Touring The Caribbean!
In 2014, Caribbean tourist arrivals were on an upswing after posting mixed results in 2013. Updated Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) data for last year show year-over-year arrival increase for 24 of the 28 destinations the group tracks. Only Bermuda, Curacao, St. Vincent and the Grenadines have each recorded declines to date, led by Bermuda with a negligible 3.3 percent decline.
Belize, the Cayman Island, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Montserrat and the Turks & Caicos all recorded increases of 10 percent or more in 2014 versus 2013.
The Caribbean's strong 2014 performance received its first push from the terrible weather most of North America endured this winter, which only increased the appeal of the region's perennially sunny skies, brilliant blue waters and warm temperatures.
In addition, new hotel and resort properties, cruise ship facilities and tourism infrastructure expansion are under way in several Caribbean nations.
These, coupled with an increasing emphasis on upscale amenities and services, and a wider array of activities and attractions tied to indigenous cuisine, history and adventure-and eco-tourism, are driving the region's improving arrivals.