Tourism

Barbados Food & Rum Festival is back from November 6-9

29 April 2025 No Comments
Barbados recently made an unforgettable impression at the Toronto Food and Drink Festival, where the island’s rich culinary heritage and bold, contemporary flair captivated crowds and set foodies abuzz.
 
The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) in collaboration with Export Barbados, brought the vibrant spirit of the island to life through a world-class culinary showcase led by two of the country’s most celebrated talents: award-winning Chef Javon Cummins and renowned mixologist Alex Chandler.
 
Over the course of the three-day festival, thousands of attendees were treated to a full sensory immersion in Bajan flavor. Chef Cummins served up artful bites that fused traditional Barbadian ingredients with global techniques. Mixologist Alex Chandler dazzled with craft cocktails rooted in island botanicals and bold Caribbean spirits, turning each sip into an invitation to Barbados itself.
 
This activation aligned with Barbados’ strategic push into the Canadian market, positioning the island not just as a beach destination, but as a cultural and culinary powerhouse.
 
“We’re seeing an incredible surge in demand for Barbados out of Canada, and food is proving to be one of the most powerful ways to connect with our audience,” said Eusi Skeete, Director for BTMI Canada. “Barbados is more than a vacation, it’s a lifestyle. The energy at this show was electric, and we were thrilled to see so many guests expressing increased interest in Barbados getaways and received a very positive response to our exclusive offers in partnership with Redtag.ca. This is what happens when you blend cultural storytelling with strategic tourism promotions, it converts.”
 
Barbados has announced the official dates for its signature Food and Rum Festival returning November 6–9, 2025.
 
The Barbados Food and Rum Festival is a mecca for foodies all over the world, where Barbados’ finest culinary talent is celebrated. Held by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, each year the Festival transforms the month of October into a culinary escapade and  has become one of the most sought-after festivals featuring local and international chefs, renowned rum producers and culinary personalities.
 

Sonoma County Tourism unveils “Wine County for All of Us” initiative

28 January 2025

Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) has announced its new initiative, “Wine Country for All of Us,” a thoughtful and deliberate commitment to fostering belonging among visitors and residents.

Grounded in Sonoma County’s long-standing dedication to inclusivity, the initiative celebrates the region’s diverse history and invites everyone to experience Wine Country through their own lens.

Through the decades, the area has become a haven for visitors and local residents seeking connected communities and genuine acceptance. From the LGBTQ+ pioneers who found refuge in Guerneville’s redwoods to the multi-generational immigrant families who shaped the wine and agriculture industries to a collective of women’s history activists who began efforts that became Women’s History Month, Sonoma County’s culture reflects a deep-rooted tradition of advocating for, welcoming and celebrating individuals from all walks of life.

“Merriam-Webster selected ‘polarization’ as its word of the year for 2024 for good reason,” says Claudia Vecchio, president/CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. “In these times marked by polarization, Sonoma County remains unwavering in its commitment to inclusion. “Wine Country for All of Us’ celebrates our region as a place of acceptance and connection, where visitors and residents alike can find joy, community, and shared purpose.”

“Sonoma County’s journey reflects the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community,” said Cleve Jones, renowned human rights activist, author, co-founder of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt, and proud resident of Guerneville. “While our presence here once faced resistance, the county has become a beacon of inclusion, a place where people from all walks of life can find belonging. The redwoods, coastline, vineyards, and towns aren’t just scenic; they are woven into a culture of acceptance and connection that continues to inspire and uplift.”

SCT is further reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity by pursuing a new partnership with Wheel the World, a global leader in accessibility travel experiences, to enhance accessibility and create more inclusive travel experiences. The region is in the beginning stages of seeking “Destination Verified” status, which will provide visitors with access to necessary information regarding accessibility options, ensuring their needs are fulfilled before, during, and after their trip. Additional affiliations with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Kind Traveler, and Leave No Trace help solidify the region’s philosophy of stewarding the environment and encouraging visitors to respect and care for the county’s natural splendor and habitat. Training classes and resources provided by SCT’s Accredited Hospitality Professionals (AHP) program will also continue to equip local businesses with tools to further foster inclusivity and create environments where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

Brian Marchi, Chair of Sonoma County Tourism’s Board of Directors, remarked, “Sonoma County has always been a place where creativity and inclusivity thrive. ‘Wine Country for All of Us’ builds on that legacy, ensuring every visitor feels seen and celebrated while enriching the community. This initiative is a testament to our shared values and a meaningful step toward a more connected, welcoming future.”

The initiative will be supported by a dynamic and upcoming integrated marketing campaign, “This is Wine Country”, which will expand perceptions of the region and invite travelers to discover Sonoma County’s unexpected treasures. The campaign underscores SCT’s authentic, purpose-driven travel ethos, showcasing unique wine country experiences, including redwood hikes, coastal adventures, encounters with local artisans, culinary innovation, and more.

As Sonoma County Tourism looks ahead, “Wine Country for All of Us” serves as a guiding principle, reinforcing the region’s commitment to the belief that travel can inspire deeper understanding and connection. With a history steeped in inclusivity and a future focused on equity and accessibility, Sonoma County Tourism is leading the way in creating a destination where Life Opens Up — for all.