Is Barbados Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Barbados is a wonderful travel destination due to the stunning landscapes and cave formations found on the island. There are many reasons why you will want to visit this eastern Caribbean island.

Solo female travellers who intend to travel to Barbados alone might be worried about the safety situation and their safety while on the island. In this article, I will answer the question of whether Barbados is safe for solo female travellers.

Is Barbados Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Yes, Barbados is safe for solo female travellers. As of 2024, the island country is ranked Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) in the travel advisory.

Destinations ranked as level one are considered safe, but travellers still need to take precautions while travelling to the country. There might be instances of petty crimes like pickpocketing, automobile break-ins, or snatch thefts.

As a solo female traveller, this article will help you understand the precautions to take while planning your visit to Barbados and while in Barbados.

Understanding the Safety Situation in Barbados

Street Crimes and Common Issues

Street crimes and other crimes in general can happen while in Barbados. The more likely to happen in crowded areas is pickpocketing.

This is why it is always a good idea to not leave valuables unattended in public areas. This includes mobile phones, jewellery, and credit cards.

You should also watch what you wear at all times and avoid revealing outfits while in public. One of the most important precautions for solo female travellers is to avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, and in isolated or poorly lit areas.

Since you are travelling alone, you should always be cautious of your surroundings and the areas you visit while in Barbados. Although crime can happen anywhere, there are some locations in Barbados where the crime rates are higher.

If you will be going to Crab Hill, Barbados, be aware of the possibility of pickpocketing and always stay cautious. You would not want to move alone in Crab Hill while it is dark for your own safety.

Other places to avoid at night include dark and secluded side streets, Nelson, and Wellington Streets.

Avoiding these locations can make your trip a little safer. We all know there is no such thing as a perfect travel destination. But with this article, my goal is to provide a clear answer to the question “Is Barbados Safe for Solo Female Travellers?” with my knowledge and experience from travelling alone to some high-risk locations.

Before Travelling to Barbados

While planning your travel to Barbados, it is a good idea to book the best accommodation ahead. This alone can make a big difference in your travel experience.

You should go for reputable hotels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals with good reviews and safety features.

Try to book taxis from reputable companies in advance. This will save you the stress of having to book rides while in Barbados since some rides might not be licensed taxis.

Here is a secure accommodation checklist:

Location

It is wise to stay in well-populated and safe neighbourhoods.

Reviews

Read the reviews for any red flags. I recommend taking those one-star reviews seriously.

Security

Make sure that the accommodation you pick has good security measures in place, like 24-hour reception, secure locks, and CCTV. However, you should also find a means of adding a security lock to your door to avoid entry by staff.

You should also take precautions with your health by going for checkups and being prepared for any health concerns. Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage while in overseas countries.

Ideally, it is best to plan some activities that you will do while in Barbados. This includes properly researching guides and tour companies.

Save the local emergency contacts and stay in contact with your embassy. Here are some useful emergency contacts in Barbados:

Police: 211

Fire: 311

Ambulance: 511

Arriving in Barbados

On arrival, the public transport in Barbados is generally safe, but you still need to take precautions.

If you did not book a ride in advance, be on the lookout for licensed taxis in Barbados. Look for taxis with the “Z” license plate and agree on a fare before you set off.

Avoid rides with strangers, and do not trust rides offering a lift. In Barbados, the PickUP app can come in handy when booking for rides for added safety.

Aside from taxis, buses are a popular and affordable way to get around the island. Taking a bus is safer during the day since you can be aware of your surroundings, but it is better to avoid taking them at night.

While eating or drinking, do not leave drinks or food unattended in public areas.

If you must interact with locals, do not reveal information about your accommodations. Details like your room number and location should be private. Even while at your rental, always confirm the identity of any visitors before letting them in.

Driving in Barbados

If you will be driving in Barbados, make sure you look for markings on highways and have a physical map along with your smartphone GPS. Some roads may not be marked, so be careful not to miss your turn.

Do not stop when a pedestrian is trying to flag you down since you are driving alone. Keep your doors locked at all times, and keep your valuables and smartphone out of sight and reach.

Health and Wellness

Although Barbados has good healthcare facilities, it is advisable to carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications that you will need. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies.

Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food, especially in areas where you do not trust hygiene.

Local Culture and Respect

What I would do before going to any destination is do research about the culture and the dress code of that region. It is very important to respect the locals and dress modestly.

Barbadians, or Bajans as they are known, are generally warm and welcoming people. You can ask mature adults for directions or recommendations, and they will be happy to help.

Conclusion

Barbados is a highly recommended getaway destination, even for females who choose to explore alone. In this article, I have answered the question, Is Barbados Safe for Solo Female Travellers?” and also provided some precautions and tips for ladies who choose to travel solo in Barbados.

In summary, Barbados is a safe destination for solo female travellers. As of 2024, Barbados is ranked as safe in the travel advisory for the US and Canada.

FAQs

Is it safe to walk alone in Barbados?

It is safe to walk alone in Barbados. But avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including beaches, especially after dark.

What should I be careful of in Barbados?

Be careful when using ATMs in Barbados. Remain vigilant and do not ask for assistance when operating the ATM.

Are there any areas to avoid in Barbados?

While Barbados is generally safe, it’s best to avoid secluded areas, especially at night. Stick to well-populated and well-lit places.

Can I drink tap water in Barbados?

Yes, tap water in Barbados is generally safe to drink. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may prefer to stick to bottled water.

Is it safe to swim in Barbados?

Yes, it is safe to swim in Barbados. You can swim in much calmer waters on the west coast of Barbados. Swimming on the East and North coasts is a good idea due to the aggressive waves.