Anguilla Strengthens Luxury Tourism Ties at Virtuoso Travel Week 2026

Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) in Sint Maarten has officially announced the start of construction on a new outdoor curbside check-in facility. The project will be located in the exterior access area of the airport, allowing passengers to check in before entering the terminal building. The development represents a significant infrastructure investment aimed at improving the overall passenger experience at one of the Caribbean's most well-known airports. PJIA has been in a long-term rebuilding and modernization phase following severe damage sustained during Hurricane Irma in 2017. A curbside check-in facility is expected to reduce congestion inside the terminal and streamline the departure process for travelers. The announcement signals continued momentum in the airport's ongoing efforts to expand capacity and upgrade its facilities to meet growing regional air traffic demand.

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has selected Florida International University (FIU) to conduct a comprehensive Caribbean tourism demand study. The research aims to identify opportunities to strengthen economic linkages between the tourism sector and regional industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and creative industries. The announcement was made in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and reflects CHTA's ongoing effort to deepen tourism's contribution to broader Caribbean economic development. By analyzing tourism demand patterns, the study is expected to generate data-driven insights that can help Caribbean destinations diversify their economies and reduce dependence on imports. FIU's selection signals a formal academic partnership with one of the region's most influential hospitality organizations. The findings could inform policy decisions across multiple Caribbean islands, including St. Maarten, where tourism is the backbone of the economy. The study represents a significant step toward building a more resilient and integrated Caribbean tourism ecosystem.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) is inviting young women from Sint Maarten to apply for nomination to the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association's (FCCA) Young Women's Leadership Initiative. Up to three candidates from Sint Maarten may be nominated for the competitive ten-month program, which is focused on developing the next generation of female leaders in the cruise industry. The FCCA initiative provides mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities within one of the Caribbean's most economically significant industries. TEATT is acting as the coordinating body for nominations, meaning interested applicants must go through the ministry to be considered. The program represents a meaningful opportunity for young Sint Maarten women to gain industry exposure and connections at a regional level. Cruise tourism is a major economic driver for Sint Maarten, making this kind of pipeline development particularly relevant for the island's long-term workforce strategy.