The warmth, friendliness, and hospitable nature of “Bajans” have been credited as being the reason for the island having repeat tourists.
This was shared by the honourees at the Loyal Visitors Reception, held last Friday at Ilaro Court, Two Mile Hill, St. Michael. The reception, which is hosted by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), seeks to recognise tourists who have visited the island 25 times or more.
Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, thanked all Barbadians, especially those in the hospitality sector, for the role they play in making tourists feel welcomed and contribute to them returning often.
He also thanked the loyal visitors for making Barbados “their home away from home” and for bringing their family and friends.
“Evenings like these are a distinctively special part of my job, as I get the opportunity to hear of your stories and how much our unique Barbadian hospitality has encouraged you to return to our beautiful island, time after time. Thank you for loving our island as much as we do, … and I implore you to share your stories and experiences with the world, so they can see Barbados through your eyes,” Mr. Gooding-Edghill said.
The Minister encouraged the visitors to return to Barbados this year, as the island has several upcoming events, notably the International Cricket Council Men’s T20 World Cup in June; the launch of the ‘Come Home This Summer’ campaign and the ‘We Gathering’ 2025 campaign.
These events will take place in addition to the island’s calendar signature events, including the Crop Over Festival, the Barbados Food and Rum Festival in October, and Run Barbados in December.
Those visitors recognised at the reception were Anne Jones-Forde with 50 plus visits; Beverley Corscadden, 55 visits; Janet Godfrey, 60 visits; and Neil and Sandra McRoberts, 78 visits. The McRoberts children, Rodney and Leslie, were also acknowledged for visiting the island 50 times.
The McRoberts, speaking about why they keep returning to Barbados, said: “The people are so friendly, and Barbados is such a special place.” Jim and Janet Godfrey, who also echoed similar sentiments, said: “We just love it here; we love the climate; we love the very friendly people.”
Other visitors highlighted were: Denis and Helene Perron, Chantale Tardif and Marc Fortune, and Jim Godfrey and Tracey Williams, who have all visited Barbados 40 times; Sue Reynolds, 46 times; Mike Stone and Vincent Prager, 60 plus visits; and Norman and Lynne McDonald, 80 visits.
Guests were welcomed by market ladies, stilt walkers, a tuk band, and Junior Minister of Tourism, Jordan Greig. The evening’s reception also included performances from the Ziggy Walcott band and G-Syndicate. Persons also had the opportunity to view products from Native Caribbean, including scented candles with names such as East Coast Road and Barbados Rum.