The Caribbean Travel Marketplace will return to an in-person format for its 40th edition of its annual Marketplace event next spring. The conference also will mark the 60th anniversary of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), which produces the event.
Conference chairwoman Karen Whitt said that a late April or early May date is under consideration. The destination has not been named.
Due to Covid-19-related travel and meeting concerns, more than 6,000 meetings were held during a virtual Marketplace this past May, giving buyers from 20 countries the chance to connect with suppliers representing more than 150 Caribbean hotels and tourism-related businesses.
In preparation for Caribbean Travel Marketplace 40, the CHTA is setting up focus groups with members, the association's executive committee and tourism buyers to determine the form and function of the conference.
Also under review will be widening the diversity of offerings, as well as including the travel advisor community and attracting more small properties to join the traditional conference mix of boutiques and big brands.