Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1503289
COMBINING WORK AND PLAY IN BARBADOS PROVES TO CREATE A MORE RELAXING CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE B Y D O S W E L L I N G R A M Barbados is a very popular destination, particularly during the winter, thanks to its sunny Caribbean climate. Every year thousands of visitors board the plane to paradise, which is why it makes sense to start your planning long before you set foot on this island's warm, friendly shores. Meeting on the majestic island of Barbados is more than an exotic getaway, but it provides the opportunity to use unique meeting spaces set in the beauti- ful ambiance of the regions natural envi- ronment. The pristine beaches and plush greenery make for the perfect setting for weddings, family reunions and even small to mid-sized company retreats. Barbados has a world beating reputa- tion as a tourist destination, and this is now matched by its standing as one of the best places to host a conference or meeting. The island has a well-earned sta- tus as being one of the greatest tourist destinations in the world, and the same mixture of stunning landscapes, welcom- ing climate and effortless hospitality makes it the ideal destination for business conferences and corporate meetings. The facilities across the island can handle events large and small, from trade shows and conventions in large halls, all the way up to meetings and seminars in smaller rooms. The luxury event spaces available range from elegantly appointed rooms with stunning luxury rooftop patios and an amazing island view. Nestled just outside of Barbados' cap- ital city of Bridgetown in St. Michael is a world-class conference center, the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre (LESC). LESC 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 confer- ences, exhibitions, weddings, banquets and award ceremonies, the center can comfortably accommodate your next event with 70,000 square feet 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. The venue is indeed flexible, functional, comfortable and convenient. Make Barbados and LESC the choice for your next meeting. Planners might choose a more cre- ative approach at meeting on the island. Some clients might appreciate golf resort retreats or maybe a stay at one of the region's all-inclusive resorts. Barbados beaches provide the perfect setting and energy for weddings and other intimate gatherings. The Only Elevated Golf Resort & Community in Barbados, where the golf's on a higher level, but life's always down to earth. At 1000 ft. above sea level, Apes Hill is one of the most remarkable high points in the Caribbean - hugging the Scottish District, a rare underwater mountain range above sea. With views that span the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea, it's a natural setting for a luxurious golf resort and community. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and blessed with mile after mile of stun- ning beaches, Barbados is the ideal des- tination for anyone who loves enjoying the full range of watersports. Activities range from the adrenaline-fueled thrills of jet skiing and parasailing to simply relax- ing on the deck of a sailboat as it gently explores the coastline. If you're looking for more of a challenge, head for the east coast, where scuba diving attractions include natural reefs, shipwrecks and the presence of curious sea turtles. The choice is as varied as the landscape and the beaches, and the hotels are only too happy to arrange watersports for you to enjoy. B M & T ••• July/August 2023 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 52 • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Hilton Barbados Resort 350 Accra Beach Hotel & Spa 280 The Crane Residential Resort 150 Amaryllis Beach Resort 150 EXHIBITION FACILITIES LIoyd Erskine Sandiford Center Total Meeting 70,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 11 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Barbados – (246) 467-3600 www.visitbarbados.org AREA GUIDES Sam Lord's Beach, Barbados B A R B A D O S