ANTIGUA / ENGLAND – The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) attended the Destinations: Holiday and Travel Show last week, engaging with UK travellers and industry professionals to promote the twin-island nation as a leading Caribbean destination. The team shared insights on the upcoming 2026 on-island calendar, from Carnival to Art Week, and elevated the culinary experiences available to prospective visitors.
Held at Olympia London, the show is one of the largest and most popular consumer travel exhibitions, bringing in around 50,000 attendees from international markets across a four-day period, all of whom were seeking inspiration and expert advice for future holidays. ABTA was joined on stand by hotel partners Elite Island Resorts and Azingo Hospitality, highlighting the islands’ wide range of boutique and larger-scale accommodation options.
Antiguan heritage chef Kareem Roberts represented Antigua and Barbuda on the Taste The World stage, where he promoted the destination’s upcoming Culinary Month and championed the flavours, ingredients and traditions that define Antiguan cuisine. Roberts conducted a live demonstration of tamarind balls, where he was joined by British presenter and chef, Andrew Dickens, who delved further into the cultural significance behind the iconic treat. Audience members gathered for the interactive session and followed up with a delectable on-stand tasting of the sweet and sour snack themselves. As well as promotion of the destination, Roberts had the opportunity to display his recently released cookbook Cassava and Cardamom at the show.
Roberts said:
“It is an incredible opportunity to share what Antigua and Barbuda has to offer through food. From our landscapes to our people, there is so much untapped potential, and we have only just begun to showcase the creativity, flavours, and experiences that make our islands truly unique.”
Cherrie Osborne, director of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority UK & Europe, added:
“Our presence at leading consumer events is essential for showcasing Antigua and Barbuda’s culture and heritage. By highlighting signature offerings and key events like Culinary Month 2026, we can show what sets our twin islands apart for travellers. Talented ambassadors like Roberts engage audiences and bring our heritage and stories to life.”
The Times Destinations Travel Show left visitors inspired by the flavours, traditions, and experiences of Antigua and Barbuda, ensuring the islands remain top of mind for UK travellers planning their 2026 holidays and beyond.