WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA), in collaboration with the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) and Curaçao Airport Partners (CAP), successfully hosted the Latin American Trade Symposium (LATS), bringing together travel agents and tour operators from across South America.
Participants from Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Venezuela, Panama, and Uruguay spent a week on the island networking, engaging in cultural activities, and experiencing Curaçao’s diverse tourism offerings firsthand.
Immersive Program
The extensive program included site visits to more than 18 hotels and accommodations around the island, an art walk through Otrobanda, and visits to iconic attractions such as Landhuis Chobolobo, the Chichi art studio, and the Curaçao Aloe Plantation.
Over 20 tourism businesses held one-on-one meetings with the visiting agents, a crucial step given that in many Latin American countries, 40 to 50 percent of bookings still go through travel agencies.
The symposium concluded with a festive “Taste of Curaçao” evening at Netto Bar and Coco Jamboo Bar, where guests enjoyed live music, local cuisine, and authentic cultural experiences.
Strong Public-Private Collaboration
The event was hosted by The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao All-Inclusive Resort and Curio by Hilton, with main sponsorship from Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort, Courtyard by Marriott Curaçao, and Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino. Additional support came from Kontiki Beach Resort Curaçao, Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort, and Papagayo Beach Hotel, along with tour operators FBTT Travel and TMC Tours.
Focus on Latin America’s Growth Potential
“LATS strengthens Curaçao’s presence in Latin America by deepening partnerships with tour operators and airlines,” said Muryad de Bruyn, director of CTB. “With the support of 43 partners, we are working together toward sustainable growth.”
Peggy Croes of CAP emphasized the region’s importance: “With direct flights from Bogotá, Panama, Belo Horizonte, and soon Lima, we are well positioned to expand our market share.”
For Anuschka Cova, director of CHATA, the symposium demonstrated the strength of joint efforts: “It’s a perfect example of public-private collaboration. This initiative allows key Latin American partners to experience our hospitality, culture, and diversity firsthand.”
Organizers expect the symposium to result in stronger business ties, increased visibility, and ultimately, more Latin American visitors choosing Curaçao as their travel destination.
