On Schedule Antigua & Barbuda Sports Fishing Tournament
The Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination 2013 Powered by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority
3 IN THIS ISSUE
Contents
EVENTS
Events Calendar
EVENT FEATURE
What happens on the islands in the months of September and October 2013.
ISSUE FEATURE ISLAND SPECIALS
September/October Event Feature
TOURISM UPDATE
Issue Feature - The Bachelorette
Sport Fishing and Seafood Fridays.
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RESTAURANT HOTELSPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT
Follow Desiree’s journey around Antigua & Barbuda.
Island Highlights World Travel Awards 2013.
ADVENTURE ADVENTURE SPOTLIGHT TOURS
The X-Factor
FEATURED TOURISM TOURISM SPOTLIGHT PERSONALITY
Filming the X-Factor.
September/October Island Specials Hotel and resort specials.
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elcome to the September/October edition of the Tourism E-blast. In ever y issue our aim is to provide you with a sneak peek into what’s happening in and around our beautiful islands of Antigua & Barbuda. We shine a spotlight on our people, give you a taste of adventure and introduce you to all that our product has to offer – our accommodations, spas, restaurants, tours and attractions. So, have a slice of our little bit of paradise, let’s show you why in Antigua & Barbuda we say… ‘the beach is just the beginning!’
Tourism Industry News Comprehensive update on the state of the Tourism Industry. Includes: Marketing, Airlift, Statistics and Sea Focus.
Hotel Spotlight Keyonna Beach.
Island Adventure An ABTA review of a local tour/attraction - Stingray City.
Tourism Employee Spotlight on the cover ROMANCE REVIEW
Queen of Carnival- Raynell Carroll.
04 06 08 10 11 12 15 21 22 24
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Copper and Lumber Seafood Fridays – September 6, 13, 20, 27. www.copperandlumberhotel.com
Copper and Lumber Seafood Fridays – October 4, 11, 18, 25. www.copperandlumberhotel.com
Women’s Billiards Tournament – September 8 www.AntiguaBarbudaBilliards.org | president@antiguabarbudabilliards.org
Expressions: Poetry in the Pub – October 8 & 22. augustrush.antigua@gmail.com | www.facebook.com
Expressions: Poetry in the Pub – September 10 & 24. augustrush.antigua@gmail.com | www.facebook.com
10th Annual Gospel Festival – Early October
Dejam Music Festival – September 13 – 27 www.dejamfestival.com Antigua Rainforest Canopy – Full Moon Night Flight Zip Line September 19 www.antiguarainforest.com | (268)562-6363 EAG: Hike – Indian Creek down from Shirley’s Heights – September 21 www.eagantigua.org Men’s Billiards Tournament – September 29 www.AntiguaBarbudaBilliards.org | president@antiguabarbudabilliards.org Francis Nunes Jr. Sport Fishing Tournament & Seafood Festival – Late September www.antiguabarbudasportfishing.com Turtle Watching Season – July – October www.eagantigua.org
OCTOBER
SEPTEMBER
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Antigua Rainforest Canopy – Full Moon Night Flight Zip Line – October 19 www.antiguarainforest.com | (268)562-6363 EAG: Hike –Body Pond on the ridge from Sawcolts – October 19 www.eagantigua.org Jonathon Rohr Wadadli Tinman Triathlon – October 20 1.2mile swim, 56mile bike, 13.1mile run wadadli.tinman2012@gmail.com | www.antiguabarbudatriathlon.com Barbuda Independence Fishing Tournament – October 26 – 27 barbudacouncil.actol.net Spring Gardens Moravian Independence Food Fair – Late October www.sgmoravian.org National Dress Day / Heritage Day – October 31 Turtle Watching Season – July – October www.eagantigua.org
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Event Feature
Seafood Fridays
As we enter into the fourth quarter of 2013, fishing enthusiasts, seafood fans and those who just love to lime eagerly look forward to the 6th Annual Francis Nunes Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament and Seafood Festival. If you think the event’s name is a mouthful, wait ‘til you hear what it comprises!
The E-Blast team agrees that in Antigua & Barbuda you can never have too much seafood! One place that’s never short on delicious On Saturday, September 28th in Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour, all are invited to come and celebrate, eat, drink, fish and just have fun
sea food delicacies is the beautiful and historical Copper & Lumber Store Hotel. Located in Nelson’s Dockyard, Copper & Lumber hosts
during the one-day tournament. The element that sets this tournament apart is the celebration of food and family that it embodies. There
Seafood Fridays every Friday afternoon/evening to a packed crowd who can’t get enough of the food and the atmosphere.
will be some delectable seafood fare on sale such as lobster, crab, sushi, carpaccio, fried fish and seafood rice. If there’s one thing you can be sure of, you won’t leave hungry! The grills are fired up by 2.30 pm so all are encouraged to come down and enjoy the food and atmosphere from early. There will also be all sorts of beverages on sale, from coffee to rum and everything in between, so the drinkers aren’t left out of the loop.
Set on the lawn of the Copper & Lumber, the setup of the event is organized and vast. After deliberating over the menu, you can purchase food chits and then make your way around the corresponding stations to collect your food. You can choose from an array of seafood delights like: lobster, crab, conch fritters, fried fish, fried shrimp, grilled lobster, seafood rice and seafood pasta (made fresh right in front of your very eyes!) While you enjoy your food, there is live entertainment to keep the rest of your senses occupied. Coupled with the spectacular backdrop of
The Antigua & Barbuda Sports Fishing Association has said that there will be lots of dining and drinking space for everyone as well as
Nelson’s Dockyard, Copper & Lumber Seafood Fridays is a real treat for the whole family. If you’re an early bird who really wants to grab
covered areas to shelter from the heat or rain. It certainly seems as if they’ve covered all their bases with this event! The Captains’ Briefing
some food and go, you’re free to do just that. Seafood Fridays starts at 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm.
will take place on Friday, September 27 at 6:30 pm in Nelson’s Dockyard. Fishermen are asked to come and join the party; leave their boats at the marina and stay until Sunday morning. Relax and enjoy what promises to be a great lime! An added treat: there will be fresh fish on sale for EC$12.00 per pound. It really doesn’t get any better than that!
For more information, visit www.antiguabarbudasportsfishing.com or contact Philip Shoul at (268) 460-7400 or (268) 726-4700; EMAIL: basicblue@candw.ag
For more details, call Copper & Lumber Store Hotel at 460-1159 or 460-1160 or visit www.copperandlumberhotel.com
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ith approximately 8 million viewers to see, culminating in the romantic Rose
are still as captivating
world-wide tuning in, the beautiful Ceremony which took place overlooking
and alluring today as
islands of Antigua & Barbuda took centre majestic English Harbour…it was truly a
they were centuries
stage as the romantic backdrop for the magical moment!
ago when Columbus
ABC Television primetime reality series, The
Follow Desiree’s Romantic Journey
discovered
these
gentle shores.
Bachelorette.
9
Fall in love as you stroll along the soft silk sand of the exclusive Rendezvous Bay. Another awe inspiring attraction is Devil’s Bridge, located at the eastern tip of the island, where Atlantic breakers have carved out a natural limestone arch over the ocean.
Antigua and Barbuda, ‘The Romance Capital
A nature lover’s dream, these isles take
of the Caribbean,’ was chosen from amongst
To learn more about Antigua and Barbuda Tourism go to www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/
you away from the ordinary to experience
other leading Caribbean destinations as the
antiguabarbuda. For more information on The Bachelorette, visit http://abc.go.com/shows/the-bachelorette.
true
perfect location for this season’s Bachelorette,
friendly people, coupled with a wide array
Desiree Hartsock, to find her perfect love in
of astounding historical sites and unique
the season finale episodes of the hit ABC
attractions, make this destination a
reality TV show.
Caribbean
paradise. With
warm
You too can walk in Desiree’s footsteps, perfect escape.
as Antigua & Barbuda is a destination for Have a taste of adventure, guests can love that’s a destination for you! Here in take to the seas by boat and conquer the manager and stylist at a bridal salon, who these romantic isles love abounds in every azure waters, or explore the ocean deep previously charmed America’s favorite moment. Come and experience the stunning and take a surreal swim with the stingrays, Bachelor, Sean Lowe, narrowed the field sunsets, breathtaking vistas, and iridescent better yet take a step back in time at the from 25 potential soul mates to get another turquoise waters. Like Desiree, you too can historic Nelson’s Dockyard, one of the oldest shot at love as the Bachelorette. steal a kiss on a deserted Barbuda beach working Georgian Dockyards in the Western The Bachelorette, Desiree, 27, an operations
The natural beauty of both Antigua & that stretches for miles, with soft pink sand Hemisphere, or simply take a photo at the Barbuda was showcased throughout the at your feet. Discover why the hidden coves always picturesque and romantic Shirley two-part finale episodes for the entire world and exclusive bays of this twin-island state Heights Lookout.
While in Antigua Desiree stayed at the Elite Island Resorts.
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Island Highlights
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The Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination 2013
ANTIGUA & BARBUDA THE CARIBBEAN’S LEADING HONEYMOON DESTINATION This year at the 20th Anniversary of the World Travel Awards, Caribbean & Americas Gala Ceremony, Antigua & Barbuda confirmed its title
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA IN THE SPOTLIGHT DURING X-FACTOR FILMING WITH MARY J BLIGE AND NICOLE SCHERZINGER The spotlight will be on Antigua and Barbuda, as the destination’s most recognizable views, excursions and party-loving islanders, will be
as the ‘Romance Capital of the Caribbean’ when the destination was conferred as the “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination”.
showcased to over 10 million viewers on the British television music competition show, The X-factor during the first week of October.
The World Travel Awards, which is known as the “Oscars” of the travel industry, was held on Saturday, September 14th 2013. The elite
The show which aims to find new singing talent, is contested by aspiring singers drawn from public auditions within the UK. Created by
travel event recognizes and awards excellent performance throughout various areas of the world travel and
Simon Cowell, the show began in September 2004 and has since aired annually from August/September through to December. It is the
tourism industry.
originator of the international, ‘The X Factor franchise’.
As a tourism destination Antigua & Barbuda had a stellar performance winning the coveted “Caribbean’s
Antigua’s star appeal will also be on display when X-factor UK, airs as globally recognized celebrities Nicole Scherzinger formerly of the
Leading Honeymoon Destination,” which was accepted by the Prime Minister, Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer. In addition to a number of Antiguan hotel properties and businesses that also walked away winners at the prestigious gala ceremony, these included: •
Hermitage Bay - Caribbean’s Leading Boutique Hotel,
•
Carib World Travel - Caribbean’s Leading Destination Management Company
•
Curtain Bluff Resort & Spa - Caribbean’s Leading Green Resort and Antigua & Barbuda’s Leading Spa Resort
•
The Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa - Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort and Antigua & Barbuda’s Leading Resort
•
Ayers Creek Residences at Nonsuch Bay Resort - Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Residences
•
Blue Waters Resort - Antigua & Barbuda’s Leading Hotel.
Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Hon. John Maginley noted, “After years of cultivating our Wedding & Honeymoon market it is indeed an honor to be recognized by an organization like the World Travel Awards as the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination,’ especially since the selection is made by members of the travel trade and consumers. We are excited to receive this top accolade however I would like to recognize the hard work and dedication of our hotels, tourism partners and all workers in the hospitality industry, that without their efforts this achievement would not be possible. We intend through continued strategic marketing and improvements to our tourism product, to continually enhance the visitor experience.”
Pussycat dolls, R&B superstar Mary J Blige and other celebrities filmed in Antigua for the show’s milestone 10 year anniversary. Antigua’s scenic settings will appear throughout the X-factor and Xtra factor shows, as well as when Nicole Scherzinger announces which of her 6 contestants in the girls’ category of the show, will make it into her final three, and on to the X-factor’s live finals. Though filming for the show, has only just wrapped up, the destination has already benefited from PR coverage, with images of Scherzinger partying at Shirley Heights, and enjoying the island with Blige strewn across UK newspapers and online sites. Scherzinger, Blige, other A-listers and members of the crew spent a combined 7 days on island filming.
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13 Cocos Hotel – 15 % Honeymooners Discount Book a stay of five (5) nights or more and enter the promo code COCOSMOON
September/October
when making your online reservation. As honeymooners, you also receive a free bottle of sparkling wine and fresh fruit plate on arrival. Go to http://www.cocoshotel.com/special.php for more information. Cocobay Resort - 10% Honeymooner Discount. Honeymooning couples get a special 10% discount in keeping with Cocobay’s theme of romance. To redeem this offer, book a stay of five (5) nights or more and enter the Promo Code CBAYWEDS when making your online reservation. As honeymooners you also receive a free bottle of sparkling wine and fresh flowers on arrival! For more information, go to http://www.cocobayresort.com/special_offers.php
Blue Waters Resort Save up to 30% off your stay when you come to Blue Waters & the Cove Suites this summer! This is valid for stays 17th April - 18th December 2013. Save 20% on Superior Hillside &
Coconut Beach Club - HONEYMOONERS DISCOUNT
Deluxe Beachfront rooms, all Villas and Rock Cottage. Save 30% when staying in the Cove
If you spend your honeymoon with us and stay a minimum of three (3) nights you
Suites. Available on Bed & Breakfast and All Inclusive meal plans. Min stay 7 nights, book by
can earn a discount of 10%. Simply enter the promo code CBCWEDS when booking.
7th October 2013. This offer is available when booking direct or through your preferred
Honeymooners also receive a free bottle of sparkling wine and fresh flowers on
travel agent or tour operator.
arrival.
For more information, go to http://www.bluewaters.net/offers/ Go to http://coconutbeachclub.com/special-offers/ for more information Grand Pineapple Beach Resort – GPB Antigua Special Carlisle Bay Resort & Spa - New Full Inclusive Super Chill Out Special With the fantastic fully inclusive New Super Chill Out offer, two people can stay from $765 per night and a family of four can stay in a Beach Balcony Suite from $1,051 per night. These rates include all meals and drinks so there is no need to worry about hidden extras. Book the New Super Chill Out offer 60 days or more before you arrive at Carlisle Bay and you will benefit from a further 15% discount off our fully inclusive rates. From 18 October to 4 November 2013 inclusive, the Early Booking Discount is only available in Garden and
Receive up to 65% off your trip! This offer is valid for travel through December 21, 2014, and includes all meals, unlimited drinks, tips, taxes and complimentary use of windsurfing equipment, kayaks, snorkeling gear and sunfish sailboats for exploring the bay. Travel Dates: Jan. 1 - December 21, 2013 and Jan. 1 - Dec. 21, 2014 Min. Stay: 3 nights Go to http://www.grandpineapple.com/specials/ for more information.
Ocean Suites For this offer, two people receive accommodation from $765 per night and a family of four can stay in a beach Balcony Suite from $1,051 per night. These rates include all meals and drinks so there is no need to worry about hidden extras. Available from October 12th to 19th December 2013 Go to http://www.campbellgrayhotels.com/carlisle-bay/offers/super-chill-out for more information.
Trade Winds Hotel - 2 For 1 Special! Enjoy a fantastic holiday with that special someone with our 2 for 1 special Room Rate. With this special you could save as much as US$50.00 Daily. Book online or e-mail info@twhantigua.com http://www.twhantigua.com/special-offers/
14 Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa Get one of our air credit specials when flying from the U.S and Canada for travel now to December 27th, 2014. Booking window now - September 26th Offer: $135 air credit on stays of 3 to 5 nights Offer: $355 on stays of 6 paid nights or longer
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Tourism Industry News Antigua and Barbuda Marketing Presence:
Visit http://www.sandals.com/specials/ for more details. Jumby Bay - A Rosewood Resort – MORE ROSEWOOD SPECIAL Stay four nights and receive the fifth night free. Valid May 1 – Oct. 31, 2013. Stay must be a consecutive-night stay and complimentary night is only applicable on that stay. Not combinable with other offers. Go to http://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/jumbybay/special_offers/offers/ for more information.
Keyonna Beach - 45% for 45 days! A special celebration offer to honour our many repeat guests on our anniversary. We are extending this special offer to all of our guests. Book any room type for three (3) nights or more in the next 45 days and receive a 45% discount. Travel up to December 22, 2013. Enjoy a bottle of sparkling wine in your room on arrival to toast this happy occasion. Offer ends September 30, 2013. Enter the promo code “Celebration” to see your discount. Valid for new bookings only. Visit http://www.keyonnabeach.com/promotions.html for more information Siboney Beach Club Visit Siboney Beach Club between now and October 31st and enjoy 30% off normal rates, US$140.00 + taxes for two persons instead of US$200.00 Go to http://www.siboneybeachantigua.com/promotions/summer-savings1.htm for more information
ABTA’s Come for the Carnival, Stay for the Cricket Promo a success! The ABTA’s ‘Come for the Carnival, Stay for the Cricket’ Promotion was a huge success.The winner was Ms Giselle Alleyne, accompanied by her sister Natasha. Giselle and Natasha received roundtrip airfare compliments LIAT, free mas costumes compliments Myst Mas band, free handsets compliments LIME, accommodation compliments Jolly Beach Resort and Spa and free event tickets compliments National Festivals Office. CMC Covers Antigua Carnival 2013 Festivities The ABTA hosted a two-man film crew from the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that was on hand to cover Antigua Carnival 2013. The crew was able to cover signature carnival festivities such as Panorama, Jaycees Queen Show, Party Monarch, Calypso Monarch, J’ouvert and Parade of the Bands. The crew also interviewed the Hon. Eleston ‘Namba’ Adams, Minister of Culture and leaders of three major mas bands – Myst, Dynamics and Revellers. Antigua & Barbuda Debuts on World Stage in Season Finale of ABC’s The Bachelorette With approximately 8 million viewers world-wide tuning in, the beautiful islands of Antigua & Barbuda took centre stage as the romantic backdrop for the ABC Television primetime reality series, The Bachelorette. Antigua and Barbuda, ‘The Romance Capital of the Caribbean’ was chosen from amongst other Caribbean destinations as the perfect location for the season finale episodes of the hit ABC TV show The Bachelorette.
16 The ABTA also advertised with the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC), Caribbean Super Station (CSS) and Tempo Network. Advertisement also continues on Willow TV. The destination’s Carnival festivities were featured on five episodes of Caribbean Lifestyle and Travel Programme ‘Caribbean Passport.’ The programme is shown on 26 TV stations in 21 Caribbean islands at primetime.
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AIRLIFT
UPDATE
AHTA Beach Signage The Ministry of Tourism has implemented a beach signage project, in conjunction with the Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association (AHTA) to improve the overall destination beach product experience. The first two of 12 signs to be erected were at the Ffryes and Darkwood beaches on the southern end of the island.
New Airline Winter Schedule soon to take Effect As the summer tourist season comes to a close, airlines have now made known their intention to increase operations from their hubs to Antigua to cope with anticipated increased demand. Routes include: Winter charters from Italy on Blue Panorama and Germany with Condor,
Smoking Grillers The ABTA was a sponsor of the Smoking Grillers team that represented Antigua & Barbuda at the 6th Annual Cattlemen’s Caribbean BBQ Competition in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The team placed ninth out of 47 international teams and fourth in the poultry category.
all demonstrate a renewed confidence in Antigua and Barbuda as a premier tourist destination. Coming out of the Summer season, Liat –The Caribbean Airline, will continue its re-fleeting exercise to continue to improve its service throughout the Caribbean region. As of September 2013, Liat has added four new ATR planes to its fleet – two 72-seater air crafts and two 48-seater air-crafts. In all, over the next few months Liat aims to have a total of nine ATR airplanes to complete its new fleet.
Antiguan and Barbudan receives prestigious Caribbean Heritage Award. The destination received extensive coverage at the annual Caribbean Heritage Organization Awards 2013 when Antiguan descendant Reno Wilson was honored at the Caribbean Heritage Organization’s Annual Awards Event.
American Airlines increases to a daily non-stop flight out of New York’s JFK Airport. American Airlines will use a Boeing 737 aircraft for the Antigua & Barbuda JFK service, offering the comfort of 16 business class and 134 economy class seats. American Airlines’ daily flight out of Miami continues as well.
Virgin Airlines has also increased airlift out of the UK and will provide four (4) direct flights into V.C Bird International. Tourism Stakeholders Successfully Complete Service And Shore Excellence Training. The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) collaborated with the Antigua and Barbuda
British Airways will be returning to a daily service and there is also once-weekly service from Manchester, UK operated by Thomas Cook. This represents the largest airlift ever operated into our destination from the UK.
Cruise Tourism Association (ABCTA) to bring the AQUILA Service and Shore Excellence Workshop to the shores of Antigua and Barbuda.
From Canada, we have new year-round service from WestJet in addition to Air Canada.
SEA FOCUS
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Cruise Update
Tourism
Stakeholders
Successfully
Complete Service And Shore Excellence Training. The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) collaborated with the Antigua In this month’s Sea Focus, we highlight the various plans that The Antigua and Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association (ABCTA), the Antigua Pier
and Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association
Group (APG), the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) and the St. John’s Development Corporation (SJDC) have begun to put
(ABCTA) to bring the AQUILA Service and
in place for long-term in infrastructural developments to the Port of St. John’s. The plans aim to modernize the current cruise ship facilities
Shore Excellence Workshop to the shores of
to provide an easily accessible and safe port environment, while improving the quality of life and experience for visitors and residents alike.
Antigua and Barbuda.
Information sourced from Antigua & Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association indicates a number of strategic plans, these are as follows:
ways to provide excellent customer service the exhibition floor, a unique trade platform for independent guests.’
for suppliers from all sectors of the industry.
At the conclusion of the Aquila Shore 2.5 days, over 50 speakers, countless Excellence Training Workshop, over 200 inspirational
discussions...this
year’s
individuals were rewarded with a Certificate conference programme focuses on the key of Participation in Shore Excellence. With this topics within Europe including the state of the training certification, service professionals cruise industry in Europe, the cruise line-port will be able to hone their skills to ensure interface, shipbuilding and refurbishment, F&B maximum visitor satisfaction. It also provided and hotel, onboard revenue, environmental an opportunity for tourism stake holders advances in technology, itineraries and to see what aspects of the tourism product deployment, and also an exclusive Care Team
On Friday 26th July, the Florida Caribbean
requires improvement to maximize cruise awareness training session from Carnival.
A Development Plan for Heritage Quay
Cruise Association (FCCA) endorsed training
passenger arrivals and satisfaction.
•
workshop took place at the Multipurpose
To include improvements in infrastructure, such as – repairing of sidewalks and roads and improvements in access for disabled
Upcoming Cruise Shows
persons.
Cultural Centre, Perry Bay. A diverse
•
Removal of trash and abandoned boats from the area north of the Heritage Quay dock.
audience of taxi drivers, customer service
•
Relocation of tenants to create better pedestrian flow in the central areas.
professionals, tour guides, tour operators and
Seatrade Europe Cruise and River Cruise
•
Revamping of the vendors market.
many more benefited from the training. The
Convention – September 24 – 26, 2013.
•
Relocation of Taxi Drivers to a designated taxi hub.
General Workshop took place from 9 am
Seatrade Europe Cruise & River Cruise
•
Renovations of historic buildings near to Heritage Quay.
to 11 am and the Tour Operator Workshop
Convention returned to Hamburg.
from 11 am to 1pm. A Harbor Development Plan •
Dredging maintenance of the harbor to be undertaken during slow summer season.
•
Arrangements to sweep the harbor of accumulated silt to regain original depth of 10.57 meters to accommodate comfortably
vessels presently calling in St. John’s, Antigua.
•
Examining long term plan for further dredging, to dredge harbor to 11 meters to accommodate Oasis Class Ships.
Training of Human Resources •
Training to local Tour Operators and tourism industry employees by the FCCA-Endorsed Aquila Training Group conducted
in July 2013.
With the 2013/14 season being projected to be somewhat similar to the previous 2012/13 Cruise season, the local authorities and stakeholders are focusing on preparing for growth in the industry and enhancing the quality of the tourism product.
The training workshop is in keeping with the theme of Service Excellence that the ABTA and also Ministry of Tourism continues to promote. Topics covered were ‘The roles of ports, destinations, tour operators and other key players in the success of a destination’s cruise industry’; ‘
Trade Show – September 30 to October Expertly combining a high-class exhibition 4, 2013. with an extremely informative conference, Seatrade Europe brings together over 130 For many cruise executives, destinations, cruise line executives, including senior buyers, suppliers and tour operators, the annual planners and key decision makers from FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show Europe’s ocean and river cruise lines, with is the premier industry event of the year suppliers from all sectors of these industries. to meet with key industry players, analyze More than 150 exhibitors from over 40
The cruise lines’ expectations from a port of
20th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference &
nations, including
numerous
companies
call and how the destination measures up’; new to cruise or that have not previously ‘How shore excursions work, and how the
exhibited, are
expected
to
showcase
cruise industry operates tours’; and ‘The best
products and demonstrate innovations on
trends and discuss current issues. It is because of the unique forum provided by the Conference that nearly 1,000 cruise industry partners, including approximately 100 cruise executives, attend each year.
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Tourism Statistics July & 2nd Quarter 2013 Performance July 2013 Tourist Air Arrivals Country
July 2013
July 2012
% Change
TOTAL
20,073
21,516
-6.71
United States of America
7,872
8,934
-11.89
Canada
1,379
996
38.45
United Kingdom
4,822
5,085
-5.17
Caribbean
4,204
4,488
-6.33
Keyonna Beach All-Inclusive Hotel Hotel Spotlight
2nd Quarter Tourist Arrival by Air Performance Country
Year to Date 2013
Year to Date 2012
% Change
TOTAL
149,464
157,977
-5.39
United States of America
57,013
63,652
-10.43
Canada
20,718
16,113
28.58
United Kingdom
40,233
41,146
-2.22
Caribbean
17,410
20,072
-13.26
50.1%
July Occupancy 2012
Sorted by Size
2013
2012
Large Hotels - +150 Rooms
52.3%
52.1%
Mid Size Hotel – 50-150 Rooms
40.5%
60.7%
Small – Less than 50 Rooms
56.8%
58.4%
Beach
Hotel
is freshly caught fish, friendly service, and hand- For those interested in sampling some of the
charmingly located in Johnson’s Point, on a crafted surroundings.
fare at Keyonna Beach Bar and Restaurant,
secluded beach on Antigua’s South Western
situated on Turner’s Beach, lunch is from
coast. Although it is known for its beachfront Keyonna Beach Hotel is Antiguan-owned Monday through Saturday from 12pm. restaurant that serves local dishes with an and was built by local craftsmen; all the The Restaurant is perfect for casual international flavour, it is also known for its furniture, bedding, furnishing and fittings are beachfront dining, with guests seated on a personalised service that guests receive in a authentically Antiguan.
chic wooden terrace, with fantastic views
For rooms, choose between a Standard, of the beach and infinite horizon. The a la
Guests need only take a few steps from their Superior or Premium Room in the Beach carte luncheon menu offers a range of 55.2%
room onto the sand and enjoy the calm House or a Beach Cottage. Each room has fresh seafood, locally sourced vegetables Caribbean waters of the South West coast a private bathroom, air conditioning and and a varied wine list, served in relaxed, that is recognized for offering the best view is furnished with a traditional Caribbean informal surroundings directly on the beach of neighbouring volcanic island Montserrat, four poster bed. Since each room has its overlooking the Caribbean Sea. own private veranda, guests can indulge in For more information, contact:
and for the best sunsets on the island. This
20-room
Caribbean-style
Sorted by Class
All-Inclusive
romantic and intimate setting.
Hotel Occupancy July 2013 July Occupancy 2013
Keyonna
hotel chattel
boasts
authentic spectacular views and sunsets.
cottages
with
Keyonna Beach
Luxury
51.3%
55.9%
spacious beachfront verandas and outdoor Keyonna Beach delivers a genuine Caribbean Johnson’s Point, Antigua, West Indies
Mid Range
50.3%
55.6%
showers. It offers relaxation and a traditional retreat for those seeking to re-connect their Tel: +1 (268) 562-2020
Budget
37.3%
32.8%
West
Indian
lifestyle
that
embraces spirits and unwind in an intimate and relaxed www.keyonnabeach.com
everything local. From fruit to vegetables, atmosphere.
Email: info@keyonnabeach.com
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Island Adventure
Stingray City Antigua
was a baby about two months’ old. .
the day, they are then briefed about safety
Along with swimming with the rays, guests
procedures and then taken on a short
can enjoy snorkeling among the beautiful
boat ride to a shallow pool surrounded
coral reefs and kayaking; if so inclined, by coral reefs. Here is where the fun they can also arrange to be taken to one begins. Guests are able to feed, swim with of the neighboring islands for picnicking and take pictures with the stingrays in and sightseeing.
S
Since it’s opening in 2002, Stingray City
their natural habitat.
where they can rinse off and enjoy a complimentary glass of rum or fruit punch. An on-site snack-shop also offers tasty bites to satisfy appetites guests have built up while out in the water. Pictures and merchandise to commemorate their experience at Stingray City are also on sale at the gift shop. Tourists and locals alike are very impressed with the experience and many have commented that they keep coming back and each time the experience is different.
Although guests tend to be squeamish
tingray City Antigua really is the place has also become a small animal sanctuary about touching the rays, they soon get to go for a unique tour experience… of sorts. Most of the animals there were comfortable to the feel of their skin. Many guests liken the feel of the ray to and it’s not just for tourists either! either rescued or donated by owners Neatly tucked away on the eastern part who could no longer care for them. that of a mushroom and conceded that of the island in the seaside village of Before setting off on their swimming with the feeling takes some getting used to but Seatons, is one of Antigua’s signature the rays excursion, guests can enjoy the guests usually do so with ease. vacation activity hotspots. Stingray City company of monkeys “Do Know” and On any given day, there are between 40 Antigua is a picturesque park set right “Don’t Know” and their two offspring, and 60 Southern stingrays swimming in at the water’s edge. It offers an array of as well as parrots Sugar, Rocker, Harley, the pool where Stingray City operates. activities, including swimming with the Manta, a cockatoo named Ruffles and an This type of stingray is common to the stingrays, which is sure to delight couples array of lovebirds. Some guests become tropical waters of the Western Atlantic and whole families alike. Small children so enchanted by the eclectic animal family Ocean and ranges in colour from brown can also be a part of the fun as the park that they return to Stingray City just to
to olive green to gray. These rays are
is equipped with trained guides who are visit them.
said to be gentle, yet playful and guests
there to maintain a safe environment for Once guests have arrived at Stingray City at Stingray City usually remark favourably everyone. The youngest guest at the park and have decided on their activities for
After having their fill of snorkeling among the coral reefs and interacting with the rays, guests are returned to the landing base
about their behavior.
Stingray City is so popular that many of the island tours such as Antigua Adventures and Antigua Nature Tours include it as the conclusion activity to cap off their tours. Information about Stingray City is available at every hotel on the island for guests who may be interested in visiting the park while on vacation. A pick-up service is available for guests staying at the Grand Pineapple Resort and Verandah Resort and Spa since these hotels are in close proximity to the park. Park hours are from 8:30 – 4:00 with four trips per day at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM. The park is also very flexible as it takes walk-ins as well as guests with appointments. A maximum of 200 people are allowed per trip with a minimum of just one person. Regardless of the number of guests, Stingray City employees are dedicated to ensuring that each guest has a memorable experience. So, if you’re looking for a fun-filled, adventurous day, Stingray City is sure to not only meet but exceed visitors’ expectations. For more information: www.sitngraycityantigua.com 562-7297 stingray@candw.ag
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Tourism spotlight:
Raynel Carroll - Queen of Carnival 2013 Works at:
Internship at Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
Does: Reception and clerical duties Special Distinctions & Awards: Miss Antigua Queen of Carnival 2013, Recipient of the 2011 Prime Minister’s Award Scholarship to the Antigua & Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute, Certified Service Ambassador, Most Outstanding dancer with the Elite Dance Company 2010, Second Runner-up in 2011 Homecoming Independence Pageant.
What sets you Apart? Confidence, humility and personality; my burning desire to succeed.
What keeps her going? What is her Motivation?
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Offices
Antigua and Barbuda ACB Financial Centre – 3rd Floor High Street St. John’s, Antigua Tel: 1 268 562 7600/01/03/04 Fax: 1 268 562 7602 Email: info@aandbtourism.com
Being an Antigua ambassador means knowing my country, being able to sell Antigua and Barbuda to prospective visitors with ease. Standing with the knowledge I have acquired as a proud representative for my Antigua and Barbuda.
Talk about extra-curricular activities that you take part in that helps to promote your country of Antigua and Barbuda. I love pageantry. Most recently I was crowned Miss Antigua Queen of Carnival 2013 and right off the bat I was given the opportunity to promote Antigua and Barbuda at different media houses and also through news articles published both locally and internationally. As a Cultural Ambassador I will be representing Antigua and Barbuda in various upcoming pageants regionally and will continue to promote Antigua and Barbuda. Also, being a member of the D.U.S.T. (Dance Unifying Souls Together) Dance Company and a dancer with Antiguan Soca Artist Tanzania ‘Tizzy’ Sebastien and El-A-Kru, each time we perform, I am able to promote Antigua and Barbuda not only as the destination that offers ‘Sun, Sea and Sand’ but as a destination that has rich heritage and culture. This is not only done locally but having experienced travelling with various dance groups to showcase Antiguan Talent and most recently with the El-A-Kru Band who takes the Antiguan flag boldly around the world each time we perform abroad.
Do you know a tourism employee deserving of the spotlight in the monthly Tourism E-Blast? Nominate your shining star by submitting their name, place of employment, and brief details as to the qualities you see demonstrated, deserving of acknowledgement as an Antiguan and Barbudan Hospitality Ambassador. Email your submission to info@aandbtourism.com
info@aandbtourism.com
Social Media Links www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
United States of America 3 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza – Suite 6A 305 East 47th Street New York, NY 10017 Tel: 1 212 541 4118 Fax: 1 646 215 6008 Email: info@antigua-barbuda.org
My own drive to become a successful individual in life and the desire within to make the people who have invested their time and efforts into helping me achieve my goals proud.
What does being an Antiguan and Barbudan Hospitality Ambassador mean to her?
Send us your feedback:
Canada 60 St Clair Avenue East – Suite 601 Toronto, Ontario Canada M4T 1N5 Tel: 1 416 961 3085 Fax: 1 416 961 7218 Email: info@antigua-barbuda-ca.com
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E-Blast is marketed and produced by: The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Marketing Team
Charmaine Spencer Matara Thomas
(Editor & Creative Director) (Contributing Writer)
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