Team CTO meets with Team Antigua at ITB Berlin last week.

The Caribbean made waves on the international stage with a strong presence last week at ITB Berlin in Germany, one of the world’s largest travel trade shows. Numerous Caribbean destinations showcased their latest offerings, explored partnerships, and worked to expand air access and tourism markets.

Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General & CEO of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), along with Florian Valmy-Devillers, Business Development Director of the CTO Chapter – UK & Europe, and Narendra Ramgulam, CTO Sustainable Tourism Consultant, kept up the pace – both figuratively and literally – as they navigated back-to-back meetings and conversations across the sprawling Messe Berlin exhibition grounds. 

Regis-Prosper emphasized the importance of active engagement, stating, “Tourism is not a spectator sport. To win in this highly competitive industry, we must be in the game – actively marketing our destinations and forging strategic connections. While virtual engagement and remote work became indispensable during the pandemic – and remain helpful tools for accomplishing our goals – nothing replaces the power of being present, having in-person conversations, shaking hands, and building relationships.”

Beyond networking, ITB Berlin was also a moment of celebration for the Caribbean, as CTO, Regis-Prosper, and several of her regional colleagues took top honors at the 25th Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) World Tourism & Aviation Leaders’ Summit and the PATWA International Travel Awards. These recognitions underscore the Caribbean’s leadership and commitment to shaping the future of global tourism. 

See the full list of winners here: https://patwainternational.com/patwa-international-travel-awards-winners/patwa-international-travel-awards-winners-2025

Team Bahamas Beams in Berlin

Team Bahamas was among the standout Caribbean delegations that made a powerful impact at ITB Berlin. With a dynamic booth, numerous high-level meetings, and a well-attended reception, The Bahamas showcased its tourism excellence on the global stage.

A highlight of the event was the celebration of 50 years of the beloved People-to-People program, reinforcing The Bahamas’ commitment to authentic cultural exchanges and hospitality.

 Pictured (L-R): Florian Valmy-Devillers (CTO Chapter – UK & Europe); Bernadette Bastian, General Manager, Family Island Development, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation; Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO Secretary-General & CEO; Latia Duncombe, Bahamas Director General of Tourism; Joy Jibrilu, CEO, Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board; Narendra Ramgulam, CTO Sustainable Tourism Consultant; Valery Brown-Alce, Deputy Director General of Tourism; and Paul Strachan, Executive Director of Global Communications.

Berlin Bytes

“Sustainability is our currency – eight out of 10 of the world’s most tourism-dependent nations are in the Caribbean, and in some destinations, tourism accounts for up to 80% of GDP.” – Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General & CEO, Caribbean Tourism Organization, speaking during a panel discussion on the Orange Stage at ITB Berlin titled “From Promise to Progress: Steering Tourism in Challenging Times”. Pictured at left is Professor Dr. Willy Legrand, and at right is Virginia Messina of the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Frantz Fanon’s Centenary: A Legacy That Still Resonates

This year marks the centenary of the birth of Frantz Fanon, one of Martinique’s most influential thinkers. A psychiatrist, writer and revolutionary, his works – including ‘Black Skin, White Masks’ and ‘The Wretched of the Earth’ – shaped global conversations on race, identity and decolonization.

DID YOU KNOW? Fanon’s fight against colonialism led him to join the Algerian independence movement, where he became a key strategist.

“Année Frantz Fanon” is being commemorated with various events and activities, including an international symposium scheduled for later this year.

His legacy remains as powerful today as it was during his lifetime.

Quotable Caribbean

“On this International Women’s Day (March 8), I encourage everyone – especially women – to: 

 Support and uplift each other. 

 Build your networks early. 

 Find your tribe — those trusted peers and mentors who will challenge you, celebrate you, and help you grow. 

“And most importantly, remember: your career is just one part of your life. It’s so important to make space for the things that bring you joy and fulfilment outside of work. For me, my three children are my greatest inspiration – they keep me grounded, they challenge me in the best ways, and they remind me of my “why” every single day.” – Tracy Berkeley, CEO, Bermuda Tourism Authority

Proverbially West Indian

“Cockroach nuh business inna fowl fight.” (Jamaica)

This Caribbean saying warns against getting involved in conflicts where one is at a clear disadvantage. 

It’s a reminder to choose battles wisely, avoid unnecessary harm, and stay in your lane!

Medical Moment

World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, observed on March 24, raises awareness of TB’s impact, with nearly 1.5 million deaths annually, primarily in developing countries. It marks the 1882 discovery of the TB bacillus, the cause of TB, by Dr. Robert Koch.

This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, highlights the urgency of global action. By increasing awareness, strengthening commitments, and investing in solutions, we can work together to eliminate TB and save lives.

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