Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Chooses Antigua And Barbuda To Host 2025 Caribbean Travel Marketplace

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) selects Antigua and Barbuda to host the 2025 Caribbean Travel Marketplace from May 18-22, showcasing its tourism growth.

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has officially chosen Antigua and Barbuda as the host for its annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM). This prestigious event is set to take place from May 18-22, 2025.

Antigua and Barbuda will shine as a key destination for global buyers and regional suppliers, further establishing its growing reputation in the Caribbean hospitality and tourism sector. The American University of Antigua (AUA), a modern conference venue, will serve as the main location for the event, having previously hosted the successful United Nations 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The 2025 edition of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace will feature Responsible Tourism Day, emphasizing sustainable tourism practices through community engagement initiatives. The Caribbean Travel Forum will also facilitate discussions between public and private sector representatives, focusing on key issues affecting regional tourism.

Additionally, the Caribbean MICE Exchange will return, while the CHTA introduces a new day focused on harnessing the power of digital marketing and Artificial Intelligence to boost direct online bookings for the hospitality industry.

Event Program for the Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025

15 May 2025 – Responsible Tourism Day
This day is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism by giving back to local communities. Delegates will participate in various activities that showcase the importance of responsible tourism. The emphasis will be on environmentally sustainable practices, economic benefits, and cultural respect, all aimed at fostering long-term, sustainable growth in the travel industry.

19 May 2025 – Caribbean Travel Forum
The Caribbean Travel Forum unites key public and private sector representatives to address critical issues in regional tourism. Attendees will explore the business side of Caribbean tourism, and the event will also celebrate industry excellence by recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations with special awards.

20 May 2025 – Selling Floor Open
On this day, buyers and sellers will engage in scheduled one-on-one appointments. This is a prime opportunity for building business relationships and securing deals between global buyers and Caribbean suppliers.

21 May 2025 – Selling Floor Open
Similar to the previous day, buyers and sellers will continue to meet through individual appointments to foster trade opportunities and strengthen partnerships in the Caribbean tourism market.

22 May 2025 – New Program Component
A brand-new and exciting component to the event will be announced, aimed at bringing additional value and insights to attendees. Stay tuned for more details on this innovative addition to the program.

This program highlights the importance of responsible tourism, business development, and fostering connections in the Caribbean travel industry.

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is set to host the 42nd Caribbean Travel Marketplace at the Montego Bay Convention Center in Jamaica from May 20-23, 2025. This highly anticipated event is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates and more than 150 buyer companies from across the globe.

This staging of the Marketplace promises to be a milestone event, further solidifying the Caribbean’s reputation as a premier destination in the global travel industry.

Analyzing Antigua and Barbuda’s Tourism Boom

Antigua and Barbuda, a picturesque island nation in the Lesser Antilles, saw a significant rise in international visitor numbers in 2023. The country welcomed over 930,000 visitors, marking an impressive 43% increase compared to the previous year. This surge highlights the growing appeal of Antigua and Barbuda as a sought-after destination, attracting travelers with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich heritage.

The tourism boom underscores the island’s continued efforts to enhance its hospitality offerings, positioning itself as a key player in the Caribbean’s thriving tourism industry.

Top Restaurants in Antigua and Barbuda

• Papa Zouk – Known for its incredible seafood and laid-back Caribbean atmosphere.
• The Fox House Restaurant & Bar – A local favorite, offering a mix of Caribbean flavors and fresh ingredients.
• Kon Tiki Bar – Enjoy beachfront dining with a wide selection of Caribbean cuisine and tropical drinks.
• Sheer Rocks – A fine dining experience with stunning ocean views, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
• Cecilia’s High Point Cafe – A charming spot for European and Caribbean fusion dishes, known for its fresh seafood.
• Hemingway’s Caribbean Cafe & Restaurant – Located in the heart of St. John’s, offering traditional Caribbean fare.
• Nobu Barbuda – A renowned luxury dining destination known for its Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.
• The Cove Restaurant at The Blue Waters Resort – Offers upscale dining with a mix of French and Caribbean influences.
• Colibri – A vibrant French-Caribbean bistro nestled in a tropical garden setting.
• Pillars Restaurant – Located at Nelson’s Dockyard, offering exquisite seafood and local cuisine with waterfront views.

Hotels Near Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua and Barbuda

• COCOS Hotel Antigua – A boutique, all-inclusive adults-only resort with stunning ocean views.
• Keyonna Beach – A beachfront property offering intimate accommodations and personalized service.
• Blue Waters Resort & Spa – Antigua – Known for its luxury accommodations and beautiful surroundings.
• Cocobay Resort – An all-inclusive resort with pastel-colored cottages and private plunge pools.
• Hammock Cove Antigua – A luxurious adults-only resort offering private villas and incredible views.
• Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – A high-end resort with modern amenities and beachfront access.
• Sandals Grande Antigua – A world-famous, all-inclusive resort ideal for couples seeking romance and relaxation.
• Hawksbill Resort Antigua – A peaceful retreat with four secluded beaches, perfect for relaxation.
• Galley Bay Resort & Spa – An all-inclusive, adults-only resort set on a lush tropical estate.
• Siboney Beach Club – A charming boutique hotel located on the scenic Dickenson Bay.

Airports in Antigua and Barbuda

• V. C. Bird International Airport (ANU)
  The main international gateway to Antigua and Barbuda, located on the island of Antigua. It serves as the hub for international flights connecting the country to major destinations around the world.

Airlines Flying to Antigua and Barbuda

• WestJet
  Provides direct flights to Antigua from Canada, making it a popular choice for Canadian travelers.
• United Airlines
  Offers flights to Antigua from various locations in the United States, connecting North American travelers to the island.
• American Airlines
  One of the major carriers flying to Antigua, with routes from major U.S. cities, especially hubs like Miami.
• Air Canada
  Connects Canadian travelers to Antigua with direct flights, particularly from Toronto.
• JetBlue Airways
  Offers convenient flights from the U.S., particularly from cities like New York and Boston.
• Caribbean Airlines
  A regional airline that provides connections between Antigua and other Caribbean islands.
• Delta Airlines
  Another major U.S. carrier, offering flights to Antigua from key cities in the United States.

Top Tourist Attractions in Antigua and Barbuda

• Shirley Heights
  A historic military lookout offering breathtaking panoramic views of English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour. It’s famous for its vibrant Sunday parties with live music and traditional barbecue.
• Dickenson Bay
  One of Antigua’s most popular beaches, known for its soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and a range of water sports and beachfront dining options.
• Nelson’s Dockyard
  A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s only continuously working Georgian dockyard. This historic site is home to restored naval buildings, museums, and scenic views of the surrounding harbors.
• Valley Church Beach
  A beautiful, secluded beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. It’s an excellent spot for both tourists seeking peace and adventure enthusiasts looking to snorkel.
• Half Moon Bay
  One of the most picturesque beaches in Antigua, offering a crescent-shaped stretch of pristine sand and vibrant coral reefs. It’s an ideal destination for beachgoers and nature lovers.

CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025 in Antigua and Barbuda highlights the nation’s growing impact on regional tourism. Global buyers and suppliers will gather at this prestigious event, showcasing Antigua and Barbuda as a leading travel destination. The event’s focus on sustainable tourism practices emphasizes the country’s dedication to responsible growth, reinforcing its role as a key player in the Caribbean hospitality industry. This event provides a valuable opportunity for collaboration and drives future development in the tourism sector.