From July 6 to July 08, 2025, Montego Bay will vibrate to the rhythm of the 49th CARICOM Summit, where the Heads of State and Government of member countries will meet to discuss the major challenges facing the region. Chaired by Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, the atmosphere at this year’s summit is both solemn and charged with urgency, as each delegation has come with high expectations in terms of food security, economic resilience, the Haitian crisis and, above all, the overhaul of regional logistics.
The corridors of the Montego Bay Convention Centre are buzzing with strategic conversations, while plenary sessions alternate with thematic workshops, giving each territory the chance to make its voice heard.
A demanding regional context
Right from the opening of the 49th CARICOM Summit, the tone was set: the Caribbean is going through a pivotal period. Successive speeches by representatives from Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Saint Lucia and Dominica highlighted the reality of logistical disruption, dependence on costly air transport and the fragility of supply chains. The debates were lively, with each head of delegation insisting on the need for concrete and immediate solutions. Behind-the-scenes exchanges testify to a shared determination to make this summit a decisive moment for the region.
The priorities of the Jamaican presidency
In his inaugural address, Andrew Holness reiterated the importance of strengthening cooperation and diversifying trade, while stressing the need for rapid responses to security and climate issues. His call for collective mobilization did not go unheeded: the 49th CARICOM Summit featured a series of round-table discussions on regional peace, the pooling of resources and the role of young people in building shared prosperity.
Mia Mottley: a plea for logistics transformation
One of the highlights of the 49th CARICOM Summit was the address by Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados. With eloquence applauded by all participants, she painted a lucid picture of the logistical shortcomings holding back Caribbean development. Her voice, firm and poised, resonated in the auditorium as she spoke of the need for a “regional freight revolution”, stressing the urgent need to democratize transport and restore the sea to its historic role as a link between islands.
Concrete proposals for regional freight
Mia Mottley was not one to rest on her laurels. She announced that two CARICOM member states are in advanced negotiations to acquire cargo aircraft, an initiative she believes will help to fluidify trade and guarantee the supply of essential goods. She also mentioned the expected presentation of a private-sector-led regional ferry project, which could revolutionize connectivity between the islands. These announcements, made at the heart of the 49th CARICOM Summit, were greeted with thunderous applause, a sign that the logistics issue is at the heart of our collective concerns.
Political will at the heart of change
Mia Mottley took advantage of her platform to point out that the success of these projects depends above all on the political will of leaders. She fondly evoked memories of the Federal Maple and Federal Palm, symbols of a time when the sea united the peoples of the Caribbean. Her plea, echoed in several sessions of the 49th CARICOM Summit, found particular resonance with the delegations, who recognized the need to overcome institutional inertia to build a modern, resilient regional logistics system.
The concrete contributions of the 49th CARICOM Summit for member territories
Food security and trade fluidity
Food security was one of the key topics discussed at the 49th CARICOM Summit. Participants emphasized that the establishment of new sea and air links, such as those mentioned by Mia Mottley, will ensure a steady supply of agricultural produce and essential goods. The exchange of best practices between the Ministers of Agriculture and the Economy testifies to a shared desire to optimize logistics circuits and strengthen the food sovereignty of each territory.
Strengthening economic integration and resilience
Discussions on economic integration have highlighted the importance of pooling resources and diversifying trading partners. The 49th CARICOM Summit’s announcements of public and private investment in regional freight pave the way for enhanced cooperation, enabling member territories to better withstand external shocks, whether economic, health-related or climatic. The participants agree that this edition represents a crucial milestone on the road to shared prosperity.
Outlook for youth and innovation
Throughout the workshops, Caribbean youth and technological innovation took center stage. The initiatives presented, whether in training programs, student mobility or support for entrepreneurship, illustrate the determination of leaders to prepare the next generation and give young people the means to become part of the regional dynamic. These perspectives, discussed in depth at the 49th CARICOM Summit, point to new, concrete opportunities for young people.
The 49th CARICOM Summit, catalyst for a new regional era
In Montego Bay, the 49th CARICOM Summit continues in a studious and determined atmosphere. Led by the likes of Mia Mottley and Andrew Holness, the region is taking a decisive step towards modernizing its infrastructure and deepening its integration. The discussions, rich and sometimes passionate, bear witness to a collective determination to transform challenges into opportunities and build a sustainable future for all the people of the Caribbean.
📸 Photo gallery: relive the highlights of the opening ceremony ©CARICOM
The Caribbean beaches confirm their place among the world’s most admired natural treasures, according to the 2025 edition of the World’s 50 Best Beaches. This international recognition once again highlights the richness, diversity and quality of the region’s seaside resorts. Thanks to a rigorous methodology, this ranking highlights places that are preserved, accessible and unforgettable.
A demanding and recognized ranking
The ranking World’s 50 Best Beaches is based on the opinions of over 1,000 travel specialists: journalists, influencers and editors. Caribbean beaches are featured prominently, demonstrating their global appeal. Each site is evaluated according to five specific criteria: natural beauty, water and sand quality, respect for the environment, accessibility and overall visitor experience.
A field assessment
The members of the jury surveyed dozens of coastlines, taking precise notes and analyzing the atmosphere, tranquility and quality of the water. The result is a selection of the finest seaside resorts in the world, designed to provide guidance for both those who love secluded spots and those who are passionate about the seaside.
Canto de la Playa (Dominican Republic): a discreet gem at the top of the regional rankings
In 2025, Canto de la Playa established itself as the most outstanding in the region and 6ᵉ worldwide. Located on the southern tip of the island of Saona, in Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, accessible only by boat.
Unspoilt nature
At Canto de la Playa, there are no hotels or visible businesses. Just a beach of pristine white sand, turquoise waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life. This unspoilt setting attracts lovers of pure nature and snorkelling.
A haven of peace for visitors
The atmosphere is calm, almost silent, with only the sound of the waves and the wind blowing through the palm trees. From many Caribbean beaches offer moments of tranquility, but Canto de la Playa stands out for its authenticity. It’s particularly pleasant to visit from October to November, when the sea is at its calmest.
Grace Bay (Turks & Caicos): the perfect harmony between nature and comfort
Another striking name among Caribbean beaches, Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos Islands, is ranked 10ᵉ in the world. This beach on the island of Providenciales is renowned for the softness of its sand and the transparency of its waters.
A perfectly landscaped site
Grace Bay stretches for over five kilometers, with a coral reef providing natural protection from the currents. This guarantees ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. The beach attracts a varied public thanks to its comprehensive offer: luxury hotels, water sports and local gastronomy.
A destination to suit all profiles
Among Caribbean beaches, Grace Bay embodies the ideal compromise between natural beauty and quality amenities. It attracts families and honeymooners alike.
Other Caribbean jewels in the 2025 ranking
Caribbean beaches are numerous in this prestigious list. Each offers a distinct ambience and experience:
Each offers a distinct ambience and experience:
- Shoal Bay East (Anguilla, #14) : very clear sand, crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming.
Seven Mile Beach (Cayman Islands, #23) : lively place, ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts. - The Baths (British Virgin Islands, #29) : famous for its granite rocks and natural pools.
- Ffryes Beach (Antigua and Barbuda, #31) : calm and serenity, far from urban areas.
- Grand Anse (Grenade, #32) : friendly atmosphere and golden sand.
- Bahia de Las Aguilas (Dominican Republic, #34) : a secluded, unspoilt setting still little known to the general public.
- Meads Bay (Anguilla, #35) : a relaxing beach with calm waters.
- Klein Bonaire Beach (Bonaire, #44) : a diver’s paradise with a remarkable seabed.
Recent entrances and emblematic sites
The 2025 edition welcomes a number of territories for the first time: Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands and Bonaire. This diversity is proof of the vitality of the region’s seaside offerings. Among the already famous beaches, Trunk Bay (Saint John, U.S. Virgin Islands) continues to seduce with its underwater trail and sparkling sand.
Why are Caribbean beaches so attractive?
Caribbean beaches are renowned for the variety of their landscapes. Some, like The Baths, are intriguing for their geology. Others, like Grace Bay, are reassuringly comfortable. This diversity means that every traveler will find a place to suit his or her needs.
Accessibility and uniqueness
Some beaches require an effort to reach (Canto de la Playa), while others are located in the immediate vicinity of hotels and infrastructure (Grace Bay). This contrast between wilderness and developed areas is what makes all the Caribbean beaches.
The 2025 edition of the World’s 50 Best Beaches illustrates the influence of Caribbean beaches on a global scale. Canto de la Playa in the Dominican Republic, Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, Shoal Bay East in Anguilla… all these names evoke singular seaside experiences, nurtured by a preserved natural setting, waters of rare clarity and a warm local welcome. The region remains, more than ever, a benchmark for those wishing to experience sea and sand of remarkable quality.
LIAT Airlines recently took a major step forward by launching a new route to the British Virgin Islands. Cette initiative marque un engagement renouvelé envers la connectivité dans la région, un aspect crucial pour le développement économique et culturel des îles caribéennes. En offrant des options de voyage fiables et abordables, LIAT Airlines contributes to strengthening regional integration and stimulating the tourism sector.
Historic maiden flight to the Virgin Islands
The inaugural flight of LIAT Airlines landed at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Lettsome International Airport on Sunday, December 8, illustrating the potential of this new link. At this milestone event, the Premier of the Virgin Islands, the Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, underlined the importance of this new link for the region’s economic development.
“Today, we celebrate the arrival of LIAT Airlines and strengthen our connections within the Caribbean. This service is vital to fostering economic growth and enhancing cultural exchanges between our islands,” he declared.
The LIAT Airlines Vision
The CEO of LIAT (2020) Limited Hafsah Abdulsalam, also expressed her enthusiasm for the new service. She stated that the company’s main objective is to reconnect British Virgin Islands with the rest of the Caribbean.
“We are delighted to reconnect the British Virgin Islands with the rest of the Caribbean region. Our priority is to provide reliable services that meet travellers’ needs while promoting regional tourism,” she added.
Economic importance of the New Road
The new air link has significant implications for the economy of the British Virgin Islands. Le ministre des Communications et des Travaux, l’honorable Kye M. Rymer, a souligné que le retour de LIAT Airlines in the region’s skies is a testament to the resilience and determination of the islands to improve their connectivity.
Benefits for Tourism and Local Businesses
The launch of this inaugural flight benefits not only tourists, but also local businesses. By increasing accessibility, the new route will facilitate trade and encourage economic development.
“This new link will not only meet the travel needs of tourists, but will also significantly benefit our local businesses and communities by increasing accessibility,” said Minister Rymer.
Collaboration between LIAT and Local AuthoritiesA Reflection on Kes's Journey
The success of this initiative is also the result of close collaboration between LIAT Airlines and local authorities. Kurt Menal, Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority, acknowledged the crucial role played by this partnership in making the project a reality.
“The partnership between LIAT Airlines and our local authorities was instrumental in making this inaugural flight a reality. We are committed to improving our airport’s operations and welcoming more visitors, which in turn will stimulate economic activity in the region. Virgin Islands“he said.
Impact on Culture and Social Exchanges
Beyond the economic benefits, this new air route also plays an essential role in strengthening cultural exchanges between the islands. By facilitating travel, LIAT Airlines enables more people to discover the cultural richness of the Caribbean.
Promoting Cultural Exchanges
Air travel not only facilitates tourism, but also exchanges between the region’s different cultures. This helps create a more united and supportive Caribbean community. Connectivity fosters interpersonal relations, enabling people to share their traditions, gastronomy and arts.
A Sustainable Growth Strategy
LIAT Airlines not only strengthens air connections, but is also committed to sustainable practices in its operations. By integrating green initiatives, LIAT Airlines aims to reduce its carbon footprint while meeting the growing demand for air travel in the region.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainable development has become a priority for many airlines, including LIAT Airlines is no exception. By investing in cleaner technologies and optimizing its operations, the company aims to minimize its environmental impact while continuing to serve its customers efficiently.
The launch of the new LIAT Airlines to the British Virgin Islands represents a pivotal moment for the region’s economic and cultural development. By strengthening connectivity between the islands, LIAT Airlines contributes not only to the growth of tourism, but also to the enhancement of economic and cultural relations within the Caribbean.
The efforts of LIAT Airlines with local authorities and business partners demonstrate a shared vision for a prosperous, interconnected future. With a commitment to sustainability and continuous service improvement, LIAT Airlines is well positioned to play a key role in the transformation of the Caribbean aviation landscape.
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, October 14, 2024 – Caribbean Airlines continues to enhance regional connectivity with the launch of its inaugural flight BW294 to Tortola, British Virgin Islands. On Monday, October 14th, the flight touched down at the Terrance B. Lettsome Airport, marking a new chapter in the airline’s mission to link the Caribbean more closely together. This significant milestone expands Caribbean Airlines’ growing network, now covering 24 destinations across the region, as well as North and South America.
A Celebration of Connectivity
In a brief ceremony at Piarco International Airport, Trinidad, Caribbean Airlines Chief Executive Officer Garvin Medera remarked: “As a regional airline, we remain committed to enhancing connectivity across the Caribbean, and the addition of Tortola to our schedule marks an important chapter in Caribbean Airlines’ expansion. This is our first-ever connection to the British Virgin Islands, and it means that we now have 24 destinations within our network, connecting the Region, North and South America.”
Medera also highlighted the frequency of the flights, stating: “With four flights a week – on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – we will bring over 540 seats into and out of Tortola weekly.”
A Warm Welcome in Tortola
Upon arrival in Tortola, the inaugural flight was greeted with a traditional water salute, symbolizing good fortune and celebration. The passengers were warmly welcomed with a cultural showcase organized by The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Tortola. Key representatives from the British Virgin Islands government were in attendance, including Premier of the Virgin Islands and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, as well as other ministers and stakeholders.
The celebratory atmosphere exemplified the spirit of Caribbean hospitality, as local dancers and musicians gave visitors a glimpse into Tortola’s unique cultural identity. This vibrant welcome illustrated the deep partnership between Caribbean Airlines and the British Virgin Islands, aimed at promoting tourism and facilitating travel across the Caribbean.
Building Bridges: New Routes for Regional Growth
The new route to Tortola not only strengthens Caribbean Airlines’ position as a key player in Caribbean aviation but also plays an important role in supporting the region’s economic development. The airline’s increased connectivity supports tourism growth and boosts opportunities for business travelers. Caribbean Airlines offers a seamless connection twice weekly via Barbados on Thursdays and Saturdays, in addition to its regular routes out of Trinidad on Mondays and Wednesdays with connections to Antigua and Puerto Rico.
This enhanced network aims to foster regional integration, making the Caribbean more accessible and further promoting inter-island collaboration. The strategic addition of Tortola underlines the airline’s role in strengthening the Caribbean’s economic ties and tourism appeal.
Seamless Connections and Travel Information
Caribbean Airlines is dedicated to making inter-island travel as smooth as possible, offering convenient connections to travelers throughout the Caribbean. Flights to Tortola operate on Mondays and Wednesdays from Trinidad, connecting through Antigua and Puerto Rico, and on Thursdays and Saturdays via Barbados, providing increased options for those looking to explore the region.
For travelers looking to experience the breathtaking beauty of Tortola, along with its vibrant culture and scenic views, Caribbean Airlines makes it easier than ever to discover this unique destination. For more information and to book your flight, visit www.caribbean-airlines.com.
Why This Matters for Caribbean Travelers
The new route to Tortola enhances the network of possibilities for travelers across the Caribbean. As Caribbean Airlines continues to expand its reach, it becomes increasingly easy for islanders and tourists alike to experience the region’s diversity—from lush landscapes to cultural festivals. The new service to the British Virgin Islands aligns with a broader vision of boosting tourism, facilitating regional cooperation, and making travel between the Caribbean islands a hassle-free experience.
This inaugural flight is not just about adding another destination to the schedule—it’s about building stronger bridges between the islands, enriching the lives of the people, and contributing to the socio-economic growth of the entire region.
