Fifth US Strikes Near Venezuela Brings Death Toll To 27

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By NAN Caribbean Desk

News Americas, Miami, FL, Tues. Oct. 15, 2025: The US strikes near Venezuela is turning deadlier by the week. Donald Trump today confirmed a fifth strike killing six more “just off the coast,” bringing the regional death toll to 27.

A Boeing C-17 Globemaster departs from José Aponte de la Torre Airport, formerly Roosevelt Roads Naval Station, on September 12, 2025, in Ceiba, Puerto Rico. The Trump administration recently carried out a drone strike in the southern Caribbean against a boat that had left Venezuela and was suspected of transporting drugs. Eleven people died in the attack. The president claimed that the vessel was operated by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. (Photo by Miguel J. Rodríguez Carrillo/Getty Images)

President Donald Trump announced the latest strike on social media Tuesday, claiming the vessel targeted was “affiliated with a Designated Terrorist Organization conducting narcotrafficking.” The administration has provided no evidence to substantiate the link, nor identified the nationality of the victims.

Legal and human rights experts have condemned the operations as extrajudicial killings, arguing that suspected drug smugglers are civilians – not enemy combatants – and that the military cannot lawfully target them outside of an active armed conflict. Congress has not authorized the use of force against criminal cartels or drug traffickers.

New Joint Task Force Announced

The escalation came just four days after the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced the formation of a new Joint Task Force (JTF) under the II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) to “synchronize and augment counter-narcotics efforts” across the Western Hemisphere.

According to SOUTHCOM, the task force will:

Integrate the capabilities of II MEF with Homeland Security and other U.S. agencies;

Expand aerial surveillance and maritime patrols;

Enhance intelligence fusion and rapid-response capacity;

Conduct joint training with regional forces and advise partner nations on counter-narcotics operations.

Adm. Alvin Holsey, SOUTHCOM Commander, who was said to be visiting Grenada today, said the goal is to “detect, disrupt, and dismantle illicit trafficking networks faster and at greater depth.”

Lt. Gen. Calvert Worth, head of II MEF and now JTF Commander, added that his team “will leverage maritime patrols, aerial surveillance, precision interdictions, and intelligence sharing to counter illicit traffic and uphold the rule of law.”

Regional Unease

Holsey’s visit this week to Grenada – his first since assuming the Command – has already sparked public concern in Grenada, where reports surfaced that Washington has requested permission to install US radar equipment and technical personnel at the Maurice Bishop International Airport.

The Grenadian government confirmed it is “carefully assessing” the U.S. request, citing the need to protect national sovereignty, tourism safety, and public interest. “The Ministries of National Security, Legal Affairs and Foreign Affairs are carefully assessing the request and reviewing the request in technical consultations, in coordination with the Grenada airports Authority and other relevant agencies,” the Dickon Mitchell government said, adding that it is carefully reviewing the request in accordance with established national procedures.

“Any decisions will be made only after all technical and legal assessments are completed. We wish to assure our citizens that any decision taken will be guided by Grenada’s sovereignty, public safety, and national interest, including the protection of our tourism industry, the traveling public, and the country’s economic well-being,” the government said, adding it  continue to keep the public informed as developments unfold.

However, former Senate President Chester Humphrey and ex-Foreign Minister Peter David have warned that the move could be a precursor to U.S. military action against Venezuela.

David said while Grenada values its long-standing ties with both Washington and Caracas, “unilateral action… perceived as hostile will be both counterproductive and destabilizing.”

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, says his country has absolutely no interest in hosting any form of military assets, and that the situation regarding Grenada is “really a sovereign issue” for  the government of that island.

“If they decide to accommodate the United States, there is nothing we can do. We would have to respect the decision,”  Browne told reporters on a conference call from St. John’s.

Regional Implications

Analysts say the combination of lethal strikes and expanded U.S. presence marks a dramatic militarization of Caribbean waters, raising new questions about sovereignty, legality, and the region’s role in America’s “war on drugs.”

Critics argue that the Caribbean — long a zone of peace and cooperation on maritime security — is being transformed into a forward operating theater for U.S. military operations, with little transparency or regional consultation. Critics, including congressional Democrats, legal scholars, and human rights groups, have stressed that even if any of the boats recently bombed by the Trump administration were trafficking drugs, the strikes still violate international and federal law. Such criticism has not deterred the administration. Amnesty International USA declared: “This is murder. The US government must be held accountable.”

Is ExxonMobil Operating At A $6 Billion Or $3.4 Billion “Loss” In Guyana?

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Analysis By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, Georgetown, Guyana, Tues. Oct. 14, 2025: ExxonMobil’s Guyana President, Alistair Routledge on Monday claimed the company is “still operating in the red to the tune of around US$6 billion” in Guyana, as he retorted over to a question by three U.S. senators on the company’s tax breaks. So which number is closer to reality: $6 billion or $3.4 billion in losses?

The ExxonMobil Guyana offices at 86 Duke Street in Georgetown, Guyana. Photographer: Jose A. Alvarado Jr./Bloomberg via Getty Images

What Routledge Said

Speaking at Exxon’s Ogle, East Coast Demerara headquarters, Routledge told reporters that the NGO Oil and Gas Governance Network, (OGGN) may have misled U.S. senators about the company’s tax filings. He said that ExxonMobil Guyana is still operating with a negative cash flow of around six billion US dollars.

“We continue to be actually cash flow negative on an accumulative basis… we are probably still around six billion US dollars in negative cash flow as we look at the cumulative expenditures and cumulative revenues that we’ve seen from the Stabroek Block,” he told reporters.

Routledge asserted that in ExxonMobil Corporation’s 2023 and 2024 tax filings, there were no Guyanese tax credits included in either of those filings, “and you would recall that prior to 2023, we were not making profits here in Guyana, so there were no tax credits from that. Up until this point, there have been no Guyana tax credits used by ExxonMobil.”

The Alternative Figure: $3.4 Billion

But Exxon’s own Guyana website identifies a different figure: US$3.4 billion in red ink — even while acknowledging an accounting profit in 2024. According to Exxon’s 2024 financials:

Gross production rose sharply with the Prosperity FPSO, boosting revenue for all partners

Despite posting an accounting profit, the company said it remains “in the red” by US$3.4 billion

Exxon and its co-venturers have invested a cumulative US$55 billion in Guyana to date. This divergence begs the question: how can a company be both profitable on paper and yet claim to be billions in losses?

The Contractual Context

Under the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Exxon’s Guyana deal allows it to recover up to 75% of its share of oil revenue for cost recovery before profit payments begin. In practice, this means a large portion of early revenue goes to recovering the developer’s costs- capital, exploration, infrastructure – leaving little net profit early on.

Furthermore, financials for 2024 show:

Operating expenditures of GYD 477.6 billion

Depreciation/amortization at GYD 301.8 billion

Exploration, production, royalties also eat into margins

These mechanics help explain how Exxon could legitimately claim negative cash flow despite strong revenues.

Why It Matters for Guyana

The optics of a $6B loss vs $3.4B matters deeply for public trust, fiscal policy, and future licensing. Guyana has collected over US$6.2 billion in oil profits and royalties since 2020 – so when Exxon claims it’s in the red, critics say the narrative raises concerns about transparency and fairness. If Exxon can delay or reduce profit sharing through cost recovery claims, that changes the magnitude and timing of what Guyana as a partner actually realizes.

Bottom Line

Both $6 billion and $3.4 billion claims could contain grains of truth, depending on accounting methods, timing, amortization and recovery policies.

Routledge emphasized cash flow negativity and absence of Guyanese tax credits in filings.

Exxon’s public data insists on a lower loss figure despite profits.

The discrepancy boils down to methodology, timing, and cost recovery mechanics.

So, while the $6B figure commands headlines, the $3.4B estimate rooted in Exxon’s own reporting asks where did the almost three additional billion come from?. It’s really a question of how loss and profit are really defined.

Is ExxonMobil Operating At A $6 Billion Or $3.4 Billion “Loss” In Guyana?

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Analysis By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, Georgetown, Guyana, Tues. Oct. 14, 2025: ExxonMobil’s Guyana President, Alistair Routledge on Monday claimed the company is “still operating in the red to the tune of around US$6 billion” in Guyana, as he retorted over to a question by three U.S. senators on the company’s tax breaks. So which number is closer to reality: $6 billion or $3.4 billion in losses?

The ExxonMobil Guyana offices at 86 Duke Street in Georgetown, Guyana. Photographer: Jose A. Alvarado Jr./Bloomberg via Getty Images

What Routledge Said

Speaking at Exxon’s Ogle, East Coast Demerara headquarters, Routledge told reporters that the NGO Oil and Gas Governance Network, (OGGN) may have misled U.S. senators about the company’s tax filings. He said that ExxonMobil Guyana is still operating with a negative cash flow of around six billion US dollars.

“We continue to be actually cash flow negative on an accumulative basis… we are probably still around six billion US dollars in negative cash flow as we look at the cumulative expenditures and cumulative revenues that we’ve seen from the Stabroek Block,” he told reporters.

Routledge asserted that in ExxonMobil Corporation’s 2023 and 2024 tax filings, there were no Guyanese tax credits included in either of those filings, “and you would recall that prior to 2023, we were not making profits here in Guyana, so there were no tax credits from that. Up until this point, there have been no Guyana tax credits used by ExxonMobil.”

The Alternative Figure: $3.4 Billion

But Exxon’s own Guyana website identifies a different figure: US$3.4 billion in red ink — even while acknowledging an accounting profit in 2024. According to Exxon’s 2024 financials:

Gross production rose sharply with the Prosperity FPSO, boosting revenue for all partners

Despite posting an accounting profit, the company said it remains “in the red” by US$3.4 billion

Exxon and its co-venturers have invested a cumulative US$55 billion in Guyana to date. This divergence begs the question: how can a company be both profitable on paper and yet claim to be billions in losses?

The Contractual Context

Under the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Exxon’s Guyana deal allows it to recover up to 75% of its share of oil revenue for cost recovery before profit payments begin. In practice, this means a large portion of early revenue goes to recovering the developer’s costs- capital, exploration, infrastructure – leaving little net profit early on.

Furthermore, financials for 2024 show:

Operating expenditures of GYD 477.6 billion

Depreciation/amortization at GYD 301.8 billion

Exploration, production, royalties also eat into margins

These mechanics help explain how Exxon could legitimately claim negative cash flow despite strong revenues.

Why It Matters for Guyana

The optics of a $6B loss vs $3.4B matters deeply for public trust, fiscal policy, and future licensing. Guyana has collected over US$6.2 billion in oil profits and royalties since 2020 – so when Exxon claims it’s in the red, critics say the narrative raises concerns about transparency and fairness. If Exxon can delay or reduce profit sharing through cost recovery claims, that changes the magnitude and timing of what Guyana as a partner actually realizes.

Bottom Line

Both $6 billion and $3.4 billion claims could contain grains of truth, depending on accounting methods, timing, amortization and recovery policies.

Routledge emphasized cash flow negativity and absence of Guyanese tax credits in filings.

Exxon’s public data insists on a lower loss figure despite profits.

The discrepancy boils down to methodology, timing, and cost recovery mechanics.

So, while the $6B figure commands headlines, the $3.4B estimate rooted in Exxon’s own reporting asks where did the almost three additional billion come from?. It’s really a question of how loss and profit are really defined.

Chronixx Returns With Exile — A Glorious Rebirth for Reggae Music

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By NAN ET Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Oct. 13, 2025: Chronixx is back – and reggae music feels whole again. The Jamaican artist who helped redefine modern roots reggae has returned with Exile, his long-awaited sophomore album, and the world is listening. Released unexpectedly on October 10, 2025, the 17-track project arrived without hype or a headline single — just pure conviction, artistry, and spirit. Within hours, it shot straight to No. 1 on the U.S. Reggae iTunes Chart, proof that in a noisy digital age, authenticity still cuts through.

Released under his own Forever Living Originals label, Exile carries a symbolic name — a meditation on solitude, self-work, and spiritual grounding. Chronixx, now 33, has spent years away from the spotlight. That silence, it seems, was preparation. This isn’t an artist chasing streams; this is a man returning home to his calling.

FLASHBACK: Chronixx performs onstage during All Points East on August 15, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

A Global Homecoming

Even without promotion, Exile resonated far beyond Jamaica. On Apple Music, the album entered charts across continents — No. 5 in Seychelles, No. 9 in Mauritius, No. 10 in Kenya, and No. 15 in Malawi, with similar traction across Europe and Asia. On iTunes, it hit No. 1 in Trinidad & Tobago, No. 2 in the Cayman Islands and Poland, and landed in the Top 25 in the U.K. and Germany. That reach underscores what reggae has always been — global, healing, and borderless.

The drop also coincided with Chronixx’s birthday — a serendipitous alignment fans dubbed “Chronixx Day.” Across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, the celebration felt like a family reunion. One fan wrote, “This is more than an album; this is a spiritual moment.” Another added, “Chronixx has given us a classic. Mad respect!”

Recording artist Devin Di Dakta captured the mood perfectly: “It’s a true Jamaican Sunday back ina di day — music a play loud, yard a sweep, Sunday dinner a cook. Home, family, love, joy.”

Back to the Roots, Forward With Vision

While Chronology (2017) made Chronixx an international name, Exile feels like a reclamation. The production leans analog — warm basslines, live horns, and stripped-back arrangements that honor the 1970s spirit of reggae while sounding defiantly current. There’s growth, yes, but not distance; he hasn’t abandoned the roots, he’s deepened them.

Tracks like “Family First,” “Keep On Rising,” “Resilient,” and “Don’t Be Afraid” stand out — soulful affirmations wrapped in intricate rhythm. Fans praise their sincerity: uplifting without being naïve, conscious without being preachy.

As one listener posted: “On this new album, he went back — like 70s beats, more live and analogue. It worked!”

Another echoed: “Chronixx was trying to do something different with Exile — and it worked.”

That collective approval speaks volumes. In a landscape dominated by viral singles, Chronixx released a 17-track album as one complete story — a bold artistic statement and a subtle act of rebellion.

Faith, Family, and Frequency

More than a record, Exile feels like a frequency — a spiritual recalibration. Chronixx sings not just to the ear but to the soul, urging listeners to reconnect with truth and self. The album’s sonic palette — meditative drums, ethereal harmonies, and grounded lyricism — mirrors the internal journey many in his generation are walking.

For the reggae community, it’s also validation. The genre often fights for space in a digital world that rewards quick content over timeless craft. But Exile’s success proves that depth still sells — and that the reggae faithful remain a global force.

A Return That Feels Like Renewal

Eight years after Chronology, Exile isn’t a sequel; it’s a rebirth. It shows that patience and purpose still matter in music — that silence can be strategy, and introspection can fuel innovation.

In Exile, Chronixx reminds us that reggae isn’t just rhythm — it’s revelation. It’s the sound of a people who’ve turned struggle into song and faith into fuel. And now, with his return, reggae’s next chapter begins where it always has — in truth, vibration, and love.

Senator Bernie Sanders’ AI Warning: Shaping a Human Future For The Caribbean

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By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, MON. Oct. 13, 2025: What does it mean to be human when machines can think, work, and create faster than we ever could? Senator Bernie Sanders has raised the alarm, warning that up to 100 million jobs in the United States could disappear in the next decade because of artificial intelligence and robotics. His warning is not just for the United States. It applies to the Caribbean as well, asking us a critical question: How can we use new technology without losing the value of human work, dignity, and the spirit that holds our communities together?

The Caribbean stands on the edge of profound change. AI and robotics can reimagine farming with smart systems, transform tourism with personalized experiences, and modernize manufacturing through automation. But progress without careful thought can harm as much as it helps. Picture a farmer watching machines harvest land once tilled by his family or a call center worker in Kingston replaced by an algorithm. Technology can create wealth, but it can also leave people behind if we are not deliberate about how we use it.

Senator Bernie Sanders, an Independent from Vermont, during a vote at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US, on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025. Photographer: Graeme Sloan/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Policy must guide this transformation. Inspired by Sanders’ idea of a robot tax, Caribbean governments could require companies that replace human workers with machines to invest in retraining programs and digital skills education. A Caribbean Digital Skills Fund could train people in coding, cybersecurity, AI management, and robotics maintenance. A hotel clerk replaced by a kiosk could retrain as a data technician. A factory worker could become a robotics supervisor. These solutions are practical, not abstract. Policies like shorter workweeks with full pay could give workers more time for family, rest, and personal growth while maintaining productivity.

Education is key. Dr. Nadine Bryce, Associate Professor of Literacy Education at Hunter College, City University of New York, currently on a Fulbright in Jamaica, explains: “In schools, this translates to being critical consumers of AI. The Ministry of Education reported efforts to use AI to reshape teaching, assessment, and learning. AI tools helped students work at their own pace, and teachers could use the results to improve instruction. This raises important questions about how teachers can translate AI results into real classroom practice. Education is still a human activity. Teaching must remain meaningful, challenging, and tailored to the students in front of us. We cannot lose sight of the big picture.”

Her insight shows that the Caribbean must prepare not just skilled workers but wise citizens who can use technology responsibly. From preschool to university, education must blend digital literacy, creative problem-solving, ethical reasoning, and cultural knowledge. Coding classes and AI labs should exist alongside philosophy, art, and social responsibility. Learning should inspire judgment and creativity, not just teach machines to replace humans.

Fairness must guide the distribution of wealth. Profits generated by AI cannot go only to executives or global companies. Profit-sharing, employee ownership, and cooperatives ensure technology benefits everyone. Sanders in businessinsider.com emphasizes that workers must gain from the tools they help operate. Caribbean governments could require companies to invest a portion of AI profits in pensions, reskilling, and community projects. Imagine a factory in Trinidad funding small businesses or a tech company in St. Lucia building housing for displaced workers. This is not charity; it is fairness in action.

The Caribbean is at a threshold where technology and humanity meet. We cannot simply adapt; we must shape a future where machines enhance life rather than drain it. The urgency is real, and the choice is ours. Either we allow automation to hollow our societies, or we build a region where technology strengthens communities, protects human dignity, and helps people flourish. This choice will define our economies, our communities, and the kind of people we become.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a strategist and scholar trained at Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia. He advises governments and international institutions on governance, public transformation, and global justice. His work blends visionary thinking with practical insight, helping Global South nations address historical injustice, advance human dignity, and engage global issues of peace, sovereignty, and shared prosperity. Dr. Newton envisions societies where innovation and responsibility evolve together to promote human flourishing.

New Music Friday: Fresh Caribbean Tracks From Alborosie, Nailah Blackman, Preedy & More

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By NAN ET Editor | News Americas

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Oct. 10, 2025: It’s New Music Friday — and the Caribbean heat is real. This week’s line-up of reggae, soca, and dancehall drops features island heavyweights and rising stars bringing vibrant new sounds to streaming platforms everywhere, especially on Miami Carnival weekend.

Alborosie Announces New Album Nine Mile, Drops “Trench Town Legend”

Reggae veteran Alborosie returns with a heartfelt tribute to his roots on “Trench Town Legend,” the lead single from his upcoming album Nine Mile, due out October 24. Recorded at his Kingston-based Shengen Studio, the album honors Bob Marley’s birthplace and blends lovers rock, roots reggae, and even hints of 80s rock and bossa nova. The visual, filmed in Trench Town, captures the soul of reggae’s birthplace and Alborosie’s reverence for its history.

Listen HERE

Meanwhile, a remastered gem just dropped — King Jammy’s restoration of Wayne Smith’s 1983 classic Smoker Super. The digital remaster revives a dancehall milestone with pristine sound.

Listen HERE

MagicX Drops Carnival-Ready Anthem “Arch Ya Back”

From Sint Maarten, MagicX brings pure festival fire on “Arch Ya Back,” produced by Bertaux “Mr. Rude” Fleming for Rock ’N Vibes Entertainment. Featuring live instruments by Edsel Eusebius and mastered by Prestine Productions, the soca fusion is built for waistlines and road vibes.

Stream: HERE

Preedy Spreads Sunshine with “Jammin”

Soca hitmaker Preedy is back with “Jammin,” a smooth, feel-good anthem drenched in Caribbean sunshine. Produced by Romell “Smiddy” Smith with live guitars and bass from Dion Mansingh and Miguel Charles, it’s a vibrant blend of rhythm and positivity.

Watch NOW

GBM Nutron & Nailah Blackman Team Up for “Tay Lay Lay”

GBM Nutron and Nailah Blackman Unite for “Tay Lay Lay”

Two of soca’s boldest voices — GBM Nutron and Nailah Blackman — join forces for “Tay Lay Lay,” produced by GBM Production and Anson Pro. Their collab brings high-energy vibes, catchy hooks, and undeniable chemistry.

Stream: WATCH HERE

Fro Hummer Turns Up the Heat with “Bumpa Law”

Trinidad’s Fro Hummer delivers another carnival scorcher with “Bumpa Law,” produced by Azaryah and written by Seumas Keelan Callender. The track’s bassline is pure movement — a tribute to freedom and dancefloor culture.

Watch: CHECKIT OUT

Jimmy October Releases ‘EPISODE 3’

Trinidad & Tobago’s Jimmy October continues to redefine the Caribbean soundscape with his new EP EPISODE 3, a fusion of soca, calypso, reggae, dancehall, and afrobeats. Produced by Brooklyn Decent, Jelani “Pops” Shaw, Malary, and Cxdet, the project follows his tours with Ruger and Kes under Ineffable Records.

Stream: EPISODE 3

From St. Lucia to Trinidad, this New Music Friday captures the Caribbean’s rich rhythm, creative spirit, and ever-evolving global influence — proof that island music continues to lead the world in vibe and versatility.

These Are The Best Caribbean Resorts, Hotels & Villas Of 2025

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Oct. 9, 2025: The Caribbean once again proved its dominance as a world-class travel destination at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards (WTA), held recently at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian. From luxurious beachfront Caribbean resorts to intimate boutique hideaways and eco-conscious retreats, the 2025 winners showcase the best in regional hospitality, design, and service excellence.

Hosted on the island of Saint Lucia, the glittering red-carpet gala celebrated the finest in Caribbean tourism – recognizing the resorts, hotels, and villas that continue to redefine paradise for travelers across the globe.

Sandals Dominates the Region

FLASHBACK – Just before stepping into the spotlight for his Broadway run in Moulin Rouge, acclaimed actor and Broadway star Taye Diggs took time to unwind at Sandals Royal Curacao on June 17, 2025 in Willemstad, Curacao. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images for Sandals Resorts)

Jamaica emerged as one of the biggest winners of the evening, cementing its position as the region’s tourism powerhouse. Sandals Resorts International once again reigned supreme, earning the title of Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand 2025, while several of its properties took home major awards:

Sandals Montego Bay – Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025

Sandals Dunn’s River – Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort 2025

Sandals South Coast – Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort 2025

Sandals Grande St. Lucian – Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort 2025

Sandals Royal Curaçao – Caribbean’s Leading Dive Resort 2025

Jamaica also dominated in the luxury and villa categories, with GoldenEye Villa crowned Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Hotel Villa, and Round Hill Hotel and Villas winning Caribbean’s Leading Villa Resort 2025.

Adding to its accolades, Princess Grand Jamaica took home the award for Caribbean’s Leading New Resort, while Princess Senses The Mangrove was named Caribbean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2025.

Saint Lucia Shines Bright

The host island of Saint Lucia dazzled on its home turf, taking top honors in multiple categories that highlight its enduring romantic and natural appeal.

Serenity at Coconut Bay was named Caribbean’s Leading Adult-Only All-Inclusive Resort 2025, while the island itself was honored as both Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination and Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination.

Among Saint Lucia’s elite resorts, Jade Mountain Resort stood out as Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort, and The Landings Resort and Spa captured Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Suite Resort 2025.

Meanwhile, Caille Blanc Villa & Hotel received the distinction of Caribbean’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2025, and Grande Beachfront Villa Suite at The Landings Resort & Spa was celebrated as Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Suite 2025.

Turks & Caicos Tops Family and Beach Categories

The Turks & Caicos Islands maintained their reputation for pristine beaches and family-friendly luxury. Beaches Turks & Caicos was named Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort 2025, while The Palms Turks & Caicos earned the title of Caribbean’s Leading All-Suite Hotel.

The islands themselves claimed two of the night’s most coveted honors: Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination and Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination 2025.

Luxury Leaders Across the Region

Elsewhere in the Caribbean, excellence shone brightly across islands large and small:

Amanera, Dominican Republic – Caribbean’s Leading Beach Resort 2025

Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club – Caribbean’s Leading Resort 2025

Curtain Bluff Resort, Antigua & Barbuda – Caribbean’s Leading Green Resort 2025

Four Seasons Resort Nevis – Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Island Resort 2025

Malatai Villa, Jamaica – Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Private Villa 2025

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia – Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Resort 2025

Ambergris Cay, Turks & Caicos – Caribbean’s Leading Private Island Resort 2025

Jungle Bay, Dominica – Caribbean’s Leading Retreat 2025

Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman – Caribbean’s Leading New Hotel 2025

A Celebration of Caribbean Excellence

From eco-luxury resorts in Antigua to family getaways in Turks & Caicos and honeymoon sanctuaries in Saint Lucia, the 2025 World Travel Awards once again underscored the Caribbean’s unmatched diversity and depth of hospitality.

As WTA Founder Graham Cooke noted, this year’s winners “represent the gold standard of global travel — destinations and brands that continue to raise the bar for quality, sustainability, and authentic Caribbean experience.”

With new developments and record arrivals across the region, the Caribbean’s tourism industry continues to thrive — reminding the world that when it comes to paradise, there’s nowhere quite like the islands of the Caribbean.

Guyana: The Only Country In The Americas Forecast For Double-Digit Growth Through 2027

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Oct. 9, 2025: The South American CARICOM nation of Guyana is defying global economic gravity. According to the World Bank’s October 2025 Global Economic Prospects Report on Latin America and the Caribbean, it is the only country in the Americas forecast to record double-digit GDP growth through 2027.

The opening of the new Bharrat Jadgeo Demerara River bridge adds to the growth in Guyana. (DPI Image)

The report projects Guyana’s real GDP growth at 11.8% in 2025, jumping to 22.4% in 2026 and 24.0% in 2027, fueled by an oil and gas boom that continues to transform its economy. No other nation in the hemisphere comes close to those figures.

A Lone Outlier in a Slow-Growth Hemisphere

While Guyana soars, the rest of Latin America and the Caribbean will expand at far slower rates. The World Bank projects the region’s average growth at just 2.3% in 2025, edging up to 2.5% by 2027, restrained by weak investment, high borrowing costs, and sluggish productivity.

The top ten fastest-growing economies for 2025–2027 are as follows:

Rank Country 2025 Forecast (%) 2026 Forecast (%) 2027 Forecast (%) Key Growth Driver 1Guyana11.822.424.0Oil exports, infrastructure, FDI 2Paraguay4.23.73.7Agriculture, hydropower 3Argentina4.64.04.0Energy sector recovery 4Dominican Republic3.04.34.5Tourism, services, investment 5Costa Rica3.63.63.7Tech exports, green economy 6Panama3.94.14.1Logistics, services, canal expansion 7Suriname3.23.43.7Mining, oil projects 8Guatemala3.93.73.7Remittances, construction 9Grenada3.73.32.7Tourism, public investment 10St. Lucia3.92.52.1Tourism rebound

Guyana’s dominance is clear — growing at three to five times the pace of any other country in the region.

The Power Behind Guyana’s Boom

Since 2020, offshore oil discoveries have catapulted Guyana into the ranks of the world’s fastest-expanding economies. ExxonMobil and its consortium partners have already lifted daily output above 600,000 barrels, with projections to exceed one million barrels by decade’s end.

The government’s Natural Resource Fund (NRF) manages oil revenues to support infrastructure, health, education, and renewable energy projects. Massive road and housing programs, along with plans for a new gas-to-energy plant, are laying the groundwork for diversification including the just opened Demerara Harbour Bridge, renamed the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.  The US$262 million engineering feat, Guyana’s longest and most advanced river crossing, now connects both sides of the Demerara River with 24/7 traffic, marking a turning point in national infrastructure. Constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation, the new structure replaces the venerable Demerara Harbour Bridge with four vehicle lanes, pedestrian and cyclist paths, and unrestricted river passage for ships. With foundations anchored by 658 piles, it is now the nation’s strongest bridge.

Economists warn, however, that sustaining momentum requires strong governance, transparent spending, and investment in human capital.

World Bank: Reforms Needed for “Transformational” Entrepreneurship

Beyond oil, the report calls for domestic reforms to attract investment and promote “transformational” entrepreneurship — high-growth firms that diffuse technology, create jobs, and raise productivity.

“The entrepreneur is the critical actor in development, identifying opportunities, innovating, and taking the risks needed to create value added and jobs,” said William Maloney, Chief Economist for Latin America and the Caribbean at the World Bank. “Creating more dynamic economies in Latin America and the Caribbean will require strengthening our pipeline of entrepreneurial talent, while undertaking the systemic reforms necessary for them to thrive.”

Despite enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, most firms in the region are micro or small enterprises with limited paths to scale — representing up to 70% of businesses in some countries. The Bank argues that a smaller group of high-growth, innovative firms could drive productivity and innovation but face familiar barriers: scarce financing, burdensome regulation, skills shortages, and weak infrastructure.

To foster private-sector-led growth, the report proposes a three-point reform agenda:

Invest in Human Capital – Improve education at all levels, expand managerial training, and align workforce programs with private-sector needs to fuel job creation.

Reform Business Regulation – Remove distortionary subsidies, modernize tax policy, and upgrade logistics, energy, and digital systems to reduce entry barriers.

Expand Access to Finance – With a quarter of firms credit-constrained, the Bank urges stronger risk-sharing, streamlined dispute resolution, and modern bankruptcy laws to support both lenders and entrepreneurs.

The Road Ahead

The World Bank warns that without reforms, much of the region risks stagnation. Yet, with the right mix of fiscal prudence, institutional reform, and inclusive entrepreneurship, Latin America and the Caribbean could reignite growth and competitiveness.

In that effort, Guyana’s success story — balancing oil wealth with long-term investment — may serve as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale for its neighbors.

A New Caribbean Hotel Is Coming To This Caribbean Island

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By NAN Travel Editor

News Americas, KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Thurs. Oct. 9, 2025: A new chapter in Caribbean tourism is being written in the Caribbean islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Sandals Resorts International, (SRI) have signed a landmark agreement for the construction of a US$500 million, (EC$1.35 billion) Beaches Resort at Mount Wynne – the largest single tourism investment in the nation’s history.

Transforming the Tourism Landscape

L-R: Carlos James – Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development & Culture and Adam Stewart – Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts

The upcoming 500-room Beaches St. Vincent and the Grenadines Resort will redefine family-friendly, all-inclusive luxury on the island’s scenic leeward coast. Designed to cater to families, groups, and multi-generational travelers, the development marks a bold step in expanding the country’s tourism infrastructure and global visibility.

Built in phases, the project is expected to create nearly 2,000 direct jobs during its operational phase, offering training and employment opportunities for Vincentians across hospitality, construction, agriculture, culture, and supporting industries. The resort is scheduled to open in 2027.

“A Game-Changer for St. Vincent and the Grenadines”

Carlos James, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, hailed the investment as a milestone for national growth:

“This investment is a game-changer for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It represents confidence in our tourism sector and in the Vincentian people — their talent, resilience, and hospitality. The Beaches Resort will open doors to thousands of new jobs, stimulate local enterprise, and position our country as a hub for sustainable, family-oriented tourism.”

James added that the development reflects the government’s vision of a tourism industry that drives inclusive economic growth, empowers communities, and celebrates the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.

Building on Momentum

The project follows the successful opening of Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines in March 2023, deepening the partnership between the Government and Sandals Resorts International. The alliance continues to strengthen St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ profile as one of the region’s rising tourism powerhouses.

Tourism officials say the Beaches development is part of a broader tourism renaissance now underway, with four major hotel projects reshaping the nation’s hospitality landscape.

A Wave of Transformative Investments

In addition to the Beaches Resort at Mount Wynne, other major tourism projects currently advancing include:

A world-class Marriott Hotel at Peter’s Hope.

The revitalization of the iconic Palm Island Tourism Development Project.

The Cumberland Resort and Marina, designed to accommodate small pleasure craft and yachting visitors.

Together, these projects represent more than EC$2 billion (over US$740 million) in combined investment and are projected to create nearly 4,000 jobs across construction, tourism, and related sectors — with the Beaches Resort accounting for roughly half of that total.

Empowering Vincentians

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Vincentians benefit directly from the tourism boom through training, capacity building, and local business linkages. Officials say these initiatives will help strengthen domestic industries — from agriculture to the creative economy — ensuring tourism growth translates into real, inclusive benefits for communities across the country.

As the groundwork begins for the Beaches St. Vincent and the Grenadines Resort, optimism is high that this investment will not only elevate the nation’s hospitality standards but also solidify its place as a premier tourism and investment destination in the Caribbean.

Bahamas Grid Company Reports Strong Early Progress on Foundational Grid Upgrade Project

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NASSAU, The Bahamas, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Six months after the launch of its Foundational Grid Upgrade Project and one year since providing restoration and maintenance activities, the Bahamas Grid Company (BGC) has released its first comprehensive Progress Metrics Report. The report highlights major upgrades to the transmission and distribution systems serving New Providence, paving the way for greater reliability, resilience, and power quality.

Early results show the project is already transforming electricity delivery, with outages declining sharply and thousands of customers now experiencing enhanced service quality.

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Grid

Progress on the $130 million initiative is well ahead of schedule—28% faster than planned—with major infrastructure improvements completed or underway:

144 new steel poles installed, replacing aging wooden structures and providing Category 5 hurricane-grade resilience.

153,120 feet of transmission cable reconductored with double-sized wire to accommodate future load growth and new generation sources.

42,240 feet of distribution cable reconductored to remediate system vulnerabilities and support expanding customer demand.

Three new substations under construction to enhance system protection and enable rerouting of power to prevent large-scale outages.

Leveraging Smart Technologies to Reduce Outages

The deployment of advanced grid technologies is delivering measurable results in outage reduction and faster response times:

47 IntelliRupters installed on high-risk feeders to reduce both the number of outages and the customers affected by them.

137,280 feet of OPGW fiber cable replaced to enable remote operations, protection devices, and the integration of smart technologies across the grid.

A new integrated Work Management System is being implemented to track upgrades and customer connections while providing real-time outage response — a first for The Bahamas.

Direct Public Benefits Already Visible

The positive impact of these upgrades is being felt by homes and businesses across New Providence:

49,000 homes in historically outage-prone areas are now experiencing far fewer interruptions.

16,000 homes have benefited from load-balancing efforts that improve power quality and extend the lifespan of home appliances.

Proactive patrols and maintenance on 70 circuit miles of high-risk areas are reducing potential storm damage before it occurs.

86% reduction in outages for customers downstream of IntelliRupters.

Six months into implementation, the Foundational Grid Upgrade Project is already delivering measurable reliability improvements, laying the groundwork for a more secure and sustainable energy system for New Providence.

About Us
Bahamas Grid Company (BGC), established through a public-private partnership, is a wires company that operates and manages the transmission and distribution system (T&D System) – i.e., the poles, wires and substations that distribute power – across the island of New Providence in The Bahamas.

Website: https://bahamasgrid.net/