Caribbean had strong presence at WTM

Two member nations of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) were among the 17 new countries that exhibited at World Travel Market (WTM) in London: Aruba and St. Maarten were among those that contributed to making this year’s WTM the largest ever in its 23-year history.

The four day event, one of the premier global exhibitions for the travel industry, brought together around 5,000 of the world’s leading travel and tourism companies from over 183 countries.

This year, exhibition space soared to 36,850 square meters, an increase of 12 % compared to last year. Almost every region of the world has seen growth with 17 new countries exhibiting for the first time.

Organizers point to the increase as a direct indication of support for the move to ExCeL, which has seen the largest marketing and communications program ever undertaken by the event.

"ExCel, without doubt, matches the requirements for a venue where it can grow and develop and in addition opens up a new exciting area for London exhibitors and visitors to explore, packed with restaurants of every description, taste, style and price, shops, bars, pubs, and other attractions," said WTM´s Fiona Jeffrey. The event, which is situated next to a waterside location, allows visitors boat venue options and dining.

The Caribbean has a strong presence at WTM with both government and private sector representation.

CTO is represented by Secretary General, Jean Holder, Director of Finance and Resource Management, Luther Miller and Arley Sobers, the Director of Research and Information Management.