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B M & T ••• July/August 2015 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 25 BUSINESS & PLEASURE COMBINE EASILY IN BARBADOS BY REGGIE MURPHY Barbados, in the eastern Caribbean, is an independent island nation within the British Commonwealth. Bridgetown, the capital, is a cruise-ship stop with shop- ping, colonial buildings and one of the Western Hemisphere's oldest syna- gogues. Barbadian traditions range from afternoon tea and cricket (the national sport) to pursuits such as scuba diving at Dottins Reef and golfing on designer oceanside courses. In Barbados, the people have mas- tered the art of fine living and will offer daily lessons for those who seek to do the same. In Barbados, you'll discover a vibrant culture passionate in spirit and full of life. A place where refined luxury and exceptional culinary delights dance and mingle among lush tropical greenery, limpid blue waters and warm golden sun- light. Spend a day on a white sandy beach. Business is always a pleasure in Barbados. The islands conference center, support resources and daily international and regional air service, when combined with the lively culture, exceptional dining and abundant recreational pursuits, cre- ate the ideal setting for any corporate meeting or event. Numerous properties in Barbados include conference facilities and are designed to accommodate the needs of business professionals. Some of the island's top meeting facilities include The Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex and The Hilton Barbados Resort. When the work day is done, for those who aspire for more than just a day spent upon flawless white beaches and beneath perfect blue skies, Barbados offers a number of exciting diversions to satisfy even the most adventurous souls. Offshore, the ocean beckons with the call of a chartered deep sea fishing excursion or a diving expedition to explore the ship- wreck capital of the Caribbean. Various sites on the island tell a story of Barbados' rich culture. The Arlington House was built in the "single" house style that Barbadian settlers carried to Charleston, S.C. This restored 18th cen- tury merchant's house is now a museum that tells stories of sugar, seafaring, and trade. Each of the three floors has a dif- ferent theme. Enter a canefield, pilot a ship, meet a pirate, listen to the locals talk about their town, or eavesdrop on Emancipation rumors — this museum is interactive fun for the whole family. The Barbados Museum's galleries reveal Barbados' history from the Amerindians who were the island's earli- est inhabitants to Barbadian life just before Independence. Be sure to check the website for the schedule of special exhibitions. The Shilstone Memorial Library holds rare books and a wealth of resources to aid historical research. At Harrison's Cave visitors travel by solar-powered electric trams into beauti- fully lit spaces to see the amazing shapes and sparkles that nature has produced. Hear the rushing streams and see the glassy pools that hide beneath the island, providing the pure, fresh water that Bajans prize. Step off the tram at select- ed points for a closer look. Tour guides explain how the stalagmites and stalac- tites form, what flowstone is, and many other fascinating facts. When the sun goes down in Barbados, the party is just beginning. Travel any- where on the island and you're certain to find a place to let loose long into the night. From beach, wine and sports bars to jazz, reggae and nightclubs, even live theatre and opera can be found. To enter Barbados all visitors must have a passport and a valid return ticket. Most countries around the world don't require a visa to visit Barbados. The Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) lies 8 miles from the center of Bridgetown, in an area officially known as Seawell. • • • 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 Center Total Exhibit Space 100,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 10 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Barbados Tourism Authority (800) 744-6244 www.visitbarbados.org Hilton Barbados Resort Charles Fort Hotel & Beach Photo Credit: BTA AREA GUIDES B A R B A D O S