How do you feel about participating in this exhibition, personally presenting your destination for the first time?
I'm very excited to be here; it's my first time in São Paulo and Brazil. It's wonderful to see everyone's interest and curiosity about the Caribbean and our destinations. I've been very pleased with the questions about our food and culture. It's been great to be able to educate people about what we offer.
In Antigua and Barbuda, we offer an exclusive experience. Although we are a busy island, we are not overcrowded. Our hotels offer privacy, and our beaches are not crowded. Antigua remains an authentic Caribbean destination.
We have high-end hotels like Jumby Bay Island, Galley Bay Resort & Spa, and Hermitage Bay. People are very interested in our diverse offerings.
It's also important to educate people about Barbuda, which is more eco-friendly and relaxed. There's Nobu, the only restaurant in the Caribbean, Robert De Niro's restaurant. There are also pink-sand beaches and the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, the largest in the Western Hemisphere.
What are your expectations and next steps in this region?
Continue penetrating the Latin American market. Brazil is huge, and if we can capture even a small percentage, it would be fantastic. We're learning about the local culture and interests to offer what they're looking for. Our numbers have increased year after year in this market, and we want to continue growing.
One of the biggest news items is that you'll be hosting the Caribbean Travel Marketplace. Can you share any details?
For the first time, we will host the CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua and Barbuda, from May 18-22, 2025. We want to showcase what makes our destination special. We expect between 1,200 and 1,500 people, including buyers, suppliers, and media.
We're also looking to attract more meetings, incentives, and conferences. This event will be key for us. It also coincides with our Gastronomic Month, which runs from May 1 to 31, offering a culinary immersion for visitors.
In your experience, what are the most beautiful places to visit in your destination?
It's hard to choose, but here are five:
English Harbour and Nelson's Dockyard, our UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Shirley Heights, with spectacular views, especially at sunset.
Barbuda, to visit the Frigate Bird Sanctuary and enjoy Nobu.
Swimming with rays, a unique experience that makes you feel like a mermaid.
Hiking in Pillars of Hercules or Mermaid Gardens, accessible routes with stunning views.
And, of course, relax on one of our beaches. My favorites are Dickenson Bay, for its atmosphere and restaurants; Pigeon Point, near English Harbour; and Rendezvous Bay, which is more private and accessible after a hike.
What final message would you like to share with Latin American travelers?
Antigua and Barbuda offers a unique combination of luxury, authenticity, and natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming more visitors from Latin America to discover all we have to offer.