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MEETING IN THE CARIBBEAN WITH A BAJAN TOUCH! BY SOLOMON J. HERBERT II The history of Barbados is unique, and the Bajans (the familiar term for Barbadians) are at ease with their past and proud architects of their future. The island was colonized by the English early in the 17th century, but before then, Barbados was inhabited by Carib and Arawak Native people. Nestled in one of the region's top rated destinations is a world-class con- ference center, the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre (LESC). This facility is the premier event center in Barbados, boasting 11 meeting rooms with a maxi- mum capacity of 1,400 in the largest room. From intimate meeting rooms to large conference halls suitable for con- ferences, exhibitions, weddings, ban- quets and award ceremonies, the center can comfortably accommodate your next event with 70,000 sq. ft. of adjustable exhibit space. LESC's central location makes it the ideal meeting place for the discerning client with easy access to highways, accommodation and air transfers. Numerous properties in Barbados include conference facilities and are designed to accommodate the needs of business professionals. In addition to the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, one of the island's top meeting facilities is the Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex. Besides the fully air-conditioned sports complex that seats close to 5,000 peo- ple, the facility boasts two meeting rooms, the larger of which seats 90 the- atre-style and the smaller, 50 persons. Another option for planners is the 350- room Hilton Barbados Resort, featuring a 6,200-sq. ft. ballroom with a capacity of 500, and 10,000 sq. ft. of flexible space including an executive boardroom, three meeting rooms that can be divided into six breakouts, a Business Center, and an Exhibition Center. Because of its distinct beauty and magnificent ambiance, Barbados serves as a perfect location for smaller intimate events like board meetings, family reunions, business retreats, destination weddings and so much more! Barbados boasts unique venues as well. By taking advantage of its pristine beaches and other natural environments throughout the island, planners can offer a touch of creativity to any event large or small. When the meetings are over, make sure your sightseeing itinerary takes in visits to some of the many famous histor- ical monuments and landmarks. Virtually every aspect of life in Barbados is cap- tured in a landmark or monument of some kind – from military history and architec- ture all the way to religious sites and the story of Barbadian agriculture. Stunning natural landmarks abound, such as Animal Flower Cave, Coles Cave, Harrison's Cave and The Spout, while those which have been constructed by the people of the island include the Bridgetown Historical Centre, Garrison Historic Area, Nidhe Israel Synagogue, St. James Parish Church, Drax Hall Estate, Sam Lord's Castle and St. Nicholas Abbey, to name just a few. And don't forget the astonishing array of annual events including world-class sports, music festivals, theatre perform- ances and the much-loved Barbados car- nival during the Crop Over harvest festi- val celebrations - called Grand Kadooment, it's considered one of the best festivals in the world. If you're a keen diver or just want to sample it for the first time, then Barbados is the perfect Caribbean island to head for. It's the ideal base for underwater exploration because the crystal clear waters, which surround it are packed with fascinating features. When business brings you to Barbados your international travel experi- ence starts with a brisk walk through arrivals at the modern Grantley Adams international airport; a porter will collect your bags and show you to your taxi, lim- ousine or perhaps a waiting helicopter. All visitors to Barbados must have a passport and valid return ticket to be allowed entry here. The passport must be valid for the duration of your stay here. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Visit Barbados Barbados - (246) 535-3700 Miami - (768) 515-1226 www.visitbarbados.org B M & T ••• July/August 2018 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 32 AREA GUIDES B A R B A D O S Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre Credit: Visit Barbados Tourism