ANTIGUA & BARBUDA – As the New Year quickly approaches, I’d like to take this time to rally the Region together as we embark upon a decade that’s sure to be filled with innovation and creativity. As a partner and stakeholder in Caribbean tourism, we hold the responsibility of sustaining the purity and beauty of our Region, while also growing the tourism sector to its full potential.
In 2010, topics such as the effects of climate change and sustainable tourism will increase in focus. The Caribbean will shine globally in this area. Soon we’ll announce the dates for the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s 2010 Sustainable Tourism Conference where we’ll discuss renewable energy strategies, devise new ideas to support Caribbean-wide sustainable tourism, and examine the delicate balance between competitive economic activity and reducing our Region’s carbon footprint. Yes, the global landscape has changed; and the Caribbean has an opportunity to contribute fresh, forward-thinking ideas while demonstrating leadership in the quest for a green economy.
We know that the coming year will not be without challenge; but let’s be thankful for the positive signs we’ve experienced in our tourism industry. We’re pleased to note the investment our airline and cruise line partners are making in the Caribbean. New air service is continually being introduced from select markets, and support for traditional routes is being maintained.
Caribbean ports continue to be attractive to the most popular cruise lines and to the thousands of passengers that sample our destinations on a now year-round basis. The hotel and villa sector continues to be the mainstay of our industry and although this winter season is yet young, we are happy to report that some of our properties recorded very encouraging occupancy levels over the holiday period. We are pleased too, to note the innovative strides being taken by the attractions, restaurants and visitor amenities in many of our destinations. Their excellence and our own efforts at enhancing quality standards, will contribute greatly to the overall vacation experience in the Caribbean.
As the global economy strives to make up for the losses of recent years, there has never been a more important time for the Caribbean to work closely together and with our partners. To be truly competitive we must pool our resources and use our combined strengths to our Region’s greatest advantage. The Caribbean Tourism Organization is committed to working with all of our destination partners to find new ways to enhance our value and aggressively market our Region as the world’s foremost warm-weather tourism destination.
From all of us at the CTO we wish you a blessed, healthy, and prosperous New Year and look forward to supporting and partnering with you in the year ahead.
John Maginley, MP
Chairman
Council of Ministers and Commissioners
Caribbean Tourism Organization
