Above: Paradise Island (CJ Photo)

By Alexander Britell

PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS — Many of the biggest players in the Caribbean tourism industry have gathered here for the annual Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s Caribbean Travel Marketplace conference.

It is the second year in a row that the Bahamas has been the host country for the conference; it has been held at the Atlantis resort each time.

The conference joins suppliers, such as hotels, restaurants and tourist boards, with buyers — tour operators and wholesalers, along with heavy industry-focused discussions.

Last week, Bahamas Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe said the marketplace helped contribute to a “turnaround” last year in Caribbean tourism, particularly in the Bahamas.

The Bahamas reportedly saw its best tourism year since 2008 last year, Wilchcombe said, including increases in hotel occupancy rates.

The conference officially begins Sunday evening.