The Caribbean region is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It consists of island nations with beautiful landscapes, interesting histories, and unique cultures.
Jamaica is a lush island located at the heart of the Caribbean. With more than a million tourists each year, Jamaica is one of the most visited countries in the region. Barbados is a relatively small island off the Caribbean’s eastern end. It is a tropical paradise famous for its amazing beaches and wondrous landscapes.
Although both islands are famous among travelers, Jamaica and Barbados have unique offerings. Jamaica and Barbados can provide tourists with an authentic Caribbean experience. From thriving music scenes, unique food, pirate history, and out-of-this-world views!
Jamaica
The renowned Caribbean island of Jamaica lies near the center of the region. With millions of tourists each year, Jamaica ranks as one of the most popular and visited destinations in the Caribbean. It ranks third right behind the Dominican Republic and Cuba.
Often referred to as the Playground of the Caribbean, the island of Jamaica has so much to offer. With a total area of 10,992 sq km (4,244 sq miles), Jamaica features amazing beach choices.
It also features grandiose mountains and other unique and majestic landscapes. Whether it is up the mountains, by the ocean, or under the sea. Jamaica offers unending adventures amidst its natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
Jamaica is more than just its beautiful scenery. While many are drawn by its wondrous beauty, Jamaica is also known for its identifying culture. The island is primarily known for reggae music and culture. Aside from that, tourists can indulge in unique Caribbean cuisine and interesting history.
What Makes Jamaica Unique?
All About Reggae Culture
When the world talks about Jamaica, reggae is one of the first things that comes to mind. Reggae is a musical genre that originated and grew out of the tropical island of Jamaica. The musicality and characteristics of reggae music make it so distinctive. This particular style makes it unique, unlike any other popular musical genre.
Reggae music was born through the island’s 1960 renaissance movement. It was created as a fight against western imperialism. Today, reggae is considered an icon of Jamaica’s culture and history. Many tourist attractions aim to celebrate reggae culture because of its significance to Jamaica and its people.
Bob Marley Museum
The Bob Marley Museum is one of the most popular and most visited attractions in Jamaica. The historical museum is located in the cultural city of Kingston. It features the home of the renowned reggae artists Bob Marley.
Bob Marley is undoubtedly one of the most iconic musical artists in the world. He was one of the pioneer artists in the reggae genre. The museum features his home and celebrates the artist’s life and accomplishments.
Visitors of the Bob Marley Museum experience an immersive tour of the artist’s family home. It also includes a vast collection of personal items, mementos, and paraphernalia. All of these pay tribute to Bob Marley’s contribution to the reggae industry and Jamaican culture.
National Gallery of Jamaica
If you want to learn more about Jamaican culture, there is no better place to visit than the National Gallery of Jamaica. The National Museum was established in 1974. It is recognized as the oldest and largest museum in the English-speaking Caribbean. It is home to an expansive collection of art celebrating Jamaica and its culture.
The museum features three permanent galleries. It features the works of several amazing Jamaican artists. This includes the likes of Kapo Reynolds, John Dunkley, Edna Manley, and many more.
The main museum is located in the city of Kingston. However, there is also a branch located in Montego Bay known as National Gallery West.
Trench Town Culture Yard Museum
The Trench Town Culture Yard Museum is an attraction that celebrates both reggae culture and Jamaican history. The cultural museum is located just outside of Kingston city proper. It features the childhood neighborhood of world-renowned artists Bob Marley.
The site dates as far back as the 1940s and was built as a state-funded residential community. The housing project was witness to Bob Marley’s early career as a musician and his growth throughout the years.
Unravel Jamaica’s Long History
Jamaica had its fair share of interesting history. The island was originally inhabited by the Taino people. When the Spanish colonizers came to the island, a large number of African slaves came with them.
Jamaica’s long history includes stories of slavery, piracy, and colonization. However, the majestic island is more than its bitter past. Many attractions also celebrate its rich cultural heritage and indigenous backgrounds.
Devon House
The Devon House is a designated National Heritage Site in Jamaica. Owned by the country’s first-ever black millionaire, the Devon House depicts what it’s like to be one of Jamaica’s richest. The mansion features an exquisite combination of Caribbean and Georgian architectural elements.
The mansion lies within an 11-acre (4.4 ha) estate. It is designed with gorgeous gardens and landscapes. Inside the mansion, visitors can tour several rooms adorned with some of the Caribbean’s finest antique furniture. There are nine designated rooms in the historic Devon House.
Emancipation Garden
The Emancipation Garden is a simple and quaint park. Located in the capital city of Kingston, it serves as a primary public green space in the area. The Emancipation Gardin is nothing glorious in terms of design. However, it still ranks as a popular tourist destination because of its historical significance to Jamaica.
Much like it’s called, the park symbolizes the end of slavery in the country. Aside from tailored landscapes, the park also features public art for visitors to view. One of the most popular sculptures on site is the Redemption Song by the famous local artist Laura Facey.
The sculpture features a man and a woman gazing up high. The 11-foot-tall display (3 meters) is made with bronze and aims to depict the people’s victory over slavery.
Port Royal
When it comes to historical sites in Jamaica, one of the first things that come to mind is Port Royal. Dating as far back as the 17th century, the old port once served as home for pirates and outlaws.
Once a bustling port city, much of the historical site lies underwater due to a series of earthquakes. But don’t fret! Despite the number of disasters it endured through the years, the Port Royal area is still an archeological gold mine.
Above the water, there is the equally historic Fort Charles. The grandiose fortress sits overlooking the coast. It features an on-site museum that houses artifacts found in the sunken parts of the city. If that’s not enough, check out the infamous Giddy House located on the fort grounds.
The building was used as an artillery storehouse but that’s not what it is known for. A 1907 earthquake caused the building to list and twist sideways. Visitors are allowed to walk through the Giddy House. However, the unusual way the building stands can cause lead to nausea for some people.
Adventures in Wondrous Nature
A visit to Jamaica wouldn’t be complete without exploring its wondrous natural beauty. If you’re looking for an adventure, Jamaica has a wide range of options for you. From stunning beaches, expansive rivers, and majestic waterfalls. Get a taste of the real Jamaican nature experience both on land and water.
Negril Beach
When it comes to stunning and gorgeous beaches, Negril Beach is widely considered to be the best. The white beach stretch is also famously known as Seven Mile Beach despite being only around 4 miles (6.4 km) long.
Negril Beach is a popular tourist attraction with a crystal blue sea and palm-lined beach. To add more to its stunning beauty, the site features the majestic Negril Cliffs as a stunning lush background. Because of its beauty from left to right, the 4-mile coast is lined with resorts and hotels.
Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of water sports and activities. Snorkeling is a popular option among families. However, people can also try paddleboarding, parasailing, and even cliff jumping. When the sun sets, the beach line turns into an exciting nightlife area perfect to party.
Black River Safari
The Black River is one of the largest river systems in Jamaica. Tucked amidst lush mountains and rainforests, the black river safari takes tourists through a variety of spots. Visitors can get the chance to relax to the sound of the birds flying about.
At the same time, the trip can take an exciting turn. Part of the Black River Safari includes a chance to come across intimidating crocodiles. They may be lying along the river banks or swimming through the river as well.
Tourists taking the Black River Safari cruise can also explore other nearby attractions as part of their trip. Some of the popular attractions in the area include the YS Falls and the Appleton Estate.
Martha Brae River
If you’re looking for a calm and serene river cruise experience, you need to check out the Martha Brae River. The disembarkation spot is located in the town of Falmouth. The site offers river rafting through a 3-mile (4.8 km) stretch of calm waters.
Generally, the experience takes at least an hour long. However, visitors can also include other tourist spots in their Martha Brae trip.
Luminous Lagoon
When it comes to unique attractions, the Luminous Lagoon is undoubtedly one to brag about. Located near the town of Falmouth, the Luminous Lagoon is home to micro creatures known as dinoflagellates. These organisms thrive right at the spot where the Martha Brae River meets with the Caribbean Sea.
The Luminous Lagoon is considered to be the brightest of the glowing bodies in the world. The water over this stretch of marshlands glistens and sparkles at dark. The luminous dinoflagellates color the water a bright blue. Tourists can jump into the water and swim with glowing microorganisms.
Dunn’s River Falls
The Dunn’s River Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jamaica. It primarily draws in tourists looking for an exciting and thrilling adventure. Unlike other falls where visitors simply swim by the pool, the Dunn’s River Falls feature an obstacle-like design.
It consists of several waterfalls creating a stair that stretches for roughly 600 ft (180 m) and over 180 ft (55 m) high. Each step features a pool or lagoon that people can swim in.
Visitors have the option to climb up the series of waterfalls using the stairs created alongside the hill. However, the more popular option involves a challenging hike up the rugged terrain. Generally, climbing to the top of the waterfall can take an hour or two.
Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a majestic sight tucked in the middle of Jamaica’s lush rainforest. It is a natural swimming pool created from a limestone sinkhole. Located in the Jamaican countryside of Ocho Rios, not many people know about the hidden gem that is the Blue Hole. Aside from swimming, visitors can also try cliff-diving in spots around the natural pool.
Rainforest Adventures Mystic Mountain
If you’re looking for a place to bring nature and fun together, then Rainforest Adventures Mystic Mountain is the right place for you. This eco-adventure park incorporates exhilarating rides amidst the island’s grandiose mountains.
One of the first things you should check out is the Rainforest SkyExplorer. It is a chairlift that takes visitors up to the 700-feet-high (213 m) peak. From there, you can take on a variety of attractions available. Take a zip line above the canopy or ride down a 3,280 ft (1,000 m) track on a gravity-drive bobsled.
Find the World’s Best Jerky
Food is another important element to getting an authentic Caribbean experience. Taking this into consideration, a trip to Jamaica is not complete without tasting their famous jerk chicken recipe. You can also indulge in fresh seafood, unique Caribbean spices, and local ingredients.
In the mood for a romantic dinner by the seaside? How about a quick snack over local street food and delicacies? When it comes to food, Jamaica is sure not to disappoint. Here are some of the most popular and sought-after restaurants all around the island.
Scotchies
Scotchies is an established name in the Jamaican food industry. It has several branches that tourists can find all around the island.
Scotchies is primarily known for its authentic jerk chicken that is cooked over pimento wood. Their meals are so good that it is considered one of the best jerk recipes on the island.
If you’re not fond of chicken as your protein, they also serve pork and fish versions as alternatives.
Rockhouse Restaurant
The Rockhouse Restaurant is one of the most in-demand spots for a fancy dining experience. Situated along the rocky cliff of the Negril coast, the Rockhouse serves amazing Jamaican cuisine. Try out their most popular entrees such as the blackened mahimahi and the steamed snapper.
Houseboat Grill
Are you looking for something unique? Why not dine in the middle of the sea? The Houseboat Grill is a restaurant docked in the middle of the Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary. Their alfresco dining provides panoramic views of the coast.
Their menu’s must-try is the Jamaican-spiced pork medallions. Don’t forget to order their seafood dishes that are caught fresh right from Montego Bay.
Barbados
The island of Barbados is located along the eastern end of the Caribbean region. Relatively small, Barbados only has a total area of roughly 166 sq. miles (430 sq. km).
Barbados is a tropical island known for its amazing weather and beautiful landscape. However, the island nation also has a long and interesting history. The island played a crucial role during the height of piracy in the region.
Aside from that, Barbados was also a British colony for several decades. Because of this, the island’s culture is a mix of European and African elements.
With its natural beauty and alluring character, Barbados rose to become a popular tourist destination. Tourists visiting the island of Barbados have a ton to discover. Get the chance to taste unique Caribbean dishes while enjoying the island’s festivities.
Jump from one beach to another while also indulging in historical sites. Explore everything from caves and mountains to museums and fortresses.
What Makes Barbados Unique?
Amazing Beach Options All Over the Island
The eastern end of the Caribbean region is filled with several small islands. One of which is the bustling island nation of Barbados. In places like this, one of the most common things that tourists come for is its selection of amazing beaches. Nothing beats a summer vacation than spending time on a coast you only see on postcards.
However, Barbados actually has an array of unique beaches spread all around the island. Aside from palm-lined white-sand beaches, Barbados also has rugged and rocky waterfronts. In general, the characteristics of the coast depend on which side of the island you’re on.
Northern Coast
The Northern coast of Barbados is primarily known for its rugged and rocky landscapes. Instead of sandy beaches, the Northern coast mostly features bays and cliffs created by the harsh waves. This makes the Northern region not particularly ideal for leisurely swimming.
There are times when the waves and water calms a bit for a quick swim. However, swimming alone around these parts is not encouraged due to safety reasons. Despite this, tourists over the Northern coast can indulge in panoramic views of the coast from a higher point of view.
Eastern Coast
Much like the Northern coast, the Eastern coast of Barbados is characterized by a rocky coastline. However, a tradeoff of this more challenging terrain is a series of more secluded beaches.
Imagine equally scenic beaches but with lesser crowds. If you’re lucky, you might even find a spot where there’s only a handful of beachgoers with you.
Western Coast
The Western coast of Barbados features more touristy and family-friendly beaches. This part of the island consists of the renowned Platinum Coast.
This stretch of the Western coast appears with pristine white sand and calm blue water. Because of this, the Western coast is lined with resorts and hotels perfect for tourists.
Southern Coast
The capital city of Bridgetown lies along the Southern Coast of Barbados. Taking this into consideration, this stretch is the most developed. Beaches around this area feature the same palm-lined and pristine white coast.
However, it also serves as a central hub for tourist activities. Since the water is pretty calm, the Southern coast is perfect for different water activities such as diving and surfing. Out of the water, the coast is lined with restaurants, bars, and other establishments.
Exploring the Cultural Center of Bridgetown
Bridgetown serves as the capital city of the small island of Barbados. Located along the southwestern region of Barbados, Bridgetown is the center of the island’s tourism. However, Bridgetown is more than just the numerous hotels and resorts that line the coast. It is also home to several cultural and historical attractions.
National Heroes Square
Once referred to as Trafalgar Square, the National Heroes Square is an important landmark in the city. It sits right in between the Parliament buildings and the Constitution River. The National Heroes Square features three important memorials in the country’s history.
There is an obelisk-like memorial dedicated to the people who died during the First and Second World Wars. It also features a statue of the renowned Lord Horatio Nelson. The National Heroes Square includes a unique clamshell-shaped fountain.
Nidhe Israel Synagogue
The historic Nidhe Israel Synagogue is one of the few designed UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Barbados. The original structure of the synagogue dates as far back as the mid-1600s. This makes it one of the oldest synagogues in the West.
A hurricane in 1833 significantly damaged the historic building. This led to extensive reconstruction in order to keep the structure standing. The current building is home to a small museum that tracks the history of the Jewish community in Barbados.
Barbados Museum and Historical Society
The Barbados Museum is housed within the historic 19th-century St. Ann’s Garrison. If you want to learn more about the island’s long history, spend time exploring the museum and the surrounding area. The museum features an expansive collection of art and artifacts.
Some of its displays include antique maps and prints featuring both African and European elements. A different section of the museum, on the other hand, focuses on the island’s natural history. It features several exhibits exploring the rich flora and fauna of Barbados.
Exciting Cave Explorations
Barbados has more to offer than just pristine beaches. If you’re looking for new waves to explore, why not go deep into the island? Forget about hiking mountains. Instead, discover what’s hiding underneath these amazing cave exploration sites.
Animal Flower Cave
The Animal Flower Cave is a top destination for visitors looking for some adventure. Located along the northern coast of the island, the cave lies beneath the cliffs of North Point in St. Lucy. It is recognized as the only accessible sea cave in Barbados.
Unlike other cave systems, the Animal Flower Cave consists of several wide openings. The handful of seaward entrances provides visitors with amazing views of the coast. It also acts like windows that help prevent claustrophobia.
One of the unique features of the Animal Flower Cave is its colorful walls and ceiling. Because of oxidation, the cave’s wall features a mix of shades of green and brown.
Another feature of the Animal Flower Cave is the so-called animal flowers or sea anemones found in the cave’s pools. After exploring the cave, you can drop by the scenic clifftop bar and restaurant right above.
Harrison’s Cave
Take your adventure to the next level with Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park. This popular tourist attraction takes tourists down to a beautiful subterranean environment.
The Harrison Cave features grand stalactites and stalagmites naturally formed by water erosion. But instead of spelunking, guests can access the Harrison Cave via tramway. Part of the journey includes tour guides that provide historical information and facts about the cave system.
For a more immersive experience, visitors have the chance to disembark from their trams at the lowest level of the cave. From there, they can walk around and spot a cave waterfall and deep natural pool.
Enjoy Tax-Free Luxury Shopping Sprees
Shopping has always been an integral part of any Caribbean trip or travel. However, not every island in the region offers the same incentives and benefits.
Barbados is one of the best places to go luxury shopping in the Caribbean. The island doesn’t offer completely tax-free shopping. But, Barbados has one of the lowest tax environments in the region.
As part of this industry, there are actually several spots around Barbados to do some luxury shopping. You can find specific malls, shopping districts, and even streets to shop until you drop.
Broad Street
Broad Street is widely recognized as the primary shopping street in Bridgetown. Since it’s located right in the central tourist hub of the capital city, thousands of people pass by each day.
Several duty-free shops, boutiques, malls, and luxury stores span the stretch of Broad Street and Lower Broad Street. Despite this, there are also bargain shops and gift stores where tourists can shop at steal prices.
Pelican Craft Village
The Pelican Craft Village is a renowned place to spot local art and craft pieces. Numerous Barbadian artists display their work at the Pelican Craft Village. Here, tourists can both appreciate their talent and purchase the art piece for themselves.
There is an array of crafts and mediums tourists can choose from. They can find paintings, sculptures, woodwork, pottery, and other souvenirs. All of which are created by people in the local arts and craft scene.
Limegrove Lifestyle Center
When it comes to a luxury shopping experience in Barbados, the Limegrove Lifestyle Center is the place to go. Located in Holetown, the shopping center features several leading luxury brands. Visitors can experience duty-free shopping on items such as clothing, jewelry, and gadgets.
Is Barbados Nicer Than Jamaica?
Traveling to the Caribbean is all about that perfect summer getaway. Taking this into consideration, choosing either Barbados or Jamaica is already a good decision. However, it’s also safe to say that these islands don’t offer the same experience.
The grandiose island of Jamaica is one of the top destinations in the region. It draws millions of visitors each year and has tons of attractions to offer.
Jamaica is significantly larger than Barbados. Taking this into consideration, there is so much more for visitors to explore and discover.
In Jamaica, you can visit historical sites such as the renowned Port Royal. At the same time, you can also have fun and party over at Montego Bay.
However, the main point of attraction in Jamaica is its wondrous natural beauty. Aside from its pristine coasts, adventure extends under the sea, down rivers, and up the mountains. People who love the outdoors and seek adventure will surely enjoy a trip over to Jamaica.
Barbados, on the other hand, caters to those who are looking for a more calm and relaxed vacation.
The capital city of Bridgetown is already a melting pot of the island’s tourism. Bridgetown has beautiful beaches, historical sites, and even the streets for duty-free shopping.
Barbados offers a picturesque and scenic escape from bustling city life. Tourists can peacefully bask under the sun over at Platinum Coast. At the same time, they can indulge in Barbadian culture and history in Bridgetown’s tourist hub.
So if you’re looking for a fun-filled trip with numerous outdoor activities, Jamaica is the better fit for you. On the flip side, those who prefer a slow-paced vacation can enjoy much of the beauty of Barbados.
FAQ
Is Barbados Similar to Jamaica?
Barbados and Jamaica are both island nations located in the Caribbean region. However, Barbados is not particularly similar to Jamaica.
Tourists who have visited both islands share that Barbados has a more relaxed and calming atmosphere. The island is a lot more subdued and provides a quiet and serene place to rest. Aside from that, Barbados has a more American or Western feel to its tourist attractions.
Jamaica, on the other hand, has a more upbeat and lively feel. In addition, Jamaica offers a more authentic and traditional Caribbean culture to experience.
What Do Jamaica and Barbados Have in Common?
Jamaica and Barbados have several similarities especially when it comes to landscapes. Both countries are island nations part of the Caribbean region. They consist of lush green mountains and are surrounded by spectacular coasts. However, Jamaica features a more rugged terrain while Barbados has a relatively flat landscape.
Since both islands belong to the Caribbean region, they share the same climate. Jamaica and Barbados are known for being hot and humid. This makes them amazing summer vacation destinations.
Which Is Safer – Barbados or Jamaica?
Barbados and Jamaica are both safe and secure according to tourists. However, some tourists who have visited both often prefer Barbados over the latter as it is smaller and feels more secure. Some, on the other hand, feel unsafe when traveling through less-known areas of Jamaica.
Reports show that there is a significant difference in crime rates between the two islands. In 2020, Jamaica has an annual crime rate of 44.95% while Barbados sits at a mere 14.27%.
Is Jamaica Richer Than Barbados?
According to the World Bank records, Jamaica has a weaker economy that Barbados. Reports show that the annual GDP per capita of Jamaica in 2020 was only $4,586 while Barbados was at $17,033. The quality of living is also significantly better in Barbados compared to Jamaica.
Barbados vs. Jamaica Currency
The currency in Jamaica is referred to as the Jamaican dollar while money in Barbados is the Bajan dollar. In terms of exchange rates, 1 Bajan dollar is roughly 76 Jamaican dollars. In contrast, 1 Jamaican dollar is around 0.013 Bajan dollars.
Exchanging 1,000 US dollars for Jamaican dollars would give people around 155,320 JMD. On the other hand, 1,000 US dollars to Bajan dollars trades at around 2,017 BBD.
Who Has Better Beaches – Barbados or Jamaica?
Both Jamaica and Barbados offer pristine beach options. However, Jamaica has more beaches simply because the island is much bigger. In comparison, Jamaica’s coastline is around 635 miles (1022 km) while Barbados only has 60 miles (97 km). Despite this, many prefer Barbados over Jamaica.
This is because Barbados features more beautiful beaches such as the Platinum Coast. Even though Jamaica has a ton of white-sand beaches, nothing compares to the Platinum Coast, which is ranked one of the most idyllic spots in the world.
But don’t count Jamaica off the list yet! There are still amazing beaches all around the island of Jamaica. There’s the renowned Seven Mile Beach in Negril and the bustling beach coast of Montego Bay.
Barbados or Jamaica for Honeymoon
Jamaica and Barbados can both be amazing honeymoon destinations. Because of both islands’ tropical climates, you can spend most of your time outdoors and enjoy their wonderful nature.
The best choice for a honeymoon spot would depend on your preferred activities. Barbados is known for its toned-down and relaxing atmosphere. The Pristine Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the water is perfectly calm to swim in.
Jamaica, on the other hand, caters more to adventure and thrill-seeking activities. Couples who enjoy strenuous outdoor attractions can satiate their need for adrenaline in Jamaica.
Is Barbados in Jamaica?
Barbados and Jamaica are two different island countries in the Caribbean. Jamaica is located near the center of the region. Its closest neighbors include Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and the Cayman Islands.
On the other hand, Barbados is a small island situated by the southeastern end of the region. It is part of the Lesser Antilles and included in the group of Windward Islands. The closest islands near Barbados include St.Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, and Martinique.
Is Barbados Close to Jamaica?
The total distance between Jamaica and Barbados is roughly 1,976 km (1,227 miles). The islands of Jamaica and Barbados are located in different parts of the Caribbean region. Jamaica lies near the heart of the region while Barbados sits far off the southeastern edge. A vast expanse of the Caribbean Sea separates the two islands.
How Far Is Barbados From Jamaica?
The distance between the island of Barbados and Jamaica is approximately 1,976 km (1,227 miles). Flights heading to and from these islands can take as fast as 5 hours or more than a day when the route includes an overnight layover.
How Far Is Barbados From Jamaica in Miles?
The distance from Barbados to Jamaica in miles is around 1,227 miles (1,976 km). The most common mode of transportation between these islands is via plane. However, there are a handful of cruise lines that travel through the Caribbean and docks in both Jamaica and Barbados throughout the trip.
Which Direction Is Jamaica From Barbados?
The island of Barbados is located east of Jamaica. Jamaica lies near the center of the Caribbean. It sits close to Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.
A large portion of the Caribbean Sea separates the larger islands of Jamaica and Cuba from the smaller islands at the eastern end of the region. Barbados is among the island nations of the Lesser Antilles and is part of the Windward group of islands.
Is Barbados Bigger or Smaller Than Jamaica?
No, Barbados is significantly smaller compared to Jamaica. The total area of the island of Jamaica is 10,992 sq. km (4,244 sq. miles) while Barbados only has 439 sq. km (169 sq. miles). This makes Jamaica several times larger than the quaint island of Barbados.
How Many Times Can Barbados Fit Into Jamaica?
In comparison, Jamaica is significantly larger than Barbados. Considering each island’s total area, Barbados can fit 25 times into Jamaica.
Jamaica is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean region. It has a total area of 10,992 sq. km (4,244 sq. miles). It ranks third, right behind Cuba and the island of Hispaniola
Barbados is a small island nation in the southeastern part of the Caribbean. The total area covered by Barbados is roughly 439 sq. km (169 sq. miles). It lies among other smaller island nations such as Grenada, St. Lucia, Martinique, and St. Vincent. The archipelago of islands around this part of the Caribbean is known as the Lesser Antilles.
How Do I Get From Barbados to Jamaica?
Flying is the most common mode of transportation for anyone traveling around the Caribbean. There are flight routes from Grantley Adams International Airport going to Jamaica. These can either land in Kingston or Montego Bay.
Caribbean Airlines offers a direct flight from Barbados to Kingston, Jamaica. Travel time for this flight only runs for more or less 3 hours.
Other flights heading to Kingston include stops in the Lesser Antilles. Flights from Barbados either stop at Trinidad and Tobago, St. Maarteen, or Antigua before continuing to Kingston. This takes somewhere between 4 to 6 hours depending on the length of the layover.
On the other hand, tourists traveling to Montego Bay need to take a longer route. There are no direct flights from Barbados to Montego Bay. The flight routes take tourists back to the US for a connecting flight.
Most flights connect through Miami while some stop at New York or Charlotte. Depending on the duration of the stopover, the total travel time ranges from 9 to 18 hours.
Can You Fly From Barbados to Jamaica?
Yes. Flying is the most common mode of transportation for tourists heading to Jamaica from Barbados. There are two major airports in Jamaica. One is in Montego Bay along the northern coast of the island. The other is in the capital city of Kingston down south.
How Long Does It Take to Fly From Barbados to Jamaica?
The total travel time for flights heading to Jamaica from Barbados depends primarily on the route. There are no direct flights from Barbados heading to Montego Bay. On the other hand, direct flights from Barbados to Kingston, Jamaica, take roughly 3 hours.
Most flights coming out of Barbados to Jamaica includes a stopover, whether it’s to change and transfer planes or to board more passengers. Regardless, flights with one to two stopovers take significantly longer.
Other flights to Kingston from Barbados stop by another Caribbean island in the Lesser Antilles. Considering this, the total travel time adds up to 4 to 6 hours. These flights typically stop by neighboring islands in the region. This includes St. Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, and Anguilla.
Flights heading to Montego Bay take much longer than those landing at Kingston. This is because flights from Barbados take passengers back to the US before connecting back to Jamaica.
Stopovers at US airports also last longer. Thus, adding significantly to the total travel time. And therefore, flights from Barbados heading to Montego Bay can take somewhere between 9 to 18 hours.
How Much Is It From Barbados to Jamaica?
Flights from Barbados to Kingston are priced somewhere around $290 to $550. On the other hand, flights heading to Jamaica’s Montego Bay cost somewhere between $350 to $800.
