As we continue our Honouring, Empowering, Revolutionizing…HER campaign for International Women’s Day, in celebration of the phenomenal entrepreneurs and businesswomen who are redefining Tobago’s local tourism sector, it brings us great pleasure to present Rachel Best, Managing Director of Bananaquit Vacations.
Bananaquit Vacations is a small, independent, family-owned hotel in Crown Point, known for its offering of a boutique Caribbean experience that embodies the warmth and heart of Tobago. Rachel is involved in every aspect of the hotel’s operations – from business strategy and marketing to training staff in delivering exceptional customer service. As a champion for sustainable tourism practices, Rachel was also instrumental in leading Bananaquit Vacations to becoming one of the first properties in the English-speaking Caribbean to receive the prestigious Green Key award for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.
We applaud Rachel and Bananaquit Vacations for being a beacon of inspiration, committed to fostering a deeper sense of responsible tourism that exemplifies the Tobago Beyond Ordinary experience. Join us as we explore HER story.
What motivated you to pursue a career in tourism, and how have you navigated the challenges or opportunities unique to women in the industry?
“I think it safe to say that tourism chose me, in a way. I spent a great part of my childhood in Tobago as my grandfather pioneered one of the first guesthouses in Crown Point. I always had a deep love for Tobago and a strong belief in its potential. After a career in Biochemical Engineering and years of travel and business experience abroad, I returned home to allow my parents to retire. I brought with me a vision to build something that contributed not only to our local economy but to the beauty of the island. I learned that being a woman in this space can be both rewarding and challenging. There were many times I’ve had to assert my voice in rooms where I was often one of very few women—or even the only one —advocating for sustainable practices. However, over the years, I’ve found my people, and I found strength in building community with other women in this industry. We help uplift and support each other.”
Can you share a story where you felt empowered as a woman in tourism and how that experience shaped your career or perspective?
“Over the years, I have been very active and instrumental in various symposiums and initiatives aimed at improving the tourism product of Tobago. I’ve contributed ideas and strategies to help elevate our offerings, but I’ll be honest—it hasn’t always been a smooth journey. Not every effort has been successful, and that’s largely because Tobago as a whole is still growing into a deeper understanding of what it truly means to build a thriving, competitive tourism industry. There’s often a gap between vision and implementation, especially when it comes to innovation or sustainability. Many are simply not ready to embrace the long-term investment and mindset shift required.
One key example of this was when we pursued the Green Key certification. Many saw it as unnecessary, even impractical, particularly because the challenges of meeting the criteria would not be supported by the existing infrastructure in Tobago. There was also general skepticism, as many local institutions and individuals are still not fully on board with sustainable practices. So yes, it felt ambitious—maybe even unrealistic to some. But I believed in raising the bar—not just for Bananaquit, but for Tobago.
Going through that process—researching, learning, adapting our operations, finding creative workarounds, and committing to high standards despite the odds—was incredibly empowering. When we were finally recognized and awarded the Green Key certification, as one of the first in the English-speaking Caribbean to do so, I admit that it was a powerful and emotional moment. It wasn’t just a win for our hotel, but it was also a signal that excellence is possible in Tobago, no matter how small you are.
This experience reinforced something I now hold close: Always follow your vision and be persistent. This solidified my belief that we don’t need to wait for everything to be perfect. We can start now. We can do world-class things, even on a small island, even with limited means, if we have the will and the courage to lead.”
How do you believe women in the tourism industry are helping to reshape the way we view travel, cultural exchange, and tourism development?
“I believe women bring more creativity and a deeper sense of community to any industry. It’s not just about business and not just about selling. In this industry, women inject the story, the culture and authentic experience which sets us apart from mass tourism. Now, we are starting to advocate for more sustainable practices, and women are instrumental in helping to reshape tourism into something more responsible, nurturing and respectful, in a way that also highlights our heritage and values.”
In your opinion, what steps can be taken to create more inclusive spaces and opportunities for women in leadership roles within tourism and hospitality?
“In Tobago, it’s not just about creating more programmes—we honestly need a whole shift in mindset. Yes, access to funding, mentorship and proper training for women is important, but the bigger issue is how leadership is still seen through this really limited lens. That’s what’s holding us back.
The thing is, the role models are already here. The leaders are in plain sight—we just don’t always recognize them as such. Women in Tobago are already leading in so many ways. We’re running businesses, holding down households, volunteering in our communities, managing church groups, side hustles—you name it. And somehow, we still show up every day at work and give it our all.
That kind of juggling takes real skill. It means we naturally think in a more rounded, people-focused way—which is exactly what the tourism industry needs. If we want to build something sustainable and meaningful, then it’s time to start listening to those voices and giving them real seats at the table.”
In your opinion, what are some of the untapped opportunities for women in tourism, and how can we encourage more women to explore these avenues?
“Sustainability and digital tourism are huge, untapped spaces for women. From eco-tourism initiatives to running travel platforms or destination marketing—there are endless possibilities. We can encourage more women by highlighting local role models, offering training programmes in business and tech, and creating networks where women feel supported and seen.
One of the most overlooked areas in tourism for women—especially in Tobago—is sports tourism. Activities like diving, boat charters, sport fishing, archery, and mountain biking are often male-dominated, yet they hold incredible potential for both economic empowerment and representation. There’s a whole market here that remains largely untapped by women. I’m personally part of a small but vibrant women’s mountain biking group in Tobago – TMBT ladies, led by Manuela Ruede. The reaction we get is always so encouraging. People stop and stare in admiration—villagers come out of their homes, passersby cheer us on—it’s such a unique sight to see a group of women, in full gear, riding through rugged terrain and owning the trail. This says a lot. It tells me how rare it still is to see women actively participating—and being visible—in these kinds of activities.The women who lead and pioneer these groups are real role models in my eyes. They’re not just breaking gender stereotypes; they’re creating new lanes—literally and figuratively—for what’s possible. These are the stories and efforts we should be highlighting more. With the right support—like access to equipment, sponsorships, marketing, and training—there is so much room for growth.
If we want more women involved, we need to make these spaces more accessible and visible. We need to celebrate the women already doing the work, and create platforms where girls can see themselves in roles and activities they’ve never considered before. Tourism isn’t just about beaches and resorts—it’s about experiences. And women in sports tourism can absolutely redefine the kinds of experiences Tobago has to offer. ”
What advice would you give to young women and girls aspiring to enter the tourism industry, and how can they use their unique perspectives to drive positive change?
“One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that fresh perspectives are incredibly valuable in tourism. At Bananaquit, I intentionally hire young women who may not have much experience, because I see that as a strength—not a weakness. They come with a clean slate, open minds, and the ability to be shaped by a culture of care, professionalism and innovation. They’re not bogged down by “how things have always been done,” and that makes them powerful agents of change.
What’s been most inspiring is when I take the time to ask their perspective—to hear what they think good service looks like, or what they would want as a traveler. One young lady shared that she sees tourism as a way to make people feel safe and seen, especially solo female travelers. Another said she wants guests to experience “the real Tobago”—not just the beaches, but the music, the food, the aunties in the village who sell sweets. One of my younger team members is deeply interested in digital marketing and always comes with fresh ideas about how we can connect with younger travelers online….so this is definitely next on our agenda.
So, my advice to young women is this: Start right now, right here, and don’t underestimate the value of your perspective. Whether you’re offering a warm smile at the front desk, preparing a local breakfast with love, or creating a TikTok to showcase the island—that’s tourism! Your ideas matter. Your story matters. Don’t wait for someone to give you permission to lead—observe, learn, ask questions, speak up, and most of all, bring your full and real self to the table. This industry needs new vision—vision rooted with purpose, pride, empathy, creativity, and young women certainly have a unique perspective and the power to challenge the norms.”
Thank you, Rachel, for sharing such powerful perspectives!
Although this conversation has ended, we are assured that the legacy of Bananaquit’s commitment to sustainability will endure. We are grateful for the meaningful insight Rachel has shared with us regarding her experience within the accommodation sector. Let’s all commend her advocacy for sustainable practices in Tobago, which are bolstered by her strong belief in the potential of Tobago’s tourism.
Rachel, we anticipate more fruit of your labour, as you continue to inspire younger generations, valuing their unique voices and potential.