Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism News
Bahamas back on track as tourism figures continue upward trajectory
International arrivals in the Bahamas show a solid growth of 10.2 per cent year-to-date, maintaining the tourism turnaround that began in October last year.
Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism, Bahamas
Breaking Travel News talks to Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation in Bahamas about the pivotal role inter-region connectivity will play in the development of the Caribbean hospitality sector. He also tells us about the tremendous potential of the tourism sector to develop the human capital of the destination.
Bahamas signs on for new Carnival Cruise port in Grand Bahama
Officials from Carnival Cruise Line and the Bahamian government signed an agreement today during a special signing ceremony in Freeport, Grand Bahama, for the construction of a new cruise port facility to be funded and operated by Carnival Cruise Line on Grand Bahama Island.
Royal Caribbean International signs new agreement with the Bahamas
Royal Caribbean International has committed to a multi-year agreement with the Bahamas that will help grow tourism to the destination. It is hoped the deal will also rapidly increase the cruise line’s employment of Bahamian nationals and invest levels in hospitality training to develop talent in the country.
Bahamas to head Caribbean Tourism Organisation
The Bahamas has been elected chair of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, with the election of minister of tourism Obie Wilchcombe. Following his election Wilchcombe stated: “I intend to build upon what my predecessor Richard Sealy of Barbados began and I also intend to build on the relationship with the private sector.
MSC Cruises to launch exclusive marine reserve in Bahamas
MSC Cruises, the Geneva-based global cruise line, has unveiled ambitious plans to create an unprecedented exclusive marine reserve island experience in the Bahamas. The visionary project was officially launched in the Bahamian capital Nassau, where prime minister Perry Christie and MSC Cruises executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago signed a 100-year lease agreement that will enable MSC Cruises to occupy and develop the island, to be called Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Breaking Travel News investigates: Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas
The Bahamas is the ‘Official Home’ of swimming pigs, according to the local tourist board – although, it’s not immediately apparent how many rivals the destination has for the prestigious title. Visitors embrace the unique porcine swimming opportunity, greeting the pigs on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay, affectionately called ‘Pig Beach’. Here Breaking Travel News editor Chris O’Toole takes a dip with local tour operator Coastline Adventures.
Bahamas set to welcome World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2015
World Travel Awards has landed in the Bahamas ahead of the Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2015. The ceremony is scheduled for this Saturday, October 17th, with hundreds of industry leaders expected to attend the event at Sandals Emerald Bay. Final preparations are now underway at the resort, with hosts Andrew Kennedy and Anastagia Pierre set to star.
Breaking Travel News investigates: Paul Burke, president, Atlantis, Paradise Island
Industry veteran Paul Burke moved from his role as chief operating officer at Atlantis, Paradise Island resort in The Bahamas earlier this year to take up position of president and managing director at the world beating property. Here Breaking Travel News takes a look at the man in charge of one of the most important resorts in the Caribbean.
Bahamas welcomes new automated airport check-in facilities
Lynden Pindling International Airport in Bahamas has launched a new Automated Passport Control system, allowing passengers bound for the United States be processed up to four times faster. Officials expect the new technology – available in only one other airport in the Caribbean – to go a long way in slashing wait times, improving the airport’s efficiency and ultimately providing a more enjoyable experience for millions of visitors passing through the United States pre-clearance facility at LPIA.
Bahamas cuts hotel taxes to woo guests
The Bahamas Ministry of Finance has repealed a ten per cent hotel tax and replaced it with a 7.5 per cent value added tax. Enacted in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism, the VAT will be charged on hotels and home rentals as well as services purchased by guests.
Sandals Resorts roll out new trade initiative
To celebrate their involvement in Channel 5’s hit show The Bachelor, Sandals Resorts and the Bahamas Tourist Office are offering travel agents the chance to win a Luxury Included afternoon tea with Spencer Matthews, star of Made in Chelsea.