The head of the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has hit back at a suggestion by Bahamas tourism stakeholders that the cruise industry is not paying its fair share of taxes.

Bermuda has been named the eighth most affordable Caribbean destination for US travellers between the months of March and April this year by the world’s largest travel website, TripAdvisor.

Richard Sealy, tourism and international transport minister of Barbados, predicted the change in the air tax bands from next year would trigger more arrivals from the UK. The simplification of APD follows years of industry lobbying from both sides of the Atlantic.

Capella Marigot Bay Resort and Marina in St. Lucia, is augmenting its culinary team by appointing Isaac Novoa as food and beverage director. Novoa will oversee the hotel’s food service operations, the Capella Marina’s signature restaurants and bars.

Air Canada has suspended flights to Caracas until further notice citing the ongoing civil unrest in Venezuela, and said it could no longer ensure the safety of its operation. The airline, which operates three round trip flights weekly between Toronto and Caracas, said the suspension is effective from March 18.