Black Meetings and Tourism

March/April 2012

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Sam Lord's Beach in Barbados During the 1960s Kelly Ingram Park was a place for uniting forces of grass- roots resistance to racism and organiz- ing marches, including ones in which police dogs and fire hoses were turned on the marchers. Sculptures in the park recollect attacks on the demonstrators, children jailed for their involvement in the protests, and the clergy's important role in the Movement. In sharp contrast to the scenes of the '60s, paths along the Freedom Walk converge at a peace- ful, reflective fountain, a life spring of hope. Birmingham's weather is gener- ously comfortable, which is one smart reason golfers come here from around the world. The other reason is the lure of handsome and challeng- ing public golf courses. With the development of the state's Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Alabama became the Godfather of Great Golf. Birmingham has two courses along the trail, one of which is the third longest course in the world. Because Birmingham as such mild, year round temperatures, outdoor entertainment is the dominant part of Birmingham's character. Park projects currently underway will give the city more green space per capita than any other city in the country, so outdoor recreation is easily accessible. Hiking and mountain biking are virtually year- round sports, along with fishing in what is acknowledged as the "Bass Capital of the World". For more information call (800) 458- 8085 or (205) 458-8000. luxury and exceptional culinary delights dance and mingle among lush tropical greenery, limpid blue waters and warm golden sunlight. Spend a day on a white sandy beach. S Try some flying fish. Enjoy a rum punch. Learn to trade the rush, rush for the slow and easy. Just give them a few days and you won't remember the old you. They will definitely teach you how to truly live. A tropical locale is only as desirable as its coastline. And in this regard, Barbados never disappoints. Graciously endowed with more than 70 miles of sun-saturated, palm-adorned beaches, translucent azure waters and a year-round climate consid- ered nothing less than perfect, the island is generous in giving Bajans and visitors alike a tropical respite unlike any in the world. The island's shores are as varied and unique as Barbados itself. The west coast offers calm waters and dusty white beaches on which you can unwind with a rum punch in hand. Along the eastern et foot on Barbados you'll discover a vibrant culture passionate in spirit and full of life. A place where refined BARBADOS shoreline, impressive coral sculptures carved by incessant Atlantic trade winds and thunderous waves decorate an area long heralded as one of the best surfing spots in the world. To the south, flawless sands and reef-protected waters set the perfect scene for a day of snorkeling or swimming. While the southeast coast entices those who seek adventure in its windsurfing playgrounds, and seduces couples with an alluring backdrop of sheer cliffs and fine pink sand. Though the caressing warmth of Barbadian sunshine, hypnotic resonance of ocean waves along the shore and the enchanting sweetness of a rum punch can do wonders for one's ability to unwind, it is by no means all that Barbados has to offer. Why not discover a side to Barbados most people don't get to see by enjoying guided hikes to some of the most beauti- ful and otherwise inaccessible parts of the island. Just join the Barbados National Trust www.thebarbadosnationaltrust.com excursions, which holds fun walks every Sunday. The three-hour, 9-12 mile hikes are free but donations are welcome, and are offered for morning, afternoon and moonlight participation. After all that walking it's time for a little R&R. Fortunately, Barbados offers a wealth of decadent and desirable spa destinations to help to pamper your every whim and revitalize your senses. If you prefer, many qualified massage therapists and experi- enced beauticians reside on island and can come directly to your hotel, villa or even beachfront setting. For more information call (800) 744- 6244 or visit www.visitbarbados.org. Black Meetings & Tourism March/April 2012: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 33

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