“The world is a book and those who do not travel only read a page.” Saint Augustine

BY TVISHA MISTRY

Antigua and Barbuda
After a long air halt, Air Canada makes its first trip to Antigua since March on December 6^th. On arrival, Air Canada passengers and flight crew were greeted with a water salute. The Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Charles Fernandez and the CEO of Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James were on hand to greet the crew and passengers.

Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Charles Fernandez said: “We are heading into the holiday season with increased airlift as consumer confidence is returning.”

CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James said, “We’ve been constantly engaging with airline partners, and most importantly engaging with the travel trade to keep the interest and the drive in the destination.” 

From New Years’, the United Kingdom will be adding additional flights to Antigua and Barbuda. Additionally, American Airlines, Delta and United Airlines will also have increased flight schedules to Antigua in the coming months from U.S. gateways.

Sunwing Airlines and WestJet are yet to announce resumption dates for flights to Antigua and Barbuda from Canada, but the airlifts are expected to resume early in 2021.

With the winter season, Antigua and Barbuda will see a boost in airlift as the demand for the destination increases amongst travelers seeking to escape the cold weather.

Grenada
Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) introduces an immersive 360 virtual reality experience. Partnering with local services, the GTA launched two videos, of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

The GTA provides an enhanced Grenada experience for visitors, without them having to be physically present in the destination. The first video features a hiking excursion in the breathtaking Grand Etang Rainforest, with views of the extrusive lake.

The second video highlights popular picture-perfect destinations in Grenada. Also including the world-famous Grand Anse beach.

Speaking of this new focus, GTA Chief Executive Officer Patricia Maher says, “At a time when global travel is challenged, it is the perfect opportunity to invest in these new technologies in which visitors have a more immersive experience and at the same time feel inspired to visit the destination.”

Anguilla
“We have worked very hard with the Ministries of Tourism and Health to create the best and most innovative solution for our short stay guests, in particular, to enjoy the rich and rewarding Anguilla experience,” said Kenroy Herbert, Chairman of the Anguilla Tourist Board. “Our approach balances the twin priorities of protecting the health and safety of our guests and our residents while providing the exceptional vacation experience that we are known for.”

Antigua progressed to phase two of reopening after opening its doors to visitors on November 1^st. Tourists can explore a wide range of certified tourist attractions, resorts, and tours and excursions to gain the full Anguilla experience.

Guests can dine at several certified restaurants and are encouraged to join in activities at certified companies and locations. To find out about the certification of service providers, guests are asked to contact their hotel resort and inquire with locals.

A variety of watersports are now available for tourists including, scuba diving, sport fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Fitness enthusiasts are welcomed to part take in beach workouts, yoga, spin classes, pilates, or private one-on-one fitness classes being offered.

Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Health Authority of Anguilla officials announces the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines in Anguilla. Anguilla and the other overseas British territories will be provided with COVID-19 vaccines as a result of the procurement of the United Kingdoms. The vaccines are expected to be on the island as early as January 19^th, 2021.

“Although Anguilla has had only six COVID-19 cases and no deaths thus far, as we welcome visitors from global destinations including those where the virus is prevalent, it means that Anguilla continues to be highly vulnerable,” declared the Hon. Parliamentary Secretary, Mrs. Quincia Gumbs-Marie.  “However, with the testing protocols we have in place, our enhanced public health facilities, and now the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine in January, we are confident in our ability to successfully and efficiently manage, treat and contain any incidence of the virus that may occur.”