Barbados is poised to become the first country to pilot a new regional debt-for-resilience facility, a groundbreaking financial model designed to redirect costly debt repayments toward sustainable development and social investment. This innovative mechanism—supported by four major multilateral development banks—will allow participating Caribbean nations to swap expensive government bonds for...
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has announced the highly anticipated return of two of its signature events — the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) and Taste of the Caribbean — both set to take place November 16–18, 2025, at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort. These flagship events will unite tourism and hospitality professionals,...
Barbados’ financial system reached a record size in 2024, with total assets rising to $30.3 billion, according to the latest Financial Stability Report (FSR) released by the Central Bank of Barbados and the Financial Services Commission (FSC). This represents a notable increase from $29 billion in 2023, with credit expansion across multiple financial institutions fueling the growth. Commercial Banks...
Los Cabos has just welcomed a striking new addition to its luxury hospitality landscape. Following a dramatic transformation, the iconic Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos has officially reopened as a Marriott Bonvoy Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort — marking the brand’s first all-inclusive offering in Los Cabos and ushering in a bold new era for the beloved Pacific coast property. Perched along...
Blue Diamond Resorts has announced its entry into Marriott International’s prestigious Luxury Collection with the addition of Paraíso de la Bonita, A Luxury Collection Resort, Riviera Maya, Adult All-Inclusive — a landmark move that signifies the group’s expansion into the ultra-luxury all-inclusive space. Marking a highlight in Blue Diamond Resorts’ 15th anniversary year, the partnership...
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has launched an ambitious new blueprint to redefine the future of tourism across the region. Titled the “Reimagine Plan 2025–2027,” this strategic roadmap moves beyond recovery and calls for a complete transformation of Caribbean tourism into a driver of innovation, inclusion, and resilience. Unveiled in New York, the Barbados-based CTO's plan outlines a...
The Caribbean now has its first JdV by Hyatt property with the debut of Royal Beach Hotel Punta Cana, a vibrant new lifestyle hotel located in the heart of El Cortecito, one of Punta Cana’s most culturally rich neighborhoods. Developed in collaboration with Grupo Martinon, the 66-room boutique hotel blends local flavor with modern comfort and marks a milestone for Hyatt’s growing lifestyle...
Barbados has been officially approved for Series “A” shareholder status by the Board of Directors of CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, marking a major milestone in the island's international financial standing. This upgrade, CAF’s highest level of membership, positions Barbados for greater access to development funds and grants the country a seat on the bank’s board,...
Hilton has officially opened its first-ever Curio Collection all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, unveiling Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort on the tranquil shores of Playa Esmeralda. This 500-room property blends elevated design, deep cultural roots, and curated experiences to position Miches as the country’s next must-visit destination. Located just over an hour from Punta...
New hotel performance data from STR reveals a mixed picture for the Caribbean hospitality sector, with regional occupancy dipping while average daily rates (ADR) saw only marginal growth. In May 2025, hotel occupancy across the Caribbean stood at 61.7 percent, reflecting a 5.3 percent drop compared to the same month in 2024. While the decline is notable, it varies significantly by island, with some...