Barbados Tourism Push: Strategic Outreach at ITB Berlin Aims to Boost European Visits

Friday, March 8, 2024

Barbados boosts European travel ties at ITB Berlin, led by Tourism Minister Gooding-Edghill and team, showcasing island’s charm to increase visits.

In an innovative move to bolster its presence in the European travel market, the Barbados delegation, spearheaded by the Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Hon Ian Gooding-Edghill, embarked on a strategic engagement with key travel trade partners. This esteemed delegation also included notable figures such as Mrs. Shelly Williams, the Chairman of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), Mr. Craig Hinds, the Acting CEO of BTMI, Ms. Cheryl Carter, the UK Director for BTMI, alongside Shireene Mathlin-Tulloch, the Chair of Intimate Hotels of Barbados, Debbie Moe, the Senior Business Development Officer for Europe at BTMI, and Tessalee Moore from the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA).

Their mission, primarily focused at the ITB Berlin, one of the world’s leading travel trade shows, was not only to strengthen existing relationships but also to forge new ones, all in a bid to enhance and promote travel to Barbados. The initiative is seen as a significant step towards positioning Barbados as a top-of-mind destination for European travelers, offering a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and unmatched hospitality.

The delegation’s efforts were highlighted by a series of interactions and meetings with partners, aimed at discussing ways to increase travel and collaboration. These discussions were geared towards understanding the dynamics of the European market and tailoring Barbados’ offerings to meet the evolving needs of travelers from this region.

A pivotal moment of the delegation’s presence at ITB Berlin was the hosting of a special press event at the Barbados booth, where the cultural essence of Barbados was brought to life. Mixologist Jamaal Bowen and Chef Trevon Stoute were the stars of the show, providing media representatives and guests with an authentic Barbadian experience. Through their culinary and mixology skills, they showcased the island’s rich gastronomic heritage, offering a taste of Barbados that left a lasting impression on all attendees.

This strategic outreach by the Barbados delegation underscores the island’s commitment to fostering international relationships and promoting its tourism sector. By engaging with key partners and showcasing the unique attributes of Barbados, the team aimed to inspire an increase in travel from the European market, thereby contributing to the overall growth and development of the island’s tourism industry.

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