Telephones in Barbados

The area code for Barbados is 246.

Local calls are free from private phones; some hotels charge a small fee. For directory assistance, dial 411. Calls from pay phones cost Bds25¢ for five minutes. Prepaid phone cards, which can be used throughout Barbados and other Caribbean islands, are sold at shops, attractions, transportation centers, and other convenient outlets.

Direct-dialing to the United States, Canada, and other countries is efficient and reasonable, but always check with your hotel to see if a surcharge is added. Some toll-free numbers cannot be accessed in Barbados. To charge your overseas call on a major credit card or U.S. calling card without incurring a surcharge, dial 800/225-5872 (800/CALL-USA) from any phone.

Depending on your carrier, you may find that you can use your cell phone in Barbados to call home, though roaming charges can be expensive. Renting a cell phone if you're planning an extended stay or expect to make a lot of local calls may be a less-expensive alternative. A cell phone can be rented for as little as $5 a day (minimum one-week rental); prepaid cards are available at several locations throughout the island and in varying denominations.