Sandals Grande Antigua Resort has welcomed newly selected members of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) Travel Advisory Board with a bang. The trade partners spent five days in Antigua, familiarizing themselves with the newest destination updates, and brainstorming.
These travel trade professionals within the United States will sit on the ABTA board for the period September 2022 to September 2023 as the Authority seeks to increase arrivals from the US market.
“I feel privileged and honoured to be in your company this evening because I know of your commitment – and your mission – to help our tourism product grow,” said Minister of Tourism for Antigua and Barbuda, Charles Fernandez.
He thanked the group for their unwavering support, particularly within recent years, and for their partnership.
“We benefit from your knowledge and expertise, so I would also like to congratulate those of you who have had careers spanning more than 30 years in the travel industry and who are proud owners and managers in in your respective field,” said the tourism minister.
US Director of Tourism Dean Fenton spoke of the value of the event hosted by Sandals.
“The last few days have been very productive. The group has been engaged in strategic think tank sessions, producing big ideas that will help Antigua and Barbuda stand-out and drive more business to the destination from the US,” he said.
The board members, owners of travel businesses within the mid-west, southeast, east coast, and west coast of the USA have been selected because of their strong relationship with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s US Office, the passion they have for the destination, and the important role they play in the travel industry.
The 2022/2023 Board members are:
Brenda O’Neale – With This Ring Destination Weddings and Honeymoons
Debra Brown – SmartBird World Travel
Susan Berman – Berman Travel
Terry Strauss – Dedham Travel
Niki Rakowitz – Care Travel
Edouard Jean – Massive Travels
Tom Varghese – Travel Tom and
Donna Borrelli – Hamden Travel.
Chair of the Advisory Board, Brenda O’Neale highlighted the vital role that the board plays.
“The real purpose and mission of the Board is to create true value for the destination while we look forward, not backward, and present ideas that will allow the advanced uniqueness of Antigua and Barbuda to shine through. I am especially proud to be a part of a team that cares deeply about Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism and the travel industry at large,” she said.
Meeting venue host, Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa, offers extraordinary Antigua all–inclusive holidays in one on the country’s best and most famous beaches, Dickenson Bay. Cooling trade winds soothe the soul as guests immerse themselves in a seaside garden oasis graced by majestic palms at the authentic Caribbean Grove. Guests are surrounded by chic sophistication where European grandeur unfolds from the hillside to villas-by-the-sea at the all-suite Mediterranean Oceanview Village.
