The Caribbean hotel industry is experiencing strong momentum in early 2025, with key performance indicators reflecting steady growth. Hotel occupancy, revenues, and average daily rates (ADR) have all increased, continuing an upward trend that began in December 2024, when demand surged during the holiday season. Strong Performance Across the Region According to hotel analytics firm STR, regional...
Rihanna has once again blended sport and fashion, launching her latest FENTY x PUMA collection in her homeland of Barbados. The three-day celebration, infused with Caribbean energy, brought together celebrities, athletes, and fashion insiders to mark the release of her new line. A Grand Homecoming Rihanna kicked off the event with an opening ceremony, setting the tone for the stylish...
ANSA Motors Barbados has taken a bold step into the commercial vehicle industry, launching a new division featuring Iveco and Yale to support local businesses with cutting-edge transport and material-handling solutions. This expansion aims to provide a full spectrum of vehicles, from light-duty trucks to heavy-duty hauliers, catering to industries such as construction, logistics, and waste...
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is stepping into a new era of transformation under its newly appointed president, Daniel Best. With a bold vision centered on action, innovation, and real impact, Best has laid out an ambitious roadmap to tackle the Caribbean’s biggest challenges and unlock fresh opportunities for growth. Speaking at the Bank’s Annual News Conference on March 19, Best made it...
Palladium Hotel Group is making a major investment in Jamaica while expanding its presence across the Caribbean. In February, the group broke ground on a $20 million expansion of Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica, adding 948 new rooms, upgraded amenities, and more sustainable features. As part of its growth strategy, Palladium will also introduce TRS Hotels, its adults-only, all-inclusive...
The energy for Crop Over 2025 is already building as more Grand Kadooment bands launch their costumes earlier than ever. Bands are moving up their launch dates to generate excitement, give revelers more time to secure their costumes, and ensure the festival kicks off with strong momentum. Route Remains, But With Refinements While some adjustments may be made, the 2024 Grand Kadooment route will...
From the Platinum Coast to the Pitons, British travelers are setting their sights on two of the Caribbean’s most stunning destinations - Barbados and Saint Lucia. According to British Airways’ latest Travel Trends report, these islands are among the most sought-after holiday spots for UK vacationers in early 2025. Barbados and Saint Lucia Rank Among Top Global Destinations British Airways...
The Fair Trading Commission (FTC) is gearing up for a transformative expansion and reform, reinforcing its role in consumer protection and utilities regulation. Minister of Energy and Business, Senator Lisa Cummins, unveiled these changes during Monday’s Senate debate on the Appropriation Bill, 2025. She also announced that, effective April 1, attorney Brian Reece will take the helm as the new Chief...
Barbados is set to welcome three British companies in the coming weeks as they explore business opportunities in housing, alternative energy construction, and business development. This development follows a highly productive meeting between the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) and Barbados representatives, including Deputy High Commissioner Mackie Holder and Athelston “Tony” Sealey,...
Barbados rolled out the red carpet last Tuesday as it welcomed the Mitsui Ocean Fuji, Japan’s most luxurious all-suite cruise ship, on its inaugural visit to the island. A traditional plaque exchange ceremony marked the special occasion, celebrating the vessel’s first-ever stop in Barbados. As part of its grand world tour, the Mitsui Ocean Fuji made only two port calls in the Caribbean - one of...