Saint John's
Antigua and Barbuda
GDN DESTINATION REPORT
Overview: Saint John's, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, is a growing destination for governmental and institutional events in the Caribbean. As the political and economic center of Antigua and Barbuda, Saint John's plays an important role in regional diplomacy, economic development, and governance, particularly within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Saint John's strategic location and its reputation for tourism and hospitality make it an attractive venue for international summits and high-level discussions. Identification as a Key Destination: The Governmental Destination Network (GDN) has identified Saint John's as a key destination for hosting governmental events, due to its leadership in regional economic integration, governance, and sustainability initiatives in the Caribbean.
Infrastructure and services
Recent Updates: Saint John's has experienced infrastructure improvements, including the expansion of V.C. Bird International Airport and the development of modern conference facilities such as the Sandals Grande Antigua Conference Centre. The city's hospitality sector is robust, with hotels like the Jumby Bay Island Resort and the Carlisle Bay Resort providing high-end accommodations for international delegations. Service Ecosystem: Saint John's provides secure transportation, event management services, and quality hospitality, making it well-suited for hosting high-profile governmental and institutional meetings.
Benchmarking destinations
Comparison with Other Key Destinations: In the Caribbean, Saint John's competes with cities like Bridgetown and Port of Spain for hosting governmental events. While Bridgetown is known for its diplomatic significance and Port of Spain for its regional leadership, Saint John's strengths lie in its growing infrastructure, strategic location, and tourism-driven economy. Real Comparative Figures: According to the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Saint John's institutional travel sector generated approximately $35 million in 2022, highlighting its importance as a destination for diplomacy and international cooperation in the Caribbean.
Growth projections
Growth Projections: Based on data from the World Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank, Saint John's governmental and institutional travel sector is expected to grow between 4% and 6% annually over the next five years. This growth is driven by Antigua and Barbuda's increasing involvement in regional governance, sustainable development, and tourism initiatives. By 2028, Saint John's institutional travel sector could generate over $50 million annually, solidifying its role as a hub for international summits and governmental meetings.
Successful experiences
A significant event hosted in Saint John's was the 2022 CARICOM Summit on Sustainable Development, which brought together leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss climate change, economic development, and regional cooperation. The event attracted over 600 delegates and generated an estimated $10 million in economic impact, according to the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Testimonials
Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda: "Saint John's is becoming a central hub for regional diplomacy and sustainable development, providing a platform for high-level discussions on the future of the Caribbean." Irwin LaRocque, Former Secretary-General of CARICOM: "Saint John's growing role in regional governance and sustainability makes it an ideal location for key discussions on economic development and climate resilience in the Caribbean."
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Green Initiatives: Saint John's has implemented sustainable practices in event management, focusing on renewable energy, waste reduction, and eco-friendly practices at key venues. These initiatives are supported by partnerships with international organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Circular Economy: The city prioritizes local procurement and the use of sustainable materials for event management, contributing to Antigua and Barbuda�s efforts to build a circular economy.
Social impact
Local Development: Governmental events in Saint John's have created job opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, logistics, and security, benefiting the local economy. Concrete Actions: Saint John's has partnered with international organizations to offer training programs that enhance the skills of local workers in event management, creating pathways to employment and supporting the city�s growing events sector.
Conclusion
Key Points Summary: Saint John's is solidifying its position as a key destination for governmental and institutional travel in the Caribbean. With its expanding infrastructure, strategic location, and growing influence in regional governance and sustainability, Saint John's is well-positioned to continue its growth as a hub for international cooperation and high-level discussions in the coming years.
The information presented in this GDN REPORT on government destinations has been prepared to offer a comprehensive overview of the most strategic destinations globally. In this research process, a wide range of sources and studies carried out by prestigious international consulting, tourism and travel firms, as well as by international organizations such as the WTTC and UN Tourism, have been used. In addition, local, national and international reports have been incorporated, ensuring a comprehensive and global perspective. To ensure accuracy and scientific rigor, data mining techniques, algorithms and artificial intelligence have been applied in the collection and analysis of the information. The result has been synthesized and condensed to offer clear, concise and truthful data, designed to provide decision-makers with the necessary tools to understand and make the most of the potential of these destinations. Our goal is to support the planning and organization of high-level events with accurate and relevant information, thus strengthening the role of each destination in diplomacy and international cooperation.