Car Travel in Barbados

Barbados has good roads, but traffic can be busy, particularly around Bridgetown. Small signs tacked to trees and poles at intersections point the way to most attractions, and local people are helpful if you get lost.

Drive on the left, British style. Be mindful of pedestrians and, in the countryside, occasional livestock walking in the road. When someone flashes headlights at you at an intersection, it means "after you." Be especially careful negotiating roundabouts (traffic circles). The speed limit, in keeping with the pace of life and the narrow roads, is 30 mph (50 kph) in the country, 20 mph (30 kph) in town. Bridgetown actually has rush hours: 7 to 9 and 4 to 6. Park only in approved parking areas; downtown parking costs Bds75¢ to Bds$1 per hour.

To rent a car in Barbados, you must have a valid driver's license and major credit card. Most agencies require renters to be between 21 and 70 or 75 years of age. Those over the maximum age may need a certified doctor's note indicating a continuing ability to drive safely. A local driver's permit, which costs $5, is obtained through the rental agency. More than 75 agencies rent cars, jeeps, or minimokes (small, open-sided vehicles), and rates are expensive—about $55 per day for a minimoke to $85 or more per day for a four-wheel-drive vehicle (or $400 to $500 or more per week) in high season, depending on the vehicle and whether it has air-conditioning. Most firms also offer discounted three-day rates, and many require at least a two-day rental in high season. The rental generally includes insurance, pickup and delivery service, maps, 24-hour emergency service, and unlimited mileage.

Information

Coconut Car Rentals (Bay St., Bridgetown, St. Michael. 246/437-0297. www.coconutcars.com). Courtesy Rent-A-Car (Grantley Adams International Airport, Christ Church. 246/431-4160. www.courtesyrentacar.com). Drive-a-Matic Car Rental (Lower Carlton, St. James. 246/422-3000. www.carhire.tv).