Antigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment as well as the Board and staff of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, has congratulated Sir Robert ‘Rob’ Allen Barrett, a prominent figure in the Antigua and Barbuda tourism industry, on receiving the Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation – KCN.
Sir Rob, the Chairman of Elite Island Resorts, a chain of nine all-inclusive beachfront properties across the Caribbean, received the national honor during Antigua and Barbuda’s 42nd Anniversary of Independence National Awards Ceremony on November 1, 2023.
The recognition was awarded for his distinguished contribution to economic development, tourism, and community service.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Charles Fernandez, commends Sir Rob for his dedication and unwavering support to the industry, which has helped to transform and shape the country’s tourism product.
He recognizes Sir Rob’s extensive experience and willingness to offer his expertise, which has positively impacted many throughout his years in the industry.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Vernon Jeffers Snr., also extends his congratulations to Sir Ron, who has mentored many hoteliers, including himself, throughout his years in the industry.
Mr. Jeffers recognizes Sir Rob’s contributions to Caribbean tourism and his ability to lead by example.
And the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James, also sends his congratulations, acknowledging Sir Rob’s savviness in tourism marketing and his willingness to share his extensive knowledge.
James recognizes Sir Rob’s contributions to effective marketing programs in partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
Sir Rob’s journey in the Caribbean began in the 1960s, where he started as a beach boy and worked his way up to become a night auditor and general manager. In the 1980s, he focused his attention on the tourism industry in Antigua and Barbuda, and since then, his work spanning over thirty-eight years and his philanthropy has been a success story.
His leadership, Antigua and Barbuda has benefited from investment and employment at various hotels, including the Pineapple Beach Resort, Royal Antiguan, St. James’ Club, Galley Bay Resort, Verandah Resort, Grand Pineapple Resort, and the Jolly Beach Resort.
This man received knighthood for what? I guess to under paid his employees and for taking 75% of the service charges, and give his employees only 25%. A man who made a remarks that if you didn’t build your house before working for me, don’t think you will be building one now.” He is also a realtor where he has a real estate business on one of his resort whereas employees can borrow money from him. Most of the people that work for him have to juggle two jobs just to make ends meet financially. Majority of the staff earned a 1% service charge on their weekly salary. It would take you years of employment in his resort before your service charge would increase to 1.5%.
This is very sad.The hotels in many Carribean countries overwork their staff and probably don’t pay them enough.I do feel that tips and service charges should go to staff and not to billionaires who already make a nice profit.
Personally, when I travel I give the tips directly to the staff members and do not leave them with the front desk or in the room.
The only way to fix this pets to not frequent a property where you feel the owner is not fair with employees.
Other than that rent an air b and b and do your own cooking and cleaning