Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Anguilla’s tourism delegation just made a powerful impression at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace in St. John’s, Antigua. Led by the Hon. Cardigan Connor, Anguilla’s Minister of Health, Sports, and Tourism, the team brought energy, insight, and big ambitions. With tourism leaders like Jameel Rochester, Chantelle Richardson, and Wilbert Fleming in attendance, the Anguilla delegation stepped confidently into the region’s most influential tourism stage. But this wasn’t just about attendance—it was about action.
From strategic meetings with Antigua’s Prime Minister and Tourism Minister to impactful presentations before international media, the Anguilla delegation made it clear: the island isn’t just participating in Caribbean tourism—it’s leading. At the Caribbean Travel Marketplace, every conversation, every connection, and every briefing was a chance to show why Anguilla stands apart. What did they reveal? What vision does Minister Cardigan Connor have for Anguilla’s future? Keep reading. This is where Anguilla’s next tourism chapter begins.

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Anguilla Charts Bold Tourism Future at CHTA Marketplace in Antigua
Anguilla has sent a clear message to the global travel industry—this small Caribbean island is thinking big. At the 2025 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, held for the first time in St. John’s, Antigua, Anguilla’s tourism delegation made waves by showcasing its renewed commitment to sustainable development, strategic partnerships, and global visibility.

Led by the Hon. Cardigan Connor, Minister of Health, Sports, and Tourism, the Anguilla team arrived not just to participate, but to lead. As the Caribbean’s most influential tourism trade show brought together 800 delegates from around the world, Anguilla stood tall among giants—offering a refined, data-backed roadmap for tourism excellence.
Leadership with Vision
Minister Connor, supported by the newly appointed Director of Tourism, Jameel Rochester, and Deputy Director Chantelle Richardson, brought strategic clarity to Anguilla’s future. Also present were high-impact representatives from the Anguilla Tourist Board, the Anguilla Hotel & Tourism Association, and major local resorts.
This well-rounded team reflected not just government commitment, but strong private sector alignment—essential in building resilient tourism infrastructure.
Diplomatic Engagement at the Highest Level
As part of the official agenda, Minister Connor met with the Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, and Minister of Tourism and Investment, the Hon. Charles Fernandez. These meetings signaled a growing regional cooperation movement—a recognition that the future of Caribbean tourism depends on unity, innovation, and shared solutions.
Anguilla’s delegation positioned itself at the heart of this momentum, advocating for smarter tourism strategies across small island nations.
Global Marketplace, Local Strength
With 173 suppliers and 83 international buyers from 16 markets, including the US, UK, UAE, Canada, Italy, Germany, and Argentina, the Caribbean Travel Marketplace was a global showcase. The stakes were high—and Anguilla delivered.
In over 9,000 business meetings, the Anguilla Tourist Board secured meaningful dialogue with tour operators, digital travel agencies, and influential travel media outlets. From consumer press to trade professionals, the interest in Anguilla’s unique blend of luxury, authenticity, and sustainability was palpable.
Destination Briefing: Anguilla’s Next Chapter
During the high-profile media briefing, Minister Connor presented Anguilla’s comprehensive strategy for sustained tourism excellence. The island’s goals are ambitious—but grounded.
He emphasized a tourism model that maintains cultural integrity while driving economic impact. The presentation included market performance insights, destination growth statistics, airlift development, and major investments. But what stood out was Anguilla’s emphasis on innovation—especially in digital platforms and sports tourism.
Airlift and Access: The Backbone of Growth
Connectivity was a key talking point. Anguilla has steadily improved airlift options through regional and international partnerships, making the island more accessible than ever. The delegation highlighted routes and airline collaborations that position Anguilla for increased arrivals without compromising the exclusive, relaxed charm it’s known for.
By focusing on seamless entry, especially for high-value travelers, Anguilla is future-proofing its appeal in a competitive Caribbean landscape.
Tourism with Purpose: A Sustainable Edge
Beyond infrastructure and promotion, Anguilla’s message was about purpose. Sustainability wasn’t a footnote—it was central. Anguilla is working to reduce its environmental footprint, invest in renewable energy across resorts, and protect its delicate coastal ecosystems.
This commitment resonates with today’s traveler, who increasingly seeks meaningful, responsible travel. Anguilla is aligning its product with this new wave of demand, ensuring its natural beauty remains untouched for generations to come.
Private Sector, Public Purpose
The Anguilla Hotel & Tourism Association’s presence, including resorts like Carimar Beach Club, Anguilla Great House, and Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, demonstrated the critical unity between public strategy and private delivery.
Stakeholders showcased new guest experiences, upgraded amenities, and their role in digital innovation—from online booking systems to immersive travel content. It’s clear that Anguilla’s private sector is stepping up, contributing more than ever to the island’s vision.
Anguilla’s Position: Premier Yet Personal
While larger islands focus on scale, Anguilla’s niche lies in staying personal. The destination offers peace, privacy, and pristine beauty—qualities more sought-after than ever in a post-pandemic world. This balance of exclusivity and warmth sets Anguilla apart, and the delegation made sure that message was heard loud and clear.
Tourism as a National Priority
At the close of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace, one truth was evident: Anguilla is serious about tourism. Not just as an economic engine, but as a national identity. The island is leveraging its size, charm, and strategic focus to carve out a powerful position on the world stage.
In a region filled with competition, Anguilla isn’t trying to be the biggest. It’s working to be the best.
Looking Ahead: Momentum into 2026
The success of Anguilla’s presence in Antigua is only the beginning. With continued collaboration, investments, and focus on experience-driven travel, Anguilla is building a future that honors its heritage while embracing modern demands.
Minister Connor’s message was not just inspiring—it was a call to action for stakeholders, partners, and travelers worldwide. The Caribbean is evolving. Anguilla is helping lead that evolution.

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Tags: Anguilla, Anguilla Tourism, antigua, argentina, Canada, caribbean, Caribbean Travel Marketplace, CHTA, germany, Italy, St. John’s, UAE, United Kingdom, United States

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