Since its launch in July 2020, there has been a huge amount of positive interest in the 12-month Barbados Welcome Stamp, a visa allowing people from all over the world to live and work remotely in paradise.
Over 1,500 applications have been processed to date, accounting for over 2,500 people, including over 40 from Ireland; Ireland ranks 5th in terms of volume of applications.
But why are so many people choosing Barbados as their remote working base? Here are some of the main reasons why…
Education System
Barbados has one of the best school systems in the world. The Barbados government has invested heavily in education and between 2013 and 2014, invested almost BDS$500 million into improving schools and education, to provide a safe and academically stimulating environment for children. This commitment to education has resulted in a literacy rate of 98%, one of the highest in the world.
The Barbadian school year follows a three-term schedule over a 39-week school year. Primary school runs from ages 4-11, with secondary school from 11-18. Most schools at both levels are state-owned and run.
The Weather
Barbados boasts a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The temperature differs little between summer and winter months. The island boasts over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually and has an average daytime high of 30°C. To make things better, the prevailing northeast Tradewinds blow steadily over the island so, although it is bright and sunny, it is not unbearably hot.
Accommodation
Whether you are looking for a beautiful beach house, a city centre apartment or a private plush villa, you can find it all at a price which suits your pocket in Barbados. There is an abundance of accommodation options throughout the island – some exciting co-living spaces will also be coming soon to Barbados – the perfect option for remote workers. For more information, please visit www.coliving.com.
Co-working Spaces
With more remote workers choosing to set up in Barbados, this has led to an increase in office spaces on the island and in particular, co-working spaces. Co-working spaces are shared offices used mainly by remote workers and small, or start-up businesses. These spaces offer a wealth of advantages for users, such as cost-efficiency, greater flexibility and, one of the biggest benefits, more networking opportunities. Co-working spaces give users the chance to connect with other individuals both in a professional and social aspect, which is a huge draw for remote workers in Barbados.
Check out www.coworkingbird.com and www.regus.ie for more information.
Quality of Life
The quality of life for remote workers in Barbados is second to none. The island is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and all-round good vibe, and its people are known for being some of the most welcoming in the Caribbean! Sports on the island are many and varied. Whether you’re into golf, rugby, cricket, tennis, water sports, hiking and more, Barbados has something to offer everyone.
Enjoy the Barbadian way of life and begin your day with a swim in the crystal-clear sea and spend your spare time out and about, exploring the islands incredible scenery, enjoying delicious Bajan cuisine or mingling with the locals at a rum shop.
The Food
Barbados is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, and for good reason! From street food to fine dining and everything in between, Barbados has plenty to offer every type of foodie. Try the island’s national dish, flying fish with cou-cou, or some famous Bajan fish cakes, served in most rum shops along with ham, cheese or fish cutters!
Fancy something more lavish? Barbados is home to a number of fine dining restaurants, such as the Lone Star Restaurant, famed for its idyllic beach setting, celebrity clientele and, of course, it’s delicious food and top-class service.
Interested persons can apply now at www.Barbadoswelcomestamp.bb for the opportunity to live and work remotely in paradise.
ENDS
For more information please contact Niamh Waters niamh@travelmedia.ie