Dona Regis-Prosper, the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), warmly embraces the arrival of 2024 by acknowledging the organization’s 35th anniversary in January. She extends an invitation to regional tourism stakeholders to partake in a yearlong celebration, embracing the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that define the Caribbean.
Introducing the CTO’s theme for this year, “Connecting the Globe, Celebrating Diversity”, Regis-Prosper explained that it underscores the CTO’s commitment to inclusivity, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism practices. “This is a call to embrace the uniqueness of each destination while recognizing the shared thread that binds us together as one vibrant and diverse Caribbean family,” she stated.
The Secretary-General reflected on the resilience and recovery of the Caribbean tourism sector in 2023, acknowledging the challenges faced and the collective strength demonstrated. “Our Caribbean tourism sector demonstrated remarkable strength and adaptability in the face of challenges and uncertainties,” she noted, adding, “We persevered, worked together, and welcomed visitors back to our beautiful destinations.”
Regis-Prosper highlighted the successful reintroduction of hallmark CTO events, including Caribbean Week in New York and the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), and the revitalization of tourism offerings in the region, “ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all who chose to experience the magic of the Caribbean.”
The Secretary-General acknowledges the strides made by CTO members in sustainable tourism and emphasizes the organization’s ongoing focus on effective communication. She underscores the critical role of research in reimagining Caribbean tourism, positioning the CTO as a leading research authority in the field.
Regis-Prosper points out the significance of the region hosting the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase the Caribbean’s hospitality, cultural richness, and sporting prowess to the global community.
Inviting stakeholders to join the CTO in promoting the region, the tourism executive expresses eagerness to engage with industry officials at upcoming events, including the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development scheduled for April 22-24, 2024, in Grenada.
The priorities for the 25-member intergovernmental organization in the new year include sustainable tourism, membership services, communication and market engagement, research, and the revitalization of the CTO.
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