Reception held to honour repeat visitors

Despite global uncertainty and shifting geopolitical conditions, Barbados continues to stand out as a safe, welcoming and reliable destination for travellers, says Minister of Tourism Ian Gooding-Edghill.

He was speaking at a reception at Bide Mill Great House, St George on Friday night held to recognise repeat visitors.

Gooding-Edghill told the gathering that even in an unsettled global environment, visitors could remain confident in choosing Barbados. 

“You can be rest assured Barbados remains that safe place where you can relax, where you can dine and where you can holiday,” he said, as he encouraged loyal guests to continue returning to the island and to also recommend it to others.

The minister described the repeat visitors, who all have been travelling to Barbados for 25 years or more, as vital partners in sustaining the tourism industry. 

“Tonight we celebrate your unwavering affinity for our nation, your annual remarkable achievement of 25 or more visits to our island paradise.

“You have tangibly contributed to Barbados’s economy and to the longevity of our tourism product. We are most grateful for the deep connections you have built with our most outstanding brand asset, our people,” Gooding Edghill said, noting that familiar faces at the airport, hotels, transport services and restaurants were a key part of the visitor experience.

The minister stressed that loyal visitors played a strategic role in the sector’s resilience. 

“You help to build the resilience of our tourism sector. You serve as ambassadors and are true advocates, encouraging travel to our destination among your family members and your peers,” he said.

Gooding-Edghill also paid tribute to local operator Gaird ‘G’ Charles of G Fish Watersports for exemplary service to a visitor with a disability, saying his actions reflected the values that keep visitors returning.