Thank you for all the comments that you guys leave on my videos! Feel free to drop any questions below. I always answer all of my comments :) Additional helpful tips are welcomed as well. This is a community. Sharing is caring!
To be quite honest, I think you understand the roundabouts better than some locals. The level of fretting I do on a daily basis! In terms of the stop lights, they're mostly in and around Bridgetown, Speightstown and a couple on the highway to either assist with pedestrians crossing or to ease traffic build-up on the highway.
Why thank you girl! I’m here for that compliment haha! That makes sense re: the pedestrian part. That’s one part that scares me a bit so thankful for those!
I know I'm kind a late but wanted to say good job on this video! I moved to Barbados from New York City almost 3 years ago. I had just gotten my drivers license two weeks prior! When I tell you I was SCURRED! Woo! I even had people discouraging me from driving here because it's challenging. You are right to spend so much time on roundabouts. They are everywhere and once you master them you are like 65% of the way there. Also, be aware in addition to the whole driving on the other side of the road thing, streets are narrow as hell. On smaller roads, some cars will just go straight down the middle until they have to go on their side LOL. Be aware of this. In rural areas (and sometimes less rural) you need to be aware of chickens, cats, dogs, sheep, and even monkeys! Driving at night can be challenging. Streets are universally very dark. So you get a lot of highbeams in your face, try to keep your gaze to the left and scan instead of looking straight in them and being blinded. Keep an eye out for PEOPLE. Dark skinned people at night on dark streets are hard to see. I am Black y'all before you come for me LOL. There is also a honking system. Honks can mean anything from "hello", to "go ahead" to "thank you for letting me go". Lastly of course they can mean you pissed somebody off. But that's probably not it. Also I think it's important to note that I find that some Barbados drivers can be a little aggressive (men). They like to drive a lot faster than the Speed Limit and will be highly annoyed if you are obeying it or even going slightly above. Don't let it rattle you. Be polite. Drive defensively, keep alert and you'll do just fine!
Thank you so much for this! Every bit counts. I'll also keep some of these things in mind when I'm back in BIm. I feel like I gotta re-read this and watch my videos for a refresher lol
Some off this is definitely from the prospective of someone coming from the US. I live and drive in the UK and the rules like 'Give Way' are exactly the same in the UK. Its definitely easier for us as we drive on the same side as Barbados 👍
I just moved to Barbados and I LOVE driving here!! Yes, the Roundabouts take some getting used to. But, as I get more & more Bajan, I take it all in my stride!!! ;-)
haha! Go Mikey! I love the "more Bajan" part! I definitely agree. With time, you get it, and it's no longer hard! Hope the rest of my Barbados content has been helpful!
Person from the states here. Just got back from a 10 day visit in Barbados. First visit, drove everyday. I have t say having a GPS was a life saver. I would have never been able to find everything without it. Enjoy the journey, it’s a great island. The locals are super understanding and helpful when they see the H on your license plate. Everyone talks to each other with their horns and there is a bunch of hand signals people use to communicate what they plan to do. To all the new drivers in Barbados, try not to turn your wipers on when you need your turn signal! 😂😂😂 We’re heading Bach next year! 😊
You find driving in Barbados difficult because you're used to driving in the USA. I find it simple because I have UK driving licence and so we drive on the left hand side and things are similar.
There are plenty of stop lights but mostly on the main major roads, unfortunately there are too many roundabouts, but the reasoning for the many roundabouts is that they regulate traffic more efficiently in that unlike a stop light traffic do not have to wait if the road is clear to go. At a stop light even if it is clear to go traffic still has to wait until the lights turn green
Hello Chazeen....as a U.S driver I experienced left side driving for the first time in Barbados this past January. As you, I quickly became accustomed to the reversal on quiet rural roads. I then encountered my first Roundabout! While I can easily handle one of these in the U.S, this was not the case there in Barbados. Just too much going on in a completely opposite direction than I was used to. After that I avoided busy areas, especially during weekday rush hours. I'm headed back to Barbados in less than two months, and will again be renting a car. Thank you for sharing your video, as well as the other links to Driving in Barbados. I have a feeling that I'll be better prepared for these "Circles of Confusion" on my next visit. Regards, -Chris
I done about 18,000 miles in my EV on Bajan roads now. Roundabouts are generally driven round far too fast - hence so many rear-end shunts at them - as people play Russian roulette to get across them (eg Warrens by the gas station). No box junctions at busy roundabouts - intersections get blocked as people stop their vehicle across the traffic flow although they can see their exit is blocked. eg Hothersal Turning. Queues can back up for miles (eg along the ABC Highway). No lane discipline on two lane highways...slow traffic regularly in the fast lane. No annual vehicle inspections - so cars with no brake lights, smoking exhausts etc Potholes - everywhere. Be extra vigilant. Drivers stopping unexpectedly to let other road users join the road they're on. Courtesy can lead to crashes. Generally I feel safe ... but I have a car with proximity sensor alerts at the front, rear and sides!
Take the road from Inch Marlow up to the end of the Airport runway then up to the ABC highway. Follow the Highway until you see the sign for Sandy Lane - take that road down to the coast road and it will take you into Holetown. About a 40 minute drive in total.
Take the road from Inch Marlow up to the end of the Airport runway then up to the ABC highway. Follow the Highway until you see the sign for Sandy Lane - take that road down to the coast road and it will take you into Holetown. About a 40 minute drive in total.
I'm going Barbados to get married in 2 months and I'm going to be renting a car. Fortunately the roads seem to have the exact same rules and signs as here in the UK.
Please read my other comment, this will give you a true indication what to expect. I have been driving in Barbados for three to four months of the year for over 25 years, patience is a must.
I live in the UK so I'm used to driving on the left, roundabouts etc. but I still get nervous when driving in Barbados primarily because hardly anyone seems to signal/indicate at the roundabout. It makes the process stressful as you have no idea what direction people are going in. And as for the pedestrians crossing just as you turn off the roundabout...why?! Lol!
In Barbados now and I think I have only seen one single person indicate at a roundabout. Also, the people selling produce at roundabout junctions....LMAO, there's no way that would be allowed in the UK. Altogether though, if you are a competent UK driver, driving in Barbados is pretty easy. One thing I would suggest is to rent an SUV. I did and I am thankful for it. The rural roads are bumpy as hell. Thought it might be difficult getting parking spaces in Bridgetown, but to my surprise it was quite easy. I'm having a great time and getting married tomorrow, would recommend Barbados to anyone.
The crossing after the roundabouts is so dangerous. On the Highway there is no lane discipline, you can overtake and undertake. Barbadians have generally forgotten what indicators are for. They also just stop without any indication for a chat. If you are at a junction with a stop sign, you must stop or you will end up court if seen by a policeman, this has happened to me twice. Many cars break light are out so drive at a distance. If you drive for a long time in Barbados and return to uk you will be putting your windscreen wipers on instead of your indicator for a while, this will drive you mad. Most importantly in Christ church be aware there are more ZR’s than the rest of the island that will cut you up…
@@Chazeen I remember the commercials when all the round-a-bouts were being constructed..the voice at the end would say, "and remember, the person to the right is always right"
Oh my. Lol it was definitely harder than expected but once I got it, it wasn’t too bad. I’ve realized that it involves a lot of intentionality. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to just show up and get it. UK folks might have it easier though since they’ve got the roundabouts
Thank you for all the comments that you guys leave on my videos! Feel free to drop any questions below. I always answer all of my comments :) Additional helpful tips are welcomed as well. This is a community. Sharing is caring!
I enjoy watching your vids. Keep up the good work. I look forward to the next one 👍
@@md-k08 Aw thank you so much! That's encouraging :)
Driving in Jamaica is more crazy.
To be quite honest, I think you understand the roundabouts better than some locals. The level of fretting I do on a daily basis! In terms of the stop lights, they're mostly in and around Bridgetown, Speightstown and a couple on the highway to either assist with pedestrians crossing or to ease traffic build-up on the highway.
Why thank you girl! I’m here for that compliment haha! That makes sense re: the pedestrian part. That’s one part that scares me a bit so thankful for those!
I know I'm kind a late but wanted to say good job on this video! I moved to Barbados from New York City almost 3 years ago. I had just gotten my drivers license two weeks prior! When I tell you I was SCURRED! Woo! I even had people discouraging me from driving here because it's challenging. You are right to spend so much time on roundabouts. They are everywhere and once you master them you are like 65% of the way there. Also, be aware in addition to the whole driving on the other side of the road thing, streets are narrow as hell. On smaller roads, some cars will just go straight down the middle until they have to go on their side LOL. Be aware of this. In rural areas (and sometimes less rural) you need to be aware of chickens, cats, dogs, sheep, and even monkeys!
Driving at night can be challenging. Streets are universally very dark. So you get a lot of highbeams in your face, try to keep your gaze to the left and scan instead of looking straight in them and being blinded. Keep an eye out for PEOPLE. Dark skinned people at night on dark streets are hard to see. I am Black y'all before you come for me LOL. There is also a honking system. Honks can mean anything from "hello", to "go ahead" to "thank you for letting me go". Lastly of course they can mean you pissed somebody off. But that's probably not it. Also I think it's important to note that I find that some Barbados drivers can be a little aggressive (men). They like to drive a lot faster than the Speed Limit and will be highly annoyed if you are obeying it or even going slightly above. Don't let it rattle you. Be polite. Drive defensively, keep alert and you'll do just fine!
Thank you so much for this! Every bit counts. I'll also keep some of these things in mind when I'm back in BIm. I feel like I gotta re-read this and watch my videos for a refresher lol
Some off this is definitely from the prospective of someone coming from the US. I live and drive in the UK and the rules like 'Give Way' are exactly the same in the UK. Its definitely easier for us as we drive on the same side as Barbados 👍
It is easier for ya'll and I'm so jealous lol!
I just moved to Barbados and I LOVE driving here!! Yes, the Roundabouts take some getting used to. But, as I get more & more Bajan, I take it all in my stride!!! ;-)
haha! Go Mikey! I love the "more Bajan" part! I definitely agree. With time, you get it, and it's no longer hard! Hope the rest of my Barbados content has been helpful!
Looking to move there with my wife who is Bajan Canada sucks
Person from the states here. Just got back from a 10 day visit in Barbados. First visit, drove everyday. I have t say having a GPS was a life saver. I would have never been able to find everything without it. Enjoy the journey, it’s a great island. The locals are super understanding and helpful when they see the H on your license plate. Everyone talks to each other with their horns and there is a bunch of hand signals people use to communicate what they plan to do. To all the new drivers in Barbados, try not to turn your wipers on when you need your turn signal! 😂😂😂
We’re heading Bach next year! 😊
😂 Thank you for sharing this! I'm happy you enjoyed!
So helpful! Thank you! 😊
You find driving in Barbados difficult because you're used to driving in the USA.
I find it simple because I have UK driving licence and so we drive on the left hand side and things are similar.
plus we are used to roundabouts its just like home.
There are plenty of stop lights but mostly on the main major roads, unfortunately there are too many roundabouts, but the reasoning for the many roundabouts is that they regulate traffic more efficiently in that unlike a stop light traffic do not have to wait if the road is clear to go. At a stop light even if it is clear to go traffic still has to wait until the lights turn green
Definitely appreciate you sharing those helpful tips Adrian thank you! Interesting re: how it regulates traffic. Definitely took some getting used to
Hello Chazeen....as a U.S driver I experienced left side driving for the first time in Barbados this past January. As you, I quickly became accustomed to the reversal on quiet rural roads. I then encountered my first Roundabout! While I can easily handle one of these in the U.S, this was not the case there in Barbados. Just too much going on in a completely opposite direction than I was used to. After that I avoided busy areas, especially during weekday rush hours. I'm headed back to Barbados in less than two months, and will again be renting a car. Thank you for sharing your video, as well as the other links to Driving in Barbados. I have a feeling that I'll be better prepared for these "Circles of Confusion" on my next visit.
Regards,
-Chris
Chazeen you explain about driving in barbados prefect thank you and everything you said is the truth
Thank you Wendell! I tried my best lol
I done about 18,000 miles in my EV on Bajan roads now.
Roundabouts are generally driven round far too fast - hence so many rear-end shunts at them - as people play Russian roulette to get across them (eg Warrens by the gas station).
No box junctions at busy roundabouts - intersections get blocked as people stop their vehicle across the traffic flow although they can see their exit is blocked. eg Hothersal Turning. Queues can back up for miles (eg along the ABC Highway).
No lane discipline on two lane highways...slow traffic regularly in the fast lane.
No annual vehicle inspections - so cars with no brake lights, smoking exhausts etc
Potholes - everywhere. Be extra vigilant.
Drivers stopping unexpectedly to let other road users join the road they're on. Courtesy can lead to crashes.
Generally I feel safe ... but I have a car with proximity sensor alerts at the front, rear and sides!
As a bajan New Yorker this is great information
haha! Thank youuu
hi how should I go to live in Barbados I am a Haitian thank you in advance
What is the traffic like if you want to get to Holetown from say Silver Sands?
Hi! Unfortunately I can’t say I love heard traffic has changed since I was there
Take the road from Inch Marlow up to the end of the Airport runway then up to the ABC highway. Follow the Highway until you see the sign for Sandy Lane - take that road down to the coast road and it will take you into Holetown. About a 40 minute drive in total.
Take the road from Inch Marlow up to the end of the Airport runway then up to the ABC highway. Follow the Highway until you see the sign for Sandy Lane - take that road down to the coast road and it will take you into Holetown. About a 40 minute drive in total.
Please how can I travel to Barbados from Nigeria without a visa I need a reply please 🙏🏻
Thanks are you an instructor… I’m interested!
You're welcome! No sorry unfortunately I am not.
You gave very good advice though
Thank you!!
I'm going Barbados to get married in 2 months and I'm going to be renting a car. Fortunately the roads seem to have the exact same rules and signs as here in the UK.
Well congratulationsss on your marriage! Yeaa it’s going to be much easier for my uk folks
Please read my other comment, this will give you a true indication what to expect. I have been driving in Barbados for three to four months of the year for over 25 years, patience is a must.
I live in the UK so I'm used to driving on the left, roundabouts etc. but I still get nervous when driving in Barbados primarily because hardly anyone seems to signal/indicate at the roundabout. It makes the process stressful as you have no idea what direction people are going in. And as for the pedestrians crossing just as you turn off the roundabout...why?! Lol!
In Barbados now and I think I have only seen one single person indicate at a roundabout. Also, the people selling produce at roundabout junctions....LMAO, there's no way that would be allowed in the UK. Altogether though, if you are a competent UK driver, driving in Barbados is pretty easy. One thing I would suggest is to rent an SUV. I did and I am thankful for it. The rural roads are bumpy as hell. Thought it might be difficult getting parking spaces in Bridgetown, but to my surprise it was quite easy. I'm having a great time and getting married tomorrow, would recommend Barbados to anyone.
@@DalekKaan101 good tip, thanks. Congrats on your wedding tomorrow, I hope you have a beautiful day.
Its the GIVE WAY for me
😂😂
And when parking in Barbados...make it a habit of reversing into all parking spots...🙃
That’s such a good point. My friend kept encouraging me to do that. Eventually I have in and listened. It was good advice haha
The crossing after the roundabouts is so dangerous. On the Highway there is no lane discipline, you can overtake and undertake. Barbadians have generally forgotten what indicators are for. They also just stop without any indication for a chat. If you are at a junction with a stop sign, you must stop or you will end up court if seen by a policeman, this has happened to me twice. Many cars break light are out so drive at a distance. If you drive for a long time in Barbados and return to uk you will be putting your windscreen wipers on instead of your indicator for a while, this will drive you mad. Most importantly in Christ church be aware there are more ZR’s than the rest of the island that will cut you up…
Thanks for the tips - very helpful indeed🎉
The person to the right of you has the right of way....give way=yield
Thank you :)
@@Chazeen I remember the commercials when all the round-a-bouts were being constructed..the voice at the end would say, "and remember, the person to the right is always right"
@@DavidB-fm2pw haha wow. i wonder if thats' on youtube. i gotta look it up
@@Chazeen I think it was in the early 80s, mostly radio commercials. CBC (TV station) might have something about it
There are actual highways, those streets are just streets. “High road” vs “low road”
Interesting! Ppl were referring to them as highways to me
Barbados just might be the worst and most confusing island to drive a vehicle. Even worst than Haiti; and that's saying something!!!!
Oh my. Lol it was definitely harder than expected but once I got it, it wasn’t too bad. I’ve realized that it involves a lot of intentionality. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to just show up and get it. UK folks might have it easier though since they’ve got the roundabouts
It's a British road system
Awwww he'll nawhhhhhhh! NOPE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cost will be stop rental $88888345.00000.789063
hi how should I go to live in Barbados I am a Haitian thank you in advance
hi how should I go to live in Barbados I am a Haitian thank you in advance