Caribbean tourism stakeholders are abuzz on the announcement by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) that its bedrock Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM), which brings together buyers and sellers of the region’s tourism products, can be hosted by Puerto Rico between October 3 and 5 this yr.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a major pent-up desire for fellowship with regional colleagues and business connections from North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and elsewhere,” said Nicola Madden-Greig, President of CHTA.
“Over the past two years, there have been quite a few changes across our destinations, which have added new services. Many hotels and attractions have undergone major renovations so this can be the time to search out out in great detail all that the Caribbean now has to supply in a single sitting. The necessity to cement current partnerships and create new ones is critical,” she said.
Making the announcement on Monday, Madden-Greig saluted the team at Discover Puerto Rico for taking the daring step to partner with CHTA this yr and deliver “probably the most diverse, exciting and meaningful Caribbean Travel Marketplace that can set the stage for the re-imagining of Caribbean tourism.” “We’re honoured to be chosen because the host destination for Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2022 and excited to welcome its members alongside suppliers, buyers and travel advisors from all over the world,” said Brad Dean, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase all that our island has to supply, as we glance to an exciting future for our industry, including probably the most technologically advanced convention center within the Caribbean, the groundbreaking Distrito T-Mobile entertainment complex and the vibrancy of our culture paired alongside the magical natural wonders only found here,” said Dean.
An added incentive for participation is the proven fact that CHTA, which represents Caribbean tourism’s private sector interests, can be marking its sixtieth anniversary, which Madden-Greig expects will make it considered one of the association’s most memorable in-person gatherings.
“Marketplace will provide traditional and new buyers – from across all segments and representing varied specialties – with a definite opportunity to explore the big selection of offerings of CHTA’s 33 member destinations as they connect with quite a few Caribbean travel suppliers,” stated Vanessa Ledesma, acting CEO and Director General of CHTA.
“There’s also the added allure of Puerto Rico as host.
The territory, like much of the remainder of the region, has truly reinvigorated its product and lots of buyers from all over the world will want to come back and see for themselves the hotel and resort upgrades, the big selection of meeting facilities, the colourful culinary and entertainment scene in addition to exceptional attractions,” said Ledesma. Caribbean Travel Marketplace 40 will construct on last yr’s virtual edition, which enabled the trade association to generate strong global awareness in regards to the region.
CHTA believes the region is well-poised to experience a sustained robust recovery from the pandemic.
While 2022 bookings have been encouraging so far, maintaining and growing business into 2023 and beyond would require exertions and robust partnerships – the likes of which can be forged during CTM – a significant catalyst for growing Caribbean tourism. Registration details for Caribbean Travel Marketplace can be available soon.
(PR)
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