Barbados boasts over 70 miles of white sandy beaches, a night life that is as diverse as it is exciting, unique activities and attractions, and a temperature that rarely drops below 26 degrees Celsius.
Whether it’s hiking the historical cane fields and tropical forests, learning to surf or play polo, taking in the culture of the coastal communities, relaxing at a spa or on the beach, or even getting married under water, Barbados has something for everyone.
No wonder more and more Canadians are flocking to Barbados each year.
Canadians are travelling to Barbados in record numbers
Canadians have made it clear that Barbados is one of their top choices when it comes to vacation destinations. A total of 63,826 Canadians visited Barbados in 2009, boasting an 11.2% increase from the previous year – record numbers, especially during an economic downturn.
For 2010, discounted flights, new hotel and restaurant openings, and a host of new museums and attractions, the outlook for the coming year looks promising.
“Canadians have been one of Barbados’ leading visitor markets for decades,” said Cheryl Carter, Senior Business Development Manager for the Barbados Tourism Authority. “Several on-island properties cater specifically to Canadians and this has allowed the relationship between Barbados and Canada to flourish. Our strategic partnerships with Air Canada and WestJet have made travel to the island easier and more affordable than ever.”
This year, Air Canada (aircanada.com) is celebrating 60 years of flying to Barbados. The airline currently provides daily direct service from Toronto (9 flights weekly) and twice-weekly direct flights from Montreal. WestJet (westjet.com) also offers non-stop flights from Toronto, five times a week.
What’s new in Barbados for 2010?
- The 2010 Best of Barbados Guide is a great pocket resource for the newest restaurants, nightlife and island activities. Barbados is the first and only island in the Caribbean with a Zagat guide – further proof of the island’s culinary excellence. To receive a copy, call 1-888-BARBADOS.
- For $2,585 USD (including service tax per room), guests can enjoy three nights at the legendary Atlantis Hotel Barbados and four nights at Little Good Harbour. The deal includes welcome drinks, continental breakfast, and a one-night dinner for two at the famous Fish Pot restaurant. This offer runs until December 2010. www.atlantishotelbarbados.com
- The owner of Lancaster House has two exciting new galleries in the works. The Old Pharmacy Gallery and the Art Barn will be home to four arts graduates, as working studios open to the public.
- Chef LaurelAnn Morely of The Cove was recently named “one of the best chefs in the world.” Reopened in December, The Cove is a local favourite for Sunday brunch.
- The newly opened Crickets Legends of Barbados Museum allows visitors to experience the history of the West Indian cricket greats.
- Atlantis Submarines Barbados is offering wedding parties a 20% discount on regular rates. Couples can create unique memories on their special day inside an Atlantis Submarine. www.atlantissubmarines.com
- Every Sunday through December 2010, Hike Barbados allows visitors to experience the island in all its glory. www.hikebarbados.com
- Barbados Surf Trips offer accommodations for all budgets, including car rentals, surf tours, surf lesions, board rentals, airport meet and greet, island tours and even cell phone rentals. www.surfbarbados.com
To see for yourself why so many Canadians are choosing Barbados, visit www.visitbarbados.org.
Looking to plan a trip to Barbados? Check out the tripatlas.com/new Trip Builder where you can talk to travel agents who will help you plan your trip.