Carib Scope

分类： tourism

  • GTA highlights robust nautical calendar

    GTA highlights robust nautical calendar

    Grenada is strategically amplifying its status as a leading marine tourism destination through an ambitious portfolio of sailing and sportfishing events scheduled for its 2026 nautical season. The island nation’s comprehensive calendar, featuring competitive regattas, international rallies, and cultural heritage celebrations, demonstrates sustained expansion within this high-value tourism sector.

    The archipelago’s growing appeal within global sailing communities stems from its advantageous natural geography, state-of-the-art marina infrastructure, and established reputation as a secure and welcoming Caribbean port. With deep-water harbors, protected anchorages, and seamless connectivity between Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, the tri-island destination has become increasingly favored by both competitive sailors and leisure mariners.

    Season highlights include the Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament (January 25-30, 2026), which enters a transformative phase with Pure Grenada assuming title sponsorship for the first time. This tournament, maintaining over five decades of operation as one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious sportfishing competitions, continues to attract international anglers while promoting the islands’ rich marine heritage and premium visitor experiences.

    Grenada Sailing Week will run concurrently from January 25-30, with inaugural events hosted in Carriacou, highlighting the expanding role of the Sister Isles within the nation’s tourism framework. This event combines competitive racing with cultural activities, encouraging prolonged visitor stays and deeper community engagement.

    The Workboat Regatta (January 31-February 1) spotlights traditional seafaring culture, celebrating Grenada’s historic boat-building and racing traditions. Local sailors from coastal communities across all three islands compete in handcrafted vessels, preserving an authentic maritime legacy central to the destination’s cultural identity.

    February welcomes the Vikings Explorer Rally, featuring an international cruising fleet whose participants typically remain for extended periods. Their presence generates substantial economic benefits through marina activity, local business patronage, and cultural exchanges, demonstrating the significant multiplier effect of nautical tourism.

    Tourism officials emphasize the strategic importance of these events. Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, noted: ‘Our decision to become title sponsor reflects our commitment to strengthening the sportfishing sector while reinforcing Grenada’s standing as a serious maritime destination.’

    Shanai St Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the GTA, added: ‘From international rallies to community-rooted regattas, the nautical sector delivers sustained value, visibility, and authenticity for the destination.’

    This coordinated 2026 nautical calendar represents a balanced approach to marine tourism development that honors heritage while pursuing international exposure and long-term growth. As planning already advances for the 2027 season, Grenada continues to enhance its maritime identity and consolidate its position within the global sailing and sportfishing landscape.

  • Antigua And Barbuda Releases 2026 Destination Update With New Visitor Experiences And Tourism Enhancements

    Antigua And Barbuda Releases 2026 Destination Update With New Visitor Experiences And Tourism Enhancements

    The Caribbean destination of Antigua and Barbuda is positioning itself for a landmark tourism year in 2026 with a comprehensive strategy featuring new events, enhanced infrastructure, and elevated visitor experiences. The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has announced multifaceted developments designed to extend visitor engagement beyond the nation’s renowned 365 beaches into cultural, culinary, and adventure offerings.

    Chief Executive Officer Colin C. James emphasized the destination’s commitment to delivering more authentic experiences alongside significant tourism investments that will substantially improve product quality. “Antigua and Barbuda is fully open and welcoming,” James stated, “and for 2026, we are proud to highlight developments that will enhance the quality of our offerings.”

    The 2026 calendar introduces several premier events including the inaugural Antigua Racing Cup in April, strengthening the islands’ position as the Caribbean’s yacht racing capital. April will also feature the AUA Rohrman Trail & Swim Fest, a two-day international sporting festival combining trail races, open water swims, and youth triathlons across Antigua’s most scenic landscapes.

    Cultural programming expands with the return of Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month in May, the 10th anniversary of Run in Paradise, and the spectacular Antigua Carnival from July 25-August 4. The carnival represents far more than celebration—it embodies the islands’ historical narrative through steel pan performances, calypso competitions, and the magnificent Parade of Bands.

    November transforms the destination during Art Week, creating an open-air gallery showcasing over fifty local and diaspora artists through exhibitions, workshops, and interactive events under the theme ‘Culture in Colour’.

    Substantial hospitality enhancements include the 2026 debut of Moon Gate, a contemporary boutique luxury property offering premium suites. Hermitage Bay has completed extensive refurbishments including remodeled villa suites and upgraded spa facilities, while Curtain Bluff has renovated forty-two junior suites and enhanced its beachfront dining experiences.

    Infrastructure developments feature significant upgrades to V.C. Bird International Airport with runway rehabilitation scheduled for November 2026 completion. The Antigua Cruise Port will unveil its new terminal in January 2026 as part of the Upland Development Project, featuring enhanced amenities including a day club with pool and cabanas.

    Cultural immersion continues through signature experiences like Seafood Fridays at Nelson’s Dockyard, the ‘Rum in the Ruins’ historical storytelling at Dow’s Hill, and the newly launched Shirley Heights Friday Night Party offering iconic sunset views over English Harbour.

  • Guyana pushes to become Caribbean’s sustainable tourism leader

    Guyana pushes to become Caribbean’s sustainable tourism leader

    Guyana is executing an ambitious infrastructure development strategy to establish itself as the Caribbean’s foremost sustainable tourism destination, according to high-level government announcements made during the inauguration of Georgetown’s new Plaza Hotel.

    President Irfaan Ali revealed plans to solicit expressions of interest for constructing over 35 hinterland airstrips in the coming days, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s connectivity agenda. This initiative complements ongoing coastal hotel developments with parallel investments in eco-lodges and enhanced air accessibility.

    “Tourism materializes through tangible infrastructure—runways, ports, hotels, and prepared communities—not merely through promotional materials,” President Ali emphasized, underscoring Guyana’s commitment to decisive investments in both physical and social infrastructure.

    The government has already allocated GY$2.5 billion in the previous national budget for rehabilitating critical hinterland airstrips at Apoteri, Aishalton, Chenapou, Jawalla, Sand Creek, and Paramakatoi. This investment has prompted two domestic airlines to reduce fares to these destinations, improving affordability and access.

    Additional infrastructure projects include expanding the Cheddi Jagan International Airport with a new terminal, bridging several major rivers, and constructing the strategic road connection to Lethem near the Brazilian border.

    Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues outlined Guyana’s distinctive approach to sustainable tourism, emphasizing conservation partnerships, community-led tourism initiatives, and ecosystem protection. “This strategic focus supports livelihoods in hinterland communities, safeguards natural assets, and aligns with global demand for authentic, responsible travel experiences,” she stated.

    The nation’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable growth, with visitor arrivals surging 22% to 453,489 in 2025 compared to 2024 figures. The United States remains the primary source market, contributing approximately 40% of arrivals, followed by Caribbean neighbors at 33%, with Canada, the UK, and other international markets comprising the remainder.

    Hotel development has kept pace with this growth, adding over 1,000 rooms through nine major properties in the past five years. Seven additional branded hotels with more than 1,300 rooms are currently in the development pipeline.

    The Guyana Tourism Authority attributes this success to expanded airline connectivity, competitive fares, robust diaspora demand, successful cultural and sports tourism events, and enhanced digital monitoring systems. Projections indicate visitor arrivals could reach 550,000 by the end of 2026, reinforcing tourism’s role as a key economic driver creating jobs, business opportunities, and sustained confidence in Destination Guyana.

  • WATCH: Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Recaps 2025 Gains in Year-in-Review Video

    WATCH: Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Recaps 2025 Gains in Year-in-Review Video

    The Caribbean twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled its comprehensive 2025 Year in Review presentation, documenting a transformative period of strategic development and cultural celebration. This visual retrospective captures how the destination has evolved beyond conventional sun-and-sand tourism into a multifaceted cultural hub with global appeal.

    The review highlights significant infrastructural and connectivity advancements throughout 2025, particularly enhanced air accessibility that has strengthened the islands’ global linkages. The nation’s tourism strategy successfully emphasized immersive cultural programming, with flagship events including the internationally recognized Antigua Sailing Week, the gastronomic celebration of Culinary Month, and the vibrant spectacle of Antigua Carnival—hailed as the Caribbean’s premier summer festival. Additional cultural highlights featured Art Week and substantial upgrades to tourism infrastructure.

    Colin C. James, Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, characterized 2025 as “a period of sustained momentum and meaningful international engagement for our tourism sector.” He noted, “We have successfully expanded our global presence while highlighting our distinctive cultural offerings that define our dual-island paradise.”

    James extended appreciation to the broader tourism ecosystem—industry partners, hospitality professionals, cultural representatives, content creators, and local communities—whose collaborative efforts have elevated the visitor experience and enhanced the islands’ international reputation.

    The review demonstrates how Antigua and Barbuda offer complementary yet distinct experiences. Antigua presents a dynamic blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, featuring 365 beaches, UNESCO World Heritage sites including Nelson’s Dockyard (the world’s only continuously operational Georgian-era naval dockyard), luxury resorts, and diverse culinary traditions.

    Meanwhile, Barbuda, located 27 miles northeast and accessible via short flight, offers serene seclusion with its renowned 11-mile pink sand beach and the Western Hemisphere’s largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary. This pristine environment has made the island a preferred retreat for eco-conscious travelers and discerning visitors seeking tranquility.

    Together, the islands provide a comprehensive destination experience combining adventure, cultural immersion, luxury amenities, and authentic Caribbean living. The 2025 review conclusively demonstrates that Antigua and Barbuda have established themselves as a destination where exceptional vacation experiences are not just promised but delivered.

  • Sailing Week vital to off-season tourism in SVG –Mark

    Sailing Week vital to off-season tourism in SVG –Mark

    The newly established SVG Sailing Week is demonstrating significant potential in boosting marine tourism during traditionally slower periods, according to Annette Mark, CEO of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority. Speaking at the event’s launch in Bequia, Mark emphasized the strategic importance of such events in attracting both regional and international visitors when tourism activity typically declines.

    The sailing festival, which replaced the previously dormant Bequia Easter Regatta, serves as a catalyst for economic revitalization across multiple sectors. Mark highlighted its capacity to generate substantial demand for marine services, marinas, boat yards, accommodation providers, restaurants, bars, transportation services, and local suppliers. The event creates meaningful economic opportunities for yacht agents, vendors, artisans, entertainers, and service providers throughout the island chain.

    Beyond immediate economic benefits, SVG Sailing Week plays a crucial role in rebuilding confidence in the nation’s yachting sector. Mark stated that hosting a well-organized, competitive, and internationally marketed sailing event sends a clear message to the global sailing community that St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains a premier sailing destination.

    The 2025 edition, scheduled from March 29 to April 6, will feature activities across St. Vincent, Bequia, and Canouan. The program blends competitive racing with cultural celebration and community participation, including junior sailing races, traditional double-ender competitions, and international yacht races. A distinctive feature is the deliberate integration of youth sailing programs alongside traditional boat racing, ensuring the event honors maritime heritage while investing in the sport’s future.

    Looking ahead, authorities are developing a feeder race to Antigua and Barbuda to connect with the Antigua and Barbuda Sailing Week in late April. This initiative aims to further integrate SVG Sailing Week into the regional sailing circuit, strengthen regional participation, increase yacht arrivals, and position the destination as a highlight on the Caribbean sailing calendar.

  • TripAdvisor ranks Dominican Republic No. 1 destination in the Caribbean

    TripAdvisor ranks Dominican Republic No. 1 destination in the Caribbean

    The Dominican Republic has achieved an extraordinary tourism milestone by securing the top position as the Caribbean’s premier destination in TripAdvisor’s highly selective Travellers’ Choice Destinations Best of the Best 2025 awards. This distinguished honor, determined through comprehensive analysis of millions of global traveler reviews, positions the Caribbean nation among the world’s most acclaimed travel locations while solidifying its regional tourism dominance.

    TripAdvisor’s recognition represents exceptional achievement in global tourism, with fewer than one percent of worldwide destinations qualifying for this elite distinction. The Dominican Republic’s consistent excellence in visitor satisfaction stems from its multifaceted tourism portfolio, featuring pristine beaches, dynamic cultural experiences, diverse natural wonders, gourmet cuisine, and unique adventure opportunities.

    Complementing this national recognition, Bávaro Beach in Punta Cana earned placement among the world’s 25 finest coastal destinations in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Beaches 2025 ranking. The renowned beach secured seventh position globally and third in the Caribbean, celebrated for its powder-white sands, transparent turquoise waters, palm-fringed shoreline, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and aquatic exploration.

    The nation’s hospitality sector demonstrated similar excellence with multiple Dominican hotels receiving placement in TripAdvisor’s prestigious Travellers’ Choice Hotels global rankings. Properties across various regions earned recognition for delivering exceptional guest experiences, maintaining superior service standards, and providing consistently outstanding hospitality. Luxury establishments including Tortuga Bay Puntacana Resort & Club have previously received ‘Best of the Best’ honors, ranking among the globe’s top one percent of hotels and highlighting the competitive strength of the Dominican accommodation industry.

    These accolades arrive alongside sustained record-breaking tourism growth for the Dominican Republic, driven by strategic diversification beyond traditional beach vacations to incorporate cultural immersion, ecological adventures, wellness retreats, and culinary tourism. TripAdvisor’s endorsement emphasizes not only the country’s natural attractions but also the coordinated excellence across its entire tourism ecosystem in delivering premium visitor experiences.

    This achievement reinforces the Dominican Republic’s status as both the Caribbean’s and one of the world’s most compelling destinations, significantly enhancing its international brand appeal for travelers planning future vacations.

  • BTMI celebrating partners during Yuletide season

    BTMI celebrating partners during Yuletide season

    In a strategic move to synchronize with the winter tourism season’s commencement, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has rescheduled its annual Tourism Week from September to December. According to Marsha Alleyne, BTMI’s Chief Product Development Officer, this recalibration intentionally reflects evolving industry dynamics and shifting visitor patterns while amplifying opportunities for tourist participation.

    The revamped schedule, spanning December 14 to 21, is designed to honor tourism employees, entrepreneurs, and enduring partners who sustain the sector year-round. Alleyne emphasized BTMI’s commitment to innovation and adaptive strategies during a media interaction at Pelican Island, noting that the repositioning allows the festivities to harness the heightened energy of the peak tourist period.

    Central to the celebrations is the Community Tourism Caravan, an initiative facilitating direct engagement with local villages and towns. This outreach combines tourism advocacy with seasonal goodwill, spreading Christmas cheer across communities. The week commenced with a dedicated church service at Mount of Praise Wesleyan Holiness Church, seeking divine favor for the industry’s prosperity.

    Visitor appreciation activities are strategically organized at key entry points, including the Bridgetown Port and Grantley Adams International Airport, underscoring the growing significance of cruise tourism. Alleyne revealed that BTMI is leveraging print and social media to spotlight industry stalwarts and long-serving partners, reinforcing their invaluable contributions.

    Furthermore, BTMI is collaborating with Export Barbados to revitalize the rebranded Pelican Island (formerly Pelican Village) as a bustling hub for visitor experiences, particularly during high-traffic cruise calls such as New Year’s Eve. This partnership aims to showcase local products and cultural offerings, transforming the area into a vibrant destination within the cruise terminal and its surroundings.

    The festivities, enriched by traditional tuk band music and Mother Sally performances, align with this year’s theme: ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.’ This focus highlights the sector’s role in fostering sustainable livelihoods, empowering local entrepreneurs, and driving community development while preserving cultural heritage.

  • Tourism Uptick in November Signals Recovery for Belize

    Tourism Uptick in November Signals Recovery for Belize

    Belize’s tourism sector is demonstrating signs of a robust recovery following a period of seasonal volatility, with new data indicating a promising turnaround. Official statistics from the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) reveal a notable 1.8% upswing in overnight visitor arrivals for November 2025, welcoming a total of 42,841 international guests. This positive shift comes on the heels of consecutive monthly declines of 8.6% and 5.1% recorded in September and October, respectively.

    Industry analysts attribute this rebound to a confluence of strategic factors. A significant catalyst was the unforeseen timing of a U.S. federal government shutdown, which occurred just two weeks prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. This event inadvertently redirected American travelers toward alternative destinations, with Belize positioned to capitalize on the opportunity.

    Evan Tillett, Director of Tourism, provided context for the earlier downturn, noting that September and October are historically the slowest months on the nation’s tourism calendar. He characterized 2025 as a ‘volatile year,’ punctuated by both record-breaking arrivals in peak months like January, February, April, July, and August, and expected dips in the off-season. To mitigate these cyclical lows, the BTB has intensified its ‘green season marketing plan’ and collaborated with the private sector to promote targeted travel deals through initiatives like the Belizean Traveler program.

    Further optimism is emerging for the long-term outlook. Reynaldo Malik, President of the Belize Hotel Association, reported that the critical three-and-a-half-week booking window following the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday is performing on par with the previous year. This period is crucial as it traditionally generates upwards of 60% of the following year’s revenue, with additional surges expected from Christmas and New Year promotions. Early booking trends already indicate strong potential for the 2026 season, signaling sustained confidence in Belize’s appeal as a premier travel destination.

  • Where in Belize are the Cheapest Hotel Rooms?

    Where in Belize are the Cheapest Hotel Rooms?

    The Belize Tourism Board’s newly released accommodation statistics for December 2025 present striking contrasts in hotel pricing across the country’s tourist destinations. Contrary to common assumptions, San Pedro does not rank as the most expensive location for visitors. That distinction belongs to southern Belize’s offshore resorts, where travelers face average nightly rates of approximately $680 per room.

    Following closely behind, San Pedro claims the second position with average rates of $545 per night. The coastal village of Placencia ranks third at $503, while northern offshore island resorts and Hopkins complete the top five most expensive areas at $457 and $406 respectively.

    For budget-conscious travelers, Corozal emerges as the most affordable destination with double occupancy rooms averaging just $143 nightly. Belize City offers the fourth most economical option nationally at $236 per night. The data reveals a national average room rate of $406, with October identified as the most cost-effective month for hotel bookings throughout the country.

    The comprehensive pricing analysis provides valuable insights for travel planning, highlighting significant regional variations that could influence tourist distribution patterns and vacation budgeting strategies across Belize’s diverse tourism markets.

  • Cruise-ship visitors enjoy Trinidad: No war here

    Cruise-ship visitors enjoy Trinidad: No war here

    Despite escalating geopolitical tensions in the region, the Coral Princess cruise ship made its inaugural visit to Port of Spain on December 2nd, marking the official commencement of Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025-2026 cruise season. The vessel arrived with approximately 1,900 passengers, generating over 500 bookings for local heritage tours and creating vibrant activity throughout the port complex.

    International visitors expressed overwhelming satisfaction with their Trinidad experience, contradicting potential safety concerns. American first-time visitor Allan Franklin acknowledged initial hesitations but reported, ‘This is a beautiful, peaceful place. The people are nice, the food is good. I would definitely come back.’ UK tourist Edwin Parker similarly noted, ‘I don’t see any real danger. You can’t let world events stop you from having a good time and seeing new places.’

    German repeat visitor Gisela Bach, who previously attended Carnival celebrations, brought her parents to experience Caribbean culture. ‘I fell in love with this place, the culture, the people,’ she affirmed. ‘Trinidad is still Trinidad—a place I like to visit with friends I consider family.’

    Tourism officials revealed ambitious development plans to enhance the country’s competitive position. Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John disclosed discussions with UAE port operators regarding a revitalization blueprint that includes developing 142 acres of port land into improved cruise terminals and marinas. ‘We are about to free that up to ensure we are extremely competitive not only against our fellow Caribbean islands but against the world,’ Minister John stated.

    The current season anticipates significant economic impact, with Trinidad scheduled to receive 16 cruise calls carrying approximately 40,000 visitors, while Tobago expects 41 calls with 48,000 visitors. Permanent Secretary Abigail Byrnoe emphasized that these numbers translate to tangible benefits: ‘They represent taxi drivers earning a living, artisans selling their craft, and restaurants serving our cuisine. Tourism is a pillar of growth and a catalyst of national development.’

    Port Authority officials confirmed terminal enhancements and facility repairs have been completed to strengthen visitor capacity, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to establishing itself as a premier global cruise destination.