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Barbados has relaunched its “Dine with a Bajan” community tourism programme just in time for the winter tourist season. The idea is simple. Local families open their homes so visitors can enjoy a real Bajan meal and learn about everyday life on the island.
The launch took place at Cricket Legends of Barbados in St Michael. Guests heard how the programme works and what visitors can expect when they choose to “Dine with a Bajan”.
Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill said the initiative is a key part of showcasing Barbados’ culture and hospitality. He explained that it also supports small local businesses and encourages sustainable tourism practices.
He said the programme highlights Barbados’ greatest asset, its people. When families welcome guests into their homes and share food and stories, visitors build a genuine connection with the island. According to the minister, these close experiences help turn visitors into ambassadors who understand the true spirit of Bajan hospitality.
He added that this is more than another dining option. It reflects the government’s commitment to growing culinary tourism, building stronger links across sectors, and making sure ordinary Barbadians share more of the economic benefits. As Barbados continues to modernise its tourism product, “Dine with a Bajan” stands as a clear example of community empowerment, entrepreneurship, and real cultural exchange.
BTMI’s CEO, Andrea Franklin, said host families had to apply and complete a two-day workshop on Health and Safety, Service Excellence, Storytelling, and Culinary Excellence. She thanked the hosts for opening their homes and praised the BTMI team for shaping the programme into a rich experience that respects tradition while adding new ideas.
The evening also introduced the first group of hosts and offered samples of some of the dishes that guests will be served, prepared with fresh touches by Chef Creig Greenidge.
The first group of “Dine with a Bajan” hosts includes: Maria Joseph; Patricia Mash and Marie Alleyne; Janelle Lashley; Sancia Padmore; Juliette and Franklin Jeffers; Jessica Odle-Baril and Robert Baril; and David and Noelle Kirton.
Cricket Legends of Barbados is also participating as a host venue.
Several hosts spoke about why they joined the programme. Juliette Jeffers explained that she and her husband moved from the United Kingdom to Barbados with their children more than 20 years ago, and it changed their lives. She said becoming a host is their way of giving back and saying thank you to the island that welcomed them so warmly.
Julia Caine, General Manager of Cricket Legends of Barbados Inc., said guests dining at that venue will also hear stories about famous matches, record-breaking performances, life on tour, major cricket stadiums, and how the game has changed.
They will also hear from well-known retired cricketers, including Joel “Big Bird” Garner.
According the the Dine with a Bajan online application form it appears to cost about $120 Barbadian dollars or US S60 per person to participate in the program, but this may vary according to the host.
Source: Barbados GIS.
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