Island Life
Named for the bearded (barbado) fig trees once abundant on the island, Barbados is full of natural beauty, historic architecture, and a vibrant island culture. As a student, you’ll spend one-third of your Ross Med journey living on the island—and your island home will quickly become a familiar and fascinating backdrop to your medical school studies.
Dining and Food
You’ll have plenty of options when it comes to dining during your time on the island. While you can find many of your favorite brands and foods from home in the local grocery store, you can also grab a bite at local restaurants that serve up mouthwatering creole cuisine and fresh seafood.
Campus Cuisine
On campus, visit the LESC to fuel up at The Coffee Bean or Island Caterer’s Cafeteria—or take a short walk to Starbucks or Sky Mall for coffee, pizza, and Caribbean food.
Local Fare
Explore restaurants featuring both local and international cuisine just steps from your front door in Coverley Square.
Be the Chef
A grocery store located at the Villages of Coverley carries a variety of brands as well as garden-fresh local produce and specialty products, including gluten-free, allergen-friendly, and organic options.
Shopping, Transportation, and Amenities
Whether you’re looking for a pharmacy, a haircut, places of worship, or places to shop, you’ll find a variety of services and amenities near the Ross Med campus.
- Health and Wellness
Ross Med students can visit the Coverley Medical Centre (Sandy Crest Clinic) or the Ross Med Wellness and Counseling Center for health appointments, and a pharmacy is located on campus for your convenience.
- Services for Daily Life
Banks, salons, dental clinics, and more are available nearby at the Villages of Coverley.
- Island Transportation
As a Ross Med student, you’ll have access to a free shuttle between campus and the Villages of Coverley, as well as other designated areas of the island. On campus, you can also find a parking garage with dedicated spaces for Ross Med students and staff.
Entertainment and Recreation
From history to hiking, snorkeling to sports—there’s no end to the ways you can enjoy life in Barbados outside the classroom.
- Hiking and Cave Tours
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely beach stroll, a serious hike in the cliffs, or a spelunking adventure in the local caves—there are plenty of ways to explore Barbados on foot.
- Diving and Snorkeling
Make a splash in the sparkling waters around this coral island with opportunities to dive and snorkel.
- Sightseeing and History
Barbados is steeped in historic and cultural sites. From botanical gardens to the Garrison Savannah Area—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—there’s plenty to learn and see.
- Student Clubs and Intramural Sports
From service to special interests, Ross Med supports a wide variety of student organizations, as well as intramural sports like basketball, flag football, soccer, tennis, and volleyball.