ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

The Midtown Loft and Terrace in New York City was the venue for a Midsummer Soiree and Live Viewing Party held last Monday, to celebrate the season finale of ABC’s Television primetime reality series The Bachelorette. The two part finale filmed in Antigua and Barbuda generated significant interest within the travel community.

As more than 8 million viewers world-wide tuned in to watch this episode, a diverse audience comprising travel agents, media and tourism professionals, tastemakers and celebrities were feted by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA). R & B performer Johnny Kemp and supermodel Jaunel McKenzie were among the guests of honor, as the destination took center stage in this prime time show.

The US Tourism team presented a line-up of exciting activities and experiences to promote the destination and highlight many of the attractions that make Antigua and Barbuda the ideal Caribbean location to showcase modern love and courtship. The event was designed to “Romance the Senses” by elevating the tastes, aromas, sights and sounds of the destination and transport viewers to experience Antigua and Barbuda’s idyllic charm.

The event was supported by a number of romance partners including:  Elite Island Resorts, fragrances from Jo Malone London, Myx Fusions Beverages whose spokesperson is Nicki Minaj and G Caribbean Magazine. A trio of Antiguan culinary masters, Chef Shawnee, Chef Murphy and Chef Melvin Myers of Success Catering created a love feast of international and authentic cuisine. Entertainment was provided by Pan Fusion and carnival dancers provided by The Beauty Surgeon, Dave Ray.

This season Bachelorette, Desiree, 27, an operations manager and stylist at a bridal salon, who previously charmed America’s favorite Bachelor, Sean Lowe, met 25 potential suitors and got another shot at love. Desiree continues on her journey and finds various "love nests" throughout the episode to ignite passions in her quest to find love.

Guests at the viewing party were captivated by the panoramic views, beautiful coastlines and exotic scenery of the twin islands as well as the lush landscape of The Verandah Resort & Spa and Galley Bay Resort & Spa. The episode was well received as many verbally identified familiar beaches, landmarks and local personalities.

US Director of Tourism, Derede Samuel-Whitlock stated, "The live viewing party was well supported and generated a buzz within the travel community. Judging from the feedback we received from guests and social media, The Bachelorette episode was highly effective in showcasing Antigua and Barbuda’s strongest elements and romantic appeal. As the story continues to dominate the tabloids and “blogosphere” during the next few weeks, we anticipate that there will be unprecedented interest in the destination and this will drive demand and increase visitor arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda."

The Antigua and Barbuda showcase continues when a live three hour finale event airs on Monday, August 5th, 2013, at 8/7c on ABC.