Internationally acclaimed entertainer Andre Parris, widely known as DJ Puffy, has been officially announced as Barbados’ newest Tourism and Culture Ambassador. The announcement was made during a formal contract signing held at the headquarters of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI).

In a strategic move to enhance Barbados’ global brand appeal, particularly among younger, international audiences, the BTMI and the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) have jointly secured a one-year partnership with the world-renowned DJ and Red Bull 3Style World Champion. DJ Puffy brings unmatched talent, infectious energy, and a profound pride in representing his Barbadian heritage on the world stage.

DJ Puffy Ambassador Signing

“BTMI is proud to stand with Mr. Parris, an internationally acclaimed entertainer, whose roots run deep in Barbadian soil and whose reach extends to stages and audiences around the world,” said Ms. Andrea Franklin, Chief Executive Officer of BTMI. “As an ambassador for Barbados, his story becomes a part of our story. Through digital storytelling and high-profile appearances, we expect this collaboration to significantly increase awareness and visibility for Destination Barbados, helping us strengthen the island’s global identity.”

Ms. Carol Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of the NCF, echoed these sentiments.

“The National Cultural Foundation is just absolutely delighted at the opportunity to work with DJ Puffy again. We have worked with him in the past, but this opportunity is invaluable because it allows us to continue our work to promote Barbadian music but at a different level. There is no doubt that DJ Puffy will ignite nostalgia and beautiful memories to those Barbadians and West Indians across the globe, but equally important this is a wonderful opportunity through DJ Puffy to introduce untold millions of people around the globe to the energy and the vibe and the beauty and the rhythm of local music.”

DJ Puffy will play a pivotal role in elevating the island’s global image by spotlighting its vibrant culture at key international events. His appointment aligns seamlessly with the BTMI’s and NCF’s shared commitment to investing in homegrown talent and collaborating with cultural innovators who are shaping global conversations.

Mr. Parris shared, “The opportunity to represent your country is something many only dream of. Nearly a decade ago, I had the honour of doing just that and winning on the world stage. Since then, the motivation, mindset, and mission to uplift have never left me. In fact, the desire has only grown. The bigger the stage, the stronger the drive.” He added, “Today, I’m incredibly proud to be officially recognized as a Barbados Tourism and Culture Ambassador. Barbados isn’t just where I’m from—it’s my sanctuary. A place of joy, culture, rejuvenation, humility, love, pride, and relentless spirit. Sharing that with the world isn’t just a goal—it’s part of who I am.”

Through his music, influence, and platform, DJ Puffy will share the spirit of Barbados with global audiences, bold, creative, and proudly Bajan. (PR/GIS)

After a five-year hiatus, the island’s foremost tourism business-to-business event, Connect Barbados, is back! Scheduled for June 23rd to 26th, the premier travel conference will be held at Wyndham Grand Barbados Resort, Sam Lord’s Castle.

Over four exclusive days, Connect Barbados will host top international tour operators, travel decision-makers, and local service providers, welcoming delegates from the island’s major source markets. 

In addition to robust networking and business meetings, the 2025 event proudly reintroduces the Connect Barbados Awards, last celebrated in 2019, to honour outstanding media and trade partners whose work and collaboration have elevated Barbados’ global profile.

“The return of Connect Barbados marks a pivotal milestone for our island and for the global travel community that continues to stand with us,” said Andrea Franklin, CEO of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI). 

“As our premier B2B platform, Connect Barbados plays a vital role in fostering meaningful commercial relationships between our international tour operators, travel partners, and the dedicated stakeholders within Barbados’ tourism sector.” 

The CEO added, “It is through these collaborations that we drive sustainable growth, create new business opportunities, and strengthen Barbados’ position in the global tourism marketplace. This year, we are excited to reconnect, celebrate excellence and chart an exciting new future together.”

Under the dynamic theme, “From Street to Chic: A Culinary Journey Awaits,” Connect Barbados 2025 will also celebrate the island’s vibrant culinary landscape from the humble delights of street food offerings and local rum shops to the heights of fine dining excellence. (PR/GIS)

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has reported a robust 31% year-on-year increase in arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2024, as the island continues to interest the travellers seeking authentic, high-end Caribbean escapes.

The UAE led the growth in visitor numbers, followed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with increases of 30% and 36%, respectively. Oman also emerged as a standout market, registering an impressive 104% increase in travellers to Barbados compared to the previous year.

This regional upswing reflects a growing appetite for long-haul, luxury leisure travel among GCC residents, particularly to culturally rich destinations like Barbados. The island’s appeal lies in its pristine beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and a wide range of family-friendly and wellness-focused experiences. The presence of luxury family all-inclusive resorts also serves as a value-add for family travellers from the region.

“We are incredibly proud to see Barbados striking a chord with discerning travellers from the GCC who seek authenticity, luxury and enriching experiences. This upward momentum fuels our commitment to deepening strategic investments in the region and amplifying Barbados’ unique appeal on the global stage. The appointment of our new Director of Emerging Markets, Kyle Gittens, coupled with the impressive growth in arrivals from the GCC, highlights our dedication to expanding Barbados’ international footprint and welcoming new audiences to our island,” said CEO of the BTMI, Andrea Franklin. 

“The GCC continues to show strong potential as an emerging source market,” said Kyle C. Gittens, Director of Emerging Markets, BTMI. “Travellers from this region are seeking unique, meaningful experiences and Barbados delivers on that promise—from immersive island culture to unmatched hospitality. We are encouraged by the growth and are committed to further strengthening our presence in the market.”

BTMI’s marketing push in the region has included targeted media campaigns, travel trade partnerships, and destination promotions tailored to the preferences of GCC travellers. A contributing factor to this momentum has been BTMI’s collaboration with dnata Representation Services, supporting sales, marketing, and PR efforts across the region.

As Barbados continues to diversify its global footprint, the GCC remains a key market for strategic growth and long-term tourism development. (PR)