EARN A TRIP TO ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA: Inaugural event celebrates top Canadian producers

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority is set to honour its top producing travel professionals – including 25 Canadians – at a gala event on island in December. The inaugural Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards will celebrate “the outstanding achievements of hard-working travel agents from around the world,” culminating in a gala black-tie dinner and awards ceremony.

Agents have until Oct. 6 to log their bookings for the last year to qualify (details below).

“We are incredibly proud to host the inaugural Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards,” said minister of tourism Charles Fernandez. “The Awards are not just another industry event; they are a prestigious celebration of the incredible work done by our global travel partners. It will be the perfect way to say a heartfelt thank you to the agents who are the backbone of our industry.”

The event

From Dec. 6 to 8, 100 top-performing agents will enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip, including return flights and luxurious accommodations. The exclusive event will culminate in a black-tie gala on Dec. 7 where VIPs, industry leaders, and guests will celebrate excellence in travel with entertainment and an awards ceremony.

During the awards weekend, attendees will also have the opportunity to experience a luxury island tour, private catamaran cruise, and beachfront yoga sessions.

Named after the unique (and delicious!) Antigua black pineapple, the awards are meant to symbolize the country’s commitment to excellence and luxury and recognize travel agents’ pivotal role in promoting Antigua and Barbuda as a must-visit destination.

Colin C. James, CEO of the ABTA, said, “This year has been extraordinary for Antigua and Barbuda, with record-breaking tourism arrivals. This success is a testament to the relentless efforts of our teams and partners in our key markets who have delivered exceptional service. This event is all about celebrating you.”

How to enter

 The awards are open to all travel agents from Canada, the UK, Europe, the US, and the Caribbean, including at-home and retail agents, and tour operators who have made bookings to Antigua and Barbuda from Oct. 1, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2024.

Canadian Agents can log their bookings using an approved form (see link below) or on the travel agent specialist program website – www.AntiguaBarbudaTA.com to secure their chance to join the winner’s circle. Backdated bookings are valid, ensuring every sale during the contest period counts towards an agent’s opportunity to win.

Deadline for entry is by Oct. 6, 2024. Learn more and log bookings HERE.