What’s Trending:Music in the Gap

Sat, January 28, 2012 - 10:45 AM

The Nation’s Online Editor Carol Martindale looks at What’s Trending today in Barbados.

The hard times being experienced by some vendors and business owners in the St Lawrence Gap is what readers are talking about today.

The drop in business, the reduction in the numbers going through that Christ Church tourist belt and the policy as it relates to loud music in the Gap are the issues being discussed.

This what some are saying:

Sharon Woolley: “When will everyone understand, there is a recession. Tourism might be up but I bet that's because of cruise ships, and they only stay for the day. People cannot afford evenings out apart from a rum shop, so don't waste your time looking for lots of tourists …”

Kim Clarke: "Businesses in the Gap CANNOT prosper with that loud music rule. The Gap is advertised as the party strip of Barbados. if persons visiting want peace and quiet then they should go on the West Coast. Why should locals and club owners be disadvantaged because persons do not want loud music straight till morning. The Gap has traditionally been known as the place to go if you want a good party. You could get some rest then go out around 1 or 2 and party till the sun comes up. Now if you go at that time it makes no sense to even go into the club because with two spin arounds, you are leaving. Makes no sense. Governments is always pushing entrepreneurship but on the other hand killing what little business people are trying to create.”

Paula-May Batson: “Iagree with Kim. I've been going to Brim for years and always stay at the Gap. I come on holiday to party and enjoy myself. I don't normally come out until 11:30 - 12 pm. With the music stopping at ‘2ish’ it's not worth coming out. I love Barbados but we are now holidaying and partying in Jamaica now."

Archangel Crichlow-Daniel: "I do not even really party in The Gap any longer. The atmosphere just is not the same anymore. Such a pity, it is one of the popular tourist spots. Reggae Lounge being one of my favourites in The Gap, but now much has changed. Such a pity."

carolmartindale@nationnews.com