Antigua and Barbuda is about to take center stage. The twin-island paradise has been selected to host the Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025, and this isn’t just another industry event—it’s a defining moment. As Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host the Caribbean’s most important tourism gathering, it’s also making waves as the epicenter of Caribbean tourism growth and innovation.

For years, Antigua and Barbuda quietly built its reputation with stunning beaches, welcoming hospitality, and steady infrastructure growth. But now, with the eyes of the world on the Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025, it’s stepping boldly into the spotlight. And what’s unfolding is a transformation like no other—a small island nation rapidly reshaping its tourism future.

Meanwhile, the region watches. Because Antigua and Barbuda is proving that size doesn’t limit ambition. By choosing to host this game-changing event, it reinforces its status as the new heartbeat of Caribbean tourism.

From community-led initiatives to digital marketing breakthroughs, innovation pulses through every corner of Antigua and Barbuda’s evolving tourism strategy. The Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025 won’t just be about business—it will be about inspiration.

You’ll feel the shift in the energy, the purpose, and the progress. And for anyone in the travel world, this is the one event—and the one destination—you shouldn’t miss.

Antigua and Barbuda is not just hosting. It’s leading. It’s not just growing. It’s redefining what tourism can be in the Caribbean. This is your front-row seat to watch a small island nation rise to power.

Antigua and Barbuda has just scored one of the biggest wins in Caribbean tourism. The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has officially selected this twin-island nation to host the 2025 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, cementing its status as a premier destination for global buyers and suppliers.

From May 18–22, 2025, this high-stakes event will bring together decision-makers, travel influencers, and tourism stakeholders from across the world. And it’s all happening in a nation already riding the wave of a tourism explosion.

This isn’t just another trade show. It’s a turning point. A signal that Antigua and Barbuda is no longer a hidden gem—it’s now a regional force shaping the future of Caribbean hospitality.

Why Antigua and Barbuda?

There’s a reason the CHTA made this choice.

Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing a tourism boom unlike anything in its recent history. In 2023 alone, the island welcomed over **930,000 visitors** , a 43% surge from the previous year. That momentum hasn’t slowed. Beaches, culture, cuisine, and curated experiences are drawing tourists—and now, industry power players are taking serious notice.

Its infrastructure is rising to meet demand. The American University of Antigua (AUA), a world-class venue, will serve as the main host site—just months after it successfully held the United Nations 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States.

This isn’t just a location. It’s a message: Antigua and Barbuda is ready for the global stage.

What to Expect at Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025

The program for this landmark event is designed not just to inspire, but to transform.

It kicks off with **Responsible Tourism Day** on May 15, shining a light on sustainability. Attendees will engage with local communities and explore eco-conscious tourism models that balance profit with protection of the environment.

Then, on May 19, the **Caribbean Travel Forum** brings together public and private sectors to address challenges, share solutions, and recognize excellence through awards.

The **Selling Floor** , open on May 20 and 21, becomes a hive of activity where buyers and sellers lock in deals. It’s business at its best—face-to-face connections that drive real growth.

But that’s not all.

On May 22, a **brand-new program component** debuts. It’s designed to introduce cutting-edge strategies—like digital marketing and Artificial Intelligence—to help Caribbean hotels drive direct bookings in a hyper-competitive online market.

This Marketplace will be bigger, bolder, and more forward-looking than ever before.

What It Means for the Caribbean

This isn’t just a win for Antigua and Barbuda. It’s a milestone for the Caribbean.

By selecting a smaller but fast-growing tourism hub, the CHTA is sending a clear signal: agility, innovation, and sustainability matter more than size.

Antigua and Barbuda’s rise reflects a larger shift across the region. Destinations that embrace digital transformation, invest in local communities, and create seamless guest experiences are pulling ahead.

Meanwhile, the inclusion of dedicated forums on MICE tourism, AI adoption, and sustainable travel marks a decisive turn in how the region positions itself for the future.

Hotels, Airlines, and Travel Brands Are Watching Closely

Local resorts and global hotel chains have already started upgrading facilities in anticipation of the event. Properties like **Blue Waters Resort** , **Hammock Cove** , and **Sandals Grande Antigua** are preparing to host executives, buyers, and media representatives from across the globe.

Airline routes are expected to surge as well. Carriers like **American Airlines** , **JetBlue** , and **WestJet** are watching the increase in demand and adjusting schedules to boost accessibility to **V.C. Bird International Airport**.

Meanwhile, regional tourism boards are likely to draw inspiration from Antigua and Barbuda’s aggressive, but balanced, approach to sustainable tourism and market expansion.

Dining and Cultural Powerhouses Add to the Appeal

The culinary scene will also be a massive draw. Delegates will find themselves sampling fresh seafood at **Papa Zouk** , enjoying ocean views at **Sheer Rocks** , or experiencing fine dining at **Nobu Barbuda**.

Local culture, festivals, and heritage sites like **Nelson’s Dockyard** and **Shirley Heights** will enrich the Marketplace experience and leave lasting impressions on global delegates.

Antigua and Barbuda isn’t just selling hotel rooms—it’s selling stories, experiences, and emotional connections.

What Travelers Need to Know

If you’re planning to visit during the Marketplace or shortly after, book early.

This event will push demand through the roof—not just for hotels and flights, but for restaurants, excursions, and transportation services. Expect peak season conditions and limited availability across major hospitality providers.

Also, with the focus on **responsible tourism** , travelers can expect more eco-friendly options, local-led experiences, and a deeper emphasis on authenticity.

It’s the ideal time to explore Antigua and Barbuda—not just as a vacation spot, but as a case study in how tourism can work for people, profit, and the planet.

Looking Ahead: Antigua and Barbuda’s Long-Term Impact

The Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025 will not be a one-off win.

It sets the stage for long-term partnerships, infrastructure investments, and international visibility. Antigua and Barbuda is positioning itself as a model for the region—balancing heritage with hospitality, and sustainability with strategy.

As travel becomes more values-driven, destinations that lead with intention will win. Antigua and Barbuda is proving that.

The countdown has begun. And when May 2025 arrives, all eyes in the global travel world will turn to this rising Caribbean powerhouse.