Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, Cuba, Dominica, and Barbados See Tourism Surge as Caribbean Airlines Boosts New Routes Across the Caribbean

Published on October 17, 2024

By: Rana Pratap

As Caribbean Airlines expands its routes, countries like the Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, Cuba, Dominica, and Barbados are experiencing a remarkable surge in tourism. These nations, each boasting their own unique attractions—from pristine beaches to rich cultural histories—are welcoming an increasing number of visitors, thanks in part to enhanced flight connectivity. Caribbean Airlines’ strategic addition of new routes is playing a pivotal role in revitalizing the Caribbean tourism industry, making it easier for travelers from around the world to access these vibrant destinations.

Bahamas: Powering Caribbean Tourism

The Bahamas is thriving as a premier tourist destination, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exciting activities. In 2023, it welcomed an impressive 9.6 million visitors, shattering previous records and seeing a 38% increase over 2022. This surge proves that the Bahamas continues to be a top choice for travelers around the world.

Visitors are drawn to the Bahamas’ 700 islands and cays, each offering something unique. The famous Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island, with its seashell-dusted shores, and Nassau’s iconic Cable Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, deliver the ultimate beach escape.

What Makes the Bahamas Unforgettable:

• Beaches: Whether you’re sinking your feet into the rosy sands of Harbour Island or enjoying the soft, sun-drenched shores of Cable Beach, the Bahamas’ beaches are a paradise.
• Resorts: Luxury seekers flock to Atlantis Paradise Island, where world-class waterslides and stunning hotels await. Baha Mar and a variety of charming boutique hotels across the islands cater to every traveler’s dream.
• Nature’s Best: The Exumas invite adventurers to dive into vibrant marine reserves, explore blue holes, and swim alongside exotic marine life.
• Cultural Charm: The Bahamas’ vibrant Junkanoo festival, with its music, dance, and flavors like conch fritters and rum, captures the heart of every visitor.

Getting There:
Caribbean Airlines is helping more travelers discover the Bahamas with its expanded routes. You can now easily fly to Nassau from:

• Kingston (KIN) to Nassau (NAS)
• Port-of-Spain (POS) to Nassau (NAS)
• Bridgetown (BGI) to Nassau (NAS)
• New York (JFK) to Nassau (NAS)
• Miami (MIA) to Nassau (NAS)

These convenient routes mean more people can experience the Bahamas’ charm and beauty firsthand. Whether you’re coming for the beaches, resorts, or cultural festivals, the Bahamas is more accessible than ever, and Caribbean Airlines is playing a major role in this tourism boom.

Antigua and Barbuda: A Twin-Island Paradise Enriching Caribbean Tourism

Antigua and Barbuda are enchanting travelers with their breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unmatched hospitality. In 2023, this stunning twin-island nation welcomed over 930,000 international visitors, marking a remarkable 43% increase from the previous year. This growth showcases the islands’ continued appeal as a premier Caribbean destination.

What Makes Antigua and Barbuda Special:

• Beaches: Imagine lounging on one of Antigua’s 365 stunning beaches—one for each day of the year. From the lively Dickenson Bay to the tranquil Half Moon Bay, these pristine sands and crystal-clear waters provide the ultimate escape. Barbuda’s Pink Sand Beach, with its unique rosy hue, offers a serene spot for relaxation.
• Historical Sites: Step into history at landmarks like Nelson’s Dockyard, a beautifully restored 18th-century naval base, and the Betty’s Hope Sugar Plantation, where you can explore Antigua’s sugar industry heritage and learn about its rich past.
• Natural Wonders: Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the Frigate Bird Sanctuary on Barbuda, which hosts thousands of magnificent frigatebirds. The islands also offer fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving in vibrant coral reefs, showcasing the breathtaking underwater world.

Getting There:
Antigua and Barbuda are more accessible than ever, thanks to Caribbean Airlines’ expanding flight options. Travelers can now fly to St. John’s from various locations, including:

• Tortola to Antigua: 4 times weekly (Monday and Wednesday)
• Port-of-Spain (POS) to St. John’s (ANU)
• Kingston (KIN) to St. John’s (ANU)
• Georgetown (GEO) to St. John’s (ANU)
• Tortola (EIS) to St. John’s (ANU)

With these convenient routes, experiencing the beauty and culture of Antigua and Barbuda is easier than ever. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on stunning beaches, exploring rich historical sites, or marveling at natural wonders, these twin islands invite you to create unforgettable memories.

Cuba: A Cultural and Natural Gem Boosting Caribbean Tourism

Cuba, a vibrant Caribbean island nation, continues to captivate visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique culture. In 2023, the country welcomed 2.4 million visitors, marking a significant step toward recovery after the pandemic disrupted travel. While not yet at pre-pandemic levels—4.2 million visitors in 2019 and 4.6 million in 2018—Cuba’s charm remains as irresistible as ever.

What Awaits Visitors in Cuba:

• Old Havana: Stroll through the streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cobblestone roads lead past colorful colonial buildings and iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Havana and Plaza de Armas, giving visitors a glimpse into Cuba’s fascinating past.
• Viñales Valley: Nature lovers will be drawn to Viñales Valley, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Its lush tobacco fields and dramatic limestone cliffs provide the perfect setting for hiking and exploring the Cuban countryside.
• Beaches: Cuba’s beaches, such as Varadero and Cayo Coco, are among the most beautiful in the Caribbean. With their powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, these beaches are ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
• Historical Sites: For history buffs, the Castillo de la Real Fuerza in Havana, a 16th-century fortress, and the Ernest Hemingway Museum at Finca Vigía are must-visit landmarks that tell stories of Cuba’s intriguing past.

Getting There:
Caribbean Airlines is helping to make Cuba even more accessible by offering several key routes. Flights to Cuba include:

• Port-of-Spain (POS) to New York (JFK)
• Toronto (YYZ) to Port-of-Spain (POS)
• Port-of-Spain (POS) to Miami (MIA)
• New York (JFK) to Georgetown (GEO)
• Port-of-Spain (POS) to Kingston (KIN)

These routes not only connect Cuba with the Caribbean but also with major international hubs, allowing more visitors to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Cuba’s tourism sector may still be on its journey to full recovery, but its timeless appeal ensures that it remains a favorite destination in the Caribbean. Whether exploring historic Havana, hiking through the lush Viñales Valley, or unwinding on world-class beaches, visitors to Cuba are sure to create memories that last a lifetime.

Dominica: The Nature Island Thriving in Caribbean Tourism

Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is captivating travelers with its lush landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage. In 2023, the island welcomed over 339,000 international tourists, marking a 37% increase from the previous year. Dominica is truly rebounding, with cruise arrivals alone growing by 44.2%, further solidifying its place as a top destination for eco-adventurers and cultural explorers alike.

What Makes Dominica a Must-Visit Destination:

• Natural Beauty: Dominica’s landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking. From the towering volcanic mountains to the lush rainforests and mesmerizing waterfalls, nature reigns supreme here. One standout site is the Boiling Lake, one of the world’s largest hot springs, and the serene Emerald Pool, a natural swimming hole surrounded by vibrant vegetation.
• Waitukubuli National Trail: For hiking enthusiasts, Dominica offers the Waitukubuli National Trail—the Caribbean’s first long-distance hiking trail. This 115-mile route takes hikers through diverse terrains, from coastal cliffs to mountainous views, and passes through remote villages, offering a truly immersive experience in nature.
• Kalinago Territory: Dominica is also home to the indigenous Kalinago people, who have preserved their culture and traditions for centuries. Visitors can explore the Kalinago Territory, where the Kalinago Barana Autè cultural center offers insights into their pre-Columbian history, traditional crafts, and unique way of life.

Getting There:
Caribbean Airlines is helping more travelers reach Dominica with expanding flight options, making the island more accessible than ever. Flights to Dominica include:

• Port-of-Spain (POS) to Saint George (DOM)
• St. John’s (ANU) to Saint George (DOM)
• New York (JFK) to Saint George (DOM)
• Tortola (EIS) to Saint George (DOM)
• Scarborough (TAB) to Saint George (DOM)

These convenient routes ensure that visitors from various parts of the Caribbean and beyond can easily experience the untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage of Dominica. Whether it’s hiking the Waitukubuli Trail, diving into the island’s lush rainforests, or learning about the Kalinago way of life, Dominica offers an adventure like no other.

Dominica’s tourism is thriving once again, offering travelers a unique and authentic Caribbean experience. Its nature-filled landscapes, welcoming culture, and expanding accessibility make it the ideal destination for those looking to connect with both the environment and history.

Barbados: A Jewel of the Caribbean Boosting Regional Tourism

Barbados, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, continues to thrive as one of the Caribbean’s top travel destinations. In 2024, the island saw a 3.4% increase in hotel occupancy rates, signaling a strong recovery and reflecting its enduring appeal among travelers. With its pristine shores and warm hospitality, Barbados remains a key player in revitalizing Caribbean tourism.

What Awaits Visitors in Barbados:

• Beaches: Barbados boasts some of the finest beaches in the region, offering something for every type of traveler.
• Carlisle Bay: Known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sands, this beach is perfect for swimming, water sports, and relaxing by the sea.
• Crane Beach: Famous for its pink-tinged sands and dramatic cliffs, this spot is a photographer’s paradise and ideal for sunbathing.
• Bathsheba Beach: Renowned for its rugged beauty and strong waves, Bathsheba attracts surfers from around the world seeking the perfect ride.

Barbados’ tourism success is part of a larger Caribbean resurgence. Cuba, for instance, welcomed 2.43 million visitors in 2023, continuing its gradual recovery from the pandemic. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico experienced an all-time high in tourism revenue, reaching $9.8 billion—a 13% increase from the previous year. Jamaica also saw a significant boost in arrivals, with 4.1 million tourists in 2023, marking a 16% increase. Additionally, St. Lucia projects 600,000 cruise passengers for the 2023-2024 season, further fueling the region’s tourism revival. Together, these destinations are playing crucial roles in making the Caribbean one of the most sought-after regions for global travelers in 2024.

Getting There:
Caribbean Airlines is playing a vital role in making Barbados more accessible with several convenient flight routes:

• Barbados to Tortola and return: 4 times weekly (Thursday and Saturday)
• Port-of-Spain (POS) to Bridgetown (BGI)
• Kingston (KIN) to Bridgetown (BGI)
• Castries (SLU) to Bridgetown (BGI)
• Saint Martin (SXM) to Bridgetown (BGI)

These routes ensure seamless travel to and from Barbados, giving more travelers the opportunity to experience the island’s unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re relaxing on world-class beaches or exploring the vibrant local culture, Barbados promises an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.

The expansion of Caribbean Airlines’ routes has not only made travel more convenient but has also significantly contributed to the tourism surge in the Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, Cuba, Dominica, and Barbados. These Caribbean destinations, each offering a distinct mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences, are now more accessible than ever. As these countries continue to attract global travelers, the strategic development of air connectivity is proving to be a driving force behind their tourism success. With Caribbean Airlines enhancing access to these islands, the future of Caribbean tourism looks brighter, welcoming more visitors eager to explore this tropical paradise.