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CARIB | Oct 2, 2024

Boosting Caribbean tourism with rising rates and surging cruise sector

/ Our Today

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FILE PHOTO: Holidaymakers relax at a beach and lagoon, in Nassau, Bahamas, March 26, 2022. REUTERS/Toby Melville

The Caribbean is witnessing a remarkable resurgence in tourism boosting the region’s appeal through a combination of rising hotel occupancy rates, new airline routes, and a booming cruise industry.

The islands of Jamaica, Barbados, Cuba, Puerto Rico and St. Lucia are leading the charge, driving the remarkable resurgence in Caribbean tourism. Each island has embraced its strengths, from cultural richness to natural beauty, to draw millions of visitors and significantly boost its economies. 

With increased investments in infrastructure, growing air and sea connectivity, and an unwavering commitment to enhancing the travel experience, these destinations are positioning the Caribbean as a premier global tourism hotspot in 2024. The future looks bright for the region, as more travelers flock to these islands, eager to experience the unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture that only the Caribbean can offer.

Tourists enjoy a ride on a catamaran as cruise ship Carnival Magic is seen in this file photo. REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo

After the challenges of the pandemic, these destinations are capitalizing on their natural beauty, rich cultures and improved infrastructure to attract millions of travellers.

Jamaica experienced a 16% jump in visitor arrivals, reaching 4.1 million tourists in 2023 while Barbados has seen a 3.4% increase in hotel occupancy rates in June 2024, as Cuba welcomed 2.43 million visitors in 2023, reflecting a strong recovery. 

Puerto Rico recorded an all-time high in tourism revenue at $9.8 billion, a 13% increase from 2022 while St. Lucia projects 600,000 cruise passengers for the 2023-2024 season, further driving tourism growth. Each island is playing a crucial role in revitalizing Caribbean tourism, making it one of the most sought-after regions for global travelers in 2024.

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