The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) is set to deliver a powerful message of record-breaking tourism growth at the upcoming State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2024.
The conference, taking place from September 2-6 at the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa in the Cayman Islands, will gather top experts, decision-makers, and influencers to discuss strategies for sustainable growth and maintaining the region's competitive edge in the tourism sector. The Bahamas has experienced a significant surge in visitor arrivals across both cruise and land-based segments, reinforcing its position as a premier global travel destination.
"To drive continued growth in both new and repeat visits, we have implemented a strategy tailored to the evolving expectations of today's travellers," said the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation.
Key initiatives driving this growth include the recent launch of direct flights from major U.S. markets not only to Nassau but across various Bahamian destinations, as well as the expansion of cruise ports and the beautification of downtown areas. These efforts, among others, have further solidified The Bahamas' status as a leading tourist destination.
Latia Duncombe, Director General of BMOTIA, highlighted that the country's success is rooted in innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to enhancing its diverse tourism offerings. "As we continue to break records and set new standards, we are not only responding to the needs of today's travellers but also shaping the future of tourism in The Bahamas," she noted.
SOTIC presents a valuable opportunity to share insights, form partnerships, and drive regional strategies for sustained success in the global tourism market. The Bahamas achieved a historic milestone in 2023 with nearly 10 million visitors, marking a 38% increase from 2022 and a 33% rise compared to 2019.
Foreign air arrivals reached a record 1.7 million, while sea arrivals soared to 7.9 million. This upward trend has continued into 2024, with a 14% increase in arrivals from January to June, totalling over 5.7 million visitors in just six months.
