Barbados’ Platinum Coast, renowned for its luxury, exclusivity, and world-class beaches, has long been a preferred destination for discerning travelers. This prestigious stretch of the island is home to upscale dining establishments such as The Cliff, high-end shopping in Holetown, and tranquil beaches like Mullins. While traditionally known for its five-star hotels, the area has also become an emerging...
Boutique Barbados resort O2 Beach Club & Spa has been welcomed into Virtuoso, an exclusive network of luxury travel advisors, according to Patricia Affonso-Dass, CEO and group general manager of Ocean Hotels Barbados. As one of Virtuoso’s 2,300 preferred partners across 100 countries, O2 Beach Club & Spa is set to elevate its profile among discerning travelers. Virtuoso-affiliated agencies...
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, and the Caribbean hospitality sector is embracing this wave of innovation. At the latest Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), hosted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), industry experts outlined how AI is redefining guest experiences, streamlining operations, and preserving the region’s rich cultural...
Barbados’ luxury hospitality sector is receiving a significant boost as the Elegant Group of Hotels, owned by UK-based Marriott International, embarks on a $200 million (US$100 million) renovation project. The extensive refurbishment aims to enhance the island’s all-inclusive accommodations and solidify its position in the competitive luxury travel market. The ambitious plan includes phased...
A tranquil mangrove preserve, a stretch of pristine white sand, and an exclusive adults-only retreat await at the newly revamped Paraiso de la Bonita resort, now under Marriott’s Luxury Collection brand. Situated between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, this legendary property is set to redefine luxury in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Previously recognized as a AAA Five Diamond award winner, Paraiso de...
The highly-anticipated debut of Kimpton’s first all-inclusive resort, Kimpton Tres Rios Riviera Maya, is set to make waves when it opens its doors on August 1, 2025. Nestled along a pristine stretch of white-sand beach in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this eco-luxury haven spans 326 acres and boasts a unique blend of three ecosystems: jungle, mangrove forests, and coastal dunes. Guests can explore an...
Impressive Resorts & Spas is cementing its reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality, with a growing portfolio of properties in some of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations. Known for its distinctive blend of comfort, exclusivity, and personalized service, the brand is making waves with its flagship and upcoming developments in the region. At the heart of its Caribbean offerings is...
Barbados continues to shine as a premier destination for cruise tourism, celebrating a remarkable 23% increase in cruise ship arrivals from January to November 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This growth underscores the island’s enduring appeal and commitment to enhancing its cruise offerings, particularly in the high-end market. The Ritz-Carlton Ilma: A Landmark Visit Amid this surge in...
Marriott has added another gem to its all-inclusive collection in Barbados with the relaunch of The Waves Hotel and Spa under the Autograph Collection brand. Located on the island’s scenic Platinum Coast in St. James, this boutique hotel marks the latest expansion of Marriott's Caribbean all-inclusive portfolio. With 70 rooms offering stunning views of a beautiful stretch of west coast beach, the...
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) hosted its much-anticipated Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) in Miami last month, uniting hospitality and tourism leaders from across the region. Under the theme “Keeping It Real: Amplifying Caribbean Tourism through Authenticity, Integration, and Immersion,” CHIEF 2025 spotlighted the growing importance of creating genuine...