Antigua registers 7% increase in tourist arrivals in July
/ Our Today
administratorInflux of visitors from the United States contributed to the increase
Antigua and Barbuda has reported a seven per cent increase in tourist arrivals in July as the country continues to record a “steady rebound” in visitor arrivals in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that had forced the closure of borders.
The Ministry of Tourism said that, during July, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed 24,673 visitors, an increase of 23,405 from the corresponding period last year and the 2019 record of 23,031. Tourism officials said an influx of visitors from the United States contributed to the increase with arrivals 30 per cent higher than in July 2019.
There was also five per cent growth within the United Kingdom market where arrivals stood at 5,650 in comparison to 5,378 in 2019. Arrivals from Canada grew by one per cent while the Caribbean market saw a decline of 19 per cent.
Local hotel association reporting occupancy levels
During the month, the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association reported occupancy of 63 per cent across their members. Overall, total stay over arrivals for January – July 2022, stand at 154,099.
This is a 91 per cent increase over the 2021 comparison of 80,509 and a 16 per cent narrowing of the gap between the 2019 January – July totals that stood at 184,465. During the month, the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) reported occupancies of 63 percent across their members.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) is attributing the seven per cent growth in air arrivals for the month of July 2022, when compared to July 2019 to increased airlift and aggressive destination marketing. This in addition to easy travel protocols, the enthusiasm amongst consumers to return to travel, and their eagerness to participate in Antigua’s summer carnival once again.
“Antigua and Barbuda is presently listed amongst the top ten Caribbean destinations leading the Caribbean tourism recovery efforts,” said ABTA chief executive officer, Colin James.
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