Barbados is doubling down on value-driven travel experiences to remain competitive amid rising global inflation and increased competition from other destinations.
At the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) quarterly media briefing, Chairman Javon Griffith stressed that the island’s hospitality providers must focus on enhancing offerings instead of resorting to price cuts ahead of the winter travel season.
“Where travellers see value, they will book,” Griffith explained. “This means going beyond room rates by including attractive extras such as complimentary breakfast, food and beverage credits, catamaran cruises, or tickets to popular attractions. The strategy works across markets – Canada, the UK, and the US.”
View Hotels for Sale in Barbados
He noted that while demand would remain strong between December 22 and January 5, Barbados will need to compete more aggressively during off-peak periods with destinations like Antigua, Mexico, and Jamaica. Still, he expressed optimism that Barbados could record one of its strongest months of tourist arrivals in July.
BHTA Chief Executive Officer Ryan Forde echoed this strategy, highlighting that Barbados’ strength lies in its diverse offerings.
“We’re a small destination, but what sets us apart is that we can provide something for everyone,” he said. “From world-class beaches and surfing on the East Coast to dolphin watching in the North, scuba diving in the South and West, or simply relaxing anywhere along the shore – visitors have choices that rival bigger destinations.”
View Hotels for Sale in Barbados
Beyond its coastline, Forde spotlighted Barbados’ rich dining scene — from casual rum shops to fine dining restaurants — and the island’s eco-tourism growth, with attractions like Harrison’s Cave, Coco Hill, Graeme Hall Sanctuary, and a booming hiking culture.
He added that the island also enjoys a strong airlift advantage, with daily flights from North America and the UK, renewed services from Europe, and growing connections to Latin America via Copa Airlines.
“On the product side, our members will add value,” Forde said. “On the marketing side, our partners at the BTMI can showcase the incredible range of options Barbados has to offer. We don’t rely on just one attraction – we have a little bit of everything.”
With this focus on value, variety, and authentic Bajan hospitality, tourism leaders are confident Barbados can maintain its edge in a competitive and inflationary global travel market.
View all of our Properties for Sale in Barbados
