The Importance of the Tourism Sector in Barbados: Insights from BHTA's CEO Ryan Forde

We must find ways to incorporate more of what is truly ‘Barbadiana’ through the eyes, hands, mouths and energy of our people, while excelling in creative sustainable developments that entice the ‘minds and pockets’ of the dreamers who want to enjoy a piece of the rock. This rock is special to us as a people and we must steer the investment in the direction that protects our indigenous traits and bloodline, while promoting a prosperous future for generations to come.

For those of us who work directly in the sector, we are ecstatic with the direction the country is heading in, coming out of the pandemic and years of poor economic performance. As our industry leads the economic direction of the country and supports other sectors through strong linkages, we will continue to strengthen and promote these partnerships.

The future is bright with new refurbishments and redevelopments which directed us out of COVID-19 including the Barbados Museum in 2021, Harrison’s Cave Eco Adventure Park and Walker’s Reserve in 2022. In addition, we close the year with the opening of the historic property Sam Lord’s Castle – A Wyndham Grand Resort, while ground has also been broken on Hotel Indigo (IHG brand). The mixture of indigenous, historical and international brand development is key to the direction that the industry is going.

There are also numerous success stories across the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) membership in the form of new restaurants, attractions and local and international hotels. We are confident that this list will continue to grow and build on what others before were so successful in doing in the past.

The BHTA has been assisting in the development of the economy of Barbados for 71 years and we represent all team members as well as local and international brands across the sector. The headlines may speak to a company’s name, but we wish to highlight that the energy, enthusiasm, and love of our team members paved the way for companies to be successful. That success has in turn paved bright futures for many children and for families to grow in this country.

The love and bond that is shared amongst us in the industry is much more than anything seen before and we must take pride in knowing that it has allowed us as a country to be leaders in tourism for decades. Celebrating 57 years with Barbadians for the world to see is also, in part, celebrating our people within the industry from team members to owners and supporting stakeholders. We wish to jointly celebrate you!

In closing, I wish to take this opportunity to speak to the people of Barbados intimately and directly. On behalf of the BHTA, we thank you for supporting our team members and leaders by sharing great memories within the industry locally, regionally, and internationally. Your love and appreciation does not go unnoticed. Do not ever forget, we as a country are better and stronger when we are together.

My wish is for each ‘Bajan’ to take pride in our country. Remember that we are unique in every way possible and that there is no place like home. We must face the challenges for improvement and the WINS must be celebrated. Use the 57th Anniversary of the Independence of Barbados as a time to reflect, reset and recharge on a path towards a stronger Barbados and a Barbados where we work together progressively, as we celebrate in love and happiness.

I wish love and blessings for all of Barbados and congratulations for where we are and where we are about to go, together! Happy Independence Barbados!