Antigua and Barbuda recently welcomed the Chapter Presidents of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) for a two-day meeting, acknowledging their significant contributions to the nation’s flourishing tourism industry. Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez expressed gratitude for the ASTA leaders’ unwavering support, emphasizing their crucial role in driving and sustaining the thriving tourism sector.
Fernandez praised the ASTA Chapter Presidents for being among the top producers of visitors to Antigua and Barbuda, recognizing their impact on the country’s economy. In his address at the Sandals Antigua Grande Resort, he highlighted the tourism industry’s substantial contribution, constituting over 50 percent of the GDP and employing more than 46 percent of the national workforce, both directly and indirectly.
While applauding the industry’s growth, Fernandez stressed the importance of managing tourism sustainably to avoid adverse effects on the environment, culture, and local communities. The government of Antigua and Barbuda is committed to promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both the host community and visitors.
Fernandez expressed his gratitude to travel advisors, acknowledging their role in making 2023 a record-breaking year for tourism in the twin-island state. He affirmed the government’s commitment to collaboration with travel advisors, emphasizing their integral part in showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of Antigua and Barbuda.
In a recent announcement, Fernandez unveiled the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s latest initiative – a comprehensive specialist training and rewards program exclusively for travel advisors globally. The program aims to enhance the skills, knowledge, and resources of travel professionals, boosting their competitiveness in the market.
The ASTA meeting held in Antigua and Barbuda is anticipated to significantly increase the knowledge of the twin-island state among influential travel advisors in the United States. ASTA Board Chairman Jackie Friedman believes that firsthand experiences of the country’s attractions and people will empower the Chapter Presidents to effectively promote Antigua and Barbuda to their membership and the traveling public.
Zane Kerby, President and CEO of ASTA, voiced his support for the meeting, emphasizing that the Chapter Presidents, as local leaders, play a crucial role in promoting destinations to ASTA members across the United States. With over 200 local meetings each year, ASTA aims to leverage its extensive network to showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s riches, features, and beauty to a broader audience.
The ASTA meeting, hosted by Sandals Antigua Grande Resort and Spa on Monday and Tuesday, is expected to result in increased organic promotion of Antigua and Barbuda, potentially leading to a rise in visitors to the destination.
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