Antigua and Barbuda recently hosted a two-day meeting of senior travel advisors, recognizing their significant contribution to the continuous growth of the country’s tourism industry.

During the meeting, Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez praised the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Chapter Presidents for their unwavering support, emphasizing the crucial role that they play in driving and maintaining the thriving tourism industry in Antigua and Barbuda.

Fernandez’s commendation underscores the importance of the travel advisors’ efforts and highlights the pivotal position they hold in the country’s tourism ecosystem.

“This visit allows us to thank you personally for being our partners and, as importantly, among the top producers of visitors to Antigua and Barbuda where tourism significantly impacts our economy, contributing over 50 percent to our GDP and constituting more than 46 percent of national employment, both directly and indirectly,” he stated in an address Tuesday at the Sandals Antigua Grande Resort.

Fernandez emphasized that tourism has been a significant contributor to the economic growth of Antigua and Barbuda.

However, he also highlighted the importance of managing tourism sustainably to avoid harming the environment, culture, and local communities.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda is committed to promoting sustainable tourism and ensuring that it benefits everyone involved, including the host community and visitors.

The minister expressed his gratitude to the travel advisors for their invaluable role in making 2023 a record-breaking year for tourism in Antigua and Barbuda.

Their hard work and dedication have helped in highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of this beautiful island nation.

Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. My government is committed to working with those who work with us,” he declared.

During a recent announcement, Fernandez highlighted the Tourism Authority’s latest endeavor – a comprehensive specialist training and rewards program designed exclusively for travel advisors across the globe.

Through this initiative, the Authority aims to assist travel professionals in enhancing their skills, knowledge, and resources, thereby elevating their competitiveness in the market.

Fernandez emphasized that this initiative serves as a testament to the Authority’s unwavering commitment to supporting travel advisors worldwide.