Barbados is betting on the Latin American market with more connectivity and authentic experiences

What are the main new products that Barbados is presenting at this Showcase?

Barbados is a vibrant destination, and we want the Latin American market to discover it as a complete experience. We are the birthplace of rum and Rihanna, but beyond that, we offer much more than a resort: we offer culture, flavor, festivals, and authentic contact with the local community.

It's a compact island, just 430 square kilometers, making it easy to enjoy a wide range of activities in just a few days. We have options for couples, weddings, multigenerational trips, incentive groups, and also for those seeking adventure, sports, or gastronomy.

Highlights include Crop Over —our version of carnival—, the Barbados Food & Rum Festival in November, Sailing Week in January, and the Barbados Marathon in December, the oldest in the Caribbean.

How would you describe Barbados' strategy for 2026?

This year we're focused on strengthening our presence in markets like Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Brazil, and Argentina. We're looking for travelers who want something different: yes, we have spectacular beaches, but also a cultural and culinary experience that will make you want to come back again and again.

Barbados is safe, close, and easy to get around. The direct flight from Panama takes approximately three and a half hours, with five weekly flights operated by Copa Airlines. We want to consolidate this growth in the Latin American market and continue to attract interest from other airlines.

Is there a possibility of expanding air connectivity in 2026?

We started the year with five weekly flights via Panama and are in discussions with other airlines to explore new opportunities. Interest in the destination is growing, and we expect that to translate into more frequent flights and more options for travelers in the region.

There's a perception that Barbados is an expensive destination. How do you position it against other competitors?

Barbados offers excellent value for money. It's not a traditional budget destination, but it offers much more than the typical resort experience. There's a wide range of accommodations: from private villas with a chef and chauffeur to boutique hotels owned by locals and renowned international brands like Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Sandals Resorts.

Travelers can choose between more authentic, local experiences or luxury adventures. Public transportation and private services are also available to make exploring the island easier.

What is the recommended average stay for visiting the destination?

We recommend at least five days. That's enough time to relax, enjoy the beach, explore caves, participate in a local festival, and experience the local cuisine, although there are always things left to discover.

If I had to design a perfect day in Barbados, what would it be like?

The day would begin at six in the morning on the beach, watching the sunrise and even the horses that often come close to the shore. Then, a local breakfast and, for those who love the sea, a catamaran excursion with snorkeling alongside turtles in crystal-clear waters.

In the evening, you can choose between an elegant dinner by the sea or a more local experience in Oistins, in the south of the island, enjoying a plate of fresh fish with coconut rice and a local beer. And, of course, end the day with a good rum, because in Barbados, rum is part of the identity.