Hospitality the Caribbean Way: Global Lessons from Local Experiences
The Caribbean region, renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality, is a global tourism hotspot. This region has long been a magnet for travelers seeking sun, sand, and unique cultural experiences. The hospitality sector plays a pivotal role in the Caribbean's economy, making it imperative for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to delve deeper into the issues and opportunities shaping this vital industry.
The conference aims to provide scholars, industry professionals, and stakeholders a platform to delve into the critical issues affecting the region's hospitality sector, discuss ongoing research agendas, and draw broader lessons for the global tourism industry. We’ll address the following subthemes:
Sustainability in Paradise: how do we face the challenges of balancing tourism growth with environmental sustainability; the impact of tourism on the region's natural resources; and what are strategies for sustainable tourism development that conserves unique ecological wealth?
Cultural Preservation and Authenticity: how do we negotiate the delicate balance between commercialization and preservation, ensuring that authentic culture remains at the heart of the tourist experience?
Economic Resilience and Inclusivity: the COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities of tourism-dependent economies. How do we learn from this experience to develop strategies to diversify the sector, create opportunities for local participation, and enhance economic resilience in the face of future crises?
Technology and Innovation: in a rapidly evolving world, we must embrace digital transformation and innovation to remain competitive. How do we use technology in hospitality, including digital marketing, data analytics, and smart destination management?
Community Engagement and Social Impact: tourism has the power to uplift communities, but it can also bring challenges related to over-tourism and inequality. How do we balance the social implications of tourism and recommend strategies for community engagement, local empowerment, and responsible tourism?
Education and Workforce Development: building a skilled and diverse workforce is vital for the sustainability of the hospitality industry. How to provide quality education and training, promote diversity and inclusion, and enhance human resource development?
The conference welcomes academics, industry practitioners, government officials, students, and all stakeholders interested in the future of hospitality. This diverse audience will facilitate multidisciplinary discussions, collaborative research, and the development of actionable insights.