The return of Condor Airlines marks another milestone in Antigua and Barbuda’s efforts to expand its presence in the German-speaking (DACH) market. Following the airline’s resumption of service last year, the destination experienced a 26% increase in arrivals from the DACH market in the first two months. Year-to-date growth from German-speaking travelers continues to trend positively with a 46% increase in January 2025 compared to the same period last year, with strong forward bookings leading into Antigua Sailing Week.
Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, reinforced the significance of the Condor partnership, stating, “Antigua and Barbuda have maintained a long-standing relationship with the German-speaking markets.”
“Condor’s return for a second season is a strong testament to the route’s success, particularly in attracting high-end travelers.”
“The demand from this market continues to drive growth in the luxury sector, aligning with our strategy to increase and sustain airlift from Europe.”
Key European tour operators have welcomed the announcement, expressing confidence in selling Antigua and Barbuda as a premier destination for the next winter season. The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority notes that the four and five star market is performing the strongest with one of the major volume operators reporting almost a 300% increase vs 2024.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s Director of Tourism for the UK & Europe, Cherrie Osborne, highlighted the positive reception from industry partners, stating, “This year, the feedback from the trade has been extremely positive. Through a series of strategic initiatives, including trade visits, media collaborations, and an extensive cooperative campaign with the airline, we are seeing notable growth from the German-speaking market and broader continental Europe. Our hotel partners are fully supportive of diversifying their target market and recognize the potential in this region.”
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority remains committed to expanding air connectivity and strengthening its position as a sought-after destination for European travelers.
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. The twin-island paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating excursions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches – one for every day of the year. The largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands, Antigua comprises 108-square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Antigua’s tourism events calendar includes the Antigua and Barbuda Wellness Month, Run in Paradise, prestigious Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua and Barbuda Restaurant Week, Antigua and Barbuda Art Week and the annual Antigua Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Barbuda, Antigua’s smaller sister island, is the ultimate celebrity hideaway. The island lies 27 miles north-east of Antigua and is just a 15-minute plane ride away. Barbuda is known for its untouched 11-mile stretch of pink sand beach and as the home of the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere.
