbados appreciate most about the local culture?
"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," explained one expat.
"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," said one person in Hastings.
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 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.
What do expats find most challenging?
"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 a person living 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," explained one expat living in Hastings.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Barbados?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Barbados?
- Will I be able to find a job in Barbados?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Barbados appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Barbados?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Barbados accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Barbados like?
- How are healthcare services in Barbados?
- What are medical services in Barbados like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Barbados?
- What are emergency services like in Barbados?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Barbados?
- How are local medical facilities in Barbados?
- As a foreigner living in Barbados, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
