ANTIGUA & BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

Antigua & Barbuda – April 1, 2025 – The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) continues to elevate hospitality standards with another highly anticipated session of its Professional Learning Series. On March 18 and 19, 2025, the ABHTA hosted a Housekeeping Certification 2-Day Course, specifically designed to equip individuals within the housekeeping department with the knowledge and hands on skills necessary to maintain exceptional cleanliness, efficiency, and customer service in their roles.

Facilitated by the esteemed Patricia Tully, CHHE, CHE, the training covered a comprehensive range of housekeeping skills, including professionalism, cleaning techniques, towel artistry, customer service, and the critical role of the housekeeping department in the hospitality industry.

When it comes to professional training, the ABHTA ensures to engage the best of the best in the industry. Patricia Tully, with over forty years of experience in the hospitality sector, has trained hundreds of individuals across the Caribbean, from entry-level to executive housekeepers now thriving in North American hotel chains. Her expertise in developing efficient housekeeping techniques has significantly contributed to the seamless operation of Housekeeping and Room Division departments.

Reflecting on the session, Patricia Tully stated, "It was a very good training session, with a large number of attendees. I am satisfied that everyone fully benefited, as indicated by the test results. Participants received customer service training and self-development guidance alongside housekeeping techniques, ensuring they deliver high-quality guest service with professionalism and excellence. As a tourism-driven country, everyone should undergo this standard hospitality training."

Among the enthusiastic participants was Colin Jonas, Houseman at the Blue Waters Resort & Spa, who shared his feedback: "It truly was an invaluable experience! I’ve been in this industry for over 11 years, and it’s something I truly love. Ms. Tully was an excellent instructor, her teaching approach made everything easier to learn. I am grateful to have been a part of this wonderful training. I know that what I’ve learned will not only make me a better professional but also help me grow as an individual."

Highlighting the importance of investing in staff development, Fitmaurize Christian, Vice President of Awesome Development Ventures, who sent four (4) of his staff members to the training, shared his perspective: "You cannot expect excellence in service without investing in your staff. It starts with valuing them as individuals and committing to their growth and development. This motivates employees and fosters an ownership culture, leading to less close supervision and more empowerment. We expect this training to improve our methods, reduce waste, and, most importantly, delight our customers. The training provided by ABHTA is an invaluable asset to all organizations."

The ABHTA remains committed to providing hospitality professionals with opportunities to refine their skills and enhance service standards, ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality sector continues to thrive on excellence.

For more information on upcoming ABHTA courses, visit www.antiguahotels.org/training/ or contact Anthea Watkins at anthea@antiguahotels.org or call 462-0374/4928.