The twin island destination of Antigua and Barbuda was recently voted “Best Wedding Island of the Year” by Caribbean World magazine at its 11th International Caribbean World Awards doled out in Great Britain. British travel and lifestyle monthly publication Caribbean World Magazine honors leaders of excellence in hospitality and service in a variety of categories, including Best Honeymoon Island, Best Luxury Resort, and Best Sailing and Yachting Island.

VisitBritain is continuing to invest in its e-commerce strategy with the introduction of a flight engine on its website as well as online shopping. The flight engine will feature inbound flights to the UK from more than 500 airlines with product offered direct by carriers or through online agencies.

Hungarian airline Malev formally accepted an invitation last week to join Oneworld, but it could take up to 15 months before it actually joins the growing airline alliance. That´s because, as with any new member, it has to complete several steps first, such as connecting its information technology systems to alliance partners.

The rise of the Internet will result in a third of UK travel agencies closing in the next decade, and the writing is on the wall for commissions. The double whammy warning came from former TUI UK boss Chris Mottershead, now chief executive of Travelzest. His comments follow the announcement that his former company is cutting commission to 7 percent from January 1.

Caribbean leaders met last week in a working lunch with Britain´s Prime Minister, Tony Blair. The Caribbean leaders were in Europe to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Malta at the end of the week. According to the website of Britain´s Prime Minister, Mr. Blair and the leaders talked about trade, security, and the UK-Caribbean relationship. They also discussed the Cricket World Cup in 2007, which is being held in the West Indies. Mr. Blair last met this group on December 2003.

Dominica is a world-class destination famous for being warm and welcoming. Now, here comes sailing and boating. The new Dominica Yacht Club is being promoted by her founding members as essential to getting the sport and the marine industry moving in Dominica.