Barbados officially launched its attendance at World Travel Market (WTM) 2026 on Monday with an impressive Minister’s Reception at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, setting the tone for a productive week ahead.
The event was held under the theme On the Road to 60 and celebrates Barbados’ upcoming 60th anniversary of Independence and five years as a parliamentary Republic, and welcomed media partners, travel agents, and key stakeholders from across the tourism sector.
In his remarks, Minister of Tourism and International Transport The Hon. Ian Gooding-Edghill underscored Barbados’ commitment to strengthening relationships and enhancing the island’s tourism experience.
“We come to WTM with confidence in Barbados and a clear responsibility to keep earning the trust of those who choose us,” said Minister Gooding-Edghill. “Your partnership is essential to that work, and tonight I want to share what it means for our future together.”
WTM, held November 3 to 5 at ExCeL London, is one of the world’s leading global travel industry events, bringing together thousands of diverse tourism partners, including airlines, media representatives, tour operators, and other key stakeholders, all under one roof.
Barbados’ presence at WTM highlights the island’s continued investment in tourism and its strong ties with the UK market, a cornerstone for Barbadian tourism.
“The United Kingdom holds a special place in our relationship. Your knowledge of your customers and your confidence in our destination make a real difference,” the minister added.
Adding to the excitement, a stunning Barbados-branded taxi, emblazoned with the campaign Barbados Remembers Your Name, pulled up to the venue, delighting guests and anchoring the island’s legendary hospitality.
While the campaign itself launched in September, the eye-catching taxi served as a vivid visual reminder of the personal connections that keep visitors returning year after year.
“Behind that loyalty are people: the hotel employee who remembers a guest, the taxi operator who becomes a friend, the restaurant owner who makes a family feel at home. They give Barbados its warmth and character,” noted Minister Gooding-Edghill.
The minister re-emphasised the significant developments, including new hotel openings, a calendar of cultural, culinary, sporting experiences including expanded airlift with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.
In 2026, British Airways has expanded its Barbados programme, with daily flights from Gatwick now operating alongside Heathrow. During the peak winter months, from December through March, the schedule provides three daily flights from London.
British Airways also plans to more than double its summer capacity in 2027, with daily services from both Heathrow and Gatwick. That gives us a stronger platform for year-round travel and more opportunity to introduce customers to Barbados beyond the traditional winter holiday. The expanded programme could deliver more than 120 000 additional seats annually, with winter capacity increasing by approximately 70 per cent.
These flights complement Virgin Atlantic’s double-daily Heathrow services this winter and a Manchester programme operating up to four flights a week. These initiatives are designed to attract visitors year-round.
Officials including Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association Chief Executive Officer Senator Ryan Forde, Barbados Port Inc Chairman The Most Honourable Peter Odle, Barbados cricket legend The Most Honourable Joel Garner and several Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) officials were among the attendees.
BTMI’s Chief Executive Officer Andrea Franklin welcomed guests, emphasising the strength of industry relationships: “You help people discover us, make it easier for them to reach us, and give them reasons to return. We value those relationships, and I want you to know that we appreciate the work you do.”
BTMI UK Director Elan Mottley Harris echoed those sentiments, celebrating the strong bonds between Barbados and the UK. “For many, a visit to Barbados feels like coming back to people who know them. That loyalty speaks volumes, and it is something we never take for granted.”
Despite the frigid temperatures outdoors, the venue’s atmosphere was warm and welcoming, filled with the spirit of Barbadian culture, lively entertainment, and authentic island hospitality. Guests were greeted by the iconic Motha Sally, Bajan Shaggy Bear and serenaded by the Bajan Voices performing beloved tunes such as The Merrymen’s Beautiful Barbados.
The island’s culinary excellence was also on full display: Chef Jason Howard, selected as part of the Culinary Ambassadors team for WTM 2026, delighted attendees with authentic gourmet dishes while renowned mixologist David Barker crafted Barbados-inspired cocktails and mocktails, adding an extra touch of island flair to the celebration.
Barbados’ presence at WTM 2026 reaffirms its position as a premier destination, dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences and forging lasting partnerships in the global travel industry.
(BTMI)
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