Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Barbados or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
I backpacked across the Caribbean and Barbados was one of the better islands for ATM access. Night withdrawals are okay in areas like Worthing or Oistins, where people hang out late. Still, I kept cash from daytime runs to avoid ATM fees and late-night exposure. If you're staying near resorts, those ATMs are the safest bet after dark.
Remote working from Barbados for a few weeks - I used FirstCaribbean ATMs around Rockley. Some of them are available 24/7 and felt secure even at 11 PM. But one night, a local warned me not to use a standalone ATM near Hastings Plaza after dark. Crime isn’t rampant, but petty theft happens. Stick to lit, busy zones.
I was in Speightstown and tried to withdraw cash from an ATM near a gas station late at night. It was operational, but the area was deserted and felt a bit off. As a solo traveler, I prefer day use only now. In Bridgetown or Holetown, night safety is better - especially if you use ATMs at Massy Stores or inside malls.
Withdrawing cash after dark in Barbados felt safe enough in tourist-heavy areas. I used a Scotiabank ATM near St. Lawrence Gap around 9 PM - good lighting, people around, and no sketchy vibes. That said, I wouldn’t use machines in isolated spots. Most locals also do their banking in daylight. If you're backpacking, plan withdrawals before heading to beachy, remote areas.