Archive for January, 2026

‘One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences’ Takes Center Stage at Travel & Adventure Show

WASHINGTON (Jan. 20, 2026) — Leveraging its 2026 regional theme, “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) underscored a growing shift toward authentic, personalized travel during a high-profile weekend at the 2026 Travel & Adventure Show.

Held Jan. 17–18 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the event served as a strategic platform for CTO to demonstrate how its unified regional vision translates into diverse, differentiated traveler experiences.

During her Sunday presentation, “Authentic Caribbean Experiences for Every Traveler,” CTO Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper told attendees that the Caribbean is a “mosaic” of unique destinations rather than a single, monolithic experience. She highlighted how destinations are increasingly curating tailored pathways for niche markets, including eco-adventure, wellness and culinary exploration.

The Sunday session followed a robust opening day on Saturday, when Regis-Prosper moderated the panel “Caribbean Luxury Reimagined.” The discussion explored the evolution of aspirational luxury and featured panelists Ricardo Henry, business development officer for the Jamaica Tourist Board, and Amy Cucina, regional sales and marketing manager with Norwegian Cruise Line.

The Saturday panel emphasized that modern luxury is deeply personal. Sharing a personal anecdote from her native St. Lucia, Regis-Prosper recalled a birthday surprise at a luxury resort where a simple request for a childhood dish resulted in an off-menu creation.

“For us in the Caribbean, luxury is taken to another level,” Regis-Prosper said, noting that meaningful moments and genuine connections define the premium experience.

Other key updates from the panel included:

• Jamaica’s progress: Henry highlighted the island’s diverse luxury offerings, ranging from five-star “shabby chic” to white-glove service, along with new hotel developments and the island’s first casino.

• Cruise innovation: Cucina spotlighted Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Haven” “ship-within-a-ship” luxury enclave and the upcoming 2027 launch of Norwegian Aura.

Throughout the show, the Secretary-General positioned the “One Caribbean” message as a reflection of the region’s competitive advantage in an increasingly complex global environment.

“When the Caribbean is experienced as a unified region, our collective potential becomes truly limitless,” she said. “As we step into 2026, we enter a new chapter defined by opportunity and by the bold, forward-looking choices we will make together.”

She reaffirmed the region’s commitment to safety and innovation: “The world continues to look to the Caribbean with renewed interest. Together, we will show what is possible.”

The Travel & Adventure Show series moves to New York this weekend at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

Posted in: 2026 News, Blog, Corporate News

Leave a Comment (0) →

CTO to Host Caribbean Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda

BARBADOS (January 12, 2026) — The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) will host the 2026 CTO Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, convening senior public and private sector stakeholders to address the future of Caribbean air connectivity.

The one-day summit, themed “Integrating Aviation and Regional Tourism Development,” aligns with CTO’s broader Reimagine Plan and follows extensive consultations with the organization’s Ministerial Council, Board of Directors and Airlift Committee.

Discussions will focus on improving air access, supporting sustainable route development and aligning aviation strategy with regional tourism growth. Participants will also explore new partnerships and identify practical solutions to shared airlift challenges facing the region.

cto air connectivity summit bermuda feb 24 2026

The Air Connectivity Summit will coincide with CTO’s Spring Business Meetings, scheduled for February 23, at The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club in Bermuda. The spring session will bring together CTO leadership, member countries, allied members and industry stakeholders for a series of business meetings, bilateral engagements and strategic discussions, providing a broader platform for collaboration and decision-making ahead of the dedicated Air Connectivity Summit.

Summit participants will include tourism ministers, directors of tourism, officials from ministries of transport and finance, airport executives, senior airline leaders and route planners, infrastructure developers, regulators, sustainability and innovation experts, regional and international trade associations, research firms, media, and local tourism stakeholders from Bermuda.

Program highlights include a keynote address examining the current state and future outlook for Caribbean aviation, the presentation of a CTO air connectivity study by ASM, panel discussions on international and intra-regional route development, a ministerial dialogue on Caribbean airlift strategy, and sessions exploring the link between aviation infrastructure and tourism development.

To register for the forum, email CTO’s Business Development and Marketing Manager, Taraneh Azimi (tazimi @ caribtourism.com).

Posted in: 2026 News, Blog

Leave a Comment (0) →

Caribbean Tourism Open for Business: CTO Reaffirms Regional Resilience and Operational Stability

CTO STATEMENT

BARBADOS (January 7, 2026) – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and our 25 member destinations have been closely monitoring geopolitical developments in Venezuela and addressing disruptions experienced by travelers due to the temporary closure of airspace this past weekend. The Caribbean has extensive experience managing external disruptions and has consistently demonstrated the resilience of its tourism industry. We are grateful to our airline partners for adding capacity to ensure travelers were able to continue with their plans, and to the accommodations sector for its flexibility in supporting affected guests, while safeguarding the region’s vital economic engine.

Cruise and air travel within the Caribbean remain operational, and advance bookings continue to be strong. CTO encourages travelers to proceed with their plans and assures partners and visitors that the Caribbean remains open for business and ready to welcome travelers.

Our 2026 theme, “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” invites travelers and partners to discover a unified region of boundless diversity. While we feature world-class resorts, boutique hotels and breathtaking eco-adventures, our heart remains our legendary hospitality — the warmth of our people that ensures every guest feels at home. From pristine beaches to vibrant heritage festivals and world-class cuisine, the region offers a seamless journey to explore, discover and connect within a safe and welcoming environment.

Posted in: 2026 News, Corporate News

Leave a Comment (0) →