Tourism

MESSAGE FOR BARBADOS’ 58th ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE FROM THE BHTA

One step at a time – Barbados Forward

Another ship, another flight, another taxi, another shuttle, another loved one or colleague’s arrival – Barbados is constantly moving forward. Whether we are welcoming a tourist or a returning local, the energy and the constant drive towards progress has become synonymous with the word Barbados.

From the global stage of international focused speeches by the Hon. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, fighting for Small Island Development States, or, locally focused launches by our national hero Robyn Rihanna Fenty, highlighting that any Barbadian young child can dream and succeed in reaching those dreams; the country is truly buzzing.

Over the last year, Barbados and Bajans have continuously shown pride as we narrowed down on advancing the island beyond the economic struggles of the past decade, due mainly to world conflicts, and then topped off with a crippling pandemic – especially for an island that is led by Tourism. As such, the Governor of the Central Bank and the Minister of Finance have proudly highlighted that Barbados is open for investment. It is open for development and, it is open, not just for non-nationals to do business, but for locals to have pride and opportunities in the future of Barbados.

History has prepared us as a nation to ‘fight’ for what is right, voice our concerns on areas that are troubling and strategically find solutions, whether in the short term or long term. This is in alignment with the journey to independence and the longer journey to becoming a republic, that has shown that “we have it in us” to be better than we began, if we collectively take one step at a time. This journey to becoming a republic began over a century ago with decades of challenging the norm of colonialism until independence and then championing a level of development that has afforded Barbadians luxuries that not many other countries can boast.

From free education, healthcare and a general sense of safety and security; Barbados has stood out on the shoulders of giants such as Prime Ministers Adams and Barrow and now, being led by Prime Minister Mottley at a pace like international race driver Zane Maloney but arriving at the result, with as smooth as the landing of the British Airways Dreamliner at the Grantley Adams International Airport. The process begins with one step at a time and sometimes the pace is picked up, sometimes it slows down. The focus is where we arrive as a Nation.

The average Barbadian is known as a friendly and loving individual, traditionally raised on principles rooted in our culture, history and our family teachings. These principles have led us towards great prosperity and, paves the way, for us to celebrate milestone achievements, as a result. They have also assisted us in times of stress and challenging periods in our development. The one key attribute that has kept us a stable small island developing state is the ability for us to row in the same direction.

We must give ourselves credit for the steps we have taken to be the leading developing island of the 1990s, the “go to” island during the pandemic, due to our clear measures and, now, the island of envy in the region due to the increase in airlift, pending tourism and non-tourism development projects, and our global presence and leadership in the fight for climate change support for the region. This is all possible one step at a time.

Often, we are reminded of the calypso lyrics “one step forward and two step backwards” when we are in a period of frustration but of late, numerous indicators are pointing towards a “hike” in steps, as we have set ourselves some ambitious goals that only our history as a nation could have prepared us for.

In the tourism sphere, we are anxious to complete $150 million worth of refurbishment and upgrades of our hotel plant, to add more diverse product over the next four to six years; enhance the on-island experience and spend, and the completion of upgrades of our ports of entry, welcoming more diverse routes from Latin America to United Arab Emirates and our true home – the Continent of Africa. The excitement, energy, vision and bright possibilities for our island and our people with these and many other developments are at an all-time high. Now is the time for us to collectively “hike” together, showcase why our education and values are spoken about globally and, truly plot a path forward for the next 58 years of our independence as the Republic of Barbados.

The linkages seen through the lens of the Tourism industry are rich across the other sectors from Finance, Agriculture, Education, Manufacturing, Technology, Culture, Sport and many more. The average person sees the hotel or airplane or ship but sometimes fails to appreciate the opportunities provided across all sectors. Each sector is linked in some fashion to Tourism whether it is from hosting a conference, playing a competitive sport representing Barbados, providing produce and proteins to restaurants, candles and toiletries to a boutique or large scale property or the most often forgotten – audio visual services, transportation and, curated experiences, basked in the history of our people and the struggles they have gone through to provide all the luxuries that all of us have had the opportunity to enjoy from birth to the date of the afterlife.

It is true, and it is wise, that we must diversify the economy but the beautiful thing about a small island is that all industries can form stronger linkages by diversifying in their own areas and connecting to others. This is a job, not just for a politician or a wealthy investor but for our people working daily and providing top tier products or services and leadership as well.

One step at a time, we will arrive at more notable achievements and reasons to celebrate what our forefathers have done pre and post 1966.

The avenues available for our young people must continue to be highlighted and openly spoken about throughout communities and schools. The social importance of providing a mentoring and comforting environment for our young people is one that we must all take responsibility for and walk this ‘hike’ together as we instill true ‘Barbadiana’ values, once more, one step at a time.

Barbados forward is the core focus of many of us in the private and public sector and with the continued involvement of each Barbadian in our communities, we will reap what we sow by advancing the sustainable development of a nation that can proudly smile when it is said that we punch above our weight class. It is true, we do. Would we change that? Probably not. Let the world know that Barbados is moving forward, one step at a time with ‘Bajan’ Pride.

I wish to express a warm embrace of support, energy and comfort to my Barbadian sisters and brothers as we celebrate the 58^th anniversary of our beautiful island Barbados. Feel proud of each Bajan achievement, question plans when necessary and support each positive opportunity provided to our people, while taking a trip on the “growth ZR” for a beautiful ride that even Prime Ministers Barrow and Adams would be proud of. The journey began with one step at a time. Your love, passion and sweat will never go unnoticed.

Love and Blessings to all of Barbados. Happy Independence Barbados.

Ryan Forde – CEO – Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association

Tourism

Tourism Minister Champions Regional Unity & Tourism Growth

Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism, Ian Gooding-Edghill, delivered powerful and visionary remarks during the opening days of Caribbean Week 2025 in New York City.

His participation underscored Barbados’ ongoing leadership in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism and emphasised the critical importance of sustainability, regional collaboration, and innovation in driving the industry forward.

Caribbean Week, held under the theme “Caribbean Resilience: Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism”, convened regional leaders, global tourism stakeholders, and industry partners in a unified call to reimagine the Caribbean’s role in the evolving global travel landscape.

Day One: A Call to Unity and Purpose

In his dual role as Barbados’ Tourism Minister and Chairman of the CTO Council of Ministers, Minister Gooding-Edghill officially welcomed delegates at the Opening Ceremony on June 2, hosted at The Westin, New York, at Times Square.

His keynote address delivered a compelling message of regional strength and strategic vision and urged stakeholders to embrace the week’s opportunities as a space for forging strategic partnerships, fostering innovation, and reaffirming shared goals.

“Caribbean resilience is not passive; it is dynamic. It is the courage to evolve, the wisdom to collaborate, and the commitment to lead. Caribbean Week is a declaration of who we are and where we are going, together. Through our unity, we continue to make the Caribbean brand globally compelling,” said Minister Gooding-Edghill, who also acknowledged the significant contributions of various tourism bodies and professionals whose efforts have shaped the Caribbean’s recovery and resurgence following recent global disruptions.

Day Two: Unveiling the CTO’s Reimagine Plan 2025–2027

On June 3, the Minister delivered the feature address for the official launch of the CTO’s Reimagine Plan 2025–2027, a bold initiative that outlines the region’s strategic direction for tourism. “This moment is not only ceremonial; it is pivotal, we must be agile, future-focused, and boldly united in our vision for Caribbean tourism.”

The Minister detailed the plan’s core pillars:

Sustainable and regenerative tourism
Enhanced regional competitiveness
Empowerment of Caribbean people

He reinforced the importance of intersectoral linkages, inclusivity, and climate-smart practices, emphasising tourism’s role as a transformative force. “Let us reimagine tourism not simply as a sector, but as a vehicle for empowerment, a platform for innovation, and a source of dignity for our people.”

The Plan identifies urgent priorities such as:

Strengthening regional connectivity
Advancing digital infrastructure and data sharing
Promoting cultural and environmental preservation

Minister Gooding-Edghill extended a call to action for collaboration across all sectors and partners. “Together, we must bring this vision to life. Together, we change, grow, and excel.”

Barbados’ Continued Leadership and Commitment

Barbados’ leadership at Caribbean Week 2025 reflects the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport’s ongoing efforts to promote the island as a premier destination, one that champions resilience, sustainability, and inclusive growth.

Through Minister Gooding-Edghill’s strategic oversight, Barbados continues to play a pivotal role in fostering regional development and advocating for responsible tourism.

From boosting connectivity and investing in innovation, to empowering youth and small businesses, the Ministry remains committed to ensuring tourism is a catalyst for national and regional progress. (PR/GIS)

Caption: (From left to right) – Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill; BTMI’s Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Franklin; BTMI’s Manager, Public Relations & Communications, Belle Holder; Permanent Secretary, Francine Blackman; and BTMI’s Director USA, Peter Mayers at Caribbean Week 2025 in New York City.

Tourism

Barbados Wins Another Gold At Chelsea Flower Show

For the 23rd year in a row, the Barbados Horticultural Society (BHS) has won a Gold award at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025. This year’s theme was ‘Bajans love to Play’, which paid tribute to five pastimes that Barbadians enjoy at a world-class level, whether rooted in tradition, practised professionally, or simply for the love of it. These pastimes included cricket, draughts, road tennis, ‘Mas’ and dominoes.

This year the BHS welcomed Barbadian-born ambassador and former England cricketer, Gladstone Small, to be the celebrity on stand for the media day. Best known for his role in assisting the England team with their win during the 1986-87 Ashes series in Australia, and for his standout performances in both Test and One Day International games, Mr. Small earned a reputation as a skilful fast bowler. His attendance at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show drew in visitors and members of the press with his charm and pride.

The exhibit was designed to imitate Bajans’ love for fun and light-heartedness through various unique combinations and dramatic contrasts in the variety of plant materials and colours used. In a nod to the island’s natural heritage, the display featured some of the island’s local flora and fauna, including various species of ginger lilies, anthuriums, orchids, ornamental pineapple plants, and heliconias, to name a few, bringing a tropical and authentically Bajan vibrancy to the exhibit.

“We selected each plant not just for its beauty, but for its ability to tell a story,” said Jennifer Weetch, President of BHS. “The bold reds of the ginger plants represent passion and energy, perfect for cricket and road tennis, while the playful forms of bromeliads and orchids echo the spirit of Mas. It’s a garden that plays, performs, and celebrates, just like our people.”

A striking tribute to cricketing legend Sir Garfield Sobers featured in the exhibit, with oversized bamboo stumps and an imaginative interpretation of a cricket ball, a creative nod to his iconic status and the island’s enduring love for the sport.

The exhibit also paid homage to Barbadian checkers grandmaster Ronald ‘Suki’ King: a multiple-time World Three-Move and World Go-As-You-Please Champion. Renowned for dominating national championships worldwide, King’s legacy was represented through a cropped draughts board, honouring his exceptional contribution to the sport.

Road Tennis, an important part of the Island’s history, was first invented during the 1930s by working class Bajans who could not afford to play lawn tennis. This sport, which is now a symbol of national pride, was celebrated in the display depicting the authentic style of the game.

Short for masquerade, Mas is a popular sport among Bajans, typically played during Grand Kadooment, the vibrant finale event of the island’s Crop Over Festival. Capturing this spectacle, the exhibit featured a striking stilt walker adorned with a vivid display of orchids, symbolising the energy, colour, and rhythm of this beloved national celebration, dubbed the “sweetest summer festival”.

Élan Mottley Harris, Director UK for the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, said: “The RHS Chelsea Flower Show provides a platform to showcase not only Barbados’ rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, but also the vibrant spirit of our people. This year’s sport-inspired exhibit celebrates the joy, creativity, and community that define life in Barbados. We are proud to support the Barbados Horticultural Society as they continue to share our island’s stories with such artistry and passion.

“From BTMI, heartfelt congratulations to the Barbados Horticultural Society on yet another gold achievement. This continued success at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a testament to their dedication, creativity, and enduring excellence.” (PR/GIS)

Tourism

BARBADOS SIGNS NEW TOURISM AND CULTURE AMBASSADOR

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)