Barbados is one of the first destinations that comes to mind when you consider visiting a Caribbean island for a sunny holiday.
Barbados is a very safe place to travel, but incidents of violence can occur; most trips are statistically problem-free. Read on to find out how you can make the most of your upcoming vacation to this charming hotspot.
LATEST NEWS from Barbados:
January 15, 2025: Police chief calls for public vigilance amid rising crime in Barbados
Acting Police Commissioner Erwin Boyce issued a stern note warning to criminals in Barbados, stating that police will relentlessly pursue those responsible for the recent wave of violence, including three murders in the first two weeks of the year. Boyce emphasized that such criminal activity, especially shootings and targeted violence, will not be tolerated.
He assured the public that police are committed to keeping the streets safe and ensuring that no part of the island becomes a ‘no-go zone’. Efforts will also focus on improving traffic policing and tackling crimes committed with vehicles, especially addressing the dangerous actions of lawless motorcyclists.
Boyce emphasized the importance of community involvement in the fight against crime, urging citizens to adopt a “who-say” mentality, reporting suspicious activity or possible criminal behavior.
March 18: Barbados has reduced violent crime – Domestic violence remains a problem.
Barbados has passed strict laws to protect citizens from domestic violence. Unfortunately, recent statistics show that these are not creating the positive impact that authorities expected.
In 2023, 572 incidents of domestic violence were reported. This means that there is an increase of 21 percent compared to 2022.
On the plus side, there was a 2 percent decrease in violent crimeThis was reported by the Barbados Police (TBPS). In fact, there were only 21 murders in 2023, meaning the country managed to reduce murders by more than 50 percent compared to 2022.
Police projects appear to have had an influence on these figures. According to the TBPS, local intervention has increased citizens’ trust in authorities and reduced their concerns about falling victim to common crime.
Crime statistics in Barbados from Numbeo
According to Numbeothe largest database on countries around the world, Barbados ranks as a “medium” safe country with a safety index of 54.67 points.
Let’s take a look at some other recent safety statistics.
| Crime level | 51.52 | Moderate | |
| Increase in crime in the last three years | 72.02 | High | |
| Concerns about home burglary | 43.45 | Moderate | |
| Worried about being robbed | 43.45 | Moderate | |
| Statistics of cars being stolen | 32.70 | Low | |
| Things are stolen from cars | 42.56 | Moderate | |
| Afraid of being attacked | 39.43 | Moderate | |
| Worried about being offended | 38.21 | Low | |
| Worries about being physically attacked because of skin color, ethnicity, gender, or religion | 29.72 | Low | |
| Problems with drug addicts and drug dealers | 45.19 | Moderate | |
| House vandalism and theft | 45.68 | Moderate | |
| Statistics of violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 48.77 | Moderate |
Areas to avoid
Although most neighborhoods in Barbados are safe to visit, authorities advise holidaymakers to pay special attention to their visit Crab Hill, Nelson Street (Bridgetown) and Wellington Street (Bridgetown).
Bridgetown, the capital and financial center of the island, is quite safe to visit during the day. Just avoid it at night.
Official travel advice
US travel advice
The U.S. Department of State commissioned Barbados lowest possible travel advice. As of today, the country is at level 1. This means that visitors should only take “normal precautions” when visiting the island.
Either way, the US government is encouraging Americans to sign up for ‘the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)” to keep you informed of unexpected incidents and help locate you in an emergency.
Travel advice for Canada
A visit to Barbados is considered safeprovided you follow common sense recommendations.
However, the Canadian government has warned citizens about a spike in gun violence in recent years.
They also say that petty crime tends to increase from November to April, when the country receives the largest number of visitors.
Safety Tips for Barbados
Consider the following tips to enjoy a hassle-free trip to Barbados.
- Several health agencies recommend getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and using insect repellents to protect yourself against mosquitoes that transmit dengue fever.
- Comply with Barbados’ flag system so you can stay away from dangerous ocean currents.
- Avoid using ATMs at night.
- Be careful not to get drunk.
- Nude or topless sunbathing is frowned upon.
- Do not wear camouflage clothing as this is illegal on the island.
- Beware of pickpockets as this is the most common crime tourists encounter.
- Stay away from Crab Hill, Nelson Street (Bridgetown) and Wellington Street (Bridgetown) after dark.
- Buying illegal drugs can get you into legal trouble.
- The police emergency number is 211. Keep this at hand.
