Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Launches Barbados Bus Campaign

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has rolled out a bold new bus advertising campaign in Barbados, wrapping a full-size bus with the destination’s “Be Here” branding. The design features imagery of Antigua Carnival, the twin-island nation’s 365 beaches, local cuisine and cultural vibrancy.

The bus runs daily along Barbados’ busy Highway 1, stretching from Speightstown down the island’s West Coast to Bridgetown. The route is one of the most visible on the island, cutting through a corridor of restaurants, hotels, attractions and businesses — and through a popular tourist belt with constant foot and vehicle traffic.

“We’re thrilled to bring the essence of Antigua and Barbuda to the streets of Barbados,” said Charmaine Spencer, Director of Tourism for the Caribbean and Latin America market at ABTA. “This campaign is about more than stunning scenery, it’s about keeping Antigua and Barbuda top-of-mind and extending a heartfelt invitation to experience our vibrant festivals, savour our cuisine, and share in the warmth of our people.”

The activation was timed to coincide with Antigua and Barbuda’s participation in CARIFESTA in Barbados. Performers, including Antigua’s Queen of Carnival Kia Kirwan, arrived aboard the “Be Here” bus during the country’s special “Country Night” celebrations at the CARIFESTA Grand Market, stepping out in costume to the sound of drums and dancers.

The campaign is part of Antigua and Barbuda’s broader strategy to grow regional travel, encouraging Caribbean neighbors to rediscover the islands through events like Antigua Sailing Week, Culinary Month, Carnival and the new Antigua and Barbuda Art Week – supplementing Antigua and Barbuda’s place as one of the hottest destinations in the Caribbean, period.

Barbados is a key target market for the initiative, with strong cultural ties and convenient airlift. The campaign, which began in June, will run through November.

“Whether it is relaxing on one of our 365 beaches, dining on freshly grilled lobster in Barbuda, joining us for Culinary Month, Cricket or Antigua Carnival, we want our Barbadian neighbours to feel welcomed and inspired,” said Spencer.