d n a e Inside Hop ss Barbados Wellne Issue 7 / April 2020
Leading with a Plan
An Island with Spirit & Hope
A Return To Wellness
A History of Wellness
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Barbados prepares for the return of travel demand When we were children, we often played outside with our friends, in our gardens, in our neighbourhood, in our parks and in our streets. This was where we would meet up to play games, share news or just relax together until we got the call to come inside. Sometimes, when we obeyed reluctantly, perhaps with a silent Now, just as we have heeded the pout, our parents would say, “don’t worry, protocols of our governments and outside will be there tomorrow.” Barbados’ main priority at this time is adhered to lockdowns and curfews, to secure the safety of its residents and and isolate ourselves safely within guests ensuring that the virus is not only contained but eradicated as quickly as possible. During our time in isolation, the BTMI team continues to be a supporting partner for our cruise lines, their trade associations and travel advisors, helping in any way that we can whilst preparing for the reactivation
our homes and borders, we want to remind you that our very own “outside” - our natural heritage, historical locations, modern shopping centres, pristine beaches, and so much more - will still be here tomorrow.
of the sector by developing products and experiences for cruise guests that are unique and memorable. We are giving support as well to our local destination partners by keeping them informed and connected as they navigate the unchartered course of this challenging time. We look forward to being outside again, creating magical memories together, but in the meantime, let’s cruise Inside Barbados.
Cheryl Franklin
............................................................ Director - Cruise Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.
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Leading with a plan CARCOM Chairman, the Hon Mia Mottley QC, MP., meeting with CARICOM heads of government, along with key regional and local tourism officials, heads of international cruise lines and top local health officials.
When the world first learnt of the health threat that moved
rapidly across oceans and continents to become a global pandemic known as COVID-19, the true leadership of Barbados’ Prime Minister the Hon. Mia Amor Mottley dominated as the island readied itself for the virus. Taking charge of the region by rallying together the Caribbean’s Heads of Government to make preparations for what would become an unprecedented challenge to hit the nation’s shores, Prime Minister Mottley’s National Pandemic Preparedness Plan moved into high gear. In an effort to ensure that Barbadian citizens and visitors alike would be safe and protected, the island’s Ministry of Health & Wellness ordered the virus testing kits and prepped the various isolation centres around the country, a move that when the first two cases were announced, proved the effectiveness of having such an organised plan of action. On March 13, 2020, when the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced the temporary suspension of cruise ships around the world. Barbados facilitated a humanitarian effort by accommodating several of its homeporting vessels simultaneously as well as unscheduled vessels who had to cease operations mid itinerary. The repatriation of several thousands of guests was at the centre of this endeavor. In addition, Barbados continues to provide a safe harbor to several ships and crew as we await the resumption of operations at ports of entry around the world. Under the stages of the Preparedness Plan, our Public Health Authorities implemented a series of surveillance measures at the ports of entry to make certain anyone who entered the country was carefully screened and/or quarantined to control the spread of the global pandemic. We joined the rest of the world in social distancing and ended all public events, activities and gatherings for the time being as we strive to combat the spread of the coronavirus. Find out more on how Barbados is responding to COVID-19 by visiting: https://gisbarbados.gov.bb/blog/category/corona-virus/ INSIDE BARBADOS I APRIL 2020
Barbados Port
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We have become accustomed to attending events during this time of year to prepare us for the launch of the annual Crop Over Festival and that mood cannot be easily quashed. Hence, the abundance of streaming dance parties on social media channels, hosted by the island’s most popular deejays and personalities playing a medley of favourite calypso and soca hits. Simply logging on and partying from your own home with others doing the same thing creates a spirit of togetherness while remaining apart. Many are still looking forward to celebrating our music, culture, food and dance at the summer event with the hope that the coronavirus will be annihilated by then and we can still partake in the ultimate street party on Grand Kadooment Day. Furthermore, the Barbados Food & Rum Festival is set to take place post-summer which both visitors and locals often Jouvet revellers enjoy. The culinary events range from the casual fish fry to elegant evenings of dining. Stay updated on all future events by visiting us online at www.visitbarbados.org/travelguidelines-2020
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Food & Rum Festival
Food & Rum Festival
Food & Rum Festival
Grand Kadooment
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INSIDEBARBADOS BARBADOSI IAPRIL APRIL2020 2020 INSIDE
A RETURN
to Wellness
The first thing you’re supposed to do when you arrive at Coco Hill Forest is to take a deep breath and repeat this for the entirety of your time there.
When you fill your lungs with the fresh air from an Atlantic breeze at over 1000 feet above sea level, you are not only cleansing your respiratory system, but also your mind as you prepare to delve into a dose of green therapy.
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According to Mahmood Patel, owner of Coco Hill Forest, the ancient art of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is designed to promote wellbeing and reduce stress. Patel emphasised, “this is not your typical hike. You are encouraged to walk slowly and breathe just as slowly as you take in the air from the natural rainforest.� This action helps to boost the immune system and enhances the symbiotic relationship between humans and plants as we inhale the oxygen they produce and exhale the carbon dioxide they need to grow. Visitors are encouraged to touch the trees and can even opt to walk barefoot through the forest for an optimal wellness experience.
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Being at Coco Hill is filled with numerous therapeutic pluses: • 53 acres of coconut, banana, coffee, cocoa, pineapple and numerous other tropical fruit trees. • various herbs, spices and medicinals. • permaculture, vertical, organic and terrace farming • a farm to table café. Our mission at CocoHill Forest is both heritage and food security,” Patel acknowledged. “We should grow more than we import.” A trip to Coco Hill is just what the doctor ordered if the doctor said you needed to relax, recuperate and rejuvenate.
For futher details visit facebook.com/cocohillforest
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A HISTORY OF WELLNESS From as early as the 19th Century, Barbados has always had the reputation for being a health resort, owing to its climate and environment. Being the most easterly of the island chain, Barbados was in the direct path of Atlantic breezes that swept the region. Thus, the climate was less damp and much cooler than its more forested island neighbours. In fact, this was the main reason why a nineteen year old George Washington made his only trip outside of the United States with his ailing brother. The elder Major Lawrence Washington was seeking recovery from tuberculosis and so they made the sixweek voyage from the Potomac to Barbados. While Barbados is not known for hot springs, mineral baths or volcanic mountains, the natural breezes, sandy beaches, enchanting caves, prolific gardens and acres of fruit trees combine to make this island a Mecca of green therapy and eco-tourism. For those who love the water, yoga on a paddle board, surfing in Bathsheba or kayaking in Bath are just a few options for your wellness adventure. Those who prefer a more relaxing experience, a therapeutic massage at an eco lodge, a tour of a natural gully or botanical garden can do wonders to make you feel more in touch with nature. Left: George Washington House located within the Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison provides a tour with tremendous insight into Barbadian life as it was 250 years ago.
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Click on the video link above to see our message of hope.
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Barbados looks forward to welcoming cruisers again in the immediate future sharing all the island still has to offer. The vast number and amazing diversity of attractions and experiences in Barbados encourage longer stays than a few hours in a single day can fulfil. The longer the cruise stay and island encounter, the greater the chance to celebrate Barbados with its people, beautiful landscapes, food, rich heritage and beaches too. Cruising will be back, perhaps sooner than expected. But a stay before or after a cruise vacation is undoubtedly a must in Barbados. Daily airlift from major cities and gateways in Canada, the USA, and the UK make this dream vacation a close reality. Furthermore, Barbados’ assortment in accommodation choices caters to those looking for luxurious all-inclusive resorts, intimate hotels with outstanding service and amenities, private villas or a home away from home like an Airbnb or HomeAway property. Check out https://www.visitbarbados.org/travel-guidelines-2020 to stay up-to-date. Contact your travel agent for booking information on our pre and post cruise packages.
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