Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1524031
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 Somewhere just off the island chain, you'll find Barbados! Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, Barbados has something for every kind of traveller: the foodie, the explorer, the his- torian, the adventurer and the group trav- eler! From the islands cuisine to its rum, to the UNESCO World Heritage sites, your Barbados adventure awaits! When business brings you to Barbados, the locals do their best to make it a pleasure for you. Your international travel experience 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, limousine or perhaps a waiting heli- copter. With world-class communications, including high-speed broadband access, and excellent transportation links, Barbados offers ease of doing business. The time zone matches cities in eastern USA and Canada, just a few hours behind central Europe, facilitating international commerce and trade. Barbados has a well-earned reputation as being one of the greatest tourist desti- nations in the world, and the same mix- ture of stunning landscapes, welcoming climate and effortless hospitality makes it the ideal destination for business confer- ences and corporate meetings. The facili- ties 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 on offer range from elegantly appointed rooms with stunning luxury rooftop patios, and each one has its own team of knowledgeable staff dedicated to dealing with clients. International companies will also be reas- sured by the large number of internation- al and regional airlines which fly in and out of the island. When it comes to finding the perfect venue for your event, Barbados offers a versatile and varied array of choices. The hotels and resorts are multi-func- tional and practical, and the experi- enced event specialists on the island are ready and waiting to make sure that everything runs smoothly. The natural beauty of the Caribbean itself offers the perfect backdrop for any kind of gath- ering, whether you're sharing your time with friends and family, or meeting up with important work colleagues. One final detail to tempt anyone considering a booking is the offer of delicious cater- ing for any event, provided by local caterers using super-fresh and tasty ingredients. There are many business opportunities in the Caribbean, and specifically onshore and offshore in Barbados thanks to its reputation for strong fiscal regulation, democratic tradition and a stable curren- cy. Barbados is considered to be one of the world's most business-friendly coun- tries. As one of the world's top holiday des- tinations, Barbados is very popular, partic- ularly during the winter, thanks to its sunny Caribbean climate. Every year thou- sands of visitors board the plane to para- dise, which is why it makes sense to start your planning long before you set foot on this island's warm, friendly shores. Hilton Barbados Resort Charles Fort Hotel & Beach B M & T ••• July/August 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 55 • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Hilton Barbados Resort 350 Accra Beach Hotel & Spa 280 The Crane Residential Resort 150 Amaryllis Beach Resort 150 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre Total Meeting Space 70,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 11 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Barbados – (246) 467-3600 www.visitbarbados.org AREA GUIDES B A R B A D O S