The Ministry of Tourism and its partner agency, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism
Authority, say all is set for the start of the activities that will mark Tourism Week
2023.
In a statement, the two agencies which play a lead role in all matters of tourism,
say the weeklong programme of events is to celebrate the vibrant and diverse
world of tourism. Tourism Week 2023 runs from December 3 to 9.
This year, the focus is on the integral labour force that drives the tourism industry.
Under the theme Our Tourism Industry – Carving a Path to Sustainability Through
an Empowered Labour Force, tourism stakeholders will come together to honour
the individuals who contribute to the thriving tourism sector.
The festivities will commence on Sunday, December 3rd with a Church Service
held at the Holy Family Cathedral, followed by an action-packed showdown as the
West Indies take on England in the 1st ODI Cricket match at the Sir Vivian
Richards Cricket Stadium.
On Monday, December 4th, the culinary world will take center stage as the Junior
Chef Cook-Off Finals get underway at the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality
Training Institute. This competition showcases the talents of our future culinary
stars. The day will also see Tourism Minister, Charles Fernandez embark on an
educational journey to the island’s colleges during The Minister Speaks College
Tour. The Minister will be visiting various tertiary-level institutions across the
island, including Island Academy, St. Anthony’s Secondary School, UWI Five
Islands, Antigua State College, and the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training
Institute. This tour aims to inspire and educate the youth about the various
opportunities within the tourism industry.
Wellness takes center stage on Tuesday 5th December when all tourism industry
personnel will be invited to engage in a “Socarobics” activity at 5 pm at the
Ministry of Tourism headquarters on Queen Elizabeth Highway. Fitness experts
will instruct them on how to get the body healthier through movement.
The week’s excitement continues on Wednesday, December 6th, with the Tourism
Blast-off event at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, during the second
installment of the West Indies vs. England ODI Cricket tour. Tourism Blast Off is
a day to showcase the talent, creativity, flavours, and flair of the twin-island nation,
featuring entertainment, local foods and treats, as well as arts and crafts from local
artisans.
On Thursday, December 7th the Tourism Conference will take place at the John E.
St. Luce Finance and Conference Center. This conference will provide a platform
for industry leaders and employees to discuss strategies for enhancing the work
environment, address labour issues, highlight opportunities for advancement, and
showcase creative and viable avenues of entrepreneurship in the industry.
Friday, December 8th will see the staff of the Ministry of Tourism and all tourism
partners engage in a day of sports, games, and entertainment at the Tourism Staff
Fun Day on Ffryes Beach from 8:30 am until.
The grand finale of Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Week 2023 will be the
Tourism Awards Gala on Saturday, December 9th. This prestigious event will
recognize and honor the hard work, dedication, and excellence of individuals and
businesses within the tourism industry.
