Social Café at the Exchange Hub

10:00am - 11:00am

General Session

Cultural Competency and Diversity: Meeting the Needs of a Global Audience

Today’s tourism market is increasingly diverse, with visitors coming from a broad range of cultural backgrounds. Understanding these differences and providing personalized, culturally competent service is essential. Attendees will learn how to cater to diverse guests, build inclusivity into their service delivery, and create welcoming environments that meet the cultural needs and expectations of global travelers.

11:15am - 12:00pm

Breakout Sessions

Sustainable by Nature: Integrating Eco-Friendly Practices for Authentic Tourism

This session will guide attendees through practical steps for implementing sustainable tourism practices, from reducing waste and conserving resources to promoting eco-friendly tours and experiences. Learn how to align your business with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards while offering authentic, eco-conscious experiences that resonate with today’s travelers.

Partnering with Purpose: Strengthening Local Collaborations for Authentic Experiences

This session will showcase how partnerships with the community can enhance guest offerings and create a more immersive, authentic experience. Learn how to incorporate local arts, crafts, cuisine, and culture into your services, establishing a deeper connection with guests and supporting the region’s economy in the process.

Wellness Matters: Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-being for Guests and Staff

This session will address the importance of creating a culture of wellness within your hospitality business, offering practical tips for stress management, mental health support, and wellness programs. Learn how prioritizing well-being can enhance guest experiences and lead to higher staff retention, fostering a healthy, productive environment.

Lunch at the Exchange Hub

2:00pm - 2:45pm

Breakout Sessions

Crisis-Proofing Caribbean Tourism: Preparing for the Next Major Event

This session will offer a framework for Caribbean hospitality and tourism professionals to learn from past crises and implement proactive measures for future disruptions. With a focus on crisis management and operational resilience, attendees will explore strategies to safeguard their businesses, protect their teams, and maintain guest confidence, ensuring they are equipped to handle whatever comes next.

True Flavors: Showcasing Authentic Caribbean Cuisine for Memorable Experiences

This session explores how businesses can showcase authentic regional flavors to create immersive dining experiences. From sourcing local ingredients to featuring traditional dishes with a modern twist, discover how to create a culinary narrative that resonates with guests, offering a true taste of the Caribbean that sets your business apart.

2:00pm - 2:45pm

People Strategy in Action: Using Metrics to Drive HR Success

This session will explore how Caribbean hoteliers can use HR metrics to improve hiring, retention, and employee engagement. Learn how to track performance, measure success, and implement data-driven HR strategies that align with your business goals, ensuring that your team is motivated, productive, and aligned with delivering an authentic Caribbean experience.

3:00pm - 4:00pm

General Session

Technology and Innovation in Hospitality: Staying Ahead with Cutting-Edge Tools

The hospitality industry is being transformed by technology. From contactless payments and AI-driven guest services to automation in operational processes, tech advancements are redefining the guest experience. This session will discuss the latest innovations in hospitality tech, how they can enhance service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and meet the changing expectations of modern travelers. Learn how to implement these tools to keep your business competitive and future-proof.

4:15pm - 5:15pm

General Session

Scoring Big with Sports Tourism: Unlocking Growth for Hotels and Destinations

This session will explore how to tap into the sports tourism market, from hosting events and attracting teams to creating experiences that appeal to sports enthusiasts. Learn about the impact of sports tourism on destination marketing, revenue potential for hotels, and practical steps to tailor your offerings to this lucrative sector.

Taste of the Caribbean Awards Ceremony Dinner

Separate ticketed event