Visionary Barbadian hotelier to be honored at CMEx 2026 awards

Published on September 7, 2026

This past week, the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) highlighted another distinguished leadership laureate who will be celebrated at the 2026 CMEx Leadership Awards and Fundraiser on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026, at Loews Coral Gables Hotel in the Miami area.

He is visionary Barbadian and Caribbean hospitality pioneer Ralph Taylor, who introduced the all-inclusive concept to Barbados following his acquisition of the Divi resort in 1991. He rebranded the property as Almond Beach Club & Spa and served as chairman and managing director of Almond Resorts Inc. for 20 years.

During his tenure, Taylor spearheaded the successful expansion of Almond Resorts’ all inclusive portfolio from one property to five hotels totaling 1,549 rooms across Barbados and St. Lucia. Today, he is chairman and CEO of Arcadia Hotels & Resorts, parent company of The Soco Hotel in Barbados and The Soco House in St. Lucia.

Source Caribbean Tourism Authority