The island has seen a 28% increase in arrivals from North America elevating Barbados’ status as a premier luxury Caribbean holiday destination. Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association Javon Griffith in his New Year’s message says overall there has been an uptick which benefitted all stakeholders. From January to November, Barbados welcomed a total of 617,228 stay-over arrivals, according to the Barbados Statistical Service (BSS). This is up 10% from the 559,701 stay-over arrivals, recorded for the same period in 2023.

Two-time defending champions Settlers, lost for the first time in the 2024-25 BIM10 Tournament, going down today to the Warriors at Windward. Settlers batted first and posted 105 for 4 in their 10 overs. Kevin Wickham topscored with 44 that included 6-fours and a six, while Kevin Stoute was unbeaten on 33. Zion Brathwaite took 2 for 17. Warriors in reply, brought the equation down to 13 off the final over, and Kemar Smith struck 14 off the last three deliveries for Warriors to end on 111 for 8 and win by two wickets. Smith was unbeaten on 21, while player of the match Raymond Kellman made 43 with 4-fours and 4 sixes. Marlon Welcome-Goodman took 4 for 12. Settelers however, are still leading by virtue of having the best net run rate, as they, Warriors, and 2nd placed Pelicans all have 12 points.

From St. Philip to St. Lucy, Barbados is set to have a total of 19 fireworks displays along its coastline to ring in the new year. For this kaleidoscope of explosive colour to come off, several agencies have critical roles to play, among them, the Barbados fire service. It gets involved in the process, by inspecting and signing off on the pyrotechnic setups. Acting Fire Chief Henderson Patrick says there are quite a number of safety measures that have to be implemented before the fireworks light up the sky. He adds that among the considerations is the location of setup, in relation to spectators and people in general. That’s why, he says, in recent times more displays have been launched from the sea. Further, the acting Chief says people having fireworks should inform those nearby of their intent.