Barbados

Department of Tourism website: www.visitbarbados.org
Image:  Courtesy of Bougainvillea Resort

Barbados is a charming mix of British-colonial elegance and the diversity of the Caribbean culture.  Whether you choose an ocean side wedding, by sea cliffs or one of the many resorts or plantation homes that dot the islands, you will be charmed by the friendliness of the locals.

Your weddings guests will thank you since the island offers a myriad of activities including catamaran cruises, pristine beaches, underground caves and historic towns.  Tropical flowers abound and since Barbados has been producing rum for 350 years, the tropical drinks are also plentiful and delicious.

Quick Facts

• Language:       English 
• Passport:        yes
• Currency:        Barbados Dollar
• Time Zone:       Atlantic Time Zone
• Airport:           Grantley Adams - 8 miles east of Bridgetown
• Weather:         It is warm and sunny all year round with an average daytime high of 75 - 85 F. The nights are usually slightly cooler.  The dry season is January – June and the wettest month is October.

There is no required waiting period or minimum length of stay before applying for a marriage license.  Both the bride and groom must apply for the marriage license in person at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs in the capital city Bridgetown. The required documents include:

•   Valid passports or birth certificates.
• Return tickets.
• If either party was married previously, an original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of the Final Judgment of divorce or a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate and Death Certificate in the case of death.
• For a Roman Catholic ceremony, the relevant documents must be sent by your bishop to the bishop of Bridgetown
• Where necessary, all documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

For more information contact the Ministry of Home Affairs at tel: 246-228-8950, fax: 246-437-3794.

Articles:  Fall Winter 2007