Tag: Cruise Tourism

Antigua & Barbuda The Citizen Issue 5, published in July 2019, focuses on the country’s growing appeal as a premier investment, tourism, and luxury destination. The issue focuses on Investment in Antigua and Barbuda, including the booming real estate market driven by the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), the expansion of the cruise tourism sector, and the islands’ environmental leadership through efforts such as eliminating single-use plastics. The real estate market in Antigua & Barbuda is booming, thanks in part to the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), which has attracted global investors. From high-end developments like Waldorf Astoria to projects backed by international celebrities like Robert De Niro, the real estate sector offers a range of opportunities for both investors and luxury property buyers. With real estate investments starting at $200,000, the CIP allows investors to obtain citizenship in Antigua & Barbuda, granting visa-free access to 150 countries, including the UK and Schengen Area nations. Moreover, the market offers strong returns, with some properties yielding 4-6% annually in rental income. Play It Out: Fighting Plastic Pollution A concert on a tropical island under the stars would be attractive enough under any circumstance. But when this is part of a worldwide campaign in conjunction with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and Norway to eradicate plastic from the environment, the stakes get a bit higher. Play It Out: Fighting Plastic Pollution was hosted by Antigua & Barbuda on June 1st at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in St. John’s. The concert aimed to raise awareness of the global plastic pollution crisis. With over 20,000 concertgoers and a global live stream audience, the concert not only brought attention to the issue but also placed Antigua & Barbuda on the international stage as a leader in sustainability. Headlined by Grammy Award-winning singer Ashanti, Trinidad & Tobago’s King of Soca, Machel Montano, and other international stars like Cody Simpson and Robin Schulz, the event united performers from all over the world. Local artists such as Ricardo Drue, Claudette Peters, and cricket legend Sir Richie Richardson also participated, contributing to the evening’s environmental advocacy. The concert wasn’t only about the music. The Antigua & Barbuda Declaration, a commitment to eliminate single-use plastics across the Caribbean, was launched, demonstrating the country’s dedication to leading this initiative. The event itself was certified as a “4-leaf event,” the highest environmental score for such events, thanks to its eco-friendly setup. This event showed that Antigua & Barbuda might be small, but its efforts to fight plastic pollution have significant global influence . Antigua & Barbuda Cruise Industry Thriving Antigua & Barbuda’s cruise industry continues to expand, establishing itself as a premier destination in the Caribbean. The country recently welcomed the inaugural visit of the Disney Fantasy cruise ship, bringing over 3,800 passengers to its shores. This marks a milestone in the islands’ ongoing efforts to increase cruise ship arrivals. The partnership with Royal Caribbean further enhances the country’s cruise tourism sector. This 10-year agreement aims to double cruise visits, with passenger volumes expected to reach 500,000 per year within the next five years. Upon completion of the new fifth berth, which is designed to accommodate the world’s largest cruise vessels, including Oasis-class ships that carry around 6,000 passengers, Antigua & Barbuda will be positioned as a leading hub for cruise ship tourism in the region. TUI Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines are also increasing their presence. Mein Schiff 2 will make 13 calls in the upcoming season, bringing over 37,000 passengers. Additionally, Norwegian Cruise Lines will reintroduce visits with ships like the Norwegian Epic, and the inaugural visit of the Norwegian Bliss will happen later this year . Island Living: What It Means to Live in Paradise Island living is about more than just beaches and relaxation – it’s about creating a lifestyle where luxury meets simplicity. Antigua & Barbuda offers an ideal environment for those looking to escape the hustle of everyday life while still enjoying the finer things. Whether it’s barefoot luxury, world-class yachting, or exquisite dining by the sea, the islands allow for unparalleled privacy and serenity. While owning a second home here gives a sense of escape, the islands are far from isolated, boasting excellent connectivity to major cities like New York and London. Many visitors find themselves drawn into the tranquil lifestyle, from watching the sunrise to enjoying a nap in a hammock as the waves lap at the shore. For those looking to retreat from the public eye, Antigua & Barbuda offers unmatched privacy, with a local culture that is unfazed by the presence of celebrities and high-net-worth individuals. The islands are a place where peace and luxury blend seamlessly, creating a personal paradise for every homeowner. Ready to dive into the world of luxury living and sustainable investment? Discover all the exciting things Antigua & Barbuda have to offer. Continue reading Issue 6 to learn more, or check out Issue 5 here!