The event brought together tour operators, travel agents, travel writers, and event planners from the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. It provided the island with a valuable platform to promote the island's unique experiences, positioning, and easy connectivity with St. Maarten - our main hub - while also emphasizing opportunities for island hopping within the region.
Representing Saba at the event was Malinda Hassell, Director of Tourism, who led a series of targeted appointments with travel professionals. These meetings focused on promoting Saba’s diverse tourism offerings, while cultivating new relationships with potential partners and strengthening ties with existing ones.
Saba also engaged in discussions with other regional island tourism boards to explore potential collaborations and strategic partnerships, further positioning the island within the broader Caribbean tourism landscape.
A highlight of this year’s participation was Saba’s involvement in the neighboring island "Island Hopping" initiative. As part of this program, the Saba Tourist Bureau hosted travel agents and tour operators for a curated on-island experience, allowing them to explore Saba’s product offering firsthand — from its breathtaking nature and charming villages to its warm hospitality.
Reflecting on the event, Hassell stated, “The SMART tradeshow serves as an important networking event connecting regional islands with trade partners from diverse countries. Congratulations to the SMART organizers for a successful event and including the neighboring islands with the initiative of visiting. This type of collaboration strengthens our tourism product and creates new opportunities for Saba as a distinctive destination within the region.”
The Saba Tourist Bureau looks forward to building on the connections made at SMART 2025 and continuing to welcome visitors seeking authentic and unforgettable Caribbean experience.
