The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) announces the launch of its groundbreaking guidebook, “Artificial Intelligence Transformation Guide for Caribbean Tourism”.
This initiative, spearheaded by the CHTA Technology Task Force, marks a significant milestone as it is the first guidebook of its kind released by any regional Hotel and Tourism Association.
Authored by Christus Gill with AI support, the guidebook represents a major advancement in incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into the region’s tourism sector, setting a new standard for innovation and technological integration.
Building upon the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) foundational guide, “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology: Guide for Travel & Tourism Leaders”, CHTA has crafted a comprehensive resource for industry stakeholders. The AI Guidebook provides essential insights and best practices tailored to the unique landscape of Caribbean tourism. It aims to illuminate the myriad benefits of AI adoption and addresses the challenges and concerns that might arise.
Sanovnik Destang, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts, Chair of the CHTA Technology Task Force, and the main driver behind this initiative, shared his enthusiasm about this innovative tool: “The AI Transformation Guide for Caribbean Tourism opens up a new realm of possibilities for our industry. By integrating AI technologies, we can significantly enhance guest experiences, improve operational efficiencies, and push the boundaries of what Caribbean tourism can achieve.”
The creation of the guidebook was a collaborative effort involving influential industry professionals from across the Caribbean who serve on the CHTA Technology Task Force, including:
- Chairperson Sanovnik Destang, St. Lucia
- Co-Chairperson Christus Gill, St. Lucia
- Yatsuri Marshall, St. Lucia
- Brian Broomes, Barbados
- Jamal Griffith, Barbados
- Jeremy Jones, Jamaica
- Lisa Hamilton, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Kjerstin Carlson, CHTA Liaison
The guide explores Generative AI and other AI technologies, providing tailored insights and strategies for the Caribbean hospitality and tourism sectors. It addresses challenges and ethical considerations, showcasing AI’s potential to transform travel by combining innovation with creativity. The CHTA Technology Task Force also plans to release a follow-up guidebook featuring case studies of AI implementation in Caribbean hotels and tourism companies.
In conjunction with the launch of its pioneering guidebook, “Artificial Intelligence Transformation Guide for Caribbean Tourism,” the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) hosted a dynamic webinar titled “AI Horizons: Redefining Caribbean Hospitality & Tourism – Navigating Innovation, Opportunities, and Challenges.” This virtual event brought together industry leaders and experts to explore the transformative potential of AI within the Caribbean hospitality sector. Discussions were wide-ranging, from leveraging AI for sustainability initiatives and enhancing educational curricula to optimizing business operations and addressing security concerns. With insights from panelists including Christus Gill, Co-Chair of CHTA’s Technology Task Force, and S. Omega Simmons from the Turks & Caicos Hotel & Tourism Association, the webinar underscored AI’s role in shaping the future of Caribbean tourism through innovation and strategic integration.