Representatives of the Antigua and Barbuda US tourism team, joined over 300 exhibitors to promote the destination at the annual New York Times Travel Show which was held at the Jacob Javitz Convention Centre on 26-28 Feb.
The country’s tourism product was rolled out with flair, showcasing accommodations, land, cruise, yachting and adventure attractions. The US team also incorporated a sampling of authentic food, rum, culture and music of the twin island destination.
Renowned Antiguan Chef Murphy hosted a rum-tasting which featured Antigua and Barbuda’s English Harbour Rum. Long lines of travel enthusiasts stopped by to sample rum punches, and other mixed drinks.
Many show attendees who came in search of special offers to plan their vacation getaways complimented the US team on the vibrant colour, steel pan music and island flavours which were effective in portraying the spirit of Antigua and Barbuda.
“Antigua and Barbuda’s presence in the Caribbean Pavilion could not be missed. By incorporating our food, music and culture into our display, we were able establish a strong identity as a desirable, premier Caribbean destination” Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Tourism for the USA, Derede Samuel Whitlock said.
Tourism Minister, John Maginley, who was in New York for a series of business meetings had the opportunity to attend the New York Times Travel Show. Maginley indicated that Antigua and Barbuda was favourably received by consumers, travel agents and the media.
“We are very encouraged by the steady growth that we continue to see coming out of the tri-state area and our goal is to develop an even more aggressive marketing programme to ensure continuous growth of this lucrative market which still has so much untapped potential.
“The tri-state area is still the destination’s largest source market in the United States and is well served by non-stop service on Delta and Continental Airlines.” Minister Maginley said.
He added that discussions with several airline partners are ongoing and that there are several prospects for increased air lift from the North East in 2011.
The three-day travel show attracted more than 20,000 consumers, travel professionals and media.
The destination was joined by representatives from Jolly Beach, Elite Island Resorts, Blue Waters, Sugar Ridge and Carlisle Bay.
