Antigua and Barbuda has strengthened its presence in one of its most important travel markets with the opening of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s (ABTA) first independently operated overseas office in Toronto.

The office, located at 201 – 100 Sheppard Avenue East, was officially opened last week by Minister of Tourism Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, ABTA Chief Executive Officer Colin C. James, and Director of Tourism for Canada, Tameka Wharton.

Minister Fernandez said the modern facility will allow the Canadian tourism team to better serve partners and travellers.

 “The elegance of the office represents the destination brand in all respects. It is a one-stop shop that allows the Canadian tourism team to be more responsive and connected to trade and investment partners, along with media and travellers.”

CEO James praised the effort of Wharton and her team, describing the office as a model for the Authority’s future operations.

“They have created not just a workspace, but an inspiring hub that perfectly blends functionality with innovation. This facility sets a new standard for how a tourism office should operate to maximize productivity and collaboration,” he said.

The office includes soundproof meeting booths, a virtual reality and recording studio, and the “Black Pineapple Academy,” a conference and training space for travel professionals and enthusiasts.

Wharton said the opening marked the fulfilment of a vision that took shape during the pandemic.

 “Ever since we moved to working remotely during the pandemic, this office has been a vision, years in the making. To see it come to life is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “The first consideration of the office was the wellbeing of each team member. The team is now better positioned to build on our internal camaraderie while we collaborate with our travel advisors, media, and other partners to drive demand and inspire Canadians to choose Antigua and Barbuda for their next getaway.”

During their time in Toronto, the visiting delegation, which also included ABTA Board Deputy Chairman Alan Hosam, toured marketing activations across the city. These featured digital ads in the downtown PATH network, a mobile LED truck broadcasting promotional videos, and appearances by the ABTA’s mascot, “Mr. Cool Pine.”

The visit concluded with a rooftop cocktail reception for Canadian media, travel advisors, and social media influencers. James urged the group to keep Antigua and Barbuda top of mind as Canadians begin planning their winter escapes.

“You help us share the story of our beautiful twin islands and that means the world to us,” he said