Antigua & Barbuda wrapped up Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 on a high note, using the region’s leading tourism trade event to showcase not only the twin islands’ visitor appeal, but also a record-breaking start to the year.
Hosted in Antigua & Barbuda for the second consecutive year, the event brought together travel trade professionals, tour operators, airline partners and international media during Culinary Month, giving delegates a flavour of the destination’s hotels, culture, cuisine and growing tourism infrastructure.
The numbers told a strong story. Stay-over arrivals reached 110,832 in the first quarter of 2026, up 6.7 percent on the same period last year, with growth recorded across January, February and March. The United Kingdom was the strongest growth market, while the United States remained the largest source market overall.
Cruise tourism is also on course for a major year, with arrivals forecast to rise by 21.9 percent in 2026. This momentum is being supported by the opening of a new US$30 million cruise terminal, expanded airlift, ongoing airport upgrades and several hotel developments across Antigua and Barbuda.
Among the projects highlighted were the upcoming Moon Gate Hotel & Spa, Nobu Beach Inn on Barbuda, Nikki Beach Resort and Spa, Rosewood Hotel Barbuda and Marriott Leisure World Hotel.
With CHOGM also set to bring thousands of delegates, participants and media to Antigua & Barbuda later this year, the destination is making the most of a busy calendar. From tourism growth and new routes to culinary experiences and major international events, CTM 2026 offered a clear message: Antigua & Barbuda is not just keeping pace, but pushing ahead.