As 2023 came to a close, things started to slow down for the TravelMedia.ie team as Christmas quickly approached. However, there was still time for a couple of press trips and a delicious Christmas meal.
Susan hosts media for Aer Lingus Press Trip to Barbados
At the end of November and beginning of December, Susan escaped the cold Irish weather for warmer pastures in Barbados as she hosted a group of UK media as part of a press trip with Aer Lingus. Susan had this to say about the trip:
“Our press trip from Manchester to Barbados, facilitated by Aer Lingus and BTMI, included three UK journalists—Nigel Tisdall, Esther Shaw, and Craig Jones. The flights, efficiently coordinated by Aer Lingus and BTMI, transported us to Barbados for an exploration of the island’s offerings. Grand Wyndham Resorts at Sam Lords Castle graciously hosted our delegation, marking their inaugural press trip during the soft opening phase. This professional engagement provided an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the island’s landscapes and culture alongside esteemed journalists, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Barbados.”
Colm hosts UK and Irish FAM trip for Run Barbados
Colm was also lucky enough to enjoy a winter getaway to Barbados in December. Alongside Cedric Lynch of BTMI UK, Colm hosted a group of UK and Irish media and travel agents for the annual Run Barbados Marathon Weekend. 2023 was the 40th edition of Run Barbados Across the weekend, there were plenty of events for the group to get stuck into including a fun mile, 5k, 10k, half-marathon, and full marathon.
Our own Colm kept himself busy with the fun mile on Friday, 5k on Saturday, before taking on the half-marathon on Sunday. In balmy 25-degree heat, Colm was delighted to come in 27th place overall out of 238 participants with a time of 1:43:57.
Outside of the running, the group also got to enjoy some classic Barbados activities such as a catamaran cruise, a trip to Harrison’s Cave Eco Park, and of course indulging in some delicious Bajan cuisine and a glass or two of rum.
Already looking forward to Run Barbados 2024!
TravelMedia.ie team enjoy Christmas Lunch in the Shelbourne
As is tradition for the TravelMedia.ie team, on Thursday, December 14th we all descended upon the Trophy Room of the iconic Shelbourne Hotel for a delightful 3-course Christmas meal. The core team was joined by friends from all corners of the travel industry and had a great time reminiscing on the year that was 2023 as well as looking ahead to what 2024 will bring.
Bring on 2024!
That was how the team wrapped up what was an incredibly busy and incredibly enjoyable 2023. So many trips, events, and memories left behind in 2023 and many more to look forward to in 2024. Bring it on!