Barbados has again excelled in the tourist industry, having been voted one of the 25 Best Places in the World to Visit by National Geographic in 2025.
Ranked 16th, the journal said that Barbados’ significance in the history of slavery in the Americas is often neglected, and the island is planning on an ambitious new project that will serve as a significant entrance point for millions of enslaved Africans.
The planned Barbados Heritage District, which will open in 2025, will be built where many enslaved people were buried. It is being designed by David Adjaye, the Ghanaian-British architect who created the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
Nat Geo said the new facility included a global research institute with access to the Barbados National Archives and a memorial with 570 timber poles to honour the enslaved buried below.
Following the publication of the small island, Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., stated that her team is constantly inspired by the island’s unique heritage, from its world-renowned beaches and rich biodiversity to the spirited celebrations of its culture and traditions.
She said that this commendation from NAT GEO demonstrates the community’s dedication and efforts in safeguarding Barbados’ heart and spirit.
Franklin went on to say that she is excited to share the island’s narrative with the rest of the world in 2025 and beyond and to welcome tourists to explore, experience, and embrace everything that the premier location offers.
Nat Geo created the list after an extensive nomination process that included research and reporting.
Barbados has been named one of the BEST OF THE WORLD for 2025 by National Geographic’s travel experts and international editorial staff.
The Best of the World 2025 list is organised as a buffet of possibilities to inspire tourists, with something for everyone, including families, animal lovers, explorers, and more.
