Nuts & Bolts

Population  266,800. Ethnic mix- 93% African, 3% European, 1% Indian/Asian/Chinese,3% mixed race.

Capitol City Bridgetown was originally named "Indian Bridge" for the rude bridge which had been constructed over the river (now known as the Careenage) by the Indians. It was later called the "town of St. Michael" in official documents, before finally being named Bridgetown when a new bridge was built in place of the Indian Bridge, sometime after 1654.

Location  The most easterly of the Caribbean islands. By air, about 41/2 hrs from New York, 5 hrs from Toronto and 8hrs from London.

Geography  166 square miles, measuring 21 miles long x 14 miles wide.

Temperature  Average daytime temperature ranges between F.

History  The original inhabitants were Amerindians. Uninhabited in 1627 when settled by the English. Third oldest parliament in the world. Slavery abolished in Gained independence from Britain in 1966.

Government  Politically stable and ranked by the United Nations as the worlds number one developing country. A member of the British commonwealth, the constitution is based on the British style of parliamentary democracy.

Economy  Based on tourism; business, financial & general services; agriculture and manufacturing.

Currency  The Barbados Dollar is tied to the US Dollar at a rate of US$1-bds$1.98; other currencies fluctuate so check with the local banks or the press.

Literacy 97.6%

Tax  Departing passengers must pay Bds $25 departure tax; 15% VAT is usually included in prices quoted. 7.5% VAT and 10% service charge will be added to your hotel bill.

Tipping Usually 10% -15% is acceptable.Usually 10% -15% is acceptable. Home