Speaking at ITB Berlin only moments ago CTO Secretary General Mr. Jean Holder has reiterated his opinion, and one that is shared across the entire Caribbean, that the region is set for a very successful year in 2004. Mr. Holder made it clear that the Caribbean can expect strong arrivals and good business over the next year.“All of the indicators point to the fact that the Caribbean is now en vogue,” said Jean Holder, CTO’s secretary general. “Most of the surveys that I have seen indicate that the Caribbean is currently the first choice for travellers and this is supported by the large numbers of visitors who are coming to the Caribbean.”

Mr Holder added, “Our proximity to the United States, the strength of the European currency, the weakness of the US dollar and the recovering economies in the US, Canada and Europe have helped to bring business to the Caribbean.”

These views are similar to ones expressed by Simon Suarez at last years Caribbean Market Place in Puerto Rico where he stated, “We are expecting an extraordinarily good year in 2004. We are back on track.”

Mr: Holder also spoke of his sorrow and sadness for the “unforgivable” acts that occured in Madris two days ago.
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