LAST WEEK was a relatively good one for the tourism sector.
Days before the winter season gets under way, the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association announced workers would get an eight per cent increase over three years, retroactive to 2014.
In addition, tourism figures were up for November and officials are anticipating a strong winter season with increased airlift out of the major markets.
But nothing warmed the heart quite like beach chair operator Derry Bayley, who was honoured by British couple Geraldine and Keith Telling during the Tourism Parade. He waited for more than an hour on the beach to return their US$1 000 Maui Jim sunglasses.
Bayley said: “This is nothing new for me; it is something normal and something I do on a regular basis. I am glad we were recognised for it after all the bad things they say about young people.”
Online readers praised the honest 28-year-old and his parents.
• Shamar Skeete: It’s always refreshing to read something positive about young people in Barbados. You, my friend, are the definition of an honest and caring person. Continue to keep up the positive attitude, Derry.
• Steve Waller: Typical of Barbados’ fantastic people and why I always come back. Well done, young man. You’re a credit to your nation.
• Gail “Taylor” Inman: We had a similar experience – got a small boat ride from Zaccios to Lone Star and my husband left his shoes on the boat. The guy got all the way back to Zaccios, realised and drove back ’round again to Lone Star to return them – was so impressed.
• Barbara Bee: Gotta post this and let the world know what honest and extremely good people we have in Barbados. Thumbs up to you, Derry.
• Angela Thompson Branch: Keeping and returning things is an almost everyday thing for most beach operators and making people feel special. My snow birds – that’s what I call my visitors who come to Miami Beach from year to year – have all become like family to me. These little acts are the reason why visitors keep coming back.
• Helen Boos Hutton: Good to see some good news. Well done, young man.
• Sean Downie: Well done, young man, great job.
• Diane Ifill: I’ve always said it’s the people who make this island stand out from the rest. Well done!
• Jennifer Jemmott: I’m proud of you; keep up the good work. God bless you.
• Pat-bb Patricia: I’m very proud of you but I can’t leave out your parents/guardians for doing such a remarkable job in raising you. Well done.
• Janice Skinner: Well done, young man. This is the kind of news I like to see on the front page of the newspaper.
• Rosie Rose: His momma raised him well.
• Carol Anne Twigg-Jones: You are a credit to your country.
