The islands of Antigua and Barbuda will warmly welcome esteemed travel agents this December. Participants are set to attend the inaugural Black Pineapple Awards, marking a significant year in tourism growth.
Organisers plan to celebrate this achievement while reinforcing vital trade relationships. With a record number of tourist arrivals anticipated, the event underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to the travel industry’s success.
Antigua and Barbuda are set to host approximately 100 of the highest-performing travel agents for the maiden Black Pineapple Awards in December. This event coincides with what is projected to be a record-breaking year for tourist visits to the islands. The selection includes about 25 agents from the UK and Europe who will participate in a three-day trip, with accommodations provided at multiple esteemed properties.
Colin James, the chief executive of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, emphasised, “The trade is very important for us. We have to reward the agents who have been selling Antigua and Barbuda.” This statement reflects the nation’s strong commitment to nurturing its relationship with the travel industry. To partake in this exclusive trip, agents must record bookings made between September 2023 and September 2024 on the designated Antigua Barbuda Rewards website. It’s a measure that underscores the importance of trade relations in boosting tourism.
The positive trends are supported by increased flights; Virgin Atlantic is now offering four weekly services from Heathrow, up from three in 2019. Simultaneously, British Airways has expanded its Gatwick service from six to seven flights per week. These developments signify a growing demand for the destination, backed by a collaborative UK travel trade relationship.
Additionally, the cruise sector is performing exceptionally well, with Antigua and Barbuda emerging as a significant homeport for Carnival UK. Starting in October, charter flights operated by Norse Atlantic, aligned with weekly cruises from St John’s, provide further momentum to this positive trajectory. “We should be on target for a record cruise year,” noted James.
James stated, “This is not a work fam trip – it’s our way of saying a big thank you to the folks who really help us to do what we do.” The awards ceremony on December 7 will be a highlight of the three-day event, honouring outstanding achievements and dedication in promoting Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to fostering strong ties with the travel trade underscores its strategic vision for tourism growth. The inaugural Black Pineapple Awards not only celebrate pivotal achievements but also position the destination as a key contender within the competitive Caribbean tourism market.
The Black Pineapple Awards epitomise Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to tourism excellence. By acknowledging influential travel agents, the destination is poised to strengthen its market position.
This strategic initiative not only celebrates past successes but also sets the stage for future growth in the tourism sector. Antigua and Barbuda’s exemplary efforts promise continued prosperity.
