Antigua and Barbuda, an idyllic archipelagic country situated in the Lesser Antilles in the Eastern Caribbean Sea at the southwestern end of the Leeward islands chain, known for its vibrant culture, paradisiacal reef – lined beaches, rainforests and a delicious cuisine was recognised as the Caribbean’s Best Meeting and Conference 2025 at the World Travel Awards for the Caribbean and North America gala ceremony, marking a historic milestone for the country.
With this more than relevant accolade the Caribbean country consolidates its position as a regional benchmark in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) sector, after being recognized for the first time in the prestigious international awards.
The World Travel Awards (WTA) recognize excellence in the global travel and tourism industry through a three - tiered award program (country, regional, and world) recognizing the sector’s leading companies and destinations. Winners are chosen by tourism professionals and consumers from around the world.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Meetings and Conferences success factors include strategic targeting of international events, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s (ABTA) involvement, and a focus on off – season economic stability.
The ABTA plays a crucial role in luring MICE business, demonstrating the importance of a dedicated and involved tourism authority in a small nation’s strategy.
The country has aggressively pursued international events to build its reputation on the global MICE stage and a major success factor is using this segment to address the significant off - season slump and providing steady, full – time employment for hospitality workers, which helps stabilize economy.
In addition the country has also focused on infrastructure development and promotional campaigns like “Be Here” to showcase its appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travellers.
With its combination of modern infrastructure and unique natural surroundings, Antigua and Barbuda offers a perfect balance between business and pleasure. The Caribbean country boasts 365 beaches, the Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a vibrant calendar of cultural, culinary, and sporting activities that cement its place as one of the Caribbean’s most attractive and comprehensive destinations.
In recent year, Antigua and Barbuda has hosted major international events, including the UN’s Fourth International Conferences on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in 2024, the 43rd Caribbean Travel Fair (CTM) in 2025, and the 55th General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS).
In 2026, the Caribbean country will host the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the largest international event held in Antigua and Barbuda, attended by his Majesty King Charles III and leaders of all 56 member nations.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez said that this triumph is an honour and it is the result of collective efforts to develop the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) program in Antigua and Barbuda, highlighting the collaboration between the government, theTourism Authority, hotels, convention centers, and private sector partners.
Tourism Authority Executive Director Colin C. James stated that this recognition reinforces Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a competitive MICE destination, with seamless air connection, a modern airport, efficient transportation, hotel variety, flexible venues, and exceptional service.
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