ABTA Quarterly E-Blast First Edition

Tourism E-Blast Quarterly Edition10

2 Tourism E-blasT QuarTErly EdiTion 2014 2

Tourism E-Blast Quarterly Edition

The Tourism E-blast Quarterly Edition is simply the Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Authorityrsquos lsquoTourism E-Blastrsquo revamped into a bigger more comprehensive recap of 2014rsquos tourism industry happenings Once every quarter The Tourism E-blast Quarterly will provide informative tourism industry news statistical information on the destinationrsquos airlift and hotel occupancy event happenings and of course island specials

To keep our readers well informed and up to date the Tourism Authority launched The Tourism E-blast Espresso which is a bi-monthly newsletter that offers a snap shot of activities tours and specials happening on island The two offerings The E-blast Quarterly and The E-blast Espresso are here to keep you informed and entertained As we like to say in Antigua amp Barbudahellip lsquotwo is better than onersquo Do enjoy

EVENTS HigHligHTS

FEATURED EVENT

iSSUE FEATURE

TOURiSM iNDUSTRY NEWS

iSlAND SPECiAl

HOTEl SPOTligHT

TOURS amp ATTRACTiONS

33 Tourism E-blasT QuarTErly EdiTion 2014

bull CPTSA Easter Sports Camp - April 22 cptsawingsactolnet | (268) 788-8783 | (268) 774-4894

bull guadeloupe to Antigua Race (Antigua Yacht Club) ndash April 25 wwwsailingweekcom

bull Yachting World lsquoRound Antigua Race ndash April 26 wwwsailingweekcom

bull 3rd Annual CPTSA Open House amp Talent Expose - April 26 cptsawingsactolnet | (268) 788-8783 | (268) 774-4894

bull Urlings Seafood Festival ndash April 27 Wendy Tittle ndash (268) 462-1007 | (268) 764-8231

bull 47th Annual Antigua Sailing Week ndash April 27 ndash May 2 wwwsailingweekcom

bull Shirley Heights Sunday Sunset BBQ Party ndash Every Sunday wwwshirleyheightslookoutcom | (268) 728-0636

bull Tropical Adventures Sail Away Mystic ii Day Cruise ndash Every First Sunday wwwtropicaladcom | (268) 480-1225

bull Copper and lumber Seafood Fridays ndash April 4 11 18 25 wwwcopperandlumberhotelcom | (268) 460-1160 | (268) 460-1159

bull governor generalrsquos Cup 2014 Caribbean Air Rally ndash April 5 ndash 17 wwwairrallywordpresscom20140128governor-generals- cup-2014-caribbean-air-rally

bull Annual Flower and garden Show - April 12 amp 13 wwwantiguahorticulturecom | (268) 463-2070

bull Antigua amp Barbuda international Kite Festival ndash April 16 ndash 23 Calvin Pilgrim - (268) 560-5693 | (268) 774-4879 | tropikitershotmailcom

bull Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta ndash April 17 ndash 22 wwwantiguclassicscom | (268)460-1799

bull good Friday (Public Holiday) - April 18

bull EAg Earth Day Hike to Sugar loaf Mountain ndash April 19 wwweagantiguaorg | (268) 462-6236

bull Easter Monday (Public Holiday) ndash April 21

bull Easter Monday 4x 1 Mile Road Relay - April 21 cptsawingsactolnet | (268) 788-8783 | (268) 774-4894

APRil


bull Nautical Music Festival ndash May 2 amp 3 wwwfacebookcomevents644800002240711ref=22

bull Copper and lumber Seafood Fridays ndash May 2 9 16 23 30 wwwcopperandlumberhotelcom | (268) 460-1160 | (268) 460-1159

bull 6th Annual Sir Reginald Samuel Track amp Field Classic ndash May 3 amp 4 cptsawingsactolnet | (268) 788-8783 | (268) 774-4894

bull labour Day (Public Holiday) ndash May 5

bull Annual Antigua Tennis Week at Curtain Bluff ndash May 10 ndash 17 wwwcurtainbluffcomplanningeventshtml

bull EAg Birding at McKinnonrsquos Pond ndash May 17 wwweagantiguaorg | (268) 462-6236

bull Wings Youth Basketball Festival - May 17 cptsawingsactolnet | (268) 788-8783 | (268) 774-4894

bull international Anglican Food Fair ndash Late May


bull Tropical Adventures Sail Away Mystic ii Day Cruise Every First Sunday wwwtropicaladcom | (268) 480-1225

MAY


bullCopper and lumber Seafood Fridays ndash June 6 13 20 27 wwwcopperandlumberhotelcom | (268) 460-1160 | (268) 460-1159

bullShowcase Antigua Barbuda ndash June 5 amp 6 wwwmembersantiguahotelsorg

bull4th Annual Marlin Classic Fishing Tournament ndash June 5 - 6 wwwantiguabarbudasportsfishingcom

bull48th Annual Antigua amp Barbuda Sports Fishing Tournament amp Seafood Festival June 6 - 8 wwwantiguabarbudasportsfishingcom

bullCaribana in Barbuda ndash June 5 - 9

bullWhit Monday (Public Holiday) ndash June 9

bullGrown amp Sexy in Antigua IV (UK Party) ndash June 13 ndash 22 wwwgrownandsexycouk

bullRomance Month Destination Wedding Sweepstakes ndash Early June

bullWorld Environment Day ndash Guiana and Bird Island Boat Tour ndash June 21 httpwwweagantiguaorg | (268) 462-6236

bullCPTSA Sports Award Banquet- June 21 cptsawingsactolnet | (268) 788-8783 | (268) 774-4894

bullShirley Heights Sunday Sunset BBQ Party ndash Every Sunday wwwshirleyheightslookoutcom | (268) 728-0636

bullTropical Adventures Sail Away Mystic II Day Cruise ndash Every First Sunday wwwtropicaladcom | (268) 480-1225

JUNE

SHiRlEY HEigHTS SUNDAY SUNSET BBQ PARTY


TAliSKER WHiSKEY ATlANTiC CHAllENgE

Antigua and Barbuda The Yachting Capital of the Caribbean was once again host to an esteemed International Marine event ndash the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge Deemed the lsquoWorldrsquos Toughest Rowing Racersquo the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge involved thirteen row boats which departed from Sam Sebastian in La Gomera and made their way across the raging Atlantic waters en route for Antigua Participants of this over 3000 mile voyage were welcomed at the historic Nelsonrsquos Dockyard and given a warm welcoming ceremony after their extensive journey The country is also expected host the finishing Talisker Whiskey Race in 2015

JOllY HARBOUR VAlENTiNErsquoS REgATTA amp RUM FESTiVAl

Jolly Harbour Antigua came alive in February to kick off this yearrsquos Jolly Harbour Valentinersquos Regatta and Rum Festival This annual event has been capturing the attention of sea lovers for over 20 years and it just keeps getting better Many boating aficionados occupied the world-class marina to attend the series of events and participate in the various sailing and entertainment activities The West Coast of Antigua was filled with scores of sailing enthusiasts cruisers and the many spectators that came out to have a good time and witness the exhilarating racing The Regatta comprised of three days of fun-filled racing shore-side activities and lively parties each night with live entertainment

EVENT HigHligHTS


RORC CARiBBEAN 600 RACE

Six hundred and eighty-two crew members from all around the globe participated in the 6th Edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 race with each crew determined to take line honours and the Multihull class win Antigua amp Barbuda was once again the amazing backdrop for this pulsating nautical contest as the country welcomed sixty yachts from eleven different countries to its shores As the start gun ripped through the air at Fort Charlotte to signal the start of this rigorous race the outstanding international fleets of yachts each displayed their skills against the winds and waves vying to take the coveted title The route which surrounded eleven Caribbean islands made it an exhilarating race track for the crews with neck-to-neck racing throughout the duration The winner of the RORC Caribbean 600 Trophy for the best yacht overall in IRC on corrected time was George Sakellarisrsquo RP72 Shockwave

WiCB ODi CRiCKET MATCHES

The Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium was filled with excitement as Antigua amp Barbuda hosted three WICB ODI cricket matches on the grounds on February 28th March 2nd and 5th 2014 West Indiesrsquo fans came out in their numbers and colours to show their solidarity for their WI team as well as numerous English fans Countless flags were seen waving throughout the crowd in much anticipation as the lsquoWe versus Themrsquo games commenced until the nail-biting finish


of background and live music every day and evening in the Event Village and some nights there are parties in various other locations Mid-Sailing Week there is no racing but the famous Antigua Sailing Week lsquoLay Dayrsquo events are not to be missed

For more information visit wwwsailingweekcom

Check out the ASW 2014 Racing Programme

April 26th ndash Yachting World Round Antigua Race Falmouth and English Harbours

April 27th ndash AUA College of Medicine Race Day 1 Antigua Yacht Club

April 28th ndash Johnnie Walker Race Day 2 - Antigua Yacht Club

April 29th ndash English Harbour Rum Runner Race Day 3 Antigua Yacht Club

April 30th ndash lsquoLay Dayrsquo amp Nonsuch Bay RS Elite Challenge - Pigeon Point beach

May 1st ndash Race Day 4 Antigua Yacht Club

May 2nd ndash Race Day 5 Antigua Yacht Club

FEATURED EVENT

Itrsquos that time of year again in Antigua amp Barbuda where ldquoSailing Comes Firstrdquo Antigua Sailing Week (ASW) has become renowned as one of the most exhilarating racing events on the international sailing calendar over the last 20 years and is also an excellent time to visit Antigua and take advantage of what is considered to be an lsquoisland-wide partyrsquo celebration

This yearrsquos Antigua Sailing Week will take place from April 26th ndash May 2nd 2014 Antigua Sailing Week began in 1967 with only 10 boats and from small beginnings the regatta has developed into a world-class sailing event In past years the event has seen over 200 entries and has grown to now also include an lsquoOcean Seriesrsquo for boats that prefer ocean racing

However land lovers as well as sailors alike can enjoy all of the festivities of ASW as there are many non-competing yachts that tag along to witness the action first-hand and there are fantastic look-out points around the island from which to spectate

The ASW Event Village is located in Nelsonrsquos Dockyard English Harbour and is the central point at which all the crews gather at the end of the dayrsquos racing to exchange stories and enjoy happy hour from 3 to 6 pm There is a combination

ANTigUA SAiliNg WEEK26TH APRil ndash 2ND MAY 2014


Opening of the Wadadli Beer grill Nelsonrsquos Dockyard Car park April 24 2014 - 600 pm ndash May 3 2014 - 200 am

Yachting World Round Antigua Race Prize Giving and Official Antigua Sailing Week Welcome PartyNelsonrsquos DockyardApril 26 2014 - 600 pm ndash April 27 2014 - 1200 am

Shirley Heights lookout Breakfast Party April 27 2014 - 800 am ndash 1100 am

Wadadli Cats Chase the Race Falmouth Harbour MarinaApril 27 2014 - 830 am ndash 330 pm

AUA College of Medicine Daily Prize giving for Race Day 1Antigua Yacht ClubApril 27 2014 - 400 pm ndash 600 pm

Rum and Rhythms Antigua Yacht ClubApril 27 2014 - 600 pm ndash 1100 pm

Johnny Walker Prize giving for Race 2 - Antigua Yacht ClubApril 28 2014 - 400 pm ndash 600 pm

An Audience Withhellip Antigua Yacht ClubApril 28 2014 - 600 pm ndash 1000 pm The English Harbour Rum Prize giving for Race 3 Antigua Yacht ClubApril 29 2014 - 400 pm ndash 600 pm

English Harbour presents Shaggy live in Concert Shirley HeightsApril 29 2014 - 500 pm ndash April 30 2014 - 1200 pm

Nonsuch Bay RS Elite Challenge Pigeon PointApril 30 2014 - 1200 pm ndash 500 pm

Sunset Beach Party Pigeon PointApril 30 2014 - 400 pm

Vueve Clicquot Sunset Party Catherinersquos Cafeacute PlageApril 30 2014 - 500 pm ndash 1000 pm

Race Day 4 Daily Prize giving Antigua Yacht ClubMay 1 2014 - 400 pm ndash 600 pm

Digicel Eat Street Wadadli Beer grillNelsonrsquos DockyardMay 1 2014 - 600 pm ndash 1100 pm


Final Awards Ceremony and after Party Nelsonrsquos DockyardMay 2 2014 - 700 pm ndash May 3 2014 - 100 am

Dockyard DayNelsonrsquos DockyardMay 4 2014 - 200 pm

For up to date information on Antigua Sailing Week visit us online at wwwsailingweekcom or facebookcomantiguasailingweek Also for your complete guidelines to Antigua Sailing Week 2014 please see the complete ASW Sailing Instructions

UPCOMiNg

SAILING

WEEKCALENDAR


HERMITAGE BAY

Designed to maximise on peace and quiet Hermitage Bay is the ideal location for letting your mind and soul quiet down With 25 luxury cottages which are nestled into one of the

most secluded corners of Antigua and 16 acres of lush tropical gardens this eco-chic luxury hotel offers a five-star resort experience without hampering the natural surroundings

Rather the appointments are stylish and the white sands and azure waters are just footsteps away offering the opportunity for relaxation in the calm and isolated luxury that Hermitage Bay has become renowned for Hermitage Bay

HOTEl SPOTligHT

has also been nominated at the 2013 World Travel Awards in the ldquoWorldrsquos Leadingrsquorsquo category for boutique hotel and design hotel Eight of the beachfront cottages feature a spacious split-level lounge and patio with large wraparound decks and private plunge pools

The 17 hillside pool suites afford the added luxury of private sun decks While yoursquore lounging on the deck or beach or lazing in bed the resort will prepare carefully crafted meals designed to fulfil the exclusive luxury experience The menu changes daily to feature freshly squeezed local juices locally grown produce and organic ingredients and the entreacutees are prepared to order The kitchen also takes special requests and is always open for your convenience Hermitage Bay is the ideal eco-friendly chic hotel for the jet-setter looking to leave all cares at the door Or for lovers seeking to enjoy their first moments as a married couple or to re-kindle the romance of their relationship with ease and inspiration

For more informationinfohermitagebaycom - wwwhermitagebaycomTel +1 268 562 5500 - Tel +1 268 764 5515(reservations 24-hour service) -Tel +1 268 562 8080 (for reservations)USA toll free 855-562-8080 - Canada Reservations 905-235-9091fax +1 268 562 5505 - P O Box 60 - St Johnrsquos Antigua West indiesAntigua stands out not only because of its loveliness but the island offers rich history and some of the most interesting stays on earth

ANTIGUA GONE GREEN MACO Caribbean living AdvertorialThree of Antiguarsquos leading lsquoeco-chicrsquo hotels were featured in the fourth issue of MACO Caribbean Magazine in an article lsquoAntigua Gone Greenrsquo In this article they featured Hermitage Bay Resort Keyonna Beach and Curtain Bluff Resort for their luxurious yet environmentally-conscious housing and operation practices

Take a look at what MACO had to say


CURTAIN BLUFFAs its name suggests Curtain Bluff sits right on the edge of a cliff and offers guests an all-inclusive luxury stay for both couples and families Charming

and very much the idyllic beachfront hotel in look and ambiance Curtain Bluff has 72 spacious suites and guest rooms facing the palm-shaded white-sand Surf Beach and the jagged headland that gives the resort its name Being Green Globe Certified itrsquos no surprise that at the 2013 World Travel Awards Curtain Bluff was also nominated for the leading green hotel in the Caribbean

Guests can choose from deluxe rooms to one bedroom Bluff Suites where large floor-to-ceiling windows and verandas or ground-floor terraces afford miles of panoramic island views Rooms are luxe but the appointments are streamlined and well equipped with modern luxuries that are still environmentally conscious All meals are included and quality is never sacrificed since the resort also features Curtain Bluff rsquos award-winning culinary team led by French-born Executive Chef Christophe Blatz

In keeping with the romantic and eco-friendly nature of the resort TV sets are relegated to the common viewing area which leaves a lot more time for a couple to enjoy the king-sized beds made especially for two For families or groups the king-sized beds can be converted into twins Couches can be made into beds for young children sharing a room or suite with their parents Rooms and suites can be linked together to create the best configuration for your needs (up to four bedrooms)

Great for couples families or a bunch of friends Curtain Bluff rsquos luxury all-inclusive package may just be the vacation you never thought ofhelliptill now

For more informationPO Box 288 Old RoadAntigua West indiesT toll-free from US 888289-9898or 268462-8400T toll-free from UK 0800-051-8956

KEYONNA BEACHIf itrsquos a no fuss no muss all-inclusive vacation that you are in the market for then Keyonna Beach is the place for you

A Trip Advisor Certified Excellence Winner 2013 Keyonna Beach sits right on the soft sand of Antiguarsquos south-west coast and offers endless views of the serene Antiguan Sea With traditional Caribbean-esque four-poster beds and open verandas where you can enjoy the cool breeze wafting from the ocean the rooms at Keyonna Beach are your chance to escape the routine of regular life Each intimate room allows you to connect with your partner away from the hustle of everyday life

Fashioned as a couples-only hotel Keyonna Beach is located in Johnsonrsquos Point and is not that far from other restaurants and hotels Views of nearby Montserrat and the local sights and sounds of the island make this boutique-feel stay a unique opportunity Keyonna Beach also provides canopied Bali daybeds right on the beach making nature voyeurism a breeze

The Beach Restaurant has a multi-tiered wooden terrace for casual secluded beachfront dining The hotel menu also changes daily affording couples the chance to sample all the local dishes that the island has to offer A true loverrsquos paradise Keyonna Beach is the ideal stay for couples to reconnect and celebrate the reasons that make their lives happy

For more information

Johnsonrsquos Point - Antigua West indiesTel +1 268 562-2020 - Email infokeyonnabeachcom

1212 TOURISM E-BLAST QUARTERLYrsquo EDITION

ANTIGUA amp BARBUDA HONOURS ampCELEBRATES ITS CRICKET LEGENDSAntigua and Barbuda is well known for its blue skies bathed in sun rays and 365 golden sand beaches with tranquil turquoise waters However as the destinationrsquos tagline states lsquothe beach is just the beginningrsquo Antigua and Barbuda also boasts an enchanting history rooted in a unique and zestful culture with smiles as bright as the sun It is an authentic display of real island life However one cannot fully assimilate the culture of Antigua and Barbuda without considering the islandrsquos passion and undying devotion to the game of cricket

Although its cohort of cricket players is small Antigua and Barbuda has produced some of the best cricketers of all time both regionally and internationally Moreover the former national stadium the Antigua Recreation Grounds has been the platform for many world-breaking cricket records and is where many great players began their legendary careers

One of Antigua and Barbudarsquos most famous cricketers and itrsquos only living National Hero Sir Vivian Richards (also known as the lsquoMaster Blasterrsquo) scored

iSSUE FEATURE

the fastest test match century off fifty-six balls against England in the Blackwash series of 1986 at the Antigua Recreation Grounds Former West Indies captain Brian Lara also made his mark on the grounds and set the record twice for highest individual test innings making 375 in 1994 and 400 not out in 2004 against England

Wednesday February 26th 2014 was a glorious heart-warming day for the country as they commemorated and honoured one of their very own celebrities Sir Vivian Richards The National Hero and West Indian Cricket legend was paid tribute with the unveiling of a monumental statue of himself at the present national stadium that is named after him The gala affair was attended by members of the international press several members of Sir Vivrsquos family as well as cricketing greats Sir Wes Hall Sir Ian Botham Clive Lloyd Andy Roberts Curtly Ambrose and Richie Richardson The monument of Sir Vivian Issac Alexander Richards is located outside the entrance to the main pavilion of the Cricket Stadium

It was a historic week of celebrations in the country as three other Antiguan cricket greats were knighted and commemorated at the opening match of the WICB ODIs on Friday February 28th 2014 Former fast bowlers Andy Roberts and Curtly Ambrose and former West Indies captain and batsman Richie Richardson received this prestigious tribute by Governor General Dame Louise Lake-Tack in a ceremony that was also attend by Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer Roberts Ambrose and Richardson all made significant contributions during their tenure on the West Indies Cricket Team and represented Antigua and Barbuda to the highest degree


BLUE WATERS RESORTSummer Early Booking Bonus Book before 15th April 2014 and receive a saving of US$110 for every night stayed in any room category ndash minimum of 7 nights applieswwwbluewatersnet

HERMITAGE BAY RESORT

Easter Special Book before 30 April for stays from April 20 ndash 30 2014 Seven (7) nights in any suite category and pay for five (5) Fourteen (14) nights in any suite category and pay for ten (10)wwwhermitagebaycom

KEYONNA BEACH Honeymoon Special Book a stay of three (3) nights or more and enter the promo code lsquoHoneymoonrsquo for online bookings Honeymooners receive a free bottle of sparkling wine on arrival wwwkeyonnabeachcom

CARLISLE BAY

Simply Carlisle Fly in the morning and relax on the beach in the afternoon - this is what makes Carlisle Bay perfect for a short break to escape the cold weather Available 5 January to 26 April 2014 wwwcampbellgrayhotelscom

CITY VIEW HOTEL international amp Caribbean Traveller Special Promo Code ndash CVHEA 0414 Rates begin at US$9900 per night singledouble occupancy all taxes inclusive Two Kids under 12 Stay FREE Offer valid until April 30 2014 For more information call 268 562 0259 or visit wwwcityviewantiguacom

iSlAND SPECiAlS


TRADESHOWSSalon du Voyages Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe ndash November 22 -24 2013Antigua and Barbuda tourism partners had a successful showcasing of the destination with the delegation being led by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and a strong representation from the Antigua Hotels amp Tourist Association They

were joined by representatives from Elite Island Resorts Jolly Beach Resort amp Spa Halcyon Resort (Rex Resorts) the VIP Group of Properties Curtain Bluff Resort along with National Tours

Caribbean Marketplace Montego Bay Jamaica ndash January 12 ndash 15 2014Representatives from the ABTA Caribbean Office attended CHTArsquos Caribbean Marketplace and met with key suppliers in the various markets such as Air Canada Holidays Virgin Holidays and Trip Advisor to name a few

iTB BERliN BERliN gERMANY MARCH 5 ndash 9 2014

The Antigua amp Barbuda delegation for ITB was led by CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) Colin C James and included Neil Forester President of the Antigua and Barbuda Hotel and Tourist Association Cherrie Osborne Antigua and Barbudarsquos Director of Tourism for UK and Europe and Antigua and Barbudarsquos Honourary Counsel in Germany Dr Werner Giersch

Local hotel partners such as Jolly Beach Carlisle Bay Blue Waters Sugar Ridge and Hermitage Bay were also present on the stand to jointly support this European marketing effort The teams conducted a packed schedule of

successful meetings with European based Tourism Executives and AirlinesBoston Globe Travel Show Boston Massachusetts ndash February 8 ndash 10 2014The ABTA US office along with the AHTA and nine hotel partners participated in the Boston Globe Travel Show The show was well attended and visitors showed genuine interest in the destination Several of the hoteliers were able to take bookings at the show

NY Times Travel Show New York New York ndash February 28 ndash March 2 2014Representatives from the ABTA NY Office and the AHTA attended the NY Times Travel Show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City The show was well attended and was very successful Also in attendance were representatives from Tamarind Hills Elite Island Resorts Sugar Ridge Resort Villas of Sunset Lane and The Inn at English Harbour

BEACHES CONSTRUCTiON TO BEgiN iN FiRST QUARTER OF 2015

Construction work on the Beaches project in Antigua should commence between the months of April and May next year according to Sandals Chairman the Hon Gordon ldquoButchrdquo

Stewart The Chairman explained ldquoWe have started the ground work but in terms of physical work we are looking at around AprilMay We will start off with the building of the cays and suites and move on to the attractions such as an ice-skating rink (a first) waterpark slides a cinema an X Box lounge sesame street camp and other features you have seen firsthandrdquo

AHTA ANTigUA SHOWCASE AHTA TO ORgANizE DESTiNATiON SYMPOSiUM iN JUNE

The Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association in collaboration with the Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Authority presents ldquoSHOWCASE ANTIGUA BARBUDArdquo at the Sandals Grande Antigua scheduled for the 5th and 6th June 2014 This event provides one and a half days of pre-scheduled appointment sessions and activities where Wholesalers and Tour Operators from our source markets can meet and conduct business with regional suppliers in the tourism industry Full details can be found at wwwmembersantiguahotelsorg

TOURiSM iNDUSTRY NEWSMarketing Presence


FAMILIARIZATION amp PRESS TRIPS

The ABTA hosted the following FAM amp Press Trips during the months of January through March

bull Lindsay Sutton ndash January 2 ndash 9 2014 ndash Thomas Cook writer

bull UK celebrity Sophie Ellis-Bextor and family ndash January 13 2014 ndash Stingray City excursion

bull Johanne Robinson ndash February 24 2014 ndash Canadian travel agent

bull Cricket ODI Media Press Trip ndash March 1 2014 ndash UK Media covering Cricket ODis West indies v England

bull Canadian Press Trip ndashElizabeth Kerr and Melody Wren ndash March Canadian Magazine writers

bull Micheline amp Richard Dion March ndash Canadian Travel agent

bull Jane and Phil Harris March 25 ndash 28 2014 ndash Writers from Waterfront Magazine

PartnershiPsuPPortsPonsorshiPABTA Partners with West Indies Cricket Board for ODI Cricket Match Promotion The ABTA partnered with the WICB and the Wadadli Animal Nature Park for the promotion of the ODI Cricket Matches West Indies vs England that were held in Antigua on February 28 March 3 amp 5 2014

The ABTA began pushing the ODI matches with lsquoSave the Datersquo ads which were featured in The Daily Observer and on Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Social Media pages The ABTA also provided radio and television advertising for Cricket ODIs via the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) and Caribbean Superstation (CSS) and the promotion of Wadadli Animal Nature Parkrsquos Cricket Party which took place on March 1 2014

ABTA Sponsors Smoking Grillers Team for Cattlemenrsquos Caribbean BBQ Competition The ABTA supported the Smoking Grillers team on their journey to Puerto Rico on February 21-24 2014 to compete in the Cattlemenrsquos Caribbean BBQ Competition The team was successful in securing placement in several categories of the competition

They received first place in the Showmanship Award second place in the Pork category fourth in the best BBQ sauce and sixth in the Beef category overall position was ninth from among forty competitors Chefs Christopher Terry and Rochelle Anthony competed in the Professional Chef Competition and secured second place The Smoking Grillers Team has surely made a mark in Puerto Rico and proudly represented Antigua and Barbuda

Antiguarsquos cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards batted his way around Antigua showing his favourite spots on island in a newly-launched destination video


CMC coverage of Antigua Carnival 2013 was released on CaribVision and online via Antigua amp Barbuda Tourismrsquos Social Media pages

The destinationrsquos cuisine was featured on Fodorrsquos Travel website wwwfodorscom in an article ldquoWhere to Eat in Antigua Nowrdquo wwwfodorscom

Two lucky regional cricket fans were the winners of the Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Authorityrsquos lsquoSave Me a Room for Cricketrsquo promotion The winners flew to Antigua and enjoyed two of the three WICB ODI cricket matches West Indies vs England

The ABTA partnered with Thomas Cook Airlines for a promotion in January One lucky winner Ms Keitha Southwell and a guest will fly for free to Manchester on Thomas Cook Airlines

Antigua amp Barbuda remains a favorite among travelers as it was one of only two Eastern Caribbean Islands ranked among the regionrsquos top 10 destinations to receive lsquoTravellerrsquos Choice Destination Award 2014rsquo

The ABTA launched the 2014 edition of the Tours and Attractions Guide at this yearrsquos Cruise Shipping Miami Conference in Miami Beach Florida

Also launched at the beginning of the year was the 2014 Events Calendar which details events happening in Antigua amp Barbuda

The Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Authority launched the Tourism Espresso Newsletter that is a shortened version of the ABTA Tourism E-Blast The Espresso gives a snap-shot of our local events culinary delights resort specials and exhilarating attractions


New VC Bird international Airport Terminal Due to Open later in 2014The new airport terminal at the VC Bird International Airport is now over 70 percent completed The project which covers a total of 23000 square metres of space is on track for completion in September 2014 The state-of-the-art terminal will feature four jet bridges four escalators four elevators 12 X-ray machines and CCTV monitoring The new terminal is designed to handle 1800 passengers per hour A government estimate found that a significant amount of funds worth of economic impact had been generated in the country due to the airport project which is being constructed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) More information about the new airport terminal may be found at wwwvcbiacomaboutairport-development

Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Delighted at News of Air Passenger Duty (APD) Reform in 2015The British Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne announced that the Air Passenger Duty (APD) will be reformed from next year The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) was pleased at the Chancellorrsquos announcement that stated from April of 2015 the APD will be simplified into a two band system Band A for short-haul flights of less than 2000 miles from London and Band B for all long-haul flights more than 2000 miles from London (including flights to the Caribbean) In 2015-16 the new B and B will be charged at the planned rate pound71 for reduced-rate passengers and pound142 for standard-rate passengers The CTO for quite some time has been lobbying against the unfair system which charged a higher rate of APD on flights to Barbados than Hawaii and placed the United States at a competitive advantage

CTO is more than delighted that the Chancellor has finally accepted the Caribbeanrsquos proposal made inNovember 2010 to return to the simpler and fairer two band system For more information on the APDReform visit wwwonecaribbeanorg

AiRliFT UPDATE


BRiTiSH AiRWAYS iNCREASES FligHTS TO THE DESTiNATiONThe UK market continues to rebound for the twin-island state as British Airways plans to increase services to its top winter hotspots with extra capacity beginning October 26th 2014 Antigua amp Barbuda will see a 10 increase in seating capacity to the destination with three out of the seven daily non-stop British Airways flights to Antigua now being solely dedicated to holiday-makers wanting to visit the destination This additional 10 increase in lift provides more seating capacity to accommodate more visitors while giving passengers more direct accessibility to the destination and also providing a more direct flight turn-around for passengers This expansion demonstrates British Airwaysrsquo continued commitment to Antigua amp Barbuda as a tourist destination For more information about British Airways visit wwwbritishairwayscom

AiR ANTillES ExPRESS TWiCE-WEEKlY FligHT SCHEDUlE TO END iN APRilAir Antilles Expressrsquo winter schedule will end on April 10 2014 Over the 2013-14 winter season Air Antilles provided Antigua and Barbuda with alternative direct connection options to and from Guadeloupe This service is an extension of a Corsair flight out of Paris France in partnership with Promo Sejours a French tour operator which started to sell the destination from this past winter More information about Air Antilles may be found at wwwflyairantillescom

liAT - THE CARiBBEAN AiRliNE ADDS NEW AiRCRAFT TO FlEETLIAT - The Caribbean Airline has recently added a new ATR aircraft to its fleet which now totals 20 aircraft LIAT is one of the leading Caribbean airlines and the addition to the new fleet will surely help to improve the airlinesrsquo operational performance and will significantly help LIAT handle increased passenger volume for the upcoming season please include increased seating capacity of the new aircraft For more information about liAT visit wwwliatcom

THOMAS COOK FligHT SCHEDUlE RENEWED FOR NEW 2014-15 WiNTER SEASONThomas Cook Airlines will be returning for another season with its non-stop weekly service into Antigua and Barbuda every Sunday with a scheduled departure out of Manchester International (MAN) at 1000 am and arrive into the VC Bird International Airport (ANU) at 245 pm Thomas Cook originating out of Manchester International Airport (MAN) UK will recommence its service into the destination on Sunday 9th November 2014 We are pleased to have the airline returning to the destination beginning For more information about Thomas Cook visit wwwflythomascookcom

TAKE A TRiP TO BARBUDA HOW TO gET TO OUR SiSTER iSlEhellipTake a trip over to Barbuda either by air or by sea The Barbuda Express Ferry is an innovative wave-piercing catamaran giving maximum passenger comfort at high speed The journey time of 90 minutes in nearly all weather conditions makes it ideal for business use and for day-trips or excursions The Barbuda Express runs 5 days a week between Antigua and Barbuda For more information visit wwwbarbudaexpresscom You can also book a flight on ABM Air to travel to Barbuda As a small regional airline ABM Air offers a level of personal service that is rarely encountered in modern times It is only a short 15 minutes flight over before landing at the Codrington Barbuda Airport For information on flight schedules check wwwantigua-flightscom

1919 TOURISM E-BLAST QUARTERLYrsquo EDITION 2014


The E-blast Quarterly team sat down with Mr Cameron Fraser and discussed his take on Cruise Tourism in Antigua amp Barbuda

What do you see as some of the challenges facing the cruise tourism sector in Antigua amp Barbuda

At the moment trying to continuously grow the cruise business for the islands is challenging we collectively (as tourism partners and government) have to examine and address the financial infrastructural and customer service issues being faced by the Port of St Johnrsquos If these key issues are to be addressed sooner rather than later this would help to progress the sector and attract larger cruise vessels and more cruise lines

What do you think could be done to enhance current cruise business

We need to continue to attract the range of cruise vessels that we can presently accommodate and push to encourage more calls from our current cruise partners We should also look at trying to encourage the cruise lines to stay later into the evenings in the Port of St Johnrsquos and try to grow evening business for the business in-and-around the Port area

What more immediate improvements would you like to see for the cruise sector

I would like to see the infrastructural changes and improvements planned for Heritage Quay and the Port area commence with a planned project time frame for the completion However I do understand the financial constraints faced by the government who will bear the majority of the cost

of this investment I would like to see more private sector cooperation and inclusion in the cruise tourism sector - possibly through direct investment partnerships with the cruise lines

About the Contributor - CAMERON FRASER Managing Director Key Properties

Cameron Fraser a member of one of Antiguarsquos pre-eminent families is responsible for some of the islandrsquos most successful tourism-based businesses including Coco Bay Resort Sheer Restaurant the Coconut Beach Club and Redcliffe Quay in St Johns His company Key Properties has a total of forty-seven businesses operating within Redcliffe Quay catering to both tourists and locals Fraser is also the visionary behind the building and completion of the Heritage Quay and Nevis Street Piers In the early 1980rsquos Frasierrsquos father the late Bill Fraser and his friend John Astor formed Key Properties After his fatherrsquos death in 1996 Fraser and his brother Ian began managing the company and maintaining the character and history of the buildings Fraser was Manager of the Antigua Pier Group until 2006 when he left to lead the management team at the Nonsuch Bay Development a La Perla International project However he retains his position as a Member of the Board of Directors of APG and ABCTA

SEA FOCUS


TOURS amp ATTRACTiONSANTigUA amp BARBUDA RECEiVES gOOD NEWS AT CRUiSE SHiPPiNg MiAMi 2014

Antigua and Barbuda recently attended the Cruise Shipping Miami (CSM) Trade and Convention Show held from March 10 ndash 13 2014 in Miami Florida one of the largest cruise trade events internationally which showcases the worldrsquos leading cruise destinations

The islandsrsquo official delegation was led by the Hon Trevor Walker Minister of Public Works and Communications and also included were representatives from The Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Authority The Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services (ADOMS) Antigua Pier Group Antigua and Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association and St Johnrsquos Development Corporation the seabed The delegates conducted a series of productive meetings with several executives of the cruise lines which included Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines (RCCL) Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Norwegian Cruise Lines Disney Cruises and Carnival Cruise Lines

Key cruise partners continue to show their confidence and support in the destination by increasing calls for the upcoming season Director-Government amp Community Relations for Latin America amp the Caribbean for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines (RCCL) Mr Federico Gonzalez-Denton reaffirmed RCCLrsquos support for the twin-island state with whom they have an excellent relationship He is quoted as saying that ldquothe trends for Antigua and Barbuda have been dramatically positiverdquo

RCCL provides 60 of Antigua amp Barbudarsquos cruise business bringing over 185000 passengers to the islands for this current season This figure is scheduled to increase to 216000 passengers next season The cruise line will also increase its overall calls to the destination to 83 calls up from 71 for the current season

Anchored in the beautiful turquoise waters of Jolly Harbour is one of Antiguarsquos newest attractions D-Boat accessible by a 10-minute ferry-ride is a delightful restaurant bar and lounge that is quickly making a name for itself as one of Antiguarsquos most desirable entertainment locations boasting magnificent views from the ocean delicious food and an overall good timeD-Boat is a 1974 decommissioned oil tanker that has been completely modernized and sits dramatically atop stunning blue waters Here they offer a varied menu which has a vibrant selection that is sure to be pleasing to all tastes and appetites

Come for lunch and relax with one of their famous mojitos or enjoy the 25 foot slide or water trampoline After some fun in the sun and sea guests should really try some of their specialty dishes like the ceviche coconut shrimp or seafood pasta to name a fewThe Espresso Team enjoyed lunch on D-Boat and sampled a variety of the scrumptious dishes Herersquos what we had


Wadadli Saltfish Balls served with the Chefrsquos Special Dip

Waterline Crispy Calamari served with Spicy Marinara Sauce

Buffalo and Barbecue Wings with Blue Cheese and Ranch Dips

The appetizer portions were surprisingly large and very tasty We especially enjoyed the saltfish balls that were perfectly seasoned with just a hint of spice Buffalo wings were also well prepared

D-Boat Burger served with coleslaw and French fries ndash D-Boatrsquos specialty house burger served with lettuce tomato blue cheese bacon and red onion marmalade

D-Boat Salad topped ndash mixed greens topped with conch shrimp scallops lobster tomato red onion served with passion fruit dressing

Riggers grilled Chicken ndash marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection with honey mustard glaze served with jasmine rice and mixed vegetables

Captain Jackrsquos Marinated Salmon ndash grilled marinated salmon served with jasmine rice bok choy and ginger sauce

The entrees were also very substantial and very tasty The marriage of flavours and textures in all the dishes complimented each other well and the team was very satisfied

Needless to say there was absolutely no room for dessert but be sure to make preparations for when you visit to fit that in

If dinner is more your speed the restaurant is romantically transformed with candle lit lamps that provide the perfect ambiance Early diners can enjoy

radiant sunsets over the tranquil waters while sipping on a specialty cocktail D-Boat is the ideal place to eat drink and relax We donrsquot think yoursquoll be disappointed Also check out D-Boatrsquos popular DJ nights every Friday and SaturdayOpen daily from 1100am ndash 1100pm Sunset Happy Hour Monday ndash Thursday 500pm ndash 600pm For more information visit wwwdboatantiguacom


COME EXPERIENCE

2424

ANTigUA AND BARBUDA TOURiSM AUTHORiTY

ACB Financial Centre High Street St Johnrsquos AntiguaTelephone (268) 562-7600 (268) 562-7602 Email infoaandbtourismcom

usa Tel 1-212-541-4117 Email infoantigua-barbudaorg

CanaDa Tel 1-416-961-3085 Email infoantigua-barbuda-cacom

uK amp euroPe Tel +44-203-668-3800 Email tourisminfoaandbtourismcom

antiguabarbuda facebookcomantiguabarbudavisitantiguabarbudacom

2 Tourism E-blasT QuarTErly EdiTion 2014 2

Tourism E-Blast Quarterly Edition

The Tourism E-blast Quarterly Edition is simply the Antigua amp Barbuda Tourism Authorityrsquos lsquoTourism E-Blastrsquo revamped into a bigger more comprehensive recap of 2014rsquos tourism industry happenings Once every quarter The Tourism E-blast Quarterly will provide informative tourism industry news statistical information on the destinationrsquos airlift and hotel occupancy event happenings and of course island specials

To keep our readers well informed and up to date the Tourism Authority launched The Tourism E-blast Espresso which is a bi-monthly newsletter that offers a snap shot of activities tours and specials happening on island The two offerings The E-blast Quarterly and The E-blast Espresso are here to keep you informed and entertained As we like to say in Antigua amp Barbudahellip lsquotwo is better than onersquo Do enjoy

EVENTS HigHligHTS

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Documents

ABTA Quarterly E-Blast First Edition