CTO Seeks to Calm Travel Concerns, Says Caribbean Is ‘Open for Business’

Image: Caribbean Tourism Organization has issued a statement reaffirming the region's operational stability (Photo Credit: Natasha Lair-McKenty)
Image: Caribbean Tourism Organization has issued a statement reaffirming the region's operational stability (Photo Credit: Natasha Lair-McKenty)
Natasha Lair
by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:40 AM ET, Mon January 12, 2026

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) says travel across the region remains fully operational, despite recent geopolitical developments involving Venezuela.

In a statement issued in response to growing concerns about Caribbean travel, the CTO said it and its 25 member destinations have been “closely monitoring geopolitical developments in Venezuela and addressing disruptions experienced by travelers due to the temporary closure of airspace.”

The organization emphasized that the Caribbean has extensive experience managing external disruptions and pointed to coordinated efforts across the travel sector to minimize impacts on travellers.

“We are grateful to our airline partners for adding capacity to ensure travelers were able to continue with their plans, and to the accommodations sector for its flexibility in supporting affected guests, while safeguarding the region's vital economic engine,” the statement said.

RELATED: Canadian Travel Advisors Weigh In: Are Winter Sun Plans Shifting Amid Caribbean Concerns?

According to the CTO, both cruise and air travel within the Caribbean remain operational, and advance bookings continue to be strong. 

“CTO encourages travelers to proceed with their plans and assures partners and visitors that the Caribbean remains open for business and ready to welcome travelers,” the statement said.

The response follows reports from Canadian travel advisors who have noted growing hesitation among some clients considering Caribbean travel amid broader geopolitical uncertainty. The CTO said its member destinations continue to focus on maintaining connectivity, traveller confidence, and regional stability.

Looking ahead, the organization also referenced its 2026 theme, “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” positioning it as a reflection of the region’s diversity and shared tourism infrastructure, while underscoring that hospitality and visitor safety remain central to the Caribbean’s tourism offering.

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