Saint Lucia has received another important recognition on the international tourism scene after being named the No. 1 island on Expedia’s 2026 Hot List, highlighting the destination’s growing appeal among international travellers.

The award was presented during the closing gala of the Saint Lucia Showcase International, hosted at Royalton Saint Lucia, and accepted on behalf of the country by Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire.

The recognition was presented by Nuno Sales da Ponte, Expedia Group’s Director of Market Management for the Caribbean and Central America, and Miguelina Cespedes, Senior Business Development Manager for the Caribbean.

The award came as Saint Lucia hosted the first edition of its international tourism showcase, an event that brought together more than 100 tourism professionals, buyers, industry partners and media representatives from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Held under the theme “Welcome to Our World… Welcome to Our Communities,” the Showcase offered international partners an opportunity to experience Saint Lucia beyond its traditional tourism attractions.

The programme placed particular emphasis on the country’s communities, culture, cuisine, natural environment and locally led experiences, reflecting the destination’s strategy of expanding the visitor experience beyond beaches and resorts.

During the opening ceremony, Louis Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, highlighted the importance of creating concrete business opportunities between the destination and its international tourism partners.

The Showcase also demonstrated the growing range of community-based experiences available to visitors, including activities connected to local culture, agriculture, gastronomy, crafts, nature and adventure.

Among the experiences contributing to this broader tourism offer is Below Saint Lucia, an underwater sculpture park that provides another way for visitors to explore the island’s marine environment while adding a distinctive attraction to the destination’s portfolio.

Accepting the Expedia recognition, Ernest Hilaire said the timing of the presentation made the award particularly meaningful because it took place in front of international tourism partners and media representatives who had travelled to Saint Lucia to experience the destination, its people and its hospitality.

The Expedia recognition adds further international visibility to Saint Lucia as the destination continues to strengthen its presence across established and emerging markets.

The combination of natural attractions, cultural experiences, community tourism and new products is becoming an increasingly important part of Saint Lucia’s international tourism proposition, supporting the island’s efforts to connect travellers with a broader and more authentic experience of the destination.