The star power of Rihanna has helped propel Barbados to a new all-time record for stayovers in 2017.
That broke a decades-long record as Petra Roach, U.S. Director of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc outlined plans to better it once again in 2018.
"This is a really exciting time in Barbados’s journey and we want to spread the message that a vacation to Barbados is an immersive, transformative experience rather than just ‘sun, sea and sand.’"
This year BTMI launched the Year of Culinary Experiences campaign, which is being showcased at the Barbados Food & Rum Festival, and will also feature a wellness and cycling festival.
Events showcasing Bajan cuisine will take place throughout in the year in the US.
The island will also host the 2018 Society of American Travel Writers conference, with hundreds of U.S. travel writers and editors expected.
Barbados’ positive 2017 was driven in no small measure by Rihanna’s global profile and work as tourism and cultural ambassador.
BTMI also attributed the success to new resorts like Nikki Beach and Sandals Royal Barbados, as well as new JetBlue flights out of the East Coast and Florida.
