TORONTO — Top-producing travel professionals will be fêted at the first-ever Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards, scheduled for Dec. 6 – 8.

The awards aim to honour and celebrate the outstanding achievements of hard-working travel agents from around the world, says Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Charles Fernandez.

“We are incredibly proud to host the inaugural Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple Awards this December. The Awards are not just another industry event; they are a prestigious celebration of the incredible work done by our global travel partners. It will be the perfect way to say a heartfelt thank you to the agents who are the backbone of our industry. I can’t wait to welcome and celebrate with the one hundred outstanding agents here in Antigua and Barbuda as we honour their dedication and commitment,” said Minister Fernandez.

Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, the event is expected to bring together 100+ top-producing travel professionals globally (including 25 from Canada), for an exclusive celebration in the twin-island paradise. The event is named for the unique and delicious Antigua Black Pineapple and recognizes travel agents’ pivotal role in promoting Antigua and Barbuda as a must-visit destination.

The awards are open to all travel agents from Canada, the UK, Europe, the U.S., and the Caribbean, including home-based agents, retail agents, and tour operators who have made bookings to Antigua and Barbuda Oct. 1, 2023 – Sept. 30, 2024.

Canadian travel advisors can log their bookings using this approved form or on the travel agent specialist program website – www.AntiguaBarbudaTA.com, by Oct. 6, 2024, to secure their chance to join the winner’s circle. Backdated bookings remain valid, ensuring every sale counts towards an agent’s opportunity to win.

As Colin C. James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, asserts: “This year has been extraordinary for Antigua and Barbuda, with record-breaking tourism arrivals. This success is a testament to the relentless efforts of our teams and partners in our key markets who have delivered exceptional service. And this event is all about celebrating you.”

The weekend event for the 100 top-performing agents will be an all-expenses-paid trip, including return flights and luxurious accommodations. Celebrations will culminate in a black-tie gala on Dec. 7. Other highlights include a luxury island tour, a private catamaran cruise with snorkelling, beachfront yoga sessions and more.

Travel agents are advised to “mark your calendars, start logging your bookings and submit them by October 6 to be considered.”