Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Antigua & Barbuda’s North American Tourism offices have released the February issue of the A&B BUZZ, under the. theme, “Love Travel Agents.” The issue aims to inspire, motivate and celebrate travel professionals, who generate a significant proportion of the destination’s tourism business.

Officially released at the Boston Globe Travel Show, the issue highlights “one stop shopping experiences” and educated recommendations that travel agents provide. As clients plan dream vacations, travel agents can be an important link in the value chain and visitor experience.

Travel specialists are encouraged to remain motivated by undertaking acts of love, while taking charge of their physical and mental health throughout February, which is also National Heart Month. Prominent travel industry leaders provide education, insights and advice aimed at increasing awareness and sales support for travel agents.

In “29 Off the Beaten Path Leap Year Activities,” novel ways to reposition Antigua and Barbuda are explored. “Unplugged Vacations in A & B”, highlights Rex Hawksbill, Hermitage Bay and Cocobay Resorts as properties that offer visitors a quieter alternative to experience the local culture and other attractions, in a holistic experience that is both fun and fulfilling.

In The History of A & B Aviation: Remembering the Pan Am Days, former Aerodrome Superintendent, Bert Joseph, chronicles the growth and development of Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation industry and the upgrade of Coolidge Airport to international standards in 1960. This facility ultimately contributed to the development of the tourism industry and gave the destination a competitive advantage.

US Director of Tourism, Derede Samuel-Whitlock pledges her team’s continued support for travel agents. “There has been resurgence in demand for travel agents. “Studies show that the average person visits 21 sites during nine sessions while preparing for a trip. With a proliferation of online sites, the Web-booking process of comparing and contrasting options can be quite daunting.  Many travelers who have developed “e-morse,” information overload and symptoms of decision fatigue are relying more on their travel agents.” 

The BUZZ captures all that Antigua and Barbuda has to offer as tourism destination. The monthly online publication provides a comprehensive overview