Following a mass of bad news over the past week from the Caribbean there is some good news to be found. Current figures show that UK tourism arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda have increased by 34.5% from January to May 2004, with figures for the month of April showing an increase of 66%.

The substantial growth of visitors to Antigua and Barbuda from the UK can be attributed both to increased airlift as well as the ongoing promotional campaign, which highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s upscale product and diverse activities. 

Last year British Airways added three flights to its weekly schedule, whilst this year, Virgin Atlantic has confirmed that it will be adding an extra flight. In November BMI is launching a direct weekly flight to Antigua from Manchester and Excel Airways will also start a weekly schedule from London Gatwick on 14th December.

Commenting on this remarkable growth in UK visitor arrivals, Shirlene Nibbs, Director General of Tourism said: “We are delighted to see this significant increase.  Visitors from the UK are voting with their feet and Antigua and Barbuda are now reaping the rewards

“However we cannot be complacent. Antigua and Barbuda must continue to maintain and improve the standard of service. We must sustain the excellent quality of product and ensure that the destination remains ‘the place to be’.”
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