Barbados, an island nation celebrated for its pristine white beaches and crystal-clear Caribbean waters, also harbors a treasure trove of botanical wonders. The island's lush gardens are a testament to its rich horticultural heritage, offering a serene escape from the sun-soaked coastlines. These verdant sanctuaries are not just confined to public spaces; many small hotels in Barbados also boast their own private oases, providing guests with a tranquil view to wake up to each morning.
Every year, the Barbados Horticultural Society orchestrates the Open Gardens Programme, an event where select residents unveil their private gardens to the public. This initiative allows visitors to marvel at the fruits of the local gardeners' labor. A nominal fee is charged for entry, and viewing times are scheduled, so it's advisable to check the Barbados Horticultural Society's website for details and plan your visit accordingly.
Barbados' tropical climate serves as an ideal incubator for a plethora of exotic flora, particularly orchids. Orchid World, a farm specializing in the cultivation of various orchid species, is a highlight for plant enthusiasts. Here, visitors can find an array of orchids, including Dendrobiums, Vandas, Calanthes, and Cattleyas. The farm also features a gazebo set amidst its sprawling grounds, offering an idyllic setting for tropical weddings. To enhance the experience, guests are encouraged to bring umbrellas to shield themselves from the midday sun, and they can enjoy refreshments at the on-site bar and restaurant or pick up mementos from the gift shop.
The Andromeda Botanical Gardens, a six-acre botanical wonderland in St. Joseph, is arguably the most renowned garden in Barbados. Established in 1954 by the esteemed horticulturalist Mrs. Iris Bannochie, the gardens were initially her private retreat. Over time, they flourished and were opened to the public. Today, the gardens are maintained by the Barbados National Trust and continue to enchant visitors with their diverse collection of tropical plants, tranquil water features, and serene ambiance. The gardens also cater to weddings and other events, with a gift shop and café available for guests.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Flower Forest is a must-visit. This expansive 50-acre botanical garden and nature trail was developed on the remnants of the old Richmond plantation. Located in St. Joseph, the Flower Forest is open daily and offers a picturesque setting for both vigorous hikes and leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant display of flowers and plants, and then relax at the snack bar or browse the gift shop for souvenirs.
While many are aware of Barbados' stunning beaches, the island's gardens remain a relatively untapped attraction. According to the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., the island's horticultural attractions are gaining popularity, with an increasing number of visitors seeking out these green havens for relaxation and exploration. The integration of gardens within small hotel properties is also a growing trend, providing guests with an intimate connection to the island's natural beauty.
For those fortunate enough to stay in a small hotel near these botanical attractions, the experience is further enriched. Imagine waking up to a view of a lush, private garden, a slice of paradise just beyond your window. In Barbados, the fusion of luxury accommodation and natural splendor creates an unforgettable tropical retreat.
Social Networking-the New Elearning Training Solutions
Numerous IT corporations and organizations are talking about the possibility of using social networking as elearning training solutions to encourage informal learning and possibly extend it towards formal learning. Instead of mainly using social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter for socializing, posting photos and videos and other time wasting activities, they can be the newest medium for education and training. In a way, it would be a means of channeling the popularity of these networks towards something more productive and beneficial to individual companies.
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The training of potential staff or employees is critical to the growth and productivity of a company. Organizations should do well to take note of the barriers to effective training in conjunction with the implementation of elearning training solutions. This is because well-trained employees become valuable assets to the organization as they perform with excellence and efficiency.
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There are many identified trends and elearning training solutions is steadily gaining popularity in the market place. The IT training landscape is going through numerous changes especially with the constant and fast-paced evolution of technology. Negative implications plague a few in the industry, but experts claim that the training itself will not disappear into obscurity and the role of instructors will not become redundant.
