The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) hosted its U.S. Travel Advisory Board for a strategic on-island retreat aimed at strengthening partnerships with the U.S. travel trade and driving future bookings to the Caribbean destination.

The retreat, led by Dean Fenton, U.S. Director of Tourism for Antigua and Barbuda, brought together senior travel advisors from key U.S. source markets for immersive destination experiences, high-level discussions, and direct engagement with local tourism stakeholders. The visit marked the final on-island meeting of the current Advisory Board ahead of the appointment of a new committee scheduled for March 2026.

Designed to combine strategic planning with firsthand experiences, the program allowed advisors to deepen their understanding of Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism offering through resort site inspections, marine excursions, culinary experiences, and collaborative sessions with ABTA leadership.

The Honourable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, met with the group and expressed appreciation for their continued advocacy of the destination.
“We are pleased to welcome our U.S. travel advisors back to Antigua and Barbuda and thank them for their ongoing support. Their presence reinforces our confidence in the tourism product and sends a clear message that Antigua and Barbuda remains fully open and welcoming to travelers,” said Fernandez.

Dean Fenton highlighted the strategic value of the retreat, noting that firsthand experiences empower advisors to sell the destination more authentically while identifying new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

During the visit, the group stayed at Blue Waters Resort & Spa and Hodges Bay Resort & Spa, participated in resort inspections, enjoyed curated dining experiences, sailed aboard the Excellence Catamaran, and explored St. John’s and Prickly Pear Island. The itinerary concluded with beachfront dining and cultural experiences showcasing the destination’s diverse hospitality offering.

In line with ABTA’s commitment to responsible tourism, Advisory Board members also took part in a community outreach initiative, including a beach clean-up at Jabberwock Beach and a donation of supplies to the Denis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre.

Insights and recommendations gathered during the retreat will help guide ABTA’s trade engagement and marketing strategies as Antigua and Barbuda looks ahead to sustained tourism growth in 2026 and beyond.