NASSAU, Bahamas, Feb. 2, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The much-anticipated Caribbean Travel Marketplace opened with grand fanfare on Tuesday night at the Grand Ballroom of the Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas.

The Bahamas laid out the red carpet in true Bahamian fashion. Attendees were welcomed to the ceremony with a captivating performance from the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band and treated to a colorful display of cultural expression by the Colours Junkanoo Group, as the night came to a close.

The Master of Ceremonies for the night was the 2016-2017 Caribbean and Bahamas Junior Minister of Tourism, Gabriele Josephs. He introduced the crowd to the riveting speakers of the night which included: Carlton Russell – President of The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association; Karolin Troubetzkoy – President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association; Hon. Obediah Wilchcombe – Minister of Tourism of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas; and the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie – Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

Following the opening remarks, and special presentation from Troubetzkoy, the Rhythm & Youth Band gave a vivacious performance rousing the crowd to their feet as they gave the young performers a standing ovation.

Welcoming the attendees to The Bahamas was Carlton Russell who reminded them that relationships are key to advancing the Caribbean.

“We are delighted to have you here; we know how busy this business is. Thank you for choosing The Bahamas, thank you for choosing this forum to create new relationships, solidify and further develop existing alliances, partnerships and connections,” Russell said.

“While much has changed in the world, relationships and networking are still critical elements for the foundation, growth and stability of our industry.”

Troubetzky recognized that the travel marketplace was full of opportunities for all countries in the region.

“As we stand united to celebrate One Caribbean, we will have an opportunity to showcase to our valued buyers and members of the press the amazing diversity of our region that can indeed provide a lifetime source of different experiences,” she said.

Bahamas Tourism Minister, Obediah Wilchcombe, also touched briefly on one of the major themes of the marketplace.

“Today with the Minister of Tourism commissioners and heads of delegation we discussed the future of tourism in the Commonwealth, and the President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association just spoke of the relationship and the collaborative effort that must be made. Together we believe that we can continue to grow tourism in the region,” Wilchcombe said.

Organized in partnership with The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board, Paradise Island Tourism Development Association and The Bahamas Hotel & Tourism Association, the Caribbean Travel Marketplace allows tourism suppliers to meet with sellers from around the world selling Caribbean vacation packages in a closed-door event over the course of two days in business meetings.

The Caribbean Travel Marketplace continues until February 2, 2017 with an exciting lineup of educational sessions, business appointments and networking opportunities.

The Islands Of The Bahamas have a place in the sun for everyone. Each island has its own personality and attractions for a variety of vacation styles with some of the world’s best golfing, scuba diving, fishing, sailing, boating, as well as, shopping and dining. The destination offers an easily accessible tropical getaway and provides convenience for travelers with preclearance through U.S. customs and immigration, and the Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. Do everything or do nothing, just remember It’s Better in The Bahamas. For travel packages, activities and accommodations information, call 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com. Look for The Bahamas on the web on Facebook Twitter and YouTube

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Hon. Obediah Wilchcombe, Bahamas Minister of Tourism

Colours Junkanoo Group