The first-ever Global Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards — a spectacular initiative that honors and celebrates the outstanding achievements of hard-working travel agents from around the world is set to take place from December 5th to 9th, 2024, in Antigua and Barbuda.  The event, organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, will bring together over 100 of the destination’s top-producing travel professionals for an exclusive celebration in the stunning twin-island paradise.   Named after the unique and delicious Antigua Black Pineapple — Antigua’s most famous and sweetest fruit, found only on this stunning Caribbean Island, these awards symbolize the country’s commitment to excellence, luxury, and the recognition of the pivotal role travel agents play in promoting Antigua and Barbuda as a must-visit destination.   The Hon. Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism for Antigua and Barbuda said, "We are incredibly proud to host the inaugural Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards this December. The Awards are not just another industry event; they are a prestigious celebration of the incredible work done by our global travel partners. It will be the perfect way to say a heartfelt thank you to the agents who are the backbone of our industry. I can't wait to welcome and celebrate with the one hundred outstanding agents here in Antigua and Barbuda as we honor their dedication and commitment.”   Who Can Enter: The awards are open to all USA, UK & Europe, Canada, Caribbean and Latin American travel agents, including homebased and store-front agents who have booked Antigua and Barbuda hotel packages from October 01, 2023 to September 30, 2024. Agents can log their bookings on www.AntiguaBarbudaRewards.com to secure their chance to join the winner’s circle.   Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in recognizing the performance of the travel trade said, “This year has been an extraordinary one for Antigua and Barbuda, with record-breaking tourism arrivals. This success is a testament to the relentless efforts of our teams and partners in each of our key markets, who have delivered exceptional service, and this event is all about celebrating their remarkable achievements.”   This exclusive event will culminate in a Black-tie Gala on December 7th, an evening of sophistication and glamour where VIPs, industry leaders, and honored guests will come together to celebrate excellence in travel. The gala promises to be the highlight of the weekend, featuring vibrant entertainment, authentic flavors, and, of course, the awards ceremony where the best of the best will be recognized.   During the Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards weekend, attendees can look forward to a luxury island tour, a private catamaran cruise with snorkeling, beachfront yoga sessions, and a glamorous black-tie gala dinner.   Get Involved: This is your opportunity to be part of something extraordinary. The Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards promise to be an event with the winners not only receiving recognition but also gaining an insider’s perspective on the charm and allure of Antigua and Barbuda. There’s no better time to showcase your success in selling this stunning destination.   Mark your calendars and start logging your bookings. The road to Antigua and Barbuda’s Black Pineapple Awards begins now, and it’s set to be a journey filled with excitement and the sweetest rewards.   Important Note: Visit  www.AntiguaBarbudaRewards.com  right away to REGISTER your bookings (you must have completed the *NEW* Specialist Training Course to access the Rewards Program: www.AntiguaBarbudaTravelAgents.com). Sign up for a 'New Account' to access the Specialist course, as your old username and password will not work with this new program. All valid bookings must be registered by October 21, 2024, then save the event date and await your selection and invitation. All selected advisors will receive an all-expense paid trip to Antigua for the Black Pineapple Awards.

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has appointed Reed PR & Communications as its agency of record in the UK. Reed will manage ABTA’s public relations and communications strategy for the next 24 months. Reed PR & Communications recently launched and will be responsible for managing the full press office, crafting campaigns to make Antigua and Barbuda a top Caribbean destination for British travellers. Carly Reed, Director of Reed PR & Communications has over a decade of experience promoting Antigua and Barbuda previously as the Virgin Holidays PR Manager. "My journey with Antigua and Barbuda has been a path of continuous discovery and admiration" Reed said. "Our goal is to spotlight Antigua and Barbuda as the ultimate Caribbean haven for UK travellers." "The upcoming years are pivotal for us, working with Reed PR & Communications marks a significant step in amplifying our presence in the UK,” said Cherrie Osborne, Director of Tourism UK & Europe at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

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  As the warm summer days begin to fade and the promise of fall lingers in the air, it's time to seize the opportunity to escape the impending hustle and bustle. What better way to do so than to immerse yourself in the laid-back embrace of Antigua and Barbuda.   Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, this picturesque twin-island nation offers a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, inviting you to unwind before the demands of school routines and work commitments take over.   Embracing the Laid-Back Atmosphere Antigua and Barbuda present an idyllic haven where time seems to slow down and worries gently fade away. Imagine basking in the golden sun on pristine beaches, the rhythmic waves serenading your thoughts. Here, the notion of "island time" becomes more than just a phrase – it's a way of life. As the calendar inches towards the end of summer, embrace this tranquil atmosphere and give yourself the gift of uninterrupted relaxation.     Reveling in Beachside Bliss Picture this: lounging on a comfortable beach chair, a refreshing drink in hand, and a captivating novel slowly turning as you lose yourself in its pages. Antigua and Barbuda boast some of the most breathtaking beaches in the Caribbean, providing the perfect backdrop for such serene moments. Whether you choose the powder-soft sands of Dickenson Bay or the secluded coves of Half Moon Bay, you'll find your sanctuary for unwinding before the chaos ensues.   Indulging in Spa Treatments Elevate your relaxation experience by treating yourself to luxurious spa treatments. The islands offer a range of world-class spas, where skilled therapists employ techniques passed down through generations. From soothing massages to revitalizing facials, these treatments are designed to renew your body and spirit. Let the expert hands of the therapists melt away any remaining stress, leaving you in a state of pure tranquility.     Sailing to Secluded Beaches If the idea of exploring hidden gems and embracing the beauty of solitude appeals to you, embarking on a boat tour to secluded beaches is a must. Antigua and Barbuda are surrounded by crystal-clear waters, dotted with uninhabited islets and cays. Sail away on turquoise tides to discover pristine stretches of sand accessible only by boat. Snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, bask in the seclusion, and reconnect with nature's serene beauty.     The Circumnavigation Cruise: A Humble and Free Adventure For those seeking a unique adventure, the Circumnavigation Cruise offers an unforgettable journey. This leisurely voyage takes you around the coastline of Antigua, allowing you to witness the island's diverse landscapes and stunning vistas. The charm of this experience lies in its simplicity – bask in the gentle sea breeze, savor a sumptuous barbecue lunch on deck, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that surrounds you.       Amenta Wellness Journeys: Nurturing the Mind and Body Antigua and Barbuda take wellness seriously, and Amenta Wellness Journeys are a testament to this commitment. These holistic experiences encompass yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats set against the backdrop of the islands' natural beauty. Engage in activities that nourish your soul, connect with like-minded individuals, and return from your journey equipped with newfound inner peace.     Sweet Wadadli Jungle Rides: Embrace the Nature's Rhythm For a dose of adventure that seamlessly blends with the islands' laid-back atmosphere, embark on Sweet Wadadli Jungle Rides. Take your family and friends on a journey to remember going through fields and thick greenery making fresh memories. You will be led by a guide who will take you to Benjamin & Son’s farm to taste fresh in-season produce. Stops are also made by Devils Bridge and cool yourself off by visiting Long Bay Beach to have fun in the clear blue water. Prepare to head back to the base for light refreshments at a local restaurant with new memories to enjoy.       Culinary Exploration of Fresh Seafood Antigua and Barbuda's cuisine is a celebration of the sea, and indulging in their fresh seafood is a must. From succulent grilled lobster to flavorful fish stews, the local delicacies are a feast for the senses. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene, sampling dishes crafted from the day's catch and embracing the flavors that speak of the islands' maritime heritage.       Exploring Nature Trails and Historical Sites As you ease into the serene rhythm of island life, take the time to explore the captivating nature trails and historical sites that Antigua and Barbuda have to offer. Hike through lush rainforests, and marvel at hidden waterfalls. Delve into the rich history of the islands by visiting historical sites that narrate tales of indigenous peoples, colonial influences, and the struggle for independence.     In Conclusion Antigua and Barbuda stand as a sanctuary for those seeking respite before the whirlwind of back-to-school routines and work commitments resume. With their breathtaking beaches, serene atmosphere, rejuvenating spa treatments, and array of tranquil activities, these Caribbean gems offer the perfect escape. Embrace the island time, immerse yourself in nature's embrace, savor the local flavors, and return from this retreat with a renewed spirit and a treasure trove of memories that will sustain you through the demands of the upcoming season.   ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA MOTHER-DAUGHTER DUO MAKE HISTORIC VOYAGE ABOARD VIRGIN GALACTIC 02 SPACECRAFT     In an awe-inspiring display of human achievement, Keisha Schahaff and her daughter Anastatia Mayers of Antigua and Barbuda have etched their names in the celestial chronicles as they became the Caribbean’s pioneers in space exploration. Their extraordinary journey commenced on August 10, 2023, as the Virgin Galactic 02 Spacecraft roared to life at the Spaceport America in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.     The anticipation was palpable, and the world held its collective breath as Keisha, Ana, and their fellow crewmate, former 1972 Olympian Jon Goodwin, embarked on a voyage that symbolized the epitome of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of the stars. The launch not only marked several historic milestones in the realm of space travel but also stood as a testament to the indomitable spirit of humans, and Virgin Galactic’s mission of broadening access to space.    

Team Antigua Island Girls – 2,800 Miles!

    On July 23, 2023, Team Antigua Island Girls successfully navigated and rowed across the treacherous expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the largest body of water in the world, in support of a noble cause. Their awe-inspiring endeavor, that saw the girls spend forty-one days at sea for the inaugural 2023 Pacific Challenge, has not only demonstrated the power of women’s strength and resilience but also raised funds for building a home for vulnerable girls in need.       In Market Spotlight 38 U.S. Cities - September through December!       “Our FAM participants, all Antigua & Barbuda Travel Advisor Specialists, enjoyed a lovely Beach Party recently at the fabulous host resort, Pineapple Beach Club.  Blue Waters Resort & Spa also played host to the group while they visited several properties and enjoyed a day cruise which included snorkeling and swimming along with a little shopping in St. John’s.     Rod Hinds, Sr. Business Development Manager who accompanied the FAM, was delighted with the feedback from all the agents, some of whom have already gotten bookings as a direct result of the visit to our island paradise.”  

“Book for your clients now”

       

TEMPORARY HOTEL SUMMER CLOSURES 2023

     

  This week’s Unmissable Experience is a boat trip to the tiny, pink sand island of Barbuda.   Barbuda. Just the name sounds exotic. Sounds expensive. Aspirational. Out of reach? I had never met anyone who had been there and, apart from knowing it was near Antigua, I knew nothing about it.   So when I was offered the chance to visit Barbuda from Antigua last month, I had no hesitation in grabbing my sun cream, setting an early alarm, and pocketing a couple of travel sickness pills. I’m not great on boats.   Barbuda is a sparsely populated island, just 27 miles and about 90 minutes by boat from its much larger sister island of Antigua. Antigua and Barbuda is a dual island nation, governed by the same administration and promoted in the same breath. However, life on Barbuda is very different. The island was devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017, ripping off roofs, destroying homes and businesses, damaging the infrastructure, and flattening the trees of the coconut plantations.   Home to only around 1,500 people, an additional 1,000 workers have now moved into Barbuda, not only to rebuild, but to develop the island in accordance with the ambition of the government, and quite a bit of Robert De Niro’s money, to turn it into ‘the next St Barts’. So, if you like your Caribbean a bit more authentic now is the time to visit.   The trip to the island from Antigua can be done by daily high speed ferry, by private catamaran, by plane or, if you are Robert De Niro visiting the new Nobu which has recently opened on the island, by helicopter. We set sail from Antigua early one morning, heading north east across the water, blue skies and sunshine on our faces and reggae in our ears. It was one of those moments of pure joy, when you can’t imagine wanting to be anywhere else.   Arriving in Barbuda was quite a surprise. I am not sure what I was expecting, but the island is definitely different to its larger neighbour. It’s dusty, it’s flat, there seems to be very little there. As we climbed into the mini bus to head for breakfast, I watched pelicans dive bombing into the sea for fish behind me. We drove off. It was hard to tell on which side of the road as we zig-zagged around, avoiding the pot holes and the various donkeys and horses meandering around.   It felt more like Africa than the Caribbean. As we passed the coconut plantations, and headed towards the small capital of Codrington, we saw regular reminders of the destruction caused by the hurricane.   Barbuda has one bank, one petrol station, a handful of cafes and restaurants and only 10 taxis. But it also has some of the wonders of the Caribbean and, after an excellent breakfast at the ‘G-Milt’ cafe of freshly cooked omelette and home fries (more like mashed potato than chips), we set off to board another, much smaller, boat, to take us to the island’s famous frigate bird sanctuary.     Only accessible by boat, the sanctuary is home to the largest colony of frigate birds in the Western Hemisphere, with around 20,000 birds coming and going to the lagoon. As you approach, you see movement in the mangroves ahead before realising they are packed full of single, large, white headed chicks sitting in individual nests and squawking to be fed.   The birds themselves are fascinating; almost prehistoric in appearance, and reminiscent of small dodos. The juveniles stay in their nests and the colony works together. According to our guide, if a mother bird dies, her chick will be adopted by another bird and, if a chick falls into the water, it will be pulled out by the wings by two females.   We visited in June, when the chicks were large and attended only by their mothers, but the most popular time to go is during the mating season which takes place between September and April. Then, you will also see the wonderful male frigate birds, puffing out their huge red chests to attract a mate. There are also many other species of birds in the lagoon, such as pelicans, the tropical mockingbird and the Christmas bird, but the frigate birds are the main attraction and well worth seeing.   Across the bay, we pulled up by a scrubby piece of sand and hopped out into the shallows, trying to avoid the tiny pink jellyfish floating around our ankles, the favoured meal of the sea turtles that live in these waters. It seemed an inauspicious place to stop as we walked onto the sandback and over the top. How wrong we were. Just the other side, the view opened up onto the most beautiful beach I have seen in 30 years of travelling.   This is Coral Bay. A stunning 18 miles of pink ‘sand’. Not sand in fact, but the tiny pink shells that wash up on the shore and give the beach its wonderful colour. This beach is the highlight of a trip to Barbuda. Truly stunning.   However, this is not the only beautiful beach in Barbuda. There are many of them, some white, some pink, and all, for now, fairly deserted. Princess Diana Beach is another stunner, and so called because Diana would bring her young sons to this remote spot to enjoy a holiday away from press attention. The sea is warm, clear, calm. Make time to enjoy it.   The other highlight of a trip to Barbuda is a visit to Darby Cave. There is a bit more of a walk involved here, as you explore the mini rainforest leading to a sinkhole decorated with drawings made by the Arawak Indians. Some of the views up through the roof of the cave make for stunning photos, and it’s great to also experience a different side of the island away from the better known beaches.   Highs: Watching the pelicans dive bomb into the sea, right next to the pier. Completely unfazed by the arrival of our party, and clearly oblivious to their audience.   Lows: The roads. Dusty and uncomfortable. But there are many plans afoot to improve them.   Unmissable : The pink beach at Coral Bay will stay with me forever.   Day trips to Barbuda from Antigua can be booked through your tour operator or at your hotel. For more information, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

  The island of Antigua and Barbuda is the best kept secret of the Caribbean and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in the world. It is also home to some of the friendliest people that you will ever meet and is a leader in the wedding, honeymoon, and romance market. When choosing your next destination to vacation, we know you have lots of options, but here’s why Antigua and Barbuda should be at the top of your list this year.   1. Amazing Beaches   Antigua and Barbuda is known around the world for its amazing and award-winning beaches. Antigua boasts 365 powdery white sand beaches with crystal clear waters. With a beach for every day of the year, visitors are not short of choices, so take your pick!     2. Authentic Experiences   What makes Antigua and Barbuda so special is its ability to maintain its authentic Caribbean feel, while offering guests valuable and quality experiences. Take a walk-through history at the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site or the old sugar mill plantation at Betty’s Hope and experience Antigua and Barbuda’s rich colonial past.       3. Antigua’s Carnival: The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival   Antigua’s Carnival is a spectacle of color, fun, and sheer excitement! It is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the culture and people of this dynamic island. Melodic music with infectious beats and vivacious, creative costumes are just a taste of what you can expect.       4. Leader in the Wedding, Honeymoon, and Romance Market   Whether your idea of a romantic vacation is getting married, curling up together in a hammock, hiking through the island’s rugged trails, enjoying one of the many panoramic views or basking in the sun on one of the many beaches, Antigua is the perfect destination for you! The destination is considered one of the easiest Caribbean islands to get married and is recognized as a leader in the wedding, honeymoon, and romance market. With no waiting period or residency requirements for a wedding license to be issued and with an array of wedding planners on-island, arranging your Big Day will be as stress-free as possible! Getting married is as easy as 1,2,3!       5. A Wide Variety of Accommodations   No matter your taste or budget, you can find just the right accommodations on Antigua and Barbuda. Known for its intimate boutique hotels, a stay on this little paradise never feels overwhelming and is truly an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One can find outdoor garden baths, relaxing spas, amazing dining, family-friendly services and activities, beachfront suites, cliffside plunge and infinity pools and amazing views at many of our all-inclusive hotels. So, whether your choice is luxury, family-friendly or a romantic escape, Antigua and Barbuda has the perfect resort waiting for you.      

  This is the year to introduce the kids to bold new experiences, to push the boundaries of the family holiday beyond Main Street USA. With Easter approaching and Mother and Father's Day right behind, now is the time to book and save on an A&B family holiday. Of course, what's the first thing the kids are going to say when you float the idea like a Sun Squad donut on an infinity pool?     Kids like games, right? So, here's one. Antigua and Barbuda has 365 beaches. Why not see how many you can visit on your holiday? From secluded coves (Mamora Bay) with crystalline waters calm enough for small children to play to popular beaches with oceanfront development (Dickenson Bay) to watersport hotspots (Jolly Beach), there's a swath of sun-kissed sand in A&B that's perfect for everyone in the family.   A trip to Stingray City is one of the most popular excursions in Antigua & Barbuda. Kids and adults alike love feeding and interacting with the Southern Rays, which are described as being the brightest and gentlest in the Caribbean. You can explore the stingray site alone or with the help of a guide. Snorkelers will also want to check out the shoals of jacks, boxfish and small barracudas that frequent the area.     Nothing says family vacation like a road trip. A&B is dotted with secret spots, natural landmarks, and stunning rock formations. Whether you rent a car for the day or book a tour, get out and see the islands.   Popular attractions include Hell's Gate, the Pillars of Hercules, and Fig Tree Drive. The first two offer stunning rock formations complete with natural bridges, arches, and hidden caves.   Fig Tree Drive, on the other hand, winds through the rainforest and is one of the only places where Antigua's famous black pineapples grow.   Older kids will appreciate a visit to Nelson's Dockyard. The dockyard dates to the 1740s and was once home to the British fleet. Antigua's colonial, pre-colonial, and colonial history is on display at the Nelson Dockyard Museum.   The area is a popular tourist attraction and features numerous gift shops, art galleries, restaurants, and hotels. It's also one of the oldest working dockyards and a popular place to see some of the world's most beautiful yachts.       Finally, with children in tow, you need a comfortable port-of-call. You want a place with amenities and kid-friendly activities, consider booking at one of the following:   The Verandah Resort and Spa   A stunning setting for romance, family fun and sumptuous indulgence       Blue Waters Resort and Spa   The ultimate in luxury island living       Curtain Bluff   A luxury tale of two beaches       Carlisle Bay   A broad, uncrowded beach on the south shore       Jumby Bay Resort   A private island paradise       All hotel openings can be found HERE                 Reminder: All COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted for arriving passengers by air. Passengers visiting Antigua and Barbuda only require a valid passport for entry. For more information please visit: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com           We’ll see you soon!    

Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority – USA 305 East 47^th Street Suite 6a New York, NY 10017 [email protected]

   

  The twin-island paradise of Antigua and Barbuda has officially announced the first edition of the annual Antigua and Barbuda Restaurant Week slated for May 7 – May 21, 2023.   Positioned as a 14-day gastronomical adventure, poised to titillate your senses, Antigua and Barbuda Restaurant Week hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority will celebrate the destination’s best qualities – its food, people and culture. Visitors and residents can expect a variety of delectable cuisine across a range of restaurants at prix-fixe, discounted prices, celebrity chef appearances, and special events.   A unique feature of the promotion will be the "Eat Like A Local" experience offering persons the chance to indulge in Antigua and Barbuda’s local, home-cooked food and national dishes offered at homes across the country, street vendors and local food spots. Culminating in a grand celebration on May 21 2023, during Restaurant Week’s ‘Food & Art Experience’, patrons will enjoy entertainment, paired with tappas-styled tastings from participating restaurants, indulge in specialty cocktails, rums, wines and spirits with local art and paintings as the backdrop.   “Antigua and Barbuda Restaurant Week is an open invitation for you, your family and friends to come to Antigua and Barbuda and join us at dining tables across the country. Sit back, relax, laugh, enjoy our hospitality and a truly divine foodie experience presented by a team of amazing culinary artists and hosts,” said Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, The Honourable Charles Fernandez.   “From our restaurants to local food spots, Antigua and Barbuda has some of the best food experiences you can find, and we are extremely excited to finally showcase our culinary side to the world.”   “Restaurant Week will be strategically positioned right off the heels of the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week Regatta for the purpose of extending the country’s peak season,” said CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James.   “The latest culinary addition to our destination calendar of events forms part of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s strategy to develop Antigua and Barbuda as a year-round destination with the goal, to awaken and stimulate slower summer months with events and activities that can be enjoyed by all.”   The highly-anticipated restaurant week features a fine mix of award-winning restaurants, eclectic cool hubs, timeless favourites, and new on-the-scene dining spots situated at unique and scenic locations around Antigua and Barbuda. Amongst the participating restaurants offering varied two and three course restaurant week inspired menus are:  Ana's on the Beach Restaurant and Art Gallery, Maia at South Point, The Antigua Vintage Tea House, Catherine's Café, Rokuni, Sheer Rocks, Wild Tamarind at Tamarind Hills, The’Chimney, Spices of India, Big Banana, The Larder and Like A Latte.   For details on Restaurant Week, persons can visit www.antiguabarbudarestaurantweek.com and follow the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. To plan your visit to Antigua and Barbuda go to: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com   Book it: 7 nights at South Point from £2,225 per person sharing a One Bedroom Deluxe Waterfront Suite including breakfast. Book by 31 MAR 2023 to stay 5 nights or more between 20 DEC - 15 AUG 2023 and receive 25% discount on all room types. Based on departing 11 May 23 from London Gatwick with British Airways. www.caribtours.co.uk

  As part of our recently launched campaign Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and Elite Island Resorts have teamed up to offer agents a range of 'AND' experiences available on Antigua and Barbuda. The winning agents can enjoy an action-packed itinerary focused on each AND element from the campaign: 'Enjoy Carnival', 'Stunning Island', 'Gorgeous Beaches' and 'Gourmet Lobster'.   Agents on the mega fam will have the opportunity to experience Antigua and Barbuda staying at one of the incredible five Elite Island Resorts.   To enter all you need to do is:  

1. Make a booking to any of the five Elite Island Resort properties in Antigua and you will be entered into a prize draw. The more you book the greater your chances of winning a place.
2. Send bookings to: [email protected]

Twin-island destination Antigua and Barbuda announced travelers no longer needed to show proof of vaccination or a negative test when entering the country. It applies to air travel and those arriving by sea. Mask wearing is no longer mandatory but still ’actively encouraged.’ The same applies to social distancing. It Caribbean neighbors like Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Grenada in removing all remaining Covid-19 protocols. Antigua and Barbuda have recovered strongly with an all-time-high for visitor arrivals in July.

Antigua and Barbuda's steady tourism rebound continued as stayover tourism arrivals for July 2022 topped the July 2019 pre-pandemic record. The Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism reported a rise in arrivals of 7% for July against benchmark year 2019. During the month, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed 24,673 visitors to the destination, an increase over 2021's 23,405 and the 2019 record of 23,031. Antigua and Barbuda's Minister of Tourism The Honourable Charles Fernandez said, "For a second year, we are experiencing a healthy summer season as consumer travel confidence grows.” “One group from the US, brought in approximately five hundred visitors travelling to enjoy our summer events.  We are optimistic that we will maintain this strong position of growth into August." An influx of visitors from the US contributed to the increase with arrivals 30% higher than in July 2019. There was also growth within the UK market, with an increase of 5% in tourism arrivals for the month over 2019. Arrivals stood at 5,650 in comparison to the 5,378 in 2019. Arrivals from Canada grew by 1% while the intra-Caribbean market saw a decline of 19%. The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association reported occupancies of 63% across a sample of their hotel members. The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority is attributing the 7% growth in air arrivals for the month July 2022, when compared to July 2019, to increased airlift, aggressive destination marketing, and easier travel protocols. CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James said: "Antigua and Barbuda is presently listed amongst the top ten Caribbean destinations leading the Caribbean tourism recovery efforts.” "Antigua and Barbuda's tourism rebound prospects are looking positive, particularly when we consider global tourism forecasts.”      

  Antigua & Barbuda : Culture and Carnival   Summer holiday travel season is in full swing. The word on the tarmac is things are pretty-hectic out there. But don't worry, it doesn't have to be. Good planning and a little patience go a long way. While the price of domestic airline flights has risen 47% since January, the cost of international flights remains stable.   Bottom line: Now is the time to take the family on that long-promised trip to Antigua and Barbuda.     Culture   Sure, come for the beaches, all 366 of them, in fact. But towel off for the cultural highlights. A&B offer endless experiences and heritage highlights that don't require a beach towel. From well-preserved historical sights to stunning natural landmarks, whether you walk, cycle, sail, or take a guided tour, there are a wealth of things to explore.   Located in St. John's 18th century courthouse, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda will provide you with a comprehensive perspective on the island nation's history. The timeless architecture of Nelson's Dockyard (a UNESCO World heritage Site) and Betty Hope's Sugar Plantation is not to be missed.     Other historical sites to add to your day-planner include:   St. John's Cathedral     Shirley Heights     Fort Berkeley     Green Castle Hill     Carnival   For nearly two weeks (July 23- Aug 2nd) Antigua and Barbuda celebrate carnival. It's a festival of culture and identity that dates to 1834 when slavery was finally abolished in the country. The island street party features everything from marching bands and parades to elaborate costumes and floats. Antigua’s Carnival is billed as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival and "a vehicle of expression" that highlights the country's music, food, and colorful spirit.     Carnival events include the Parade of the Bands, Panorama Competition, Calypso Monarch, and many more. Smaller events including food and craft fairs, local concerts, cultural shows, beauty pageants, and children’s activities also take place during the two weeks of fun and revelry.   Antigua's Carnival theme for 2022 is "Reigniting the spirit," which is also a good phrase to describe what summer holiday travel is all about. Historic Resorts with Fantastic Beaches   Of course, after dancing the night away (Carnival means serious dancing in Antigua, so pack your most comfortable sneakers), you're going to need accommodations.   The aptly named Boom at Gunpowder, a 12 suite, 4 cottage historic site located on a 2-acre headland overlooking Nelson's Dockyard is a history buff's dream. The 12 suites are housed in the dockyard's original Gunpowder house.     Other resorts of historical interest include...   Copper & Lumber   Caribbean history and charm come alive     The Great House   The last remaining stone plantation house on the island ~Recently Inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide – Built in 1670     Catamaran Hotel   A very relaxed and friendly atmosphere on the edge of Falmouth Harbour   All hotel openings can be found HERE For a list of certified accommodations, the latest information on travel advisories, FAQs and protocols, visit our website at  https://visitantiguabarbuda.com/travel-advisory/.