Over the weekend, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed back homeporting with the arrival of two cruise ships, the Emerald Sakara and the Arvia. These vessels brought in more than 900 passengers, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tourism industry.

The country has become a top destination for tourists worldwide in recent years, largely thanks to its thriving tourism industry.

Over the past decade, the government has invested heavily in its tourism infrastructure, building new hotels, resorts, and attractions to cater to the growing number of visitors flocking to the island.

Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez said the industry continues to maintain its buoyancy, with great expectations for 2024

“We anticipate great things for the year 2024, and we are already at 970,000 passengers booked, and that is expected to increase, so we are looking at over one million easily, which is the first time for us.

Our air arrivals look positive, our yachting looks positive, all in all we anticipate a good year,” Fernandez said

Today, the country is home to some of the most luxurious and exclusive resorts in the Caribbean, drawing in high-end travelers looking for a taste of paradise.

But Antigua isn’t just for the rich and famous. The country has plenty to offer budget-conscious travelers as well, with a wide range of affordable accommodations and activities to suit every taste and budget.

From beachside bungalows to all-inclusive resorts, there’s something for everyone on this idyllic island.

One of the most popular attractions in Antigua is its beaches, which are widely regarded as some of the best in the world.

 With more than 365 beaches to choose from – one for every day of the year – visitors can spend their days lounging on the sand, swimming in the warm waters, or trying their hand at a variety of water sports, from snorkeling and scuba diving to windsurfing and sailing.

But Antigua is more than just a beach destination. The island is also steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage that can be traced back to the days of colonialism

Visitors can explore the island’s historic sites and landmarks, from the ruins of old sugar plantations to the impressive 17th-century forts that once guarded the island from invaders. And of course, no trip to Antigua would be complete without sampling its world-famous cuisine.

The island’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of local and international flavors, with fresh seafood, spicy jerk chicken, and the island’s signature dish, pepperpot stew, all vying for your taste buds’ attention.

With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder that Antigua has become one of the Caribbean’s top tourism destinations.

And with more than one million cruise arrivals expected by 2024, the island’s future looks brighter than ever.