Barbados Digital Nomad Visa

Brief history of Barbados

Barbados was settled by Arawaks from South America, who became dominant in the 8-12th centuries; then, more war-like tribes, such as the Kalinago (Island Caribs) who arrived from South America, ruled in the 12th–13th centuries.

The first Europeans came to the island in the early 16th century, when Spaniards first visited Barbados. Portuguese explorers also touched on the island, which they named Barbados (“Bearded Ones”), either for its bearded fig trees or bearded men on the island. In the early 17th century, Barbados was colonized by Great Britain. Since the arrival of the English in 1627, Barbados has enjoyed a storied history as an important entrepôt and trading center in the Western Hemisphere. Barbados was also transformed by the plantation system and slavery. It was the world's number one sugar producer by 1650.

Barbados was under British rule until the second half of the 20th century, before the island achieved universal voting rights in 1943 and opted for full independence from the UK in 1966.

By then the island’s economy was expanding and diversifying, mainly as a result of the policies pursued by governments formed after the planter-merchant elite lost power.

Barbados is a member of the Commonwealth and continues to play a leading role in the establishment of regional cooperation.

Infrustructure

From Monday to Friday, stores in Barbados are traditionally open from 9 a.m. and close at roughly 5 p.m. On Saturdays, stores in the main towns typically close between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. However, shopping malls and larger supermarkets open till later in the night — until 8 p.m. in many instances. As most products are imported, it is sometimes hard to find groceries and goods that are commonly available in America or Europe.

Accommodations in Barbados

Barbados has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly studios to beachfront luxury condos. Rental price depends on location. According to Numbeo, renting an apartment with one bedroom in the city center of Bridgetown costs around $645, while the same apartment in the outskirts costs $435 per month. A 3-bedroom unit can be found for under $1500 per month. Apartments that cost more than this offer a luxurious interior, swimming pool, and spectacular views of the sea. Please note that these prices indicate the renting cost for a long stay (more than six months).

You can also find inexpensive guest houses with bed and breakfast from under $40 daily for a single in the summer to luxury accommodations at some of the world’s best hotels at $1,600 in the prime season. There is a wide selection of luxury villas and cottages available for rent throughout Barbados. Many of these villas and cottages are located on or near the beach and provide all the facilities needed to make your stay in Barbados truly relaxing and enjoyable.

Healthcare in Barbados

You must have valid health insurance for the complete duration of your stay in Barbados. However, the Government of Barbados  provides medical insurance options on the island. The healthcare system in Barbados is world-class, comprising both public and private medical centers complete with highly trained staff to facilitate the care of those in need.

The main hospital is the Queen Elizabeth Hospital situated in Bridgetown, the capital, and provides emergency, surgical, and specialist treatment in areas such as radiology, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, and many more. There are also public polyclinics that are in operation around the island. The Winston Scott Polyclinic in Bridgetown is the only one that provides 24-hour service.

Digital nomads will also have access to various private medical practitioners on the island, as well as privately owned medical facilities and the state-owned primary acute medical facility.

Cost of living in Barbados

For a single person, the estimated monthly cost of living without rent is around $1,100, while for a family with four members you can expect expenses of $4,000.

To buy 1 liter of milk, 12 eggs, 500 g of local cheese, one bottle of mid-range wine, and a loaf of bread on average you may pay $35. The prices for most products in the grocery store can be found on NUMBEO.

Eating out for two people in a mid-range restaurant with three courses costs about $80. For the combo meal at McDonald's, you will pay $10. Drinking cappuccino in local cafes costs around $4.20 on average.

Basic utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85-square-meter  apartment cost around $130. Add to this the average cost of the Internet, about $100 per month. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the island at many places, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, shops, malls, etc.