ANATO Tourism Showcase: Curaçao reinforces its commitment to Colombia and the Southern Cone with more connectivity and new hotels

Within the framework of the ANATO Tourism Showcase, Travel2latam visited the Curaçao Tourism Office stand, where they spoke with Wilma Gonzalez, Commercial and Events Coordinator; Gerardo Fajardo, Business Development Strategy Leader LATAM; and Iris Carrasco, coordinator for the Southern Cone, about the destination's expectations for 2026, its new developments and the evolution of regional connectivity.

What are your expectations for this edition of ANATO?

—We are at Colombia's most important tourism showcase, representing the destination alongside 22 partners and with a strategically located stand. This year, the fair projects an increase of nearly 12% in attendance compared to 2025, making it an opportunity with enormous potential to further position the brand and give the destination greater exposure.

Who accompanied them at the stand and how was it organized?

—This year we have 22 brands, two more than last year. If we'd had more space, there could have been even more. Organizing the event is a huge undertaking that we carry out in conjunction with our office in Colombia. It's a demanding process to coordinate the participation of all the partners, but we're fully prepared to welcome visitors.

What new developments does Curaçao offer in terms of hotels and products?

—In 2026, two new properties will open: a Marriott International hotel and a TUI Blue. The destination is experiencing very dynamic growth, not only in accommodation but also in attractions and tour offerings. The diversification of experiences is constantly increasing.

What are the strategic objectives for this year, especially in the Colombian market?

—By 2026, we project at least 6% growth in Colombia, with a strategy focused on the traveler experience. We are working hard on product development and increasing the visibility of sustainability initiatives. We aim to consolidate the nature segment and advance responsible growth, preserving the island's natural wealth.

What place does the MICE segment occupy within that strategy?

—This year we want to strengthen our MICE segment. In the last two years we've received several groups from Colombia, but we're prepared to attract many more. We'll be working more closely with tour operators, specialized agencies, and companies, in coordination with our local office.

Connectivity has been key to growth. What is the current landscape?

—From Latin America, we have 14 weekly Avianca flights from Bogotá. Wingo also operates year-round flights from Medellín and seasonal flights from Bogotá.

LATAM Airlines recently joined the network with three weekly flights on the Bogotá–Curaçao route. In addition, we have Copa Airlines operations via Panama, which facilitates connections from the southern part of the continent.

From Argentina, for example, connectivity via Bogotá allows links to Buenos Aires and Córdoba, which has significantly boosted the flow from the Southern Cone.

What goals do you have for Argentina and other southern markets?

—Argentina has established itself as the main market in the Southern Cone. In 2025 we received 22,900 Argentine passengers, and by 2026 we are aiming for 29,000.

Regarding Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile, we project a minimum growth of 6%. In total, we estimate exceeding 40,000 passengers from the Southern Cone this year.

We also expect an increase from Peru, with a target of 8,500 visitors, driven by regional connectivity.

How is the destination preparing to sustain this growth and ensure a good experience?

—It's a joint effort between the tourism office, the government, and the private sector. We're developing tourism products focused on beaches, nightlife, gastronomy, and new attractions. In addition, tour operators and hoteliers are working together to ensure a positive visitor experience from the moment they arrive.

The cruise segment is also expanding. What role does it play?

"It's essential. Many people discover a destination through a cruise and then return to stay for several days. That's why it's crucial that the passenger experience upon arrival by ship is excellent. This year we expect the arrival of more ships, which will continue to boost that return effect."

Beyond sun and sand, what events stand out on the annual calendar?

—We have a very busy schedule. We celebrate Carnival in February and will have events like Oceanman, Soul Beach—which will be held on the island this year—and the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival. We try to offer activities that encourage longer stays practically every month.

How did the length of stay and spending of Colombian visitors evolve?

—Before, the average stay was four nights; now it's over five. We've also observed higher spending per passenger. That's very positive because it shows that visitors are exploring more of the island, leaving the hotel, and experiencing different things.

If you had to recommend one unmissable experience, what would it be?

—We encourage renting a car for at least two or three days to explore the island. Curaçao isn't exclusively an all-inclusive destination; it has a huge diversity of beaches, historic neighborhoods, culture, and cuisine that are worth discovering.

What dishes are a must-try?

One of the most traditional dishes is keshi yena, a cheese stuffed with spiced meat. Stews and soups are also very typical, including iguana soup. The cuisine is very diverse thanks to the coexistence of more than 55 nationalities on the island.

What makes Curaçao special from a cultural point of view?

—It's a multicultural and multilingual destination. Papiamento, Dutch, English, and Spanish are spoken natively, in addition to other languages. This cultural mix is ​​reflected in the gastronomy, events, and daily life.

How would you describe the experience of arriving at your destination?

—The airport is efficient and user-friendly. Even during peak times, the process is usually smooth. Visitors can easily find transportation options: car rentals, taxis, or organized transfers. Everything is designed to make arrival simple and pleasant.