February 15, 2003 -- Whatever your political stripe, people tend not to complain about government subsidies if they work in their favor. Take Barbados, for example. For a third year running, the Bajan government is underwriting the cost-cutting involved in the "Best of Barbados" promotion with the savings passed on to you, the savvy consumer. If you book by March 31, 2003, you can take advantage of a $300 airfare credit, one free night and free breakfasts for a minimum seven-day reservation at hotels (five-day minimum for all-inclusives) for travel through April 11. Bookings made between April 1 and July 31 receive $200 airfare credit, the free night's stay and the free breakfast for travel between April 26 to December 14, 2003, except for July 13-August 15, which are blacked out. Additional discounts include an extra day when you rent a car for a minimum of three days and reduced admissions to attractions and activities across the pink-sanded island.
For more information call 800/221-9831 or go online to www.barbados.org to see a list of participating hotels and resorts and additional discounts.