Following a landmark 2024 that saw record-breaking visitor numbers and impactful advocacy victories, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is gearing up for a transformative 2025. Sanovnik Destang, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts and President of CHTA, unveiled an ambitious vision focusing on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, aiming to position the Caribbean as a global leader in tourism and economic development.

A Historic Year of Growth

"The Caribbean achieved unparalleled success in 2024, thanks to the collective strength of our community," said Destang. The year saw historic visitor numbers, significant advocacy efforts, and initiatives that strengthened links between tourism and other economic sectors.

Key milestones included a successful tax advocacy campaign in the Dominican Republic, which preserved essential incentives for hotels and tourism businesses. Additionally, the establishment of the Linkages Task Force, led by former CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig, fostered partnerships between tourism, agriculture, and local businesses, creating a more inclusive economic model.

Major industry events like the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) and Taste of the Caribbean showcased regional talent, promoted collaboration, and set the foundation for future growth.

Vision for 2025

Building on the success of 2024, CHTA is prioritizing three transformative pillars in 2025:

1. Workforce Development: New training programs to equip hospitality professionals with globally competitive skills.
2. Technological Advancement: Digital transformation to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations.
3. Strengthening Linkages: Expanding connections between tourism and local industries to promote sustainability and enrich visitor experiences.

Forward Keys, a travel intelligence firm, reported promising trends for 2025, with destinations like Curaçao seeing a 16% increase in flight bookings for Q1 compared to 2024. Antigua & Barbuda and Sint Maarten followed closely with 11% growth, highlighting the region's growing appeal.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025

For the first time, Antigua & Barbuda will host the Caribbean Travel Marketplace, one of the region's premier tourism events. This marks only the third time the event has been held in the Eastern Caribbean. New features, including the Linkages Trade Show, Responsible Tourism Day, and the Direct Booking Summit – Caribbean Edition, aim to foster innovation and drive business opportunities.

"This event will be a catalyst for collaboration and new ideas, setting the stage for the future of Caribbean tourism," Destang remarked.

With its unwavering commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, the CHTA is poised to lead the Caribbean into a new era of prosperity and global recognition.