Archive for Caribbean Week

Caribbean Week in New York Comeback a Success

NEW YORK (June 13, 2023) – Kenneth Bryan, Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), described the first post-pandemic Caribbean Week in New York as a success as public and private sector leaders and stakeholders addressed priority issues impacting the region during various meetings and activities.

The week’s events in New York comprised business meetings; an informative tourism marketing forum, during which speakers examined current travel trends and future projections for the region’s main economic driver; and a bustling Media Marketplace, where officials shared travel and tourism updates with the members of the working press.

Speaking at a press conference on the final day of Caribbean Week, Chairman Bryan, who also serves as the Minister of Tourism and Ports for the Cayman Islands, stated that the CTO was committed to continuing the development of research, knowledge, and information. This approach is intended to guide its members on “how best to be effective in the tourism industry, but also to help us market what we do as a region.”

A critical issue discussed during the ministerial meetings was the persistent problem of sargassum washing up on the region’s beaches, damaging foreshores and negatively impacting tourism. Suggesting the phenomenon was caused by global warming, Bryan stated that the CTO was endeavoring to identify strategies to manage the onslaught of the malodorous seaweed, such as implementing preventative measures or collecting the sargassum for positive uses.

Air connectivity was a significant point of discussion for the assembled tourism directors, ministers, and commissioners of tourism. Bryan acknowledged the challenges destinations are facing due to the high costs associated with airline operations, saying “There’s no easy solution.” In addition to dialogue with the World Bank, CARICOM and the Caribbean Development Bank, studies are underway to explore solutions for financing increased connectivity in the short- and medium-term.

Chairman Bryan revealed that destinations with their own airlines, such as the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas, “are trying to work on ways of helping our brothers and sisters with connectivity.”

During the meeting, the CTO officially welcomed Bermuda back as its 25th member. Chairman Bryan expressed his ambition to increase the membership to 30. The CTO recently celebrated the U.S. Virgin Islands’ return to its fold.

Discussing the organization’s financial condition, Bryan reported improvement as member countries and territories continued to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis. Many destinations, he noted, were performing better than they were in 2019 with average daily rates “through the roof”. “So our finances are back (on stream),” he said, enabling the organization to restructure and adapt its marketing strategies to the evolving landscape.

“Marketing today is totally different than it was even five years ago,” Bryan asserted, citing strategies such as leveraging influencer marketing and using artificial intelligence to maximize arrivals and revenue.

Bryan disclosed that the CTO is also exploring ways to augment revenue through data sharing and data research. Furthermore, progress has been made in identifying a candidate to fill the position of Secretary General and the Chairman said he anticipates an announcement in the near future.

During the week, some member countries hosted independent events and gatherings with strategic partners, travel trade stakeholders and members of their diasporas, leveraging their presence in The Big Apple to strengthen those critical relationships.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), headquartered in Barbados, is the Caribbean’s tourism development agency, comprising membership of the region’s finest countries and territories, including Dutch-, English- and French-speaking, as well as a range of private sector allied members. The CTO’s vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year-round, warm-weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism – One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members, the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution, and research & information technology.

The CTO’s headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: CTObarbados@caribtourism.com.

For more information about the Caribbean Tourism Organization, visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on FacebookTwitterLinkedIn and Instagram to be part of the conversation.

Posted in: 2023 News, Blog, Caribbean Week, Corporate News

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CTO, CBU Forge Partnership to Showcase Caribbean Week in New York

NEW YORK (May 29, 2023) – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) have announced a joint partnership, which will have as its first action amplification of the coverage of the highly anticipated Caribbean Week in New York, scheduled to take place from June 5 to 8, 2023.

This strategic collaboration between the CTO and CBU aims to create a platform for showcasing the latest developments and trends in the Caribbean’s vital tourism industry, reaching regional and international audiences through content sharing and distribution.

Under the agreement, the collaborative will leverage CBU’s extensive media broadcast and digital network spanning 20 countries to disseminate tourism updates and interviews with key stakeholders, including ministers, commissioners, directors of tourism, and other participants during the week’s activities.

“By providing insights into the initiatives led by Caribbean tourism leaders, this partnership will offer viewers within and beyond the region a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing efforts to revive and strengthen the Caribbean’s tourism industry,” said Neil Walters, Acting Secretary General of the CTO.

Dr. Claire Grant, President of the CBU, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership allows us to showcase the rich diversity and allure of the Caribbean to our vast audiences. We are thrilled to work alongside the CTO to promote the region’s tourism industry and foster engagement with the media.”

Caribbean Week in New York, organized under the auspices of the CTO Foundation, will be an exceptional occasion to highlight the vibrant Caribbean culture, encourage networking within the tourism industry, and promote thought leadership. The event will feature a dynamic lineup of events and business meetings, including sessions with the CTO Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Council of Ministers and Commissioners. These discussions will center around critical issues shaping the direction and growth of Caribbean tourism, facilitating robust and strategic dialogue.

Throughout the week, attendees can look forward to a Welcome Cocktail Reception hosted by CTO Allied Members, and a Tourism Industry Marketing Conference to explore the latest trends in destination growth.

The CTO will also host a press breakfast and the popular Media Marketplace, enabling Caribbean countries to engage with close to 50 trade, consumer, and diaspora media.

Funds raised during the week will contribute to scholarships and grants for Caribbean students in the region and the diaspora.

More than 20 CTO member countries and territories will be in attendance, demonstrating their collective commitment to rebuilding the region’s largest source market.

For more information about Caribbean Week in New York, please visit caribbeanweek.com

About the Caribbean Broadcasting Union

The Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) is a not-for-profit association of public service and commercial broadcasters in the Caribbean, reaching over 4.8 million people in the region. As a regional institution, it facilitates discussion and analysis that assist in policy formulation on major integration issues. For more information, visit www.caribroadcastunion.org.

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Henry Harteveldt to Deliver Keynote Address at Caribbean Week, New York

NEW YORK (May 19, 2023) – Renowned travel industry analyst Henry Harteveldt will keynote the highly anticipated Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Tourism Industry Marketing Conference, scheduled to take place during Caribbean Week in New York from June 5-8, 2023.

Harteveldt, a widely respected travel industry analyst and founder of Atmosphere Research Group, an independent and unbiased travel industry strategic research and advisory firm, will keynote the conference on “A Changed Traveler; A Changed Airline Industry: Understanding Both”. With his extensive knowledge and expertise, Harteveldt will provide valuable insights into the shifting landscape of traveler behaviors and the evolving airline industry.

The theme of the marketing conference, to be held on Wednesday, June 7 at the Martinique New York on Broadway in midtown Manhattan, is “Tourism Industry Resurgence in a Whole New World”.

From capitalizing on changing dynamics and building awareness in new markets, this conference, held under the auspices of the CTO Foundation, offers valuable insights into current industry trends with discussions covering destination performance, leading strategies, the impact of artificial intelligence, and Caribbean tourism success stories.

Following the keynote, a panel discussion will examine “Capitalizing on the Changing Dynamics of Today’s Traveler”, and will emphasize the importance of an integrated approach that aligns marketing, product development, and technology to enhance the visitor experience. Panelists include moderator Susan Black, CEO of Susan Black Associates LLC; Danny Cohanpour, CEO of Trove Tourism Development Advisors; and Sindy Diab, Vice President of Travel Performance Data at MMGY.

The panel discussion entitled “Building Awareness and Driving Growth in New Markets” will explore the opportunities presented by market expansion and diversification in the Caribbean. Sarah Glover, Vice President of News & Civic Dialogue at WHYY News; Dawit Habtemarian, Global Tourism Reporter at Skift; and Henry Zamarripa, Latin America and Emerging Markets Executive, will shed light on attracting visitors from the Gulf states, Latin America, and the African American market. Melissa Noel, an award-winning, New York-based Caribbean-American reporter and media entrepreneur, will moderate the session.

The final panel on “The Winning Formula: Success Stories from the Caribbean” will highlight the remarkable post-pandemic recovery of the Caribbean tourism industry. Tourism ministers who will drive the discussion include CTO Chairman Kenneth Bryan, Minister of Tourism and Ports for the Cayman Islands; St. Lucia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Ernest Hilaire; Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism of the United States Virgin Islands; Ruisandro Cijntje, Minister of Economic Development of Curaçao; and Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism of the Turks & Caicos Islands. John Peters, Founder of Strategic Partnership Advisors, will moderate this panel discussion.

Peters will also deliver a feature address, providing an insightful exploration of post-pandemic travel trends, with a focus on the potential impact of artificial intelligence on future trends.

Caribbean Week’s Tourism Industry Marketing Conference promises to be a pivotal event for industry professionals seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of travel and tourism.

Funds raised during Caribbean Week will go towards scholarships and grants for Caribbean students in the region and the diaspora.

Caribbean Week in New York sponsors include Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation; Cayman Islands Department of Tourism; interCaribbean Airways; Jamaica Tourist Board; Tobago Tourism Agency Limited; and United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.

2023 partners include the Caribbean Broadcasting Union, MMGY, Strategic Partnership Advisors, Susan Black Associates LLC, and Trove Tourism Development Advisors.

For more information about Caribbean Week 2023, please visit caribbeanweek.com.

 

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Caribbean Week Returns to New York City in June

NEW YORK, NY (March 28, 2023) — The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced the highly anticipated return of Caribbean Week in New York, scheduled for June 5-8, 2023, in “The Big Apple”.

The event, being held under the auspices of the CTO Foundation, aims to showcase the vibrant Caribbean culture, foster engagement with the media, promote thought leadership, and encourage networking within the tourism industry.

Neil Walters, Acting Secretary General of the CTO noted, “We are thrilled to be able to bring back this important event that highlights the dynamism of the Caribbean and our strong connection to the Northeastern USA, which is one of our primary source markets.”

Walters explained that Caribbean Week’s hiatus over the last few years was due to the pandemic. Travel restrictions implemented globally presented not only resource challenges but also general uncertainty regarding the recovery of travel. As a result, the ability to resume activities in the marketplace was impacted.

Caribbean Week 2023 is set to showcase a dynamic lineup of events and business meetings, including those involving the CTO Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Council of Ministers and Commissioners. These discussions will focus on the critical issues that are shaping the direction and growth of Caribbean tourism, providing an opportunity for robust and strategic dialogue.

A Welcome Cocktail Reception hosted by CTO Allied Members is scheduled during the week, and attendees can also look forward to a Tourism Industry Marketing Conference aimed at exploring trends in destination growth.

The CTO will stage a press breakfast, along with the popular Media Marketplace, which will provide a platform for Caribbean countries to engage with trade, consumer and diaspora media.

Funds raised during Caribbean Week will go towards scholarships and grants for Caribbean students in the region and the diaspora.

For more information about Caribbean Week 2023, visit caribbeanweek.com.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), which is headquartered in Barbados, is the Caribbean’s tourism development agency comprising membership of the region’s finest countries and territories, including Dutch-, English-, French- and Spanish-speaking, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO’s vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year-round, warm-weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism – One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean. Among the benefits to its members, the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution, and research & information technology.

The CTO’s Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; E-mail: CTObarbados@caribtourism.com.

For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn to be part of the conversation.

Posted in: 2023 News, Blog, Caribbean Week, Corporate News

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Brenda Blackmon to Receive CTO’s ‘Distinguished Friend of the Caribbean’ Award

NEW YORK, NY (15 May 2019) – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) will present its “Distinguished Friend of the Caribbean” award to Brenda Blackmon, current anchor at WPIX11 in New York, for her passion for the Caribbean as well as her untiring dedication in supporting CTO with numerous key events.

Always ready to assist, Blackmon has played an integral role in the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados, the Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development, important keynote speaker at countless functions on the Caribbean and host of the elegant CTO Governments of the Caribbean State Ball on multiple occasions.

Blackmon will be honoured during the Caribbean Tourism Industry Awards gala which recognises excellence in promoting the Caribbean and honours individuals whose outstanding, passionate and dedicated work has contributed to the development and success of the region. The esteemed awards dinner takes place on Thursday, 6 June from 7 – 10 p.m. at the Wyndham New Yorker (481 Eighth Avenue) during Caribbean Week New York (#CWNY2019), when the Big Apple is captivated with Caribbean flair, pulsating energy and colourful sounds.

“I just want to be a friend you can continue to count on. One Caribbean – the places of my fondest memories,” said Blackmon. “I am so grateful for being presented with the ‘Distinguished Friend of the Caribbean’ award by the CTO.”

Blackmon, a five-time Emmy award-winning journalist, has been nominated for 16 additional Emmys and more than a dozen Associated Press awards. She was a longtime anchor for New York City’s WWOR-9 and is the recipient of two Edward R. Murrow awards for broadcast excellence. Founder of the Kelly Fund for Lupus, Inc, she authored two books that help raise funds and educate about lupus and serves on the national board of directors of Lupus Research Alliance. A staunch supporter of education, she is an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University and serves on the board of directors.

“I am pleased that the Caribbean Tourism Organization has chosen to recognise Brenda for her devotion and affection toward the region,” said Sylma Brown, Director, CTO-USA. “Whenever CTO needs a helping hand, Brenda readily and quickly commits her time and talent. She truly embodies the spirit of the Caribbean.”

In addition to the “Distinguished Friend of the Caribbean” award, CTO will present the Caribbean Travel Media Awards, the CTO Allied awards comprising of the “Jerry,” the Allied and a Special Recognition Award, the Distinguished Caribbean Citizen award, among others, as well as the Jamaica-sponsored Marcia Vickery-Wallace and Marcella Martinez memorial awards.

Tickets for the dinner can be purchased online only via https://www.caribbeanweek.com/events/caribbean-tourism-industry-awards-dinner/.

About Caribbean Week New York:

Caribbean Week New York is the largest regional tourism activity in the New York area. Artistes, performers, celebrity chefs, the Diaspora, investors and other strategic partners join government officials and the media for a week of festivities designed to raise awareness of the Caribbean’s diverse tourism industry and provide opportunities for member destinations to promote their individual products and services, participate in meetings, seminars and other business development activities to further enhance the Caribbean brand, and provide updates and critical support to travel agents and the media who influence key travel demographics.

Caribbean Week is supported by: Academy Engraving, American Express, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Bedessee Sports, The British Virgin Islands, Bloomingdale’s, Blue Waters, Calabash Cove Resort & Spa, Cayman Islands, Cititech Solutions, Coyaba Beach Resort, Cool Tech Air Conditioning and Refrigeration LLC, Delta Airlines, Dominica, Doctor’s Cave, Four Season Resort Nevis, Grenada, Jamaica, James Beard Foundation, JetBlue, Lightspeed Reservation system, Martinique, Ocean Terrace Inn, Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Sandals, St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Saint Lucia, The Wyndham New Yorker Hotel, Travel+Leisure, Williams-Sonoma.

To participate in, or sponsor any Caribbean Week New York event, visit www.caribbeanweek.com; email Caribbeanweek@caribbeanweek.com or call (212) 636-9350.

CTO members receive special concessions when they participate in Caribbean Week New York. To find out more about membership visit http://bit.ly/alliedmembers or email membership@caribtourism.com.

Posted in: 2019 News, Blog, Caribbean Week, Destination News

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