Caribbean Direct Booking Summit Set for May 22 in Antigua

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (AP) — The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has announced the first-ever Direct Booking Summit, Caribbean Edition, scheduled for May 22, 2025, in Antigua. The summit aims to empower local hoteliers by providing them with the essential tools and strategies for boosting direct bookings and optimizing distribution channels.

The event will be held immediately following the 2025 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, creating a pivotal opportunity for hotel professionals to learn how to enhance revenue streams by minimizing reliance on third-party booking platforms. By eliminating third-party commissions, hotels can retain more of their profits and create a more personalized experience for guests, leading to stronger relationships.

“Caribbean Travel Marketplace is where our region’s hoteliers forge critical business partnerships, but sustaining that momentum requires a strong direct booking strategy. That’s why we’re encouraging hoteliers and accommodation providers to extend their stay in Antigua and attend the Direct Booking Summit, Caribbean Edition,” said CHTA President Sanovnik Destang.

The summit will feature expert-led sessions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, covering key topics designed to equip attendees with actionable insights to navigate the competitive landscape of online travel bookings. Workshop subjects will include enhancing direct revenue streams and utilizing technology-driven solutions to clinch more direct reservations.

Triptease, a global leader in hotel direct booking technology, is a key partner for this event. The company has successfully organized similar summits across North America, Europe, and Asia, focusing on helping hotels increase their digital presence and revenue management capabilities.

“The Caribbean is one of the world’s most dynamic and resilient travel markets, yet independent hoteliers here face unique challenges when it comes to driving direct bookings,” said Triptease Co-founder Charlie Osmond. “We’re committed to helping hotels take back control of their distribution, maximize revenue, and build stronger relationships with their guests through this summit.”

As the Caribbean tourism sector continues to recover, the summit seeks to equip hoteliers with the knowledge needed to thrive in the evolving digital landscape. As direct bookings emerge as a crucial component of hotel profitability, the event represents a significant opportunity for Caribbean accommodation providers to refine their business strategies.

Attendees will leave the summit with practical tools and insights to improve guest satisfaction and establish sustainable online distribution practices. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and education, the Direct Booking Summit aims to reinforce the position of the Caribbean as a competitive player in global tourism.

As the countdown to May 22 begins, industry professionals are encouraged to secure their participation in this groundbreaking initiative in Antigua, which is set to reshape the future of direct bookings in the region.