Honourable Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism, along with a distinguished team, including Alvin Hegner, Co-Chairman of Experience Turks and Caicos, Trina Adams, Chief Marketing Officer for Experience Turks and Caicos, and Leandrea Missick, Executive Administrator for the Ministry of Tourism, recently attended the first round of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO’s) 2024 Business Meetings, which were held in Saint Martin from February 4th – 7th, 2024.
The discussions at the CTO Business Meetings were marked by their productivity and collaborative spirit.
In sharing her insights on the event, Hon. Connolly stated, “The CTO Business Meetings galvanized a spirit of cooperation and forward-thinking among Caribbean leaders, reinforcing our commitment to propel the region’s tourism industry. We have proactively defined a shared path for innovation that promises to elevate our competitive stance in the global arena. The role of aviation emerged as a central theme, recognized for its integral part in enhancing Caribbean tourism. We will be actively forging stronger alliances with airlines to transform the Turks and Caicos Islands into a nexus of connectivity. These efforts are crucial as we continue to improve access and allure to our shores, affirming our islands’ reputation as an exceptional destination for travellers worldwide.” End quote
Alvin Hegner, reflecting on the strategic discussions at the CTO Business Meeting stated, “The insights and collaborative efforts underscored at the CTO Business Meetings emphasize the crucial role of sustainable tourism practices and regional cooperation for the future prosperity of the Caribbean. At Experience Turks and Caicos, we are committed to a holistic approach in tourism development that carefully balances innovation with the stewardship of our ecological and cultural treasures. Our initiatives aim not just to elevate the Turks and Caicos Islands as a leading destination through state-of-the-art technologies, but also to ensure our growth has a positive impact on the economic health and environmental sustainability of the region. Working alongside our Caribbean neighbours, we strive to promote a unified and resilient tourism industry.” End quote
The delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Caribbean Tourism Organisation and the host country of Saint Martin for facilitating an event that was both productive and inspiring.
With the insights and collaborative spirit garnered from the meetings, the delegation is poised to implement strategies that will enhance the national tourism industry. The Turks and Caicos Islands stand as an active participant in a regional effort to foster growth across the Caribbean.



