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Antigua and Barbuda Launches “Your Space in the Sun”

June 23, 2020 by PressEditor

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority is staking its claim on owning the travel space with the launch of their new ‘Your Space in the Sun’ campaign today, Tuesday, June 23, 2020. The new campaign positions Antigua and Barbuda as the perfect location for travel in the new normal created in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ‘Your Space in the Sun’ campaign is designed to specifically speak to the new desires and needs of travelers and gives people something to dream about when they are ready to book their first holiday. The concept speaks to people’s newfound desire of space and freedom to move and explore after many have been trapped indoors, with little space to themselves, with restricted access to the outside world. The campaign shows Antigua and Barbuda has the perfect antidote of space. The campaign invites people to broaden their horizons and enjoy all the space they need: space to move, space to think, space to be you.

“All indications are that travelers’ expectations have fundamentally changed, and destinations must adapt and address these concerns in order to attract business now that travel is resuming and consumer confidence is being restored,” stated the Hon. Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism & Investment. “One of the most profound differences centers on physical distancing. The concept of personal space has been amplified, and the aversion to mass gatherings and crowded spaces is likely to remain for the foreseeable future.”

The new campaign acknowledges and owns this reality and presents Antigua and Barbuda as the destination where space – in all its forms and in every context — is essentially what is on offer.”

After months of confinement, travelers seeking a well-deserved respite will find no better place than Antigua and Barbuda,” stated Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. “With 365 beaches, an expanse of blue sea, secluded harbours, boutique properties, private villas and one-of-a-kind attractions, Antigua and Barbuda is the perfect place to escape, broaden your horizons and enjoy all the space you need. Highlighting our bountiful space will inspire people to confidently and safely explore the wonder and beauty of our destination.”

The campaign will utilize a blend of professional as well as user generated content, featuring a series of iconic locations with an open invitation to find “Your Space in the Sun” in Antigua and Barbuda. Each execution will highlight an experience which reflects one of the destination’s pillars — romance, wellness, heritage and yachting — inspiring travelers to see themselves in Antigua and Barbuda.

The campaign launches on June 23, 2020 and will continue to roll out over the coming months on a variety of platforms.

For more information on travel to Antigua and Barbuda go to: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

ABOUT ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Voted the World Travel Awards 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination, the twinisland paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating excursions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches – one for every day of the year. The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua comprises 108-square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Antigua’s tourism events calendar includes the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, and the annual Antigua Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Barbuda, Antigua’s smaller sister island, is the ultimate celebrity hideaway. The island lies 27 miles north-east of Antigua and is just a 15-minute plane ride away. Barbuda is known for its untouched 17 mile stretch of pink sand beach and as the home of the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere. Find information on Antigua & Barbuda at: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow us on Twitter. http://twitter.com/antiguabarbuda Facebook www.facebook.com/antiguabarbuda ; Instagram: www.instagram.com/AntiguaandBarbuda

More news about Antigua and Barbuda.

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For Antigua and Barbuda media enquiries, please contact: Karen Gillo PM Group M: 646.628.4895 E: [email protected]

Antigua & Barbuda Announce Phased Reopening Of Tourism Sector

June 4, 2020 by PressEditor

The Government of Antigua & Barbuda has announced a phased approach to the reopening of the country’s tourism and hospitality industry as they prepare to welcome the first guests back on island today. The Ministry of Health, Wellness & The Environment has determined that the country is now ready to reopen the borders to international and regional travelers, whilst utilizing a phased and controlled approach. A series of travel safety protocols are being introduced which impact every element of the visitor experience, from arrivals at ports of entry, through ground transfers, resort accommodations, restaurants, tours and attractions.

A series of travel safety protocols are being introduced which impact every element of the visitor experience, from arrivals at ports of entry, through ground transfers, resort accommodations, restaurants, tours and attractions.

“The health and safety of our residents and our visitors will always be our top priority,” stated the Hon. Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism & Investment. “Despite the severe economic strain on our economy resulting from the closure of our tourism industry, we waited until we were in a position to reassure both our citizens and our prospective guests that every precaution is being taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation experience. The travel safety protocols have been developed under the guidance of the Ministry of Health, with the full support and cooperation of our stakeholders,”.

“We look forward to welcoming our visitors back to Antigua and Barbuda,” said Colin James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. “While we look forward to our borders opening, this is still a highly unprecedented time and we realize that we are now entering a new and ever-changing landscape. Priorities in the travel industry have shifted, and our visitors’ priorities are different – we have worked diligently across all sectors on the islands as well as in collaboration with our Caribbean neighbors to prepare for the new normal and to ensure a healthy and safe environment for all”.

During Phase one, the following safety measures will be in place at ports of entry:

All arriving passengers must have a mask in their possession for use on disembarkation, which must be worn in public areas throughout their stay in Antigua and Barbuda.

All arriving passengers must complete a health declaration form. Screenings and thermal checks will occur on arrival and passengers may be asked to undergo coronavirus testing on arrival.

With regard to airport transfers, up to 4 members of a family are allowed in a single vehicle while larger commercial passenger transport vehicles are permitted to carry only 50% of the vehicle seating capacity, for example 7 passengers in a 15 –seater vehicle. Vehicles must be kept clean and sanitized after each trip, and all will be equipped with hand sanitizer. All vehicles will be subject to random inspections by public health officers and certified vehicles will clearly display a decal indicating safety approval.

Passengers arriving by sailing craft (private yachts/Ferry Services) are subject to the guidelines issued by Port Health.

All Marine Pleasure Craft and Ferry Services will enter ONLY at the Nevis Street Pier.

All hospitality accommodations to include hotels, resorts, villas and home rentals must satisfy the stipulations of the Ministry of Health Wellness and the Environment and be certified prior to reopening to welcome visitors.

Restaurant dining protocols include enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces, incorporate physical distancing measures, and will offer a la carte dining and delivery or takeout services, instead of buffet.

Tourism Authority Website

More news about Antigua and Barbuda.

#rebuildingtravel

For Antigua and Barbuda media enquiries, please contact:
Maria Blackman
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

T: 1 (268) 562 7600/464-7601
E: [email protected]

Supermodel Couple Afiya Bennett and Lloyd Dickenson on a Romantic Honeymoon in Antigua and Barbuda

December 19, 2019 by PressEditor

Antigua and Barbuda, is the start of ‘happily ever after, for sizzling model couple, “The Face” star Afiya Bennett and Lloyd Dickenson, who are currently honeymooning in the dreamy destination known as the Romance Capital of the Caribbean.

Bennett’s successful modelling career escalated following her appearance on season 2 of The Face, a modeling-themed reality television series, staring international super model Naomi Campbell. She met her model husband Lloyd while they were both on set, shooting for a Nike campaign.

A vacation spot for the model couple, Bennett and Dickenson last visited Antigua and Barbuda in June 2018 and were initially planning a destination wedding ceremony in the Caribbean island, known for beautiful beaches, and romantic settings.

The couple opted instead to tie the knot in New Jersey on December 15 and start their married life in Antigua, having arrived on December 17 for a romantic honeymoon at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay Resort, an adults-only, luxurious getaway.

CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James said: “Antigua and Barbuda with scenic landscapes, and picturesque settings provides, the ultimate backdrop for dream weddings and honeymoons, so it comes as no surprise that models’ Afiya and Lloyd, fell in love with Antigua and Barbuda. We send congratulations to the couple on their wedding, wish them an amazing honeymoon, and a lifetime of happiness.”

And, the couple have been making the most of their Antigua honeymoon, as it seems that they’ve signed up for the Antigua and Barbuda Honeymoon Registry and have already begun participating in a number of excursions and romantic experiences offered on the registry.

Browsing through the destination’s honeymoon registry reveals registry items such as hotel stays, off-road buggy excursions, spa treatments, kayaking and romantic sunset cruises.

Marketing Manager at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Shermain Jeremy said, “We are thrilled that the couple, their family and friends have discovered and are utilizing the Antigua and Barbuda Honeymoon Registry. The Antigua and Barbuda Honeymoon Registry offers a host of suggestions on all the wonderful experiences that friends and family can purchase for couples as a wedding gift.”

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority unveiled the honeymoon registry in June 2019, which is Romance Month in Antigua and Barbuda. Using the website, married and engaged couples can create their own honeymoon registry ahead of travelling to Antigua & Barbuda. The registry is FREE to set up and there is a toll-free Customer Service number to help couples and their guests with any questions or concerns regarding purchases.

Antigua & Barbuda ranks among the world’s top ten destinations for weddings and honeymoons and one of its biggest appeal is that getting married in Antigua & Barbuda is easy. There is no waiting period or residency requirements for a wedding license to be issued and an array of wedding planners can make that special day relaxing, refreshing and hassle-free. The establishment of an official honeymoon registry makes it even easier for couples to capitalize on all the unique experiences and offerings available in Antigua and Barbuda.

Explore Afiya and Lloyd’s Honeymoon Registry here.

For more information on The Escape at Nonsuch Bay, click here.

For more news about Antigua & Barbuda, please click here.

Supermodel Couple Afiya Bennett and Lloyd Dickenson on a Romantic Honeymoon in Antigua and Barbuda — It’s happily ever after in Antigua and Barbuda for model couple, as they enjoy a romantic floating breakfast at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay Resort, during their honeymoon

Media Contact:
Maria Blackman
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

T: 1 (268) 562 7600/464-7601
E: [email protected]

Antigua and Barbuda celebrate tourism heroes at Black Pineapple Awards

December 6, 2019 by PressEditor

Antigua and Barbuda celebrated the success of a record-breaking year in Tourism by hosting the inaugural annual Black Pineapple Awards Ceremony in New York on Wednesday, December 4^th. The Black Pineapple Awards – eponymous to the Black Pineapple that is only found in Antigua – were created solely to honor the partners, tour operators, resorts, travel agents and media, who have diligently and tirelessly worked to promote Antigua and Barbuda. The Black Pineapple Awards, held at Sarabeth’s Park Avenue South, was hosted by the US Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) led by Director of Tourism, Dean Fenton and special guest, ABTA CEO, Colin C. James. The evening celebrated 40 partners who played a key role in helping the twin-island nation reach record-breaking numbers of visitors in 2019.

ABTA CEO, Colin C. James shared the importance of the awards, “I am incredibly proud of the record-breaking tourism arrivals Antigua and Barbuda have seen this past year – none of which would be possible without our incredible partners across the industry. We have been lucky enough to see consecutive years of tourism growth, and our vision is continue this growth and become the premiere destination not just in the Caribbean but in the world. We know we will only achieve this with the help of our partners and friends. The Black Pineapple Awards offer us a unique opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to everyone and celebrate our wins together.”

With over 150 attendees at the invite-only Awards, guests were treated to celebratory cocktails and dinner, with live music and dancing as entertainment. In addition, guests were provided hand massages and private consultations from Aveda Spa sponsored by Antigua’s Sugar Ridge Resort, which features the only Aveda Spa in the Caribbean. Guests left with gift bags carrying Aveda products, Antigua and Barbuda branded gifts, and the opportunity to be awarded a $1,000 social media campaign prize from ABTA’s business partner: Sugar Mill Estate. Every guest left talking about Antigua and Barbuda, armed with further information of why the twin islands are the hottest destination of the Caribbean.

Dean Fenton, ABTA US Director of Tourism, explained why the team launched the annual awards, saying “The tremendous achievements Antigua and Barbuda has seen would not be possible without the support of our partners who represent the highest standard of excellence in the travel industry. The bonds between our islands and travel partners empowers us to grow stronger – both in the US market and abroad. The Black Pineapple Awards allow us to express how grateful we are to awardees and guests for their tireless dedication and work in positively promoting our twin-island nation. We are excited about ending the year on a strong note and look forward to beginning the new decade on an even higher one.”

Awardees: Lynn Miller – AAA, Iris Citron – Alice Travel, Linda Clark – Alice Travel, Mary Delello – All About Travel, Amy Hiles – All Inclusive Outlet, Lynn Minard – Altour, Roberta Diaz – Apple Leisure Group, Tom Nero & Team – Avenue Travel, Dawn Anderson – Beaches And Beyond Travel, Anna Wells – Blue Waters, Gary Randall – Blue Waters, Robert Papkin – Bob’s Ultimate Travel, Mandy Cameron – Carlisle Bay, Carolyn Waffle – Carolyn Waffle Certified Travel, Feona Bailey – Catamaran Resort & Spa, Verna Hartlove – Charm City Travel, Kandi Edelstein – CI Travel American Express, Lilliana Musmanno – Classic Vacations, Andrew Michellin – Cocos Hotel, Patricia Cooney – Concierge Travel, Robert Sherman – Curtain Bluff, Wendy Eardley – Curtain Bluff, Brianna Kastukevich – Custom Travel, Michelle Thurston – Destinations Weddings Travel, Mark Hennigan – Dreamers Travel, Rod Hinds – Elite Island Resorts, Sherrie Ault – Elite Island Resorts, Susan Hammond – Endless Travel, Kerri Brewster – Escapes Unlimited, Ted Friedli & Team – Excel Travel, Susan Jeske – Finding Paradise With Sue & Travel Wize, Lindsey Taylor – Flight Centre Travel Group, Carol Rice – Frosch Mann Travels, Lian Alston – Generation Al Travel, Heather Travis – Globe Getaways, Natalie Faggianelli – Gramatan Travel, Donna Borrelli – Hamden Travel, Andy Thesen – Hermitage Bay, Karen Bull – Hermitage Bay, Andrea Wolter – Intoxicating Travel Group, Jodi Lubin – Island Destinations, Kim Sheer-Goldstein – Journey’s Inc., Beth Mollo – Largay Travel, Bill Lynch – Largay Travel, Molly Sumption – Molly’s Caribbean, Jill Smith – Moonlight Travel, Ian Fraser – Nonsuch Bay Resort & Spa, Jim Marino – Oyster Bay Travel, Annie Davis – Palm Beach Travel/Altour, Alison Turner – Powell Travel And Tours, Vivian Gringer – Power Travel, Katherine Schweiger – Prestige Travel Group, Kimberly Jacoby – Romantics Travel, Ruby Stanfield & Team – Rubys Travel, Elisabeth “Lili” Richter – Saddle River Travel Service, Alice Mccalla – Sandals, Gen Edwards – Sharp Travel Int’l, Janet Haber – Simplicity Travel, Debbie Ryan – Springhouse Travel, Roseann Freeman – Spring House Travel, Vernon Jeffers – Sugar Ridge Resort & Spa, Susan Peavey – Susan Peavey Travel, Rufus Gobat – Tamarind Hills Resort & Spa, Heather Coyle – The Journey Group, Sally Jane – Smith & Team- The Travel Smiths, Susan Coulton – Travel Dreams Unlimited, Cookie Carney – Travel Experts, Heather Howard DiPietro – Travel Sales Group, Paula McCarty- Travel Smart With Paula, Marianna Darie – Traveling With Marianna, Leslie Kepplinger – Trips Ahoy, Karen Cavadas – Twinsburg Travel & Cruise, Howard Kaplin – Tzell Travel, Marilyn Pires – Tzell Travel, Barry Posner – Ultimate Vacations & Honeymoons, Lila Nicholas – Uniglobe Travel, Jennifer Doncsecz & Team – Vacations By VIP, Jacqueline Cort-Thomas – Villas At Sunset Lane, Brenda Oneale – With This Ring Destination, Devin Joseph – Yacht Club.

ABOUT ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Voted the World Travel Awards 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination, the twin-island paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating excursions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches – one for every day of the year. The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua comprises 108-square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Antigua’s tourism events calendar includes the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, and the annual Antigua Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Barbuda, Antigua’s smaller sister island, is the ultimate celebrity hideaway. The island lies 27 miles north-east of Antigua and is just a 15-minute plane ride away. Barbuda is known for its untouched 17 mile stretch of pink sand beach and as the home of the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere. Find information on Antigua & Barbuda at: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow us on Twitter. http://twitter.com/antiguabarbuda Facebook www.facebook.com/antiguabarbuda; Instagram: www.instagram.com/AntiguaandBarbuda

Antigua and Barbuda celebrate tourism heroes at Black Pineapple Awards — ABTA Director of Tourism, Dean Fenton, Anna Wells from Antigua’s Blue Waters Resort & Spa and ABTA CEO, Colin C. James

MEDIA CONTACT:

Karen Gillo

PM Group

E: [email protected]

M: 646.628.4895

ATBA promotes Donyelle Bird-Browne to Senior Business Development Manager, USA

October 1, 2019 by PressEditor

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority USA office is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Donyelle Bird-Browne to Senior Business Development Manager. In her new capacity she will continue to lead the market development efforts to grow the travel trade business across the Southeast USA region.

Bird-Browne most recently served as Tourism and Investment Manager for the ABTA. This promotion recognizes her commitment, drive and ambition in the identity and maintenance of potential strategic opportunities and co-operative partner relationships in this key region for the benefit of the destination.

A well-known and popular figure in the industry, her skillset and expertise are integral to the ongoing team efforts to enhance the Antigua and Barbuda experience, and increase arrivals to the destination.

With specific responsibility for the Yachting and Sailing marketing pillar, as Senior Business Development Manager, Bird-Browne will work with the team to develop strategic opportunities and promote the wide array of hotels, tours and excursion activities that represent the Antigua and Barbuda experience through the additional focus pillars; romance, wellness, heritage and culture.

“Donyelle has proven herself to be an invaluable member of the USA sales and marketing team for over five years,” said Colin James, CEO, ABTA. “We are confident that in her new position she will continue to expand Antigua and Barbuda’s destination market share throughout the USA market.”

On being asked about the promotion, Bird-Browne commented, “I am pleased to have been recognized for my hard work and I am extremely motivated to continue to raise our profile, develop the market and promote the experiences that we have.

This role is definitely an exciting opportunity to continue to work with a great team, establish productive and strategic relationships, increase our in-market presence and to ultimately support our economy as we continue to evolve into the destination of choice.”

Donyelle Bird-Browne holds a BA in Communications from Albertus Magnus College, New Haven CT USA, and has over 15 years’ experience in marketing, promotion and communications.

ABOUT ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Voted the World Travel Awards 2015, 2016 and 2017 Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination, the twin-island paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating excursions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches – one for every day of the year. The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua comprises 108-square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Antigua’s tourism events calendar includes the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, and the annual Antigua Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Barbuda, Antigua’s smaller sister island, is the ultimate celebrity hideaway. The island lies 27 miles north-east of Antigua and is just a 15-minute plane ride away. Barbuda is known for its untouched 17 mile stretch of pink sand beach and as the home of the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere. Find information on Antigua & Barbuda here or follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Maria Blackman
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

T: 1 (268) 562 7600/464-7601
E: [email protected]

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