The twin island destination of Antigua and Barbuda is set to see more development in the world of tourism with an increase in UK tourist visits of 22% since this time last year, the announcement of a new Minister for Tourism following the recent elections and the completion of the new terminal at the V.C. Bird International Airport by November 2014.

The Hon. Gaston Browne of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, sworn in as Antigua and Barbuda's new Prime Minister on 13 June 2014, made the following Cabinet announcements: The Hon. Asot Anthony Michael appointed as the Minister responsible for Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy and The Hon. Robin Yearwood as the Minister of Public Utilities, Civil Aviation and Transportation.

The announcement comes as visitor figures are released showing UK arrivals to Antigua have increased by 22% since the same period in 2013. It is anticipated further increase will come from November when the building of the brand new V.C. Bird International Airport terminal will be completed. The new terminal is set to treble the number of departure gates with numerous retail stores and restaurants in addition to departure lounge capacities of nearly 1,000 seats.

“The announcement of new Ministers for Tourism and Civil Aviation took place just after Antigua and Barbuda's inaugural Travel Trade Showcase on the island and both will bring new initiatives into this sector,” stated Cherrie Osborne, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Director for UK and Europe. She continues, “The completion of the new airport terminal this November will further add to our product offering and enhance the visitor experience for many so that we continue to welcome even higher numbers of visitors to the destination.”

For more information on news in Antigua and Barbuda, visit: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or call the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority on 0203 668 3800.

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Notes to Editors:
High resolution images of the destination available on request.

Paradise Islands in the Caribbean Sea
Located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, Antigua and its sister island Barbuda are known for their numerous coves, bays and clear turquoise-coloured waters. Served by British Airways and Virgin Atlantic from London Gatwick Airport, the eight and a half hour flight will drop you into a tropical paradise to enjoy one of Antigua's 365 white sand beaches. Steeped in culture and history with breathtaking panoramic views it is the perfect destination for family holidays, honeymoons, photo/fashion shoots and more.