Another group of repeat visitors to Barbados was celebrated last evening when Prime Minister Freundel Stuart hosted a reception for them at Ilaro Court, his official residence.
And, Mr. Stuart assured the elated visitors that Government was committed to making Barbados as congenial as possible a place for their enjoyment and recreation.
He noted that during his interaction with visitors, they constantly commented on the warmth and charm of Barbadians.
He pointed out that all Barbadians, whether of African, European or Asian descent, had a duty to understand their history and their connection to this island.
???We have different ancestral connections but we are all Barbadians. It is that mixture of qualities and that historical experience that has produced what we know today as the Barbadian character and it is that Barbadian character that is on display when visitors come here,??? Mr. Stuart stated.
During the reception, which was attended by Minister of Tourism, Richard Sealy, students of Luther Thorne Primary School performed a number of selections, accompanied by maestro Anthony ???Gabby??? Carter.
Several long-stay visitors were present at Ilaro Court, including Paul and Lynn Chandler of the United Kingdom, who visited more than 30 times and now come twice yearly; and fellow citizens Mike and Jasmine Backhouse, who have been visiting yearly since 1994.
Also present were Jim and Ruth Thompson from Canada, who visited over 50 times. Mr. Thompson is a retired captain of Air Canada, who has touched down at this island???s airport 367 times.
sharon.austingill-moore@barbados.gov.bb