Basseterre, St. Kitts – Ms. Drunisha Hanley, Caribbean Marketing Officer at the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, recently participated in St. Martin’s Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART), held from 31 March to 21 April 2025. The event served as a vital business-to-business platform, bringing together travel agents, tour operators, and global vendors in the tourism industry to foster collaboration and exchange insights.
Throughout the tradeshow, Ms. Hanley engaged with influential tour operators and vendors, including Copa Airlines, JetBlue Vacations, Air Canada Vacations, Hotelbeds USA Inc., Cruise Planners, Lamb Luxury Travel, and Hopscotch Tourism Netherlands. These interactions provided a unique opportunity to promote St. Kitts as a premier Caribbean destination while highlighting its offerings and upcoming events.
St. Kitts is more than just a vacation destination; it is a gateway to an authentic Caribbean experience,” said Kelly Fontenelle, Chief Executive Officer at the St. Kitts Tourism Authority. “The Caribbean market is vital to our tourism growth, and we are intensifying our efforts to engage this key region. Our presence at SMART has been instrumental in strengthening relationships with key partners and reinforcing St. Kitts as an unmissable destination for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences. We’re also committed to amplifying our message through regional media, ensuring that St. Kitts continues to be top-of-mind for Caribbean travelers.
During her meetings, Hanley emphasized what truly sets St. Kitts apart from other Caribbean destinations. Additionally, Hanley shared exciting details about the upcoming St. Kitts Music Festival, St. Kitts-Nevis Restaurant Week, and Sugar Mas (Carnival), three hallmark events in the destination’s calendar. These events not only provide entertainment, culture, and excitement but also offer a deep dive into the island’s music, culture, and festive spirit.
Another key focus during the tradeshow was the promotion of St. Kitts’ Summer Unscripted campaign, a unique initiative designed to showcase the unfiltered beauty and spontaneity of the island. This campaign invites visitors to experience St. Kitts in a raw, authentic way – from the heart of its bustling streets to its serene nature trails and vibrant local markets.
“The Summer Unscripted campaign is about embracing the uncharted and unexpected,” said Hanley. “We want visitors to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of St. Kitts, where every moment is filled with discovery, and every corner holds a new experience. This approach is perfectly aligned with the evolving travel trends that prioritize meaningful, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.”
The St. Kitts Tourism Authority remains committed to strengthening relationships with global tourism stakeholders and showcasing the island’s distinct offerings. The Authority’s presence at SMART plays a crucial role in promoting the destination, building lasting partnerships, and ensuring that St. Kitts continues to stand out in an increasingly competitive market.