For most, the thought of a Caribbean island getaway conjures images of idyllic beaches bordered by azure ocean, swaying palm trees, and luxury resorts. While this picture of paradise can be found on Barbados, there’s so much more to this tiny coral outcrop than one could imagine.
So, whilst Barbados may not spring to mind for your next incentive, we are here to tell you why it should.
1. Only 8 hours away from Paradise....
The great thing about Barbados is that you can jump onto a Virgin Atlantic flight and land on this beautiful Island in a mere 8 hours. That can be a round trip to London for some of us...I think we know where we would prefer to be.
Most incentives are only 3 to 4 days so you don’t have to worry about travel eating into your itinerary, choose your dates wisely and you can take a night flight meaning more time on those sandy beaches!
2. You can swim with Wild Turtles...
When planning an incentive, you should ensure you are giving your staff or clients an experience, it is proven that people remember experiences over money or goods, so giving them an unforgettable experience is a powerful tool.
But don’t worry the Barbados waters can help with that, two of the world’s rarest sea creatures make their nests on the beaches of Barbados . . . the Hawksbill and the Leatherback Turtles. The Hawksbill nests between April and November mainly on the west and south coasts of the island, whilst the mighty Leatherback, the largest of all turtle species, nests between February and July on the windswept beaches of the east coasts and south coasts.
Most turtle tours are on catamarans which provide lunch, masks and snorkels. It's a great day out - sailing down the beautiful coastline, a delicious lunch, rum punches and other drinks, and of course seeing the magnificent turtles and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea. Go all out and privatize your catamaran complete with your company flag blowing in the Caribbean warm air.
3. It is home to Oisten's Fish Fry....
We would encourage you to visit Barbados over a Friday, Fridays are a big night at Oisten's Fish Fry, Oisten’s is an active fishing town on the south coast and is a hub of activity on weekend nights. On Friday night particularly, the big thing to do is go to the fish fry at Oistin’s Bay Gardens. The food is the main draw - excellent fish, (tuna, swordfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, flying fish), lobster, chicken etc served in an extremely informal setting. You can get your fish grilled or fried depending on which vendor you choose from. It's all cooked on the spot in front of you, accompanied with great music, beer and dancers it really is a night not to be missed.
4. Rum...
Your staff or clients are away from the office and you need to get them into the Caribbean relaxed way of life, and what better way than to taste rum brewed and founded on the Island itself. The Mount Gay Visitor Experience welcomes you to discover the secrets behind Barbados’ finest and most celebrated spirit.
With five tours to choose from, there Signature Rum Tour, Full Tasting Signature Rum Tour, the interactive Cocktail Tour, the Rum & Food Pairing Tour, and their Lunch Tour featuring a Bottomless Rum Punch Station, you will experience the history of Mount Gay Rum as you are taken on a journey of rich heritage and the time proven craftsmanship of the world’s oldest rum.
The great thing about this tour is that you can book your group a fleet of self-drive jeeps to collect you from your hotel and explore the island on the way to the distillery.
Where to stay on the island will depend on the dynamics and briefing of your group. Heavily developed and home to the country’s capital Bridgetown, the south coast is the epicentre of the island’s tourist trade. Wide swathes of flat sandy beach and clam bays are perfect for families and couples looking to relax in the sun.
The south is also the centre of the island’s party scene which is based in and around St. Lawrence Gap. These two areas are normally the most popular choices for our incentive groups, but as always, we are on hand to work with you to ensure your itinerary reflects your incentive aims.
To find out more about our four-night itinerary in Barbados call Stefanie on 01625 539 954.
T.O.