Antigua and Barbuda set a record for traveler arrivals, marking August 2023 as the best tourism month. Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez revealed that the nation has grown in popularity as a top destination, attracting visitors from around the world through air travel, cruise ships, and yachting.
The Minister of Tourism, Charles Fernandez, shared the official data that correctly records the hiked tourist numbers in many sectors. The Airways sector increased impressively from 17,668 in August 2019 to 24,240 in August 2024, showcasing a solid recovery from the pandemic. The cruise sector has also increased significantly, from 9,617 in 2019 to 10,843 in 2024, although final figures for ship arrivals are still pending and have not been disclosed.
Charles Fernandez, the Minister of Tourism, presented the record-breaking numbers with a sense of pride and expressed his gratitude. He stated, “This record-breaking achievement is a testament to our tourism industry partners’ hard work and dedication and the irresistible allure of our twin islands.”
Colin James, CEO of Antigua and Barbuda Tourism, stated that the country registered an increase of 16% in arrivals this year, surpassing the record made in 2019. James added, “Our twin-island nation has become a focal point for international travel and investment, further solidifying its status as a key player in Caribbean hospitality and tourism,”
The twin-island nation Antigua and Barbuda has been chosen to host the 43rd edition of the prestigious Caribbean Tourism Market (CTM), organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), from 18th May to 22nd May 2025. This event is the region’s biggest and most influential marketing platform, showcasing Antigua and Barbuda’s growing status as an important player in Caribbean hospitality and tourism.
The AUA (American University of Antigua) will be the venue for the Caribbean tourism market in 2025, with a full range of conference facilities. The place gained international interest recently when it successfully hosted the 4th United Nations International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
CHTA President Nicola Madden-Gregg said she is excited for Antigua and Barbuda’s role as the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s host country. She added, “Marketplace is undisputedly the Caribbean’s largest and premier marketing event, and we are delighted that Antigua and Barbuda will be the site for this important gathering of Caribbean suppliers and global buyers, where new and established stakeholders can gain access to the diverse offerings of travel products and experiences throughout the region.“
