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On December 5, United Airlines inaugural flight from Newark (EWR) to Barbados (BGI) took off, providing a new seasonal direct flight for travelers in need of a tropical respite this winter. This exciting weekly service comes right after an historic move where Barbados officially became a republic on November 30th. Travelers can expect a certain flare in the air as locals revel in Bajan pride this December and all next year.
For “only in Barbados” experiences, the island recently became the only Caribbean nation with nighttime horse racing at the newly illuminated racetrack in Garrison Savannah, just outside Bridgetown. Visitors can enjoy this overlooked local tradition by attending a race on December 11 or December 27 (Boxing Day) which is Barbados’s final day of horse racing and has been a tradition for decades. A great way to close out the Christmas holiday!! Garrison Savannah hosts prestigious racing events throughout the year with four racing seasons including January-April (Spring Season). As the birthplace of rum, visitors can sip away on distillery tours at Mount Gay Rum and go on gastronomic adventures with the island also being the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Stop by the new QP Bistro & Quattro Passi at The Cliff restaurants where Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Mellino will bring the flavors of Italy to Barbados or for a local seafood delight, visit the world-renowned Oistins Fish Fry.
The island prides itself on offering five-star immersive experiences that goes well beyond its outstanding hotels – check out the new Sandals Royal Barbados expansion (July 2021) and the new wellness-centric O2 Beach Club & Resort (November 2021). From the luxurious West Coast, rugged East Coast, buzzing South Coast and quiet North Coast, couples, families, and individuals can come to reconnect with themselves and each other through a variety of niche activities that complement the island’s beautiful sun, sand & sea offerings.
COVID-19 safety protocols continue to be of the upmost importance to the island. As of October 24, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers with a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test result no longer need to be required to take a second COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Barbados or observe a quarantine period. Prior to travel, get tested faster and safer at home via a trusted-partner, Stage Zero.
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