Antigua & Barbuda Reinforces Canadian Market with New Toronto Office and Tourism Momentum
Toronto, Canada & St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda — Antigua & Barbuda has officially opened its Toronto Tourism & Investment Office, marking a milestone in reconnecting with the Canadian travel trade and reinforcing one of the destination’s most important tourism markets. The opening ceremony gathered tourism leaders, industry partners, and media to celebrate the strengthened partnership.
Tourism Minister Charles “Max” Fernandez emphasized the importance of this move, noting that the Canadian market is vital for the islands’ economic growth and visitor mix. In 2024, nearly 40,000 Canadians visited Antigua & Barbuda, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers and setting the stage for even greater growth in 2025.
Record Tourism Figures and Infrastructure Expansion
Antigua & Barbuda enjoyed a remarkable tourism year in 2024, with over 330,000 stay-over arrivals and more than 823,000 cruise visitors. This surge represented a significant increase from previous years, driven by expanded air connectivity, new cruise itineraries, and the destination’s growing global profile.
To support this growth, the country is investing heavily in infrastructure. Construction is underway on a fifth cruise pier at St. John’s Harbour, scheduled for completion by June 2026, which will allow the port to handle larger vessels and more passengers simultaneously. At V.C. Bird International Airport, a runway expansion project will enable the arrival of larger aircraft, enhancing capacity and improving connectivity from key international markets.
Barbuda’s Transformation into an Eco-Luxury Haven
Barbuda is emerging as a unique destination within the twin-island nation, focusing on “barefoot luxury” and environmental stewardship. The newly completed Barbuda International Airport now accommodates private jets, with runway lighting for night operations and expanded facilities to meet the needs of luxury travelers.
Luxury developments such as the Nobu Resort, Barbuda Ocean Club, and eco-friendly Barbuda Cottages are designed with sustainability in mind. The island has set an ambitious target of achieving 100% green operations by 2030, ensuring its pristine pink-sand beaches, mangrove lagoons, and coral reefs remain untouched by overdevelopment. Development will remain carefully controlled to preserve the island’s natural beauty and exclusivity.
Elevating Experience: Campaigns, Connectivity & Culture
Antigua & Barbuda’s award-winning branding campaigns—“Your Space in the Sun,” “Be Here,” and “Why Choose A&B”—are being leveraged to attract more Canadian travelers. These campaigns are now supported by a redesigned official tourism website, offering interactive planning tools, flight searches, and tailored content for potential visitors.
Airline connectivity has been strengthened, with expanded services from North America and Europe. Major carriers have increased their frequencies, while new routes have been added to improve accessibility. For Canadians, direct flights from major hubs make it possible to leave home in the morning and arrive on the beach by mid-afternoon.
The cultural calendar for 2025 is packed with world-class events, including Antigua Sailing Week, Carnival, Culinary Month, Restaurant Week, Art Week, FAB Fest, and the prestigious Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s Marketplace in May. These events add depth to the visitor experience, blending the islands’ rich heritage with vibrant contemporary culture.
Canada-Focused Engagement and Trade Empowerment
The Toronto office will act as a central resource for Canadian travel advisors, providing them with marketing materials, training, and dedicated support. Initiatives like the Black Pineapple Awards will recognize top-producing agents, reinforcing strong trade relationships and encouraging more bookings from the Canadian market.
By establishing a permanent base in Toronto, Antigua & Barbuda is sending a clear message: Canada is a priority. The approach ensures Canadian travelers receive not only personalized service but also updated information on new resorts, packages, and experiences available across both islands.
Why This Matters for Canadian Travelers and Trade Partners
- Ease of Access: Direct, convenient flights from major Canadian cities make Antigua & Barbuda an ideal destination for both quick escapes and extended vacations.
- Diverse Experiences: From luxury resorts and adventure excursions to culinary festivals and historic tours, the islands cater to varied interests.
- Sustainable Luxury: Barbuda’s eco-conscious developments ensure a balance between exclusivity and environmental preservation.
- Strong Trade Support: Canadian advisors benefit from local resources, exclusive promotions, and recognition for sales excellence.
Looking Ahead
With robust tourism infrastructure, a diversified portfolio of luxury and eco-friendly accommodations, and a clear focus on the Canadian market, Antigua & Barbuda is on track for a record-breaking year in 2025. Travelers can expect a seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern comforts—making the islands one of the most compelling choices for Caribbean travel.
By investing in sustainable tourism, luxury developments, and direct market engagement, Antigua & Barbuda is positioning itself not just as a holiday destination but as a model for future-forward, responsible tourism in the Caribbean.
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