WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has once again made its mark on the global travel map, according to the island's hospitality sector. During the annual Global Travel Advisor Day, held this year at Sandals Royal Curaçao, 56 travel advisors from around the world gathered to explore the island as a tourist destination. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. 

The event was organized by the Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA) and is part of a broader strategy to enhance the island's international profile. The participants hailed from North and South America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands. 

“We received a lot of praise,” said CHATA director Anuschka Cova. “Many travel advisors have already expressed that they will definitely return, both privately and with clients. That’s exactly the effect we aim for.” 

Sandals Royal Curaçao also played a central role in the event. According to General Manager Jeffrey Speelman, who is also a CHATA board member, the excitement about the island was palpable throughout the gathering. “Collaborations like this not only strengthen our image but also foster unity within the tourism sector.” 

In addition to promotion, sustainable development was also a key focus. CHATA emphasized that tourism growth must be balanced with the island’s capacity to support it. “We don’t just want to grow,” said Cova. “It’s about responsible development, considering the economy, nature, and society.” 

Club 17 

This vision aligns with CHATA’s recent membership in Club 17, a network of local organizations dedicated to sustainable progress. During the event, Minister of Traffic, Transport, and Spatial Planning Charles Cooper delivered a video message underscoring the importance of initiatives like these for Curaçao's tourism sector. 

According to CHATA, travel advisors are more than just vacation sellers; they are ambassadors. By sharing their experiences in Curaçao, they contribute to shaping the island’s global image. 

The next international group set to visit Curaçao will consist of real estate agents. CHATA has committed to supporting them with a tour focused on investment opportunities.