BARBADOS: 2016 Year Of Romance Declares Caribbean Tourism Organisation

The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) has declared 2016 as the Year of Romance in the Caribbean .

The organisation says with the launch of this new initiative, the CTO and its member countries and hotels will highlight the region as the leading choice for a romantic vacation for consumers and travel planners selling the region.

“With over 30 destinations to choose from, the Caribbean region provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway highlighted by pristine beaches, secluded accommodations, an abundance of land and water activities, top-notch spa services and personalised attention that meets the needs of the most discerning traveller,” said Hugh Riley, secretary general of CTO.

“The Year of Romance in the Caribbean will spotlight the romantic features of our region beyond the traditional times of year such as Valentine’s Day. A romantic theme is easily embraced by all of our member destinations 365 days a year,” Riley noted.


Throughout the year, CTO in cooperation with its private sector partner the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association; will assist member countries with ideas which can be implemented around the theme of romance to appeal to consumers, travel agents and tour operators.

Some of the areas of focus will include first or second marriages and the renewal of vows, the most romantic locations to “pop the question” or say “I do” and inviting celebrity couples to get married in t he Caribbean.

“We anticipate that in addition to the ideas we provide our members, the countries and hotels will develop their own plan of action for promoting romance in their individual destinations,” said Riley adding: “The theme is inclusive of our partners, both public- and private-sector.

Caribbean hotels, travel agents and tour operators are urged to create their own romantic ideas or adopt ones being embraced by the destinations.

“We envision airline partners getting involved with their own ‘love is in the air’ offers and recognizing bridal parties onboard who are heading to a destination wedding in the Caribbean. We think video bloggers too will get involved in featuring the winners of the most romantic ideas,” said Riley.

The campaign will be promoted through social media and traditional media channels and will create opportunities for travellers and vacation planners to share their experiences and ideas of a romantic Caribbean vacation throughout 2016.