Caribbean Travel Advisor

Destination Webinar to Focus on the Island of St Kitts

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

The latest Caribbean Journal webinar will focus on the island of St Kitts.

Next week a panel of top destination experts will give an in-depth look at the island’s tourism offerings what’s new and what you need to know. That includes panelists from the St Kitts Tourism Authority, Koi Resort, Park Hyatt St Kitts and American Airlines.

You can register for the Webinar by clicking here.

This Top Caribbean Luxury Resort Just Joined Virtuoso 

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

The number one all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean for 2025 has officially joined the Virtuoso network.

The move only solidifies the property’s position as the leader among Caribbean all-inclusives right now, with just a handful of all-inclusive resorts being members of Virtuoso.

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This Riviera Maya Resort Has Up to 25 Percent Commissions for Travel Agents 

By: Dana Niland

One of the Riviera Maya’s top resorts has announced a sizable 25 percent commission offer, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned. 

The VidantaWorld brand (it was known as Vidanta until rebranding last year), has announced several new programs for agents. 

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Hyatt’s Dreams Brand Has a New Cap Cana Resort 

By: Jose Antonio

The Dreams brand has a new property in the Dominican Republic, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned. 

Hyatt’s family-friendly brand has officially opened the new Dreams Cap Cana resort in the most exclusive enclave of Punta Cana. 

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What Are the Current Sandals and Beaches Commissions for Travel Agents? 

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

Sandals just wrapped up its Global Sales Conference, a five-day retreat with more than 200 delegates ranging from company execs to government officials in Jamaica. 

The event featured a look ahead for the Beaches and Sandals brands, along with an outlook for Jamaica — which Toursim Minister Ed Bartlett says can expect an “historic year for travel for the island.”

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This Saint Lucia Resort Now Has a “Double Rewards” Offer for Travel Agents 

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

One of Saint Lucia’s most popular adults-only resorts has unveiled a new “double” offer for travel agents. 

The Serenity at Coconut Bay resort has a new Double Bonus Offer, which gives agents the opportunity to earn up to $300 for tour operator and direct bookings as part of its REWARDS$ program. 

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The Top Caribbean Trends for 2025, According to Travel Agents

By: Joe Pike

Some of the top Caribbean advisors in the world recently spoke out about how to grow business in 2025 by citing the hottest hotel openings, attacking potential obstacles, identifying the latest and growing trends, revealing already popular islands and emerging ones, and their business goals for the new year.

Here’s what they had to say.

Growing and Existing Trends That Will Continue in 2025

Micheal McHugh, co-owner of Dream Makers Vacation Services along with his wife Amy McHugh, said one of the biggest trends heading to 2025 was spawned from the recent Presidential election.

“Prior to the election, we saw a lot of nervousness about booking or booking last minute,” he said.  “The two weeks before the election were super quiet. I personally don’t think people were concerned about who was going to be elected.

“I think they just needed all the constant bombardment to stop,” he continued. “Prior to the election, we were seeing people booking last minute to six months before travel. Not a whole lot of longer term. We’re started to see more clients booking further out.” 

Heather D’Amico, owner and vacation designer for D’Amico Travel said four types of previously popular vacations are all beginning to pick up steam in 2025.

“A few trends we are noticing are more solo guests, small family groups and wellness travel,” said D’Amico “There has been a big uptick in cruise requests as well, where guests can see multiple islands on one vacation.”

Ian Petrulli, vice president of Holiday Travel International, said many of his clients are looking for islands they haven’t yet visited.

“Lately, I have had clients saying that they want to go somewhere else in the Caribbean that they haven’t been to yet,” said “Petrulli “Pricing comes as a real shock to them especially knowing that these islands that they haven’t been to don’t offer all-inclusive options and are still more than what they’d pay to go to more traditional destinations like the Riviera Maya, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Aruba, etc.

“It looks like the aforementioned traditional Caribbean destinations for our market will remain in high demand for 2025,” he continued.

Kendra Wagner of Kendra Wagner Travel said tailored-made trips, particularly those with a wellness theme, will be especially popular in 2025.

“The hottest trends for Caribbean agents in 2025 revolve around personalization and creating deeply tailored experiences,” she said. “Wellness travel is particularly prominent, with growing interest in spa retreats, yoga escapes, and mindful getaways.”

She said one “hidden gem” for this is VIDA Cayman.

Vida Cayman.

“It offers organic, clean cuisine at its restaurant, Nourish, paired with yoga and workout spaces, off-the-beaten-path tranquility, and an ideal setting for women’s retreats,” said Wagner. “Additionally, immersive cultural experiences, such as culinary tours or local artisan workshops, are in high demand. Focusing on crafting tailor-made itineraries that emphasize local connections and authentic engagement will set agents apart in this growing market.

Anticipated Obstacles for 2025 Caribbean Travel

Michael McHugh said hotel strikes are going to be one of the top vacation disruptors in the new year.

“One of the concerns I have is with the strikes that have been happening,” he said. “We saw a number in Jamaica and now one in Antigua. Most were at resorts who have been experiencing service issues, so we didn’t have many clients there, but I’ve heard of clients being affected. I’m hopeful that the resorts we sell pay attention and really focus on employee happiness in addition to client happiness.”

McHugh also noted that expensive flight prices, which has been the norm since travel resumed post COVID, could still be an obstacle in 2025, but can also see them dipping now that the results of the election “continues to settle.”

“Flights still are higher than normal, but I see them coming down,” he said. “This Christmas rates are insane. I’m hopeful as things continue to settle after the election that rates go down. I’m sure no change fees are a factor in the cost of airfare. If so, I’d rather see them go away and get lower airfare.”

Petrulli’s main obstacle has been going on in all industries for years, but he still maintains it will cause confusion amongst clients going forward.

“Misleading information via social media, traditional media and not understanding the State Department’s travel alerts,” he said.

D’Amico fears that the growing technology that allows clients to bypass an advisor’s help will only get more robust. Specifically, AI is causing a lot of concern for advisors, she said.

“Technology and higher client expectations are obstacles that are keeping up, which is either going to make or break businesses,” she said. “The ability to have personal conversations with AI tools is helping to streamline searches, making booking easier without a professional.”

But the skilled advisor can find ways to make this an advantage, she said.

“People are looking for instant communication, more attention, and unique experiences,” said D’Amico. “We must leverage technology to our benefit while connecting deeply with each client to deliver ‘wow’ service in 2025 and show value more than ever before.”

Wagner said one of the biggest challenges for Caribbean travel advisors heading into 2025 is the rising cost of vacations.

“Over the past few years, prices for popular destinations like Turks & Caicos, Antigua, and St. Lucia have surged, with $10,000 to $12,000 now being a baseline for many trips. This can be a tough adjustment for clients unfamiliar with luxury travel budgets.”

So, what’s her solution?

“To address this, I’ve been exploring lesser-known, more affordable destinations like Dominica. However, accessibility can be a drawback, depending on the client’s location,” she said.

Lastly, Wagner said another challenge is the recent surge of new agents with limited experience.

“Additionally, another challenge is the influx of new advisors with minimal training or industry knowledge,” she said. “Educating clients on the value of working with an experienced advisor backed by a strong team is crucial. The key lies in standing out by emphasizing expertise, personalized service and the ability to navigate an increasingly crowded market.”

Caribbean Hotel Openings for 2025

AMResorts is looking to have a lucrative year as the new Secrets and Dreams branded hotels are gaining a lot of client intrigue.

“We are seeing a lot of interest in Secrets Baby Beach in Aruba,” said Amy McHugh of Dream Makers Vacation Service. “Aruba has long needed more all-inclusive options, so this is something very exciting to look forward to.

D’Amico said Secrets Baby Beach is just one of three AMResorts her clients are inquiring about, along with Jamaica’s new Unico 1877 in Montego Bay.

“We’re so excited for Unico 1877 to open in Montego Bay this year,” she confirmed. “HIC consistently adds to its portfolio throughout the Caribbean. Secrets Baby Beach in Aruba, Secrets St. Lucia and Dreams Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic are all on the horizon for 2025.”

Petrulli said the best part of Secrets Baby Beach is it’s going to be brand new as Aruba is known for having a lot of older hotels.

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What Travel Advisors Need to Know About the Cayman Islands 

By: Joe Pike

One of the biggest challenge for the Cayman Islands is a rather good problem to have — too much demand.

But that’s par for the course for one of the Caribbean’s top luxury destinations, one that continues to see growth in the post-pandemic period.

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This Jamaica Villa Resort Offers 10 Percent Commissions 

By: Dana Niland

It remains one of the fastest-growing segments in Caribbean travel: the luxury villa, for which demand continues to surge across the region. 

Of course, there are two primary ways to enjoy a villa — an independent villa, preferably with a top villa management company, or a villa resort, where you get villa accommodations with full service, housekeeping and common amenities. 

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This Top Panama Hotel Just Joined Virtuoso 

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

It’s one of our favorite old towns in the Caribbean: the Casco Antiguo of Panama City, a colorful, charming historic quarter that’s a refreshing departure from the bustle and skyscapers of the rest of the capital. 

Now, one of the area’s top hotels is the newest member of Virtuoso, the luxury travel group. 

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Four Seasons Is Taking Over This Caribbean Resort 

By: Caitlin Sullivan

Four Seasons is taking over a major resort in the Caribbean, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned. 

It’s a significant change for one of the island’s top places to stay. 

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Travel Advisor Bookings Are Growing in Puerto Rico

By: Joe Pike

Vacation rentals can be a detriment to an advisor’s bottom line, unless the rental owners are sharing a piece of the pie.

While a vacation rental boom in Puerto Rico may sound like something a Caribbean specialist should be concerned about, Francisco Blanch, leisure sales director for Discover Puerto Rico, said otherwise.

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These Aruba Hotels Have Special Travel Agent Rates Right Now

By: Caitlin Sullivan

Looking to plan a trip for your client on One Happy Island? Or planning an exploratory trip for yourself? 

A number of Aruba hotels are now offering special commissions, perks and rates for travel advisors. 

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The CHTA Has a New Caribbean Travel Specialist Program 

By: Dana Niland

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association has unveiled a new program for travel advisors focused on the Caribbean, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned. 

It’s called the Caribbean Travel Specialist Program, and the goal is to “heighten awareness of the Caribbean region within the extensive travel trade network while enhancing visitors’ travel experiences,” according to the organization. 

The program is being conducted in partnership with taCONNECT and My Booking Rewards. 

CHTA members can get access to to discounted services and connect with agents in major markets. 

“The Certified Caribbean Travel Specialist Program reflects our commitment to providing travel advisors with the tools and resources they need to confidently promote the Caribbean as a premier destination to their clients,” said CHTA Immediate Past President Nicola Madden-Greig. 

The program will ensure that “travel advisors are experts in the Caribbean region, recommending curated itineraries that showcase the immense beauty, wealth of activities and experiences throughout the region,” she said. 

Travel advisors who participate will get access to offers, benefits, FAM trips, invitations to Caribbean Travel Marketaplace and rewards for logging bookings. 

You can find more at TA Connect

This Legendary Caribbean Resort Is Finally Reopening — And Taking Bookings

By: Alexander Britell

It’s one of the most iconic resorts in the Caribbean. For years, it was arguably the top private-island destination in the whole region. 

Then the storms came in, and for seven years, it’s been shuttered. 

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This New Dominican Republic All-Inclusive Now Has an Opening Date 

By: Guy Britton

It’s one of the most anticipated debuts in the Caribbean: the Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic. 

Now, the resort finally has an opening date, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned. 

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New Caribbean Travel Advisor Awards to Honor the Best Travel Agencies Selling the Caribbean

By: Joe Pike

Caribbean Travel Advisor has launched its new awards program honoring top advisors to compete for votes in such categories as Best Small Agency to Best Agency for Weddings: the Caribbean Travel Advisor Awards 2025.

“We always strive to give our audience all the information it needs when planning its next Caribbean vacation,” said Alexander Britell, editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal and Caribbean Travel Advisor. “These awards will put a spotlight on the best advisors in the country, creating the best advisor database for our loyal readers.”

To vote, you need to be a subscriber of Caribbean Travel Advisor. To subscribe, visit here.

To vote, visit here. Voting is now live and ends on Jan. 4, 2025. 

Nominees for each category were chosen by travel specialists and the editorial team at Caribbean Journal and Caribbean Travel Advisor. Here’s a full breakdown of all the categories and nominees for each. Each category has a write-in option as well.

Best Small Agency

Penny Sheldon Travel

Travelista Travels 

Unique Romance & Adventure Travel 

Worth The Trip Travel 

Accent on Travel 

Best Large Agency

Blue Pineapple Travel 

Vincent Vacations 

VIP Vacations Inc. 

Connoisseur Travel 

TripGuy 

Best Cruise Agency

Travel Happy Agency 

Cruise Planners 

Travel Design, Co

Travel Biz Boss 

Harr Travel 

Best All Inclusive Agency

VIP Vacations, Inc.

The TravelSmiths

Holiday Travel International

Tropical Travelers  

BeachBum

Be All Inclusive

Best Agency for Weddings

Time for Travel, LLC 

Mad Hatter Adventures Travel Company 

BeachBum 

Unique Romance & Adventure Travel 

VIP Vacations, Inc.

Best Female-Focused Agency 

Travel With Nikki 

Your Vacation Plan 

The Travel Byrds 

Unique Romance & Adventure Travel 

Travelista Travels 

Best Millennial Agency 

Be All Inclusive 

Unique Travel 

Travel With Nikki 

Get Out Custom Travels 

The Travel Byrds 

Best LBGTQ-Travel Focused Agency

Travel Biz Boss 

Rainbow Getaways 

Makin’ Memories Travel 

Culture Traveler 

HE Travel

Best Agency for Friends’ Getaways 

Makin’ Memories Travel

Travel With Nikki 

VIP Vacations Inc. 

Unique Romance & Adventure Travel 

Custom Travel Services, Inc.

Best Agency for Group Travel

Dreams and Destinations, Inc. 

Quality Travel & Tours 

Harmon Travel 

Thomas Travel, Inc.

Accent on Travel  

Best Agency for Multigenerational Travel

Unique Romance & Adventure Travel 

Travel Design Co.

Travel With Nikki 

The TravelSmiths

VIP Vacations, Inc.

Best Overall Agency for Caribbean Travel

The TravelSmiths

VIP Vacations, Inc.

TripGuy

Travel Tom

Travelista Travels

Vote for the 2025 Caribbean Travel Advisor Awards

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

You can find the voting link for the Caribbean Travel Advisor Awards here. You must be a paying subscriber of Caribbean Travel Advisor to vote.

Voting for the Caribbean Travel Advisor Awards ends on Jan. 4, 2025.

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What Does the Hyatt-Bahia Principe Deal Mean for the Caribbean? 

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

It’s the biggest hotel deal impacting the Caribbean so far this year: Hyatt has entered into a “long term asset-light strategic joint venture” with Bahia Principe-parent Grupo Piñero that will manage Bahia Principe’s branded hotels and resorts and own the Bahia Principe brand. 

So what does it mean for the Caribbean? 

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The Biggest Caribbean Travel Trends, According to Sandals Resorts

By: Caitlin Sullivan

What are the biggest trends in the fast-growing all-inclusive space in the Caribbean right now? 

And what does they tell us about travelers’ current needs and demands? 

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What to Know About St Lucia Travel Right Now  

By: Joe Pike

While most travel advisors are aware of St. Lucia’s most prominent hotels, many of the island’s smaller properties are picking up steam, particularly those in the increasingly popular Bay Gardens portfolio.

In fact, Richard Moss, senior sales manager for North America for the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, said St. Lucia’s smaller hotels are beginning to gain “cult status with agents.”

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How to Become an Aruba Certified Expert 

By: Caribbean Journal Staff

Those beaches. If you haven’t been to Aruba, you’re missing out on some of the most spectacular stretches of sand anywhere in the Caribbean: Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, even the rugged, raw beaches like Boca Grandi on the east coast. 

Those beaches still form the core of why your clients will love Aruba – along with one of the friendliest, most comfortable, easy to navigate destinations in the region. 

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This Turks and Caicos Resort Is Offering 10 Percent Commissions to Travel Advisors 

By: Dana Niland

It’s one one of the most prominent locations on Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, a destination that has become one of the most sought-after places to visit in the Caribbean right now.

Now one popular Providenciales resort is launching a new program for travel advisors. 

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Rafael Nadal’s First-Ever Caribbean Hotel Is Opening in December. And It’s an All-Inclusive.

By: Caitlin Sullivan

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal is bringing his hotel brand to the Caribbean, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned. 

The new hotel is opening its doors in December as a unique kind of all-inclusive resort concept with a Mediterranean feel.

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From Aruba to Turks and Caicos, These are the Caribbean’s Newest Hotels

By: Alexander Britell

It’s been a big year for Caribbean hotels, as the region’s pipeline continues to grow — and some major openings already took place, from the new Sandals St Vincent and the Grenadines to the boutique Silversands Beach House in Grenada.

But they’re not alone. There’s more to come in the Caribbean this year, and Caribbean Travel Advisor has you covered with a guide to the next five resorts that will be opening their doors in the Caribbean — all before the end of this year. 

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