"Saint Lucia Sets Global Example in Debt Management & Recovery"

Trivia Question❓

Which Caribbean island is known for being the birthplace of reggae music and is home to the famous musician Bob Marley?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Caribbean Area to Watch...

"Saint Lucia Leads the Way in Sustainable Debt Management and Economic Recovery"

The article highlights the economic challenges faced by Saint Lucia, a small island developing state, and the successful reduction of its public debt-to-GDP ratio from over 90% in 2020 to 74.5% in 2024.

Through prudent debt management and technical support from the Commonwealth Secretariat, Saint Lucia has achieved fiscal stability and is investing in projects to spur growth.

The adoption of technology, such as the Commonwealth Meridian system, has modernized debt management practices.

The Commonwealth Year of Resilient, Innovative and Sustainable Debt initiative aims to share best practices and provide support to member countries for long-term debt management.

Overall, Saint Lucia's story demonstrates the importance of cooperation, reforms, and prudent borrowing in successfully managing debt.

Barbados’ Crop Over Festival is a vibrant celebration tracing its origins to the 17th century, when the island marked the end of the sugar cane harvest with communal festivities.

Today, the festival has evolved into a multi-week extravaganza, drawing thousands of revelers from across the globe.

At its heart lies the Grand Kadooment parade, where participants dazzle in elaborate feathered and jeweled costumes, showcasing the dynamic spirit of Barbadian culture.

Recent years have brought major changes, with the National Cultural Foundation moving key festival events to central Bridgetown venues like Golden Square Freedom Park, aiming for expanded crowds and a richer experience.

There’s growing anticipation for the return of classic events such as Cohobblopot and the Party Monarch competition, connecting tradition and modern creativity.

New luxury hotels—such as the Blue Monkey Hotel & Beach Club and Hotel Indigo—are set to open by 2025, sparking economic growth and more than 6,000 new jobs.

With expanded tourism initiatives and fresh investment, Crop Over remains a radiant symbol of Barbadian pride, unity, and cultural flair.

This newsletter sponsored by

Donnas Caribbean

In Margate Delish Episode 10, Mayor Antonio V. Arserio visits Donna’s Caribbean Restaurant, located at 3213 North State Road 7, to try the mouth-watering Jamaican Curry Goat dish that is simply Margate Delish!
Join the mayor for a culinary journey through authentic Caribbean flavors, where every bite of this delicious dish showcases the vibrant spices and rich tradition of Jamaican cuisine.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Donna’s Caribbean Restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience with every dish!

Volotea, Air Caraïbes, and French Bee Forge Partnership to Enhance European Travel Connections

Volotea, Air Caraïbes, and French Bee have unveiled a strategic partnership to streamline travel from Europe to distant regions like the Caribbean, French Polynesia, and North America.

Starting August 6, 2025, travelers departing from cities such as Lourdes, Rodez, Genoa, Turin, and others will benefit from one-stop ticketing and hassle-free baggage transfer, with flights connecting efficiently through Paris-Orly Airport.

This move promises smoother connections and simplified logistics, particularly for residents of regional French and Italian cities who previously faced complex long-haul journeys.

The agreement’s integrated system lets passengers book complete itineraries and manage trips through airline websites or partnered travel agencies.

By opening new routes and making travel more accessible, this partnership is set to boost tourism and strengthen local economies at both ends of the route.

For travelers eyeing far-flung destinations, the new service means a more efficient, enjoyable experience with expanded options.