The MPE Caribbean Report Newsletter offers travel, tourism, Caribbean and global news weekly. To share stories, information or intelligence, contact us at [email protected]m

January 14, 2025

Sailing Success: FCCA PAMAC Cruise Summit sets the stage for 2025

Memorable moments captured during the summit

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) PAMAC Cruise Summit recognized the arrival of 2025 in grand fashion aboard the welcoming MSC Divina, bringing together cruise executives and FCCA Platinum members for a week of impactful networking and strategic dialogues. Attendees engaged in dynamic industry updates and discussions on the future of the Caribbean cruise tourism sector. 

Highlights included stops at MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, where delegates explored Blue Lagoon Island (officially known as Salt Cay), a locally owned attraction featuring the dolphins and sea lions of Dolphin Encounters.

CTO kicks off 2025 at Atlanta Travel & Adventure Show

Dona Regis-Prosper in Atlanta over the weekend

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) initiated its 2025 activities with a strong presence at the Travel & Adventure Show in Atlanta over the weekend at the Georgia International Convention Center. 

CTO Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper headlined a seminar titled “Authentic Caribbean Experiences for Every Traveler”, highlighting the region’s rich culture, natural beauty, and diverse offerings. Her presentation emphasized how the Caribbean delivers one-of-a-kind adventures, from thrilling outdoor activities to immersive cultural and culinary experiences that resonate with today’s travelers.

The Atlanta show marked the first stop in CTO’s strategic partnership with the Travel & Adventure Shows, the largest series of travel expos in the U.S. 

This collaboration allows CTO to connect directly with travel enthusiasts and industry professionals, strengthening the Caribbean’s position in the competitive U.S. travel market. CTO will continue its momentum by participating at upcoming shows in New York, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, D.C., further promoting the region as the ultimate travel destination.

Latia Duncombe credits family, teamwork for record-setting tourism achievements

screenshot: Latia Duncombe was celebrated in Miami last month. For video click HERE

he 2024 Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Awards and Fundraiser in Miami last month honored Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism in The Bahamas, for her exceptional leadership and contributions to the region’s tourism sector.

In her acceptance speech, Duncombe expressed gratitude for her team of 400 employees stationed around the world, recognizing their dedication to advancing The Bahamas’ tourism success. She highlighted the nation’s record-breaking visitor arrivals while emphasizing the importance of tourism to families, communities, and the Caribbean economy.

Duncombe also paid tribute to her family for their sacrifices and support, acknowledging the collective commitment required to deliver excellence in Caribbean tourism.

Watch the video to hear her inspiring remarks and celebrate her achievements.

Caribbean Caption

Time flies! Just before the 2020 Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace in The Bahamas, influential tourism leaders who have shaped the region’s tourism landscape gathered to discuss, among other topics, the recipient of the annual Caribbean Hotelier of the Year award.

The meeting, held at Sandals Royal Bahamian, also served as a tribute to the leaders’ vision, dedication and contributions – highlighting the collaborative spirit that continues to drive Caribbean tourism forward.

Pictured from left are Sunil Chatrani, Frank Comito, Vanessa Ledesma, Josef Forstmayr, Adam Stewart, Richard Doumeng,Karolin Troubetzkoy, Rob Sherman, Ed Malone, the late Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Patricia Affonso-Dass, the late Richard Williams,John Jefferis, and Dr. Stuart Bowe.

Digital Digest

Why Sustainable Tourism Benefits Everyone

Sustainable tourism isn’t just good for the environment – it’s good for business, communities and future generations. The Caribbean, with its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, has led the way in eco-friendly tourism, preserving its natural beauty while appealing to responsible travelers. Today’s vacationers want to explore the world while leaving minimal impact, and the Caribbean is perfectly positioned to meet this demand.

Here’s how Caribbean destinations can leverage digital tools to spotlight their green initiatives and attract eco-conscious visitors:

• Digital Storytelling: Don’t just share facts – tell inspiring stories! Use captivating videos, photos and blogs to showcase eco-friendly practices. Produce a short clip highlighting your coral reef restoration efforts or a blog post about your farm-to-table dining experience. These stories resonate deeply with travelers seeking meaningful connections.

• Social Media Savvy: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok are powerful tools. Share stunning visuals of eco and natural experiences, sustainable tours, and local conservation projects. Use trending hashtags #SustainableTravel, #EcoTourism, #ResponsibleTravel – to broaden your reach and spark engagement.

• Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with travel influencers passionate about sustainability. Their authentic voices can showcase your eco-conscious offerings to a dedicated, like-minded audience, driving interest and bookings.

Quotable Caribbean

“Hospitality and tourism are fast-paced, and if we intend to remain competitive, we must invest more in our people. Staff training and skills development are crucial for long-term success. By equipping team members with the necessary knowledge, tools, and techniques – and keeping them updated with industry trends and best practices – they can boost productivity and consistently deliver high-quality, superior service that can enhance customer experience, improve customer satisfaction, and drive business growth.” – Janelle Hopkin, President and Managing Director, Spice Island Beach Resort (Grenada)

Proverbially West Indian

“Wi likkle but wi tallawah.” (Jamaica)

This phrase translates to: We are small, but we are strong and mighty.”

It reflects the pride and resilience of Jamaicans, emphasizing that despite the country’s small size, it has a significant impact and influence globally, particularly in areas such as culture, sports and music. The expression celebrates strength, determination and confidence.

Marketplace Excellence Corporation (MPE) is a global public relations, marketing and media company.