slam tar
or bum
uh ride
G
etting around on the bus is an easy way to save money while on holiday.
Public transport is only $1.00 (USD) and it is a convenient way of traveling to
the beach, the mall, other places of interest or simply for sightseeing.
Barbados has two major types of public transportation available.
Government
Owned
Privately
Owned
There are two types of
privately owned buses
or vans.
Blue buses with
yellow stripes
hese buses run mostly according to the days
schedule found here www.transportboard.com.
This schedule is largely reliable and this bus
provides a comfortable and relaxing ride, they
only stop at marked bus stops and will require
exact change. $1.00 US. Notably the bus may
be crowded depending on the time of day and
the route. Several routes are long and perfect for
daily sightseeing, however specially organized
Scenic Bus Tours take place every Sunday for
your convenience. Buses depart from Bridgetown,
Oistins in the south, or Speightstown in the north.
For more information about
routes and schedules,
contact the Barbados
Transport Board at
246 436-6820
or the Tourist
Board at
246 4272623.
1
Yellow and blue striped buses: These pass
frequently, arrive at their destinations quickly
and may be quite crowded depending on the time
of day. These buses are predominantly seen on mid
length routes, 30 - 45 minutes from beginning to
end.
2
White and burgundy striped buses also
known as ZR Vans: These minivans also pass
frequently, they are very popular with the locals
and are not as comfortable a fit as larger buses.
Leg room can be limited at times and buses are
often filled to capacity. A conductor (or the
driver) typically collects the fare and some drivers
may at times drive quite briskly. These buses are
predominantly seen on short length routes, 10 –
40 minutes from beginning to end. Additionally
they can pass quite frequently, some every 10 - 15
minutes. This bus ride can be interesting and fun
and can make an excellent conversation piece for
later, so feel free to try it out.
All in all, buses are a valuable resource for getting
around Barbados, they run from as early as
6:00am, to as late as midnight.
Caribbean Dreams | 79