The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) hosted an intimate appreciation event in Toronto, Canada on August 13 that recognized business partners who have contributed to strong visitor arrivals this year. The cocktail reception, hosted at Yorkville’s Blu Ristorante saw a delegation from Antigua and Barbuda joined by dozens of representatives from Canada’s travel trade and trade media, who were recognized with certificates and awards.
“Antigua and Barbuda will remain easily accessible to Canadians, and we will continue to showcase the dynamic, twin-island experience that makes our country unique within the Caribbean region and irresistible to travellers,” said ABTA CEO Colin C. James, in his keynote address to those present. “This is an undertaking we could not accomplish alone, and we are incredibly grateful to the individuals in this room and the genuine enthusiasm Canadians seem to have towards our home.”
Mr. James was joined at the event by Deputy Chairman of the ABTA Board, Alan Hosam and Director of Tourism for Canada Tameka Wharton. Canadian representatives from Air Canada, Air Canada Vacations, Sunwing, WestJet, Ensemble, Association of Canadian Travel Agencies and Travel Advisors (ACTA), Spoiled Agent, and a select group of travel agents, media and other travel industry partners were on hand to accept awards of gratitude for their continued support of Antigua and Barbuda’s Canadian marketing initiatives.
In his address, Mr. James also underscored the strength of Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism offering and the importance of the Canadian market. Riding the momentum of highlights like the Be Campaign, the recent visit of Antigua and Barbuda’s “Cricket Knights” to Canada, and Next Stop: Antigua Carnival, Mr. James shared that Canadian stayover visitor arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda had risen 9% year-over-year as of July.
To date in 2024, over 21,000 Canadians have visited Antigua and Barbuda; the Caribbean destination renowned for having 365 beaches and a dynamic offering of luxury, nature, and adventure. From all markets, visitor arrivals are up 13% year-over-year as of June.
“Antigua and Barbuda is enjoying a strong year with Canadians, and with consumers on the whole, in no small part due to your passion for our unique, dual-island slice of The Caribbean,” said Matara Richards, ABTA Marketing Administrator, in her opening remarks. “From the history, luxury, and gastronomy of Antigua to the wild beauty and vibrant nature of Barbuda, you have embraced everything our country is and helped us realize everything it can be. We appreciate you!”
The ABTA capped off the event with the announcement of the Black Pineapple Awards in December 2024, named for the famously sweet national fruit of the islands. One hundred top partners will be selected to attend the awards and experience the beauty of both islands on an all-expenses-paid trip, with 25 spots earmarked for Canadians.
