BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – The chief executive officer of  the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, Andrea Franklin, says the international recognition of the island as one of the safest destinations in the Americas and Caribbean for 2026 is both welcomed and reassuring.

“This recognition comes at a particularly significant time in the global tourism environment, as travellers are increasingly discerning and mindful of their choices amid a complex geopolitical landscape.

“This recognition helps to further position Barbados as a destination that offers a safe, stable, and reliable experience.  As a destination we must remain committed to maintaining the standards that continue to earn the trust of those who travel here,” she said in a statement following the announcement by Travel & Tour World.

Franklin said that the recognition reflects years of deliberate investment in building and promoting a destination that is safe, secure, and centred on the delivery of exceptional experiences for all who engage with the island.

She said that at the heart of this achievement are the people of Barbados, whose “warmth, professionalism, and unwavering hospitality define the Barbadian experience and continue to set us apart on the global stage.

“This recognition is therefore one that all Barbadians should take pride in—particularly those across the hospitality and wider tourism sector who contribute daily to ensuring that every visitor feels safe, respected, and genuinely welcomed.

“While we are encouraged by this acknowledgement, we remain mindful that safety is not a static achievement—it is a shared and ongoing responsibility. It extends beyond our visitors to the well-being of our citizens and communities.”

Franklin said that the focus continues to be on maintaining the highest standards, from well-regulated experiences and strong community partnerships to world-class hospitality frameworks, supported by effective governance frameworks that benefit both Barbadians and visitors alike.

In 2025, Barbados achieved a record-breaking tourism year, welcoming over 729,000 long-stay visitors, marking a 3.3 per cent  increase over 2024, with significant growth driven by the United States market.