A delegation from Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., led by Corey Garrett, Director for Latin America, returns to Colombia to highlight the island's tourism offerings, new developments and marketing strategies at Anato's La Vitrina Turística, from February 26-28.
Colombia has recorded an increase of more than 40% in arrivals to the island in 2024 compared to 2023. Since 2018, arrivals from Colombia have grown by more than 80%, reflecting a strong recovery and continued momentum in the market.
"Colombia has been a key market for us and we are committed to strengthening our relationships with the country's key tourism partners," said Corey Garrett, Director of LATAM for Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. "With shared cultural elements such as sports, gastronomy and beach lifestyle, we see tremendous potential for continued growth. Through marketing initiatives, strategic alliances and increased connectivity, we continue to make Barbados an accessible and attractive destination for Colombian travelers."
Since 2018, Copa Airlines has provided connectivity between Colombia and Barbados via Panama, with four weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Travelers can visit Barbados with just a valid passport and no visa required for stays of up to 90 days. If they fall in love with the destination and wish to stay longer, Barbados offers remote work options through the Welcome Stamp program, which allows residency on the island for a full year.
Looking ahead, Barbados seeks to expand and consolidate its presence in the region, fostering mutually beneficial relationships with tourism partners, brands and airlines that prioritize connectivity for potential travelers.
New in 2025: Cultural Festivals, New Hotels and Sporting Events
In 2025, Barbados invites locals and international visitors from Latin America and around the world to explore its rich heritage through We Gatherin' 2025, a series of monthly events across the island's 11 districts, each with its own attractions, culminating in national festivities from November 30 to December 31. Visitors will be able to enjoy vibrant steel pan and calypso music, traditional Bajan cuisine and local artisan markets, while admiring Barbados' stunning landscapes.
One of the highlights of We Gatherin' is the iconic Crop Over Festival, taking place from July 5 to August 4, 2025. Crop Over marks the end of the year's sugarcane harvest and unleashes an electrifying energy on Barbados. Known as the sweetest summer festival, it offers a season of exquisite street food, exclusive outdoor events, boat parties, innovative cocktails created by award-winning mixologists and infectious soca music. It all culminates with the spectacular Grand Kadooment, a vibrant costume parade through the streets of Bridgetown.
Expansion of the Hotel Offer in Barbados in 2025
Barbados continues to expand its hospitality offering with new hotel openings catering to a variety of traveller types:
Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord's Castle Resort: The island's newest all-inclusive luxury resort, featuring 422 oceanfront guest rooms in a historic setting. With multiple dining options and extensive meeting facilities, the Wyndham Grand is ideal for both leisure and business travelers from Colombia.
The Blue Monkey Hotel and Beach Club (Opening May 2025): A 28-suite boutique hotel in Paynes Bay, perfect for those seeking a more intimate luxury experience.
Hotel Indigo Barbados (Opening May 2025): A modern 132-room IHG hotel with a rooftop bar, restaurant and gym.
Gastronomic Scene: New Culinary Experiences
As the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean and birthplace of rum, Barbados hosts the annual Food and Rum Festival, held from late October to early November. This event highlights local cuisine and offers a culinary journey that connects with Colombians' passion for authentic Caribbean food experiences. In 2025, the festival will expand even further, becoming an annual gastronomic experience within We Gatherin', with monthly food and rum events in different areas of the island, allowing visitors to indulge in authentic Bajan flavors.
Barbados as a Premier Sports Tourism Destination
Barbados is strengthening its reputation as a world-class sporting destination in 2025, with a packed calendar of international events for sports enthusiasts:
Barbados Surf Pro (March 24-30): In association with the World Surf League, it brings together the best surfers in the world.
European Legends Tour Golf (25-27 April): A prestigious tournament at Apes Hill, organised by Ian Woosnam OBE.
Caribbean Premier League (August – September): T20 cricket action featuring the best players in the region.
Barbados Dive Festival (15 – 20 August): Celebrating the island’s spectacular underwater ecosystems with guided dives and workshops.
Barbados Open Water Swim Festival (November 5-9): One of the largest open water swimming competitions in the Caribbean.
Run Barbados (5 – 7 December): The most prestigious marathon in the Caribbean, with 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon courses along the island’s picturesque east coast.
Source: Visit Barbados.