Caribbean tourism exceeds 13% in first half of 2024

It is a significant milestone for the Caribbean tourism that international arrivals are all set to exceed 2019 levels by 13% in the first half of 2024. Such figures shed light on the recognition that the small island nations are receiving as a tourism destination.

Notably, the data was unveiled at the 3^rd Annual Caribbean Travel Forum which was scheduled to take place in Montego Bay Convention Centre, Jamaica. The event was attended by several representatives from the public and private sectors meeting to discuss global and regional industries.

The 3^rd Annual Caribbean Travel Forum was conducted under the theme “Visioning a new tourism landscape for the Caribbean.” The theme emphasises on the continuous efforts undertaken by the authorities to elevate the tourism sector of the Caribbean nation to greater heights.

Several topics were being discussed by the tourism experts and enthusiasts, the topics discussed include, intra-Caribbean travel, sustainable tourism, technology innovation, the labour market, linkages, multi-destination marketing and exogenous factors.

The 3^rd Annual Caribbean Travel Forum also witnessed the launch of several reports led by Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association. The reports launched includes, the Artificial Intelligence Transformation Guide for Caribbean Tourism which was headed by CHTA’s Technology Task Force, the Caribbean Tourism Industry Performance and Outlook Report and the Caribbean Construction Pipeline Report.

This forum was attended by the tourism authorities of several Caribbean nations. Such forums play a huge role in advancing the tourism sector and also fostering the partnership between nations and other sectors.

Moreover, Patricia Affonso-Dass, the Group General Manager of Ocean Hotels Group in Barbados became the recipient of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Hotelier of the Year. Patricia has contributed over 30 years of her experience to the Caribbean’s tourism sector.

Her exemplary leadership at Ocean Hotels Group has transformed several properties like Sea Breeze Beach House and O2 Beach Club & Spa into the best hospitality centres. Her remarkable achievement shed light on her unwavering commitment and dedication towards developing tourism sector of Caribbean nation.