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The beaches in Barbados are downright spectacular. Brilliant white sugar sand and crystal-clear water create a picture that dazzles the senses. But this sun-drenched island country has so much to offer travelers beyond the beach.

For starters, Barbados has a cultural heritage unique among Caribbean islands. Since it was in the possession of Britain from the 17th century to 1966, the independent British Commonwealth nation’s culture has elements of British culture that many of its Caribbean counterparts do not. That said, African culture still reigns supreme here. As a result, the culture is a fascinating and richly complex mix of African heritage infused with British flair. (1)

As if that was not enough to set Barbados apart, its capitol is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bridgetown is also picturesque, with residential and commercial buildings painted in a variety of candy-colored pastel shades. (2)

Whether your attendees are avid nature lovers, or want to try the island’s excellent rum selection, they will never get bored in Barbados. Get inspired ideas that will help you make the most out of a visit to this standout island.

MOUNT GAY RUM

Founded in 1703, Mount Gay Rum is the oldest operating rum distillery in the world and famed for its blended rums. The tour is the best way to experience this historic distillery. You will get to watch the skilled staff make different rums, along with learning about Mount Gay Rum’s history.

The Mount Gay Rum tour culminates in the ultimate tasting experience, which consists of signature rums featured in the Premium Flight Experience. From its unforgettable atmosphere to the quality of the liquor it produces, the distillery truly is a rum lover’s paradise.  This is an ideal option for a private group to start an evening with cocktails followed by a tour through the historic distillery.

CLIFTON HALL GREAT HOUSE

Ranking as one of the grandest and most substantial great houses in Barbados, Clifton Hall Great House is undeniably stunning. The stately manor was built in 1656 and has a storied history. Ferdinand Paleologus, a direct descendant of Constantine, the last Byzantine (Greek) Emperor, called it home first. Clifton Hall Great House has made a significant name for itself due to its history and beauty. Robert Schomburgk’s 1848 classic, The History of Barbados, featured the ornate residence. Clifton Hall Great House has been chronicled in multiple publications and spotlighted by many UK television programs. In addition to its historical significance, the home offers visitors breathtaking architectural details that include an arcaded gallery and a gracious Palladian double entrance staircase.

Clifton Hall Great House is a fantastic option for a private dinner that merges local history with an amazing setting.

BARBADIAN CRAFT MARKET

Consider welcoming attendees with a reception that is special and memorable with a local artisan fair.  Bring in a variety of local arts and crafts along with food and drink options for the connoisseur.  Some ideas include pottery, cigar rolling, basket making, batik, wireworks, original art and artists, rum tasting, and more.  This creative reception introduces guests to the island environment with local elements.  Be sure to include options for attendees to make on the spot purchases, or to be gifted as part of the adventure!

NICHOLAS ABBEY

Several aspects of St. Nicholas Abbey make it a must-do attraction. First, it is the only Bajan distillery that distills rum in traditional small batches. Second, the soaring home is one of just three authentic Jacobean mansions in this part of the world. Third, the tours have received rave reviews and include rum samples.

Meandering gardens and orchards on the property enhance the beauty of St. Nicholas Abbey and add to its charm. There is a gift shop to purchase souvenirs and a café where you can get a bite to eat. The entrance fee provides access to the rum distillery, plantation house and the grounds. You will also get a complimentary fruit or rum punch sample.

GROUP DINING

Meeting and event planners have a number of options for group dine-arounds or group buy-outs with fantastic views.  Some buy-outs can be paired with fireworks that can be viewed while dining, and over picturesque ocean waters.

  • The Cliff – If fine dining in Barbados is on your wish list, The Cliff will make your wish come true. One of the most highly-rated dining establishments on the island, this upscale establishment is frequented by the ultra-wealthy and celebrities. Eating on the ocean-front terrace is favored among many diners and, from this vantage point, you get a perfect view of the rich and famous pulling up to the docks in their yachts. Highly recommended gourmet fare at The Cliff includes prime beef tenderloin with Roquefort sauce, snow crab cake, snails in puff pastry, Scottish smoked salmon and Caribbean shrimp with Thai green curry sauce. Making a reservation early is essential, as the impeccable service and world-class cuisine have made The Cliff wildly popular among discerning diners.
  • QP Bistro – The Cliff’s sister and neighboring property, QP Bistro, also provides expansive ocean views. However, the vibe here is a bit more laid back, with live music to accompany your dining experience. Delight your taste buds with Caribbean and international cuisine for lunch or dinner. QP Bistro also hosts a bakery and coffee shop every morning where you can enjoy a selection of pastries and bread.

PRIVATE CATAMARAN TOUR

Several companies in Barbados offer private catamaran tours, which elevate the typical boat cruise. When you book a private cruise, you can often select activities you prefer and customize the length of the excursion. A private catamaran tour has the intimate and swanky feel of chartering a boat, without the exorbitant costs. Each cruise typically includes food and drinks and lasts anywhere from three to five hours. All-day expeditions are also available in many cases and may include live music.

ISLAND JEEP TOUR

Discover hidden gems in Barbados on an island tour which you will experience in a 4×4 Jeep. The rugged vehicle will take you offroad over a variety of terrain like beaches, gullies, and forests. So much of Barbados’ unspoiled beauty will be at your feet during the excursion. All you need to do is sit back and savor the breathtaking sights and sounds that surround you.

SURF THE BEAUTIFUL WATERS OF BARBADOS

Surfing in the waters off Barbados is a true pleasure. You can catch great swells at just about any beach, courtesy of the coral reefs that surround the island. This makes surfing lessons a worthwhile activity to do during your visit. There are several surf schools in Barbados.  For the most fun, consider a local school that is familiar with the complexities of the Barbados currents and waves. Don’t forget to ask about personalized lessons, maximum attendee count, and if the lesson fee also covers board rental.

DEEP-SEA FISHING ON A LUXURY CHARTER

Enjoy the beautiful ocean views of Barbados while deep-sea fishing on an air-conditioned luxury charter. You will travel in style and comfort on a luxurious offshore sport fishing boat. You can choose from a variety of charters and, depending on your selection, you can catch barracuda, marlin, sailfish, wahoo, or mahi-mahi. Beverages and locally inspired snacks will keep you nourished and hydrated throughout the trip.

COCO HILL FOREST GUIDED HIKING TOUR

A beautiful home to over 70 species of fruit trees, herbs and spices, the 53 acres that comprise Coco Hill Forest offer nearly two miles of hiking trails. And the site is more than just a lovely landscape. It doubles as a project that aims to rebuild the island’s diversity and grow more food locally. Reconnect with the land, and learn about the inhabitants of the forest, on the two-hour Coco Hill Forest Guided hiking guided tour. Your knowledgeable guide will fill you in on the botanical history of Barbados and the Scotland District as you hike the very best trails.

When it comes to swanky golf courses, it does not get more exclusive than The Green Monkey. Chiseled from a limestone quarry, the 7,343-yard golf course offers avid golfers the challenge of elevation changes. The water views are not to be missed, either. And the views of the rich and famous at the neighboring luxury residential properties and resorts are impressive, as well. Everyone from beginners to golf pros will enjoy hitting the links at The Green Monkey Golf Course.

BARBADOS POLO

For a truly unique group experience, delight your attendees with cocktails while they watch a game of polo.  Dating back to 1884, polo has long been one of the most popular sports in Barbados. The island hosts internationally acclaimed polo establishments such as Buttals Polo Club, Lion Castle and the aptly named Barbados Polo Club.

To this day, polo games are an ideal place to spot the rich and famous, including celebrities. Polo matches in the Caribbean typically last all day. The event begins with high tea and wraps up with dinner and dancing following the match. Polo in Barbados is not only a sport but is also a major social event.

SPECIAL LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT

  • The recipient of national acclaim, St. Leonard’s 100 Boys’ Choir is consistently praised for its skillful execution of harmonic palettes, lyrical melodic sense, choral textures, chord changes, and contrasts in volume. Impressed by the talent of its members, Carnegie Hall extended an invitation for the choir to perform on its prestigious stage in 2016. St. Leonard’s 100 Boys’ Choir performs classical, gospel, and spiritual music.
  • Barbados Police Service Band – Founded in 1889, and formerly known as the Royal Barbados Police Band, this prominent musical group is one of the oldest police bands in the world. The band performs concerts on the island and their music is available online to enjoy any time.
  • 2 Mile Hill Band – Performing musical hits influenced by genres like soca, dancehall, pop and hip-hop, 2 Mile Hill Band has made a name for itself internationally. The five band members have shared the stage with superstars like Wyclef Jean, Erykah Badu, Damian Marley and Angie Stone. 2 Mile Hill Band has also won numerous awards and has received accolades from music industry giants like MTV.
  • Barbados Pan/Steel Band Music – With roots in Trinidad and Tobago, steel pan/steel band music has become the soundtrack of Barbados in a way. The bands who play this distinctively tropical music perform it in a large variety of genres including traditional Caribbean folk songs, soca, calypso, and even pop, R&B, and country music. Some of the best steel pan/steel band music is performed at the festivals that are so popular in Barbados.

Barbados is a truly special blend of European and African cultures. Your guests can immerse themselves in activities that embrace the island’s natural beauty, storied history, and locally sourced cuisine. Barbados is a magical place your participants will not soon forget.

Planning a group travel incentive program or a corporate meeting in Barbados? Contact Gavel International to learn more about how our programs can maximize your budget.

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SOURCE(S):

1 https://www.britannica.com/place/Barbados/British-rule

2 https://www.britannica.com/place/Bridgetown

Jim Bozzelli
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