Tourism

Barbados & British Airways Celebrate 70 Years Of Connectivity

The Ministry of Tourism and International Transport is celebrating British Airways’ (BA) 70 years of service to Barbados, which began on April 1, 1954.

To mark the platinum anniversary, a number of activities took place, including the inaugural 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft service from London, Heathrow to Barbados on March 31, and BA’s Avison Points Programme promotion, which offered 400 half-term reward seats.

There was also an inflight complimentary treat of Mount Gay’s XO and Eclipse for passengers coming to Barbados, as a result of a partnership with Mount Gay Distilleries Limited.

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.’s (BTMI) Chief Operations Officer, Cheryl Carter, and British Airways, Chief Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy, highlighted those activities and spoke of the long-standing partnership between Barbados and British Airways, during a press briefing at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, last evening.

Ms. Carter, who spoke on behalf of Minister of Tourism, Ian Gooding-Edghill, noted that for BA to mark a platinum anniversary service with the island signifies confidence in the partnership with Barbados, and also marks a significant chapter in Barbados’ aviation history.

The BTMI official pointed out that the airline’s expansive international network has served as an essential gateway to connecting the island with the world and fostering invaluable relationships across borders, as well as helping the island’s tourism sector rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic.

She indicated that the airline has plans to increase its flight capacity to Barbados, beginning in the 2024/2025 winter season, and this move will assist in the country’s efforts to provide airlift and enhance its tourism growth strategy as it seeks to pursue deeper penetration into Europe as well as the emerging markets of Middle East and Africa.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire team at BA for your resolute dedication to strengthening ties between London and Bridgetown… and extend a hearty thank you to British Airways for its role in supporting Barbados’ ongoing tourism recovery. We look forward to jointly steering ahead to combat the external shocks which impact the global tourism industry,” Ms. Carter stated.

Mr. Lacy emphasised that it was an honour to be commemorating the platinum anniversary of British Airways connecting London with the “beautiful island of Barbados”.

“Seventy years ago, British Airways embarked on a journey that would forge a bond between nations creating lasting friendships, and shape unforgettable memories for travellers across generations. Since our inaugural flight in 1954, we’ve been privileged to serve as a link, vital bridge between the United Kingdom and Barbados, enriching lives, facilitating business, and sharing culture. Looking ahead, our commitment to Barbados and the wider Caribbean remains as strong as ever. We are dedicated to providing our customers with a premium travel experience that surpasses expectations,” BA’s Chief Commercial Officer stated.

Speaking on the company’s decision to increase airlift capacity, he said it was because Barbados is viewed as a key destination in their network. “Our decision to offer double daily flights is driven by the strong demand and our steadfast commitment to Barbados as a key destination in our network. We are dedicated to providing our customers with more flexibility and a greater choice of flights, thereby enhancing their travel experience to this magnificent island,” Mr. Lacy said. (PR/GIS)

Tourism

American Airlines New York Service Returns To Barbados

American Airlines (AA) non-stop service from New York’s John F. Kennedy (JFK) airport to Barbados, restarted today, just in time for the island’s winter 2024/2025 season.

AA Flight 585, captained by Brian Nealis and First Officer Benjamin Sebek, landed at the Grantley Adams International Airport around 12:18 p.m., carrying 135 passengers, including Barbados’ Consul General to New York, Lorenzo Harewood.

The passengers and crew were welcomed by the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), Craig Hinds; CEO of the GAIA Inc., Hadley Bourne; other officials from the BTMI; Ministry of Tourism, and Tourism sector; and Haynesville Tuk Band and dancers.

Acting CEO Hinds noted that today’s return of American Airlines from the northeast corridor of America is not merely a flight route, but is seen as a bridge strengthening the island’s connection to the most important part of the USA.

“This route symbolises a vital connection that welcomes travellers to our shores, inviting them to experience the warmth, beauty, and the unique spirit of us here in Barbados. This renewal service arrives at a pivotal point in our tourism journey, as Barbados’ tourism sector sees robust growth.

“Our partnership with American Airlines has been instrumental in allowing us to share Barbados with the US and also the rest of the world. Year to date, we have seen over 170,000 arrivals to these shores from the United States, and I think that American Airlines has a very big role to play in that, so, thank you very much,” Mr. Hinds stated.

He added: “For nearly five decades, American Airlines has been more than a partner, it has been steadfast in its service to Barbados. This flight from JFK, first launched 49 years ago, has facilitated countless journeys, introduced our island to new visitors, and fostered invaluable bonds between the two nations.

“Next year, we look forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary of this partnership, a milestone that underscores enduring strength and the relationship which we’ve worked so hard to make sure that we maintain. The re-establishment of this service will not only expand tourism, but it will support Barbados across a range of vital sectors, such as leisure, cultural tourism, diaspora engagement, culinary experiences, and romance tourism, to name a few,” the acting CEO said.

AA’s Managing Director of Operations for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, José María Giraldo, stated that it was a privilege for him to be in Barbados celebrating the reconnection of passengers from JFK to GAIA.

“We’re thrilled to further strengthen today our commitment to Barbados, a country that we have served for more than 49 years, and we are proud to lead as the largest US airline with this new route from New York, which we plan to operate daily on our 737 fleet. We further open up Barbados to our customers around the world, as we play a vital role in promoting the tourism industry on this beautiful island,” Mr. Giraldo said.

He disclosed that come Saturday, November 9, AA will also launch a new service from Philadelphia, USA, using its 737 fleet, which will operate weekly.

The AA Director of Operations remarked: “We are proud to be the only US airline that will operate from four US hubs to Barbados and operate up to 30 weekly flights, a true milestone for our airline.”

Mr. Giraldo expressed appreciation to the team at AA, the Barbados Government, airport authorities, and its partners in the tourism industry for helping to make today a reality. He said he looks forward to continuing working with them towards the success of the service and the island’s tourism industry. (PR/GIS)

Tourism

CONVIASA INTRODUCES LARGER AIRCRAFT ON BARBADOS ROUTE, BOOSTING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRAVEL AND TRADE

The arrival of Conviasa Airlines’ Airbus A340-200 signals a major development in the air connectivity between Barbados and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Due to growing demand for travel on this route, the airline has upgraded to a larger aircraft, offering 250 seats—more than double the capacity of the previous Embraer 190, which accommodated just 100 passengers.

This transition to the Airbus A340, which arrived in Barbados on October 5th, was celebrated by a delegation led by Corey Garrett, Director of Latin America for the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI). The introduction of this larger aircraft not only meets the rising demand but also enhances the scope for future travel, allowing for a significant increase in seat availability and visitor arrivals between the two nations.

Corey Garrett, BTMI’s Director of Latin America, underscored the significance of this development:
“The increased capacity of the Airbus A340 is a game-changer for Barbados. It presents an unprecedented opportunity to welcome more visitors from Venezuela and the wider Latin American market, further promoting our island’s rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and world-class hospitality. Strengthening our connectivity with Venezuela opens new doors for economic growth, increased trade, and the deepening of cultural and business relations.”

More than just an aircraft upgrade, this change reflects the strengthening partnership between Barbados and Venezuela. The new Airbus A340 paves the way for Latin American travelers to enjoy easier access to Barbados’ rich cultural experiences, world-class beaches, and vibrant attractions. With more seats available, this route opens exciting possibilities for expanding tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the countries.

Economic Benefits

The shift to a larger aircraft brings with it a host of economic advantages for Barbados. The enhanced capacity opens up more opportunities for local businesses, offering greater exposure to the Latin American market and diversifying the island’s visitor base. Travelers from Venezuela can now enjoy seamless access to Barbados’ stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, and vibrant festivals, including the upcoming Barbados Food and Rum Festival and the world-famous Crop Over Festival.

As Barbados continues to position itself as a key Caribbean hub, this increased connectivity with Venezuela signals a bright future for tourism growth, stronger trade relations, a deepened cultural exchange that will benefit both nations for years to come. (PR)

Caption: A delegation comprising of H.E. Aquinas Clarke, Ambassador of Barbados to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and Director, Latin Caribbean, BTMI, Corey Garrett, welcomed the team from Conviasa Airlines.

Tourism

Food & Rum Festival Wins Culinary Award For Second Year Running

The Barbados Food and Rum Festival has once again claimed the prestigious title of the Caribbean’s Best Culinary Festival. The announcement was made at the 5th Annual World Culinary Awards held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The World Culinary Awards serves to celebrate and reward excellence in the culinary industry through its annual awards programme. World Culinary Awards is the sister event of World Travel Awards, itself inaugurated in 1994.

This marks the second year in a row that the festival has been recognised for its culinary excellence on the global stage. The award highlights the festival’s commitment to elevating the island’s diverse offerings while strengthening its tourism product.

Culinary Capital of the Caribbean

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) is the entity responsible for the production of the festival. Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Franklin, noted that the annual Food and Rum festival, which showcases the island’s talented chefs and mixologists, continues to position Barbados as a leading destination for culinary experiences.

“We are incredibly honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second consecutive year. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, from our talented chefs and mixologists to our partners and sponsors,” CEO Franklin stated.

She added: “This recognition not only celebrates our unique culinary heritage but also reinforces Barbados as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.”

Barbados Food and Rum Festival 2024

The 2024 edition of the Barbados Food and Rum Festival will be held from Thursday, October 24, to Sunday, October 27. Described as ‘the Ultimate Foodie Dream Weekend’, it promises to be even more enticing, with a dynamic lineup of culinary events, including Liquid Gold Feast, Rise & Rum Breakfast Beach Party, Rum Route, Chef Classics, Oistins Under the Stars, Culture of Cuisine Talks, and the first ever Rum Night. The festival will feature local and international culinary talent, as well as young aspiring chefs.

This year’s festival also included the family-oriented Bajan Fair, which was held yesterday.

Feed the Future

Under the theme “Feed the Future”, the festival’s goal is to invest in the next generation of culinary talent through the Junior Chef Cook-Off Competition. The competition creates developmental and training opportunities for young aspiring chefs as they compete against each other for the title of Junior Chef Champion.

This year, 21-year-old Omari Layne was the winner of the competition, receiving a scholarship for an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts at the Jean and Norma Holder Hospitality Institute, an internship at one of Barbados’ premium fine dining restaurants, as well as BBD 3,000.

As the festival continues to grow, it remains a key ingredient in Barbados’ efforts to enhance its global appeal as a premier culinary destination. (PR/GIS)