by Brian Major
Last updated: 11:20 AM ET, Fri August 30, 2024
The Turks and Caicos recorded double-digit year-over-year visitor
arrivals growth in July, continuing the destination’s year-long trend of increased visitation, according to data
from destination marketing organization Experience Turks and Caicos (ETC).
The archipelago’s 71,452 air arrivals for the month represent
a 15.95 percent increase over July 2023.
Additionally, the Turks and Caicos hosted 136,990 cruise
ship passengers in July, a 62.87 percent year-over-year increase representing
the country’s highest total for any month this year.
“Our destination remains open and welcoming year-round
which proves that our product is attractive for all seasons,” said Josephine
Connolly, the Turks and Caicos’ tourism minister.
Higher hotel occupancy accompanied the increased July air arrivals. Data from travel research firm STR reports that July occupancy is at 75.8 percent, the Caribbean region’s third highest, according to STR.
The Turks and Caicos also posted the region’s second-highest
average daily rate (ADR) in July at $1021.53. Still, the destination is preparing for a fall downturn. Local
hotels are reporting an average of 50 percent occupancy, with some reporting “last-minute
bookings,” according to ETC officials.
Moreover, seasonal shutdowns are also planned. “As has been
the norm in past years, 13 properties plan to close between August and December
at varying dates for maintenance and other activities,” ETC officials said
in a statement.
Connolly expects the slowdown to remain a seasonal trend. “Data
reported by Experience Turks and Caicos shows that while we could expect a
slight decline in September and October, which is normal, international air
capacity will increase toward the end of the year as we enter the winter
season,” she said.
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