Barbados is emerging as a clear leader in the Caribbean’s cruise tourism resurgence, recording the strongest cruise passenger growth in the region so far this year. Through the first three quarters, the island has outperformed all other Caribbean destinations in year-over-year cruise traffic expansion. Figures from the Caribbean Tourism Organization show that Barbados received 496,256 cruise...
Barbados is set to significantly strengthen its air connectivity in 2026, with a wave of new and expanded flight services that will make the island easier to reach than ever before. With regional carriers increasing frequencies and international airlines reinforcing long-haul access, Barbados is positioning itself as a major Caribbean gateway for both leisure and business travel. From deeper Caribbean...
Marriott International is completing a long-awaited chapter in its Barbados expansion, confirming that two well-known beachfront resorts — Turtle Beach and Crystal Cove — will reopen in 2026 as all-inclusive properties under its Tribute Portfolio brand. The relaunch marks a significant milestone following Marriott’s 2019 acquisition of Elegant Hotels, a deal that not only reshaped Barbados’...
Barbados’ financial system continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by solid regulation, improving global credibility and steady progress in modernising its payments infrastructure, according to recent assessments by the Central Bank of Barbados and the Financial Services Commission. These themes were underscored in July, when the two regulators hosted a roundtable to launch the 2024 Financial...
Barbados’ 2025–26 winter tourism season has begun on a positive footing, with hotel occupancy levels tracking ahead of last year and several properties already operating at or near full capacity, according to Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) chairman Javon Griffith. Speaking on the early performance of the season, Griffith said preliminary indicators point to a modest but consistent...
The Caribbean Export Development Agency has officially joined the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) as an International Network Partner, marking a significant step in deepening commercial and innovation links between the Caribbean and Europe. The partnership opens new avenues for businesses on both sides to access partnerships, market intelligence and investment opportunities. The milestone was...
All-inclusive resorts tend to announce themselves loudly. The House Barbados does the opposite. Tucked along a calm stretch of sand on the island’s Platinum Coast, this adults-only boutique hotel feels intentionally low-key — designed for travelers who prefer discretion, familiarity and ease over spectacle. With only 34 suites, The House operates more like a private residence than a resort. There...
Caribbean tourism ministers, senior officials and industry leaders convened this month aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas for the “Iconic Summit,” held as part of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) second annual Caribbean Weekend in Miami. Coming on the heels of Hurricane Melissa, which impacted several Caribbean destinations in October, the summit centred on the cruise...
January in Barbados is the perfect blend of sunshine, action, culture, and celebration. With international sailing races, floral showcases, artistic previews, and beach parties, the first month of the year offers something for every traveller. Here’s your essential guide to events and experiences happening throughout January 2026. ⛵ Barbados Sailing Week January 16 – January 22,...
Barbados knows how to ring in the New Year in unforgettable style. From glamorous estate parties and waterfront fireworks to legendary horse racing and refined dining experiences, Old Year’s Night (New Year’s Eve) on the island is a vibrant blend of culture, music, and celebration. Here’s your complete guide to what’s happening around 31 December 2025, including key events, Boxing Day racing, and...