In a departure from tradition, the Loyal Visitors Cocktail Reception swapped the familiar setting of Illaro Court for the bustling Haymans Market in St. Peter on Wednesday evening.
The change of venue not only showcased the parish’s We Gatherin’ celebrations but also highlighted the island’s evolving tourism landscape, as frequent visitors—some with over 100 trips under their belts—gathered to celebrate their enduring love affair with Barbados.
Extending a warm welcome to attendees, Minister of Labour and parliamentary representative for St. Peter, Colin Jordan, said: “I invite you to explore Barbados, but particularly St. Peter.
“On Saturday we have our big event in Speightstown. It is called Speightstown Alive- Connections with Bristol and Cape Coast.”
The celebration of those committed to making Barbados the destination of choice was led by Judy Stanford, who first visited Barbados in 1980 and has since returned an astounding 104 times. Reflecting on her deep connection to the island, she recalled: “The first hotel we stayed at was the Bonanza Apartments in St. Lawrence Gap.” Her friendships are what keep her coming to the island. “That’s what makes Barbados, it’s the friends, it’s the feeling when we come home, and we are coming home,” Stanford said.
Among the honourees who have visited 35 times were Cecilia Nalgard, Edward De Freitas, Frans and Susanne Fievez. Alex Lloyd and Rosemary Superville followed closely with 36 visits, while Bernd and Elizabeth Kaa had 39 visits. Jose and Colleen Mills accumulated an impressive 45 visits.
Minister of Tourism Ian Gooding-Edghill, highlighted the significance of the event: “It is truly so because it reminds us of our efforts to cultivate an environment where tourism thrives. It also recognizes the collective achievements of everyone who contributes to the development of the industry and makes Barbados one of the best places to live and visit.”
He stressed that the warmth, generosity, and unparalleled hospitality of the people of Barbados play a pivotal role in visitors’ decisions to return year after year.
He commended these loyal visitors “Your unwavering commitment to this island is a testament to the deep and lasting bonds that tourism fosters.
“I thank you for your loyalty, your love for island, and for being an irreplaceable part of the Barbados story.”
Tribute was paid to tourism stalwarts who have worked tirelessly to elevate the industry. Gooding-Edghill acknowledged their contributions: “Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in making Barbados the world-class destination that it is today.” He added, “It is their dedication, their efforts, and their continuous service as brand ambassadors that we continue to enjoy the growth that we are witnessing within the tourism sector.”
Among those honoured from St. Lucy were Taminta Boyce, who has dedicated 30 years to the industry, starting as a waitress and now serving as the Restaurant Manager at Waves Hotel & Spa; Manuel Ward of the Animal Flower Cave; Laura Ward of Earth and Fire Pottery; Terrence Haynes of Catch 22; and Helen Knighton, owner of Bentham’s House.
From St. Peter, the honourees included Reynold McLean of Remac Tours; Ricky Benn, a professional steelpan player; Leonard Tony Babb, a water sports operator; Martin Richards of King’s Beach Village; and Clement Armstrong of Fisherman’s Pub.
Beyond the formal recognitions, guests enjoyed a performance by the Secret Ingredients band and a mixed-media cultural display called The Mill Yard, which incorporated dance, drumming, and singing, adding a cultural element to the evening’s celebrations.
(STT)
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