Le Caribbean Travel Marketplace will make its grand return to Antigua and Barbuda in 2026

The Caribbean Travel Marketplace returns to Antigua and Barbuda from May 12 to 15, 2026, marking a new chapter for this must-attend event for tourism in the Caribbean. This decision reaffirms the renewed confidence of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) in this exotic destination’s ability to host major tourism events. Here you will discover why Antigua and Barbuda is a strategic choice, what this 2026 edition will bring, and how it benefits the hospitality and travel sector in the region.

• Antigua and Barbuda, voted the best conference destination in the Caribbean, continues to play a leading role.
• The Caribbean Travel Marketplace connects local providers with international buyers, thus stimulating tourism events.
• The 2026 edition promises improved infrastructure, expanded accommodation options, and a focus on air connectivity.
• The strong partnership between the CHTA and local authorities supports the sustainable growth of Caribbean tourism.
• A renewed solidarity with the region, particularly with Jamaica after natural disasters, through an emergency response fund.

Why Antigua and Barbuda remains the beating heart of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace

By hosting this forum for the second consecutive time, Antigua and Barbuda establishes itself as an essential hub. Recently recognized by the World Travel Awards, this destination combines natural beauty with modern infrastructure, capable of supporting an event the size of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace. The active support of the local tourism office, through initiatives such as improving the regional air network, facilitates access for delegations from around the world.

• Professional welcome: 5-star hotels and cutting-edge conference centers.
• Strategic position: well-served by flights and ferries, facilitating Caribbean travel.
• Culture and hospitality: a blend that enriches the visitor experience.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace, a concrete boost for the local economy

The main advantage of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace lies in the direct connection between Caribbean service providers and international buyers. This dynamic creates tangible business opportunities, which translate into:

• An increase in hotel bookings.
• The development of innovative tourist circuits across the islands.
• The enhancement of cultural and natural heritage.
• The strengthening of the global visibility of the Caribbean.

These outcomes align with a clear intention to promote Caribbean tourism and hospitality internationally, while ensuring a measurable economic impact for local populations.

How to make the most of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026?

Whether you are a professional in the sector or just curious, here are the key steps to leverage the full potential of this event:

1. Register your business with the CHTA to access networking opportunities.
2. Plan your meetings with buyers and suppliers from the region and beyond.
3. Explore the new offerings in Caribbean travel and accommodation solutions.
4. Participate in workshops and conferences to understand the trends in Caribbean tourism.
5. Enjoy the local atmosphere to immerse yourself in the culture and create informal connections.

Anticipated alternatives and limitations based on your profile

If you are not in the tourism sector, visiting Antigua and Barbuda during this event remains an interesting option to discover the destination outside the classic tourist season. However, access to specific conferences requires prior registration and often a professional status. For those seeking other stops, Aruba and Saint Vincent show notable growth in tourism, offering significant alternatives in the region the tourism growth of Aruba and the evolution in Saint Vincent.

Finally, although Antigua and Barbuda ensures improved connectivity, some routes to the Caribbean may still present logistical limits that the CHTA and airline partners are working to gradually reduce. To optimize your travels, check the ferry booking procedure and the available air connections.

A strengthened regional commitment to support Caribbean tourism

Beyond the business aspect, this event illustrates the CHTA’s solidarity commitment in the face of climate challenges, as shown by its support for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa. By activating its emergency fund, the association emphasizes that the tourism strength of the Caribbean also relies on solidarity and cooperation among islands.

• Mobilization of actors for post-disaster recovery.
• Development of common strategies for climate resilience.
• Promotion of a positive image to attract sustainable vacations in the Caribbean.

This direction perfectly aligns with the vision of Antigua and Barbuda, which focuses on thriving and responsible tourism, ready to unite the entire region around harmonious growth.