People now have to pay an extra US $30 (around EC$81) on return flights to or from Antigua & Barbuda after a new tax took effect on Independence Day, November 1.

Independence Day 2012 will see travellers passing through the VC Bird International Airport having to pay a new administration tax.

The first flight of a new twice-weekly WestJet service from Toronto, Canada, will arrive in Antigua on Sunday, October 28.

Hoteliers and airline representatives have warned government of far-reaching implications of a looming hike in airport taxes, calling for its deferral.

The Antigua Hotel & Tourist Association (AHTA) has decried the impact of an increase in Britian’s Air Passenger Duty (APD) that took effect on Sunday, saying the tax is another harsh blow to the already challenged sector.

More than a year of negotiations between hoteliers, employees and their union finally paid off yesterday with the parties agreeing on increases in wages and allowances.

Chairman of the Antigua Hotels and Tourism Association (AHTA) Alistair Forrest is hopeful of settling the outstanding collective bargaining agreement between hoteliers and their employees after today’s scheduled meeting with Labour Minister Dr Errol Cort.

The presence of 34 ocean racing yachts in English Harbour this weekend, preparing for the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s Caribbean 600, has given a very welcome boost to the local economy.

The US tourism team this weekend partnered with Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association (AHTA) and the VIP Properties to promote the Antigua & Barbuda at the Boston Globe Travel Show.

Persons working in resort and day spas, as well as massage therapists, nutritionists, alternative medicine consultants, and any other components of the spa, health and wellness industry are invited to attend the inaugural meeting of Caribbean Spa and Wellness Association, which takes place this Wednesday at Sandals Grande Antigua.