The Rise Of Casino Resorts In Latin America And The Caribbean

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Feb. 13, 2025: The casino industry in Latin America and the Caribbean is experiencing unprecedented growth, attracting investors, tourists, and gaming enthusiasts from around the world. With the expansion of both physical casino resorts and digital gambling platforms, the region has become a hub for high-stakes entertainment and economic development. Governments are recognizing the potential of regulated gambling markets, while international gaming operators are investing heavily in infrastructure and technology.

But what makes the casino industry in Latin America and the Caribbean so appealing? Here’s a closer look at the driving forces behind this booming sector and the top casino destinations worth visiting.

Why Is the Casino Market Thriving in Latin America and the Caribbean?

One of the most crucial aspects of casino gaming is ensuring a safe and regulated environment for players. Whether visiting a land-based casino or engaging in online gambling, licensing and security remain top priorities. Countries like Argentina, the Dominican Republic, and Curacao have well-established regulatory frameworks that attract both operators and players by offering a secure and fair gaming experience. Additionally, platforms offering slot gacor have gained popularity, providing players with high-return slot games that enhance the excitement and winning potential.

Another key factor behind the growth of the industry is technological innovation. The availability of high-speed internet and mobile gaming options has revolutionized the way people engage with casinos. Even in remote areas, smartphone accessibility allows users to participate in online gaming with ease. Many modern casino resorts also incorporate digital elements, offering virtual gaming experiences alongside traditional table games.

Tourism also plays a pivotal role in the success of casinos in the region. Countries with legalized gambling have seen a surge in international visitors, drawn not only by the allure of gaming but also by the luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and world-class entertainment offered by casino resorts. Governments are increasingly leveraging the casino industry as a tool for economic growth, with tourism and gambling revenues contributing to local infrastructure development and employment.

By 2027, the Latin American and Caribbean casino market is projected to grow significantly, with countries like Brazil and Mexico leading the way in both land-based and online gaming revenue. The industry continues to evolve, offering diverse gaming options for both casual visitors and high-roller players alike.

3 Casino Resorts The Caribbean

Baha Mar Casino

Baha Mar Casino, located in Nassau, Bahamas, is the largest and most luxurious gaming destination in the Caribbean. This world-class casino spans 100,000 square feet and offers over 1,000 slot machines, 125 table games, and a state-of-the-art sportsbook. Part of the larger Baha Mar Resort, it features three premier hotel brands—Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood—alongside fine dining, high-end shopping, a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and a stunning beachfront. With its upscale atmosphere and unparalleled entertainment, Baha Mar Casino attracts visitors from around the world seeking a premier resort experience in the Caribbean.

Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino

Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino is an all-inclusive, adult-only (18+) beachfront resort on the east end of St. Croix. Recently renovated, it offers modern rooms and hillside suites with a fresh Caribbean-chic design. Guests can enjoy two freshwater pools, a fitness center, tennis, pickleball, and non-motorized water sports. The resort also features a casino, oceanfront dining, and exclusive Oceans Beachfront accommodations with VIP perks. As the only all-inclusive, adult-only resort on St. Croix, it provides a peaceful and luxurious retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. 

Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort

Located in the Dominican Republic, Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort offers a luxurious beachfront experience tailored for couples and adults seeking relaxation. The resort features elegant accommodations, multiple gourmet dining options, premium beverages, and a variety of entertainment, including live shows, water sports, and a world-class spa. With its stunning Caribbean views, pristine beach, and exceptional service, it’s an ideal destination for romantic getaways, honeymoons, and adult retreats.

Inside Mustique: The Caribbean Island Where Prince William And Kate Middleton Are Vacationing

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 17, 2025: The Caribbean island of Mustique has once again become the retreat of choice for British royalty, as Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with their family, reportedly are vacationing there.

What You Should Know About Mustique

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Mustique, Britannia Bay, elevated view.

Mustique is a private island in the Caribbean, part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, known for its exclusivity and luxurious privacy. The royal couple, along with their children, reportedly took a flight to Saint Lucia via BA, before transferring via private jet to the island. Mustique has long been a favorite among celebrities, business tycoons, and royalty due to its strict security measures and prohibition on journalists and photographers.

Who Owns Mustique?

View of Mustique. (Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

The island is privately owned by the Mustique Company, which manages its 1,400-acre expanse, ensuring its reputation as a secluded paradise. There is only one hotel, the Cotton House, and visitors must either own a villa or be invited to stay in one of its 120 private villas.

Mustique’s Exclusive Features

Beaches: Pristine white-sand beaches like Macaroni Beach, Pasture Bay Beach, and Endeavour Bay Beach

Luxury Villas: High-end, fully staffed villas available for rent

Outdoor Activities: Tennis, scuba diving, sailing, horseback riding, hiking, and spa services

Dining & Nightlife: Popular spots include Basil’s Bar, The Veranda, and Firefly

A Haven for Privacy & Security

Mustique, Gingerbread Houses. (Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Strict security patrols by land, sea, and air

No journalists or photographers allowed on the island

1,000-yard fishing exclusion zone surrounding the island

Advanced passenger information requirements for visitors

How to Get to Mustique

Private flights are common, but commercial flights land in Saint Vincent, followed by a ferry ride on the M/V Endeavour

Planes cannot land after sunset, further limiting access

Why Mustique?

Mustique’s “barefoot luxury” and “house party” atmosphere make it an ideal retreat for high-profile individuals seeking privacy. With Kate Middleton’s recent cancer recovery, this trip allows her to unwind away from public scrutiny.

While royal watchers may have hoped for her return to the red carpet, this secluded getaway proves that privacy and relaxation are still a top priority for the Princess of Wales.

Second US Airline Launches Nonstop Flights To This Caribbean Island

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: Dominica has welcomed its second nonstop U.S. carrier with the launch of United Airlines’ direct service from Newark Liberty International Airport to Douglas-Charles Airport. The new route, which began on February 15, enhances accessibility to the Caribbean destination known as the “Nature Island.”

Jacko Steps to Layou River, Dominica is in the Windwards Island chain.

The weekly Saturday flight departs Newark at 9:10 a.m., arriving in Dominica at 2:39 p.m. local time. Return flights leave Dominica at 3:45 p.m., landing in Newark at 7:51 p.m. The route is operated using a Boeing 737-700 aircraft.

To mark the inaugural flight, celebrations were held at both airports, including a gate event in Newark and a ceremonial water cannon salute upon arrival in Dominica.

The launch follows recent upgrades at Douglas-Charles Airport, including a runway expansion, grooving, and terminal improvements to support increased capacity and operational efficiency.

Denise Charles-Pemberton, Dominica’s tourism minister, highlighted the significance of the new service, emphasizing the island’s appeal as a premier eco-tourism and wellness destination featuring volcanic landscapes, lush forests, waterfalls, and world-class diving.

With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and adventure opportunities like hiking and sea kayaking, Dominica continues to position itself as a must-visit destination in the Caribbean.

New Hilton Hotels Set To Open In The Caribbean This Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: Hilton is set to expand its presence in the Caribbean with two highly anticipated hotel openings in 2025, offering travelers luxury, lifestyle, and budget-friendly options across the region.

The Hampton Inn in St. Thomas is set to open soon.

In the first half of the year, Hilton will debut Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton in the Dominican Republic this June, followed by the opening of Hampton Inn by Hilton St. Thomas, marking Hilton’s entry into the U.S. Virgin Islands this quarter.

The Hampton by Hilton St. Thomas is set to make history as the first new hotel development in the U.S. Virgin Islands in over 30 years. Developed by Shaun Miller of Haven Development, the hotel marks both Hilton’s first focused-service property in the area and Hotel Equities’ debut in the Caribbean and Latin America under its Trust Hospitality division.

Designed to blend seamlessly with Charlotte Amalie’s Danish colonial architecture, the 126-room hotel will cater to both business and leisure travelers.

Additionally, Hilton has over 25 lifestyle hotels planned across 10 countries and territories, including Trinidad & Tobago, catering to travelers seeking authentic and culturally immersive experiences. Hilton is also growing its flagship and focused-service brands, with notable upcoming openings such as Hilton Georgetown and DoubleTree by Hilton in Guyana in 2027, marking the brand’s debut in the country.
As Hilton expands across the Caribbean and Latin America, travelers can look forward to new luxury escapes, all-inclusive resorts, and budget-friendly options, reinforcing the company’s commitment to meeting diverse traveler demands in the region.

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Massive New Sandals Resort Set For Barbados

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 24, 2025: A state-of-the-art Sandals Beaches Resort is set to transform Barbados’ tourism landscape, bringing an estimated 3,500 new jobs to the island. The massive hotel development in St. Peter – described as the largest private investment in Barbados’ history – is expected to begin construction later this year on the site of the former Heywood’s Hotel Resort and Almond Resort.

Speaking at the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, Adam Stewart, confirmed that 1,700 people will be employed during construction, set to begin later this year, with an additional 1,800 permanent jobs available once the resort is completed.

A Tourism Powerhouse for Barbados

One of two Sandals Resorts currently in Barbados. This one is located in St. Lawrence Gap.

This third Sandals resort in Barbados is expected to drive significant economic activity, creating opportunities in tourism, transportation, entertainment, and food and beverage industries.

The project is anticipated to take approximately two and a half years to complete. Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados currently employ a combined 2,050 staff, and this new resort will further expand employment in the tourism sector.

Replacing an Iconic Resort with a New Vision

The new development will replace the former Almond Beach Village Resort, which closed in 2012, resulting in over 500 job losses due to declining quality, occupancy, and profitability. The revitalization of this location represents a major step forward for Barbados’ tourism industry.

Stewart expressed gratitude to Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley for her support in bringing the project to life, emphasizing its long-term benefits for the Barbadian economy and workforce. While no official opening date has been announced, the upcoming groundbreaking marks a new era for luxury family tourism in Barbados.  Currently, Sandals Barbados employs 1,450 permanent staff, while Sandals Royal Barbados has about 600 workers.

Caribbean Travel & Tours Redefines How You Book And Experience The Islands

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NEWS AMERICAS, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Feb. 25, 2025: Breeze Travel Solutions, a leader in tech-driven travel has launched Caribbean Travel & Tours, the region’s first all-in-one booking platform. Designed to transform Caribbean travel, CTT seamlessly integrates flights and accommodations and curated local experiences into a single portal, eliminating the hassle of booking each component separately across multiple platforms with the support of expert recommendations and AI tools.

“As avid lovers of exploring untouched corners of the Caribbean, our team sought a platform that brought together the best experiences the Caribbean has to offer while eliminating the hurdles that have made island-hopping and inter-Caribbean travel so complicated,” says Casey Davy, CEO of Breeze Travel. “The one-stop shop we yearned for simply did not exist, so we created it. Born out of necessity, travelers will find utility and convenience in CTT as a mainstay to booking every aspect of their next trip to the Caribbean, without leaving the website.”

CTT invites travelers to dive deeper into the heart of the Caribbean with unique local experiences that go beyond the ordinary. From private chefs to knowledgeable historians and more, CTT users can connect with the region’s rich culture on a personal level, whether it’s uncovering the layers of a destination’s history or taking a steel pan lesson.

Travelers unsure of their next Caribbean destination or seeking new recommendations can utilize the platform’s AI-powered travel assistant. From suggesting ideal lengths of stay to seamlessly connecting flights between islands, the virtual assistant simplifies trip planning, delivering a highly curated and low-effort booking experience. Alternatively, users in need of more hands-on assistance can contact the platform’s travel concierge for first-person recommendations and planning solutions.

Understanding the power of social media, CTT empowers influencers to monetize their platforms to create personalized destination itineraries so travelers can book and experience the same trips as their favorite online personalities. Travel agents, too, can find utility in CTT to provide seamless, 360-degree destination itineraries for clients.

CTT leverages cutting-edge technology to provide real-time flight and lodging availability. From international and local airlines to luxury resorts or cozy bed-and-breakfasts, CTT users don’t miss a beat with access to live booking availability.

Learn more at https://www.caribbeantravelandtours.com/.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN EXPANDS DYNAMIC ARTIST DISCOVERY PROGRAM TO THE BAHAMAS

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NASSAU, The Bahamas, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Royal Caribbean has announced the expansion of its Artist Discovery Program from ship to shore, giving Bahamian artists—musicians, performers, visual artists, and sculptors—the opportunity to bring to life the region’s vibrant culture through curated collections and performances. This next edition of the program will offer guests visiting the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island more ways to encounter the beauty of The Bahamas while enjoying the ultimate beach day.

“The Artist Discovery Program will ensure we authentically reflect The Bahamas’ enduring creativity and essence at our Royal Beach Club,” said Philip Simon, President, Royal Caribbean Bahamas. “We are excited to give our guests a deeper and immersive taste of The Bahamas by embedding local art at the center of the ultimate vacation experience.”

Opportunities for artists include large-scale murals, dynamic dance performances, live music and expressive sculptures, each reflecting the vibrancy of The Bahamas. Artists will be prominently featured throughout the beach club, inviting guests to explore and celebrate Bahamian culture. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be designed to offer an immersive experience of Bahamian art through designated “art districts.” The districts will introduce guests to Bahamian traditions, highlighting natural wonders, festivities and serene beauty.

Both individual and teams of artists living in The Bahamas are invited to apply for consideration with mural, sculpture, musical or performance submissions. Submissions must be completed by March 28, 2025. Applicants must send five work samples, a CV and an artist statement to RBCPIArtistDiscoveryProgram@rccl.com to be considered.

The first round of selections will be announced in April, and the final selections will be revealed in May. Final selections will be installed at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island by July 2025, with a grand unveiling in December 2025.

The first of the Royal Beach Club Collection continues to take shape in the coming months ahead of its opening in December 2025, and at the heart of the experience will be the island nation of The Bahamas. From the idyllic location to the Bahamian food, culture, and staff, and a unique public-private partnership with The Bahamas, the all-new beach club combines the beauty and spirit of The Bahamas with signature Royal Caribbean touches across the experience, service and design.

Additional information on the Artist Discovery Program can be found here.

About Royal Caribbean International  
Royal Caribbean International, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line’s game-changing ships and private destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line’s top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.   

Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor.  

The world’s largest swim-up bar, The Floating Flamingo is where vacationers can keep the party vibes going all day on Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Fueled by DJ-spun beats and dancing, the swim-up bar located in Party Cove serves up tropical cocktails, a VIP section and more.

West Indies To Face Pakistan In New Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Dec. 30, 2024: Cricket West Indies has announced the squad for the upcoming tour of Pakistan, where the team will play two Test matches from January 17 to January 29, 2025, at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This tour marks the West Indies’ first Test series in Pakistan in 18 years and serves as the concluding chapter of the current ICC World Test Championship cycle.

West Indies men’s team will face Pakistan in the New Year.

Historic Return to Pakistan

The series is set to reignite the rivalry between the two teams and holds historic significance as the West Indies play Test cricket on Pakistani soil for the first time since 2007. The squad, led by captain Kraigg Brathwaite, includes a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers.

Left-handed batter Amir Jangoo, who recently made headlines with a match-winning century on his ODI debut against Bangladesh, has earned his maiden Test call-up. Additionally, spinner Gudakesh Motie returns to the squad after missing the recent drawn series against Bangladesh.

Coach’s Vision

Head Coach Andre Coley expressed optimism about the team’s potential, emphasizing a focus on growth and execution. “For the Test series against Pakistan in January 2025, the focus is on building on what we have done well and transforming the learnings from 2024 into tangible results,” Coley said.

He also highlighted the importance of Jangoo and Motie’s inclusion: “Motie rejoins the squad to bolster the spin attack, while Jangoo’s selection comes on the back of his consistency across formats in regional cricket, as well as his demonstrated high level of competency against spin bowling.”

Squad Adjustments

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph will be unavailable due to other commitments, while Shamar Joseph continues to recover from injury. The team will leave the Caribbean on January 2 and is expected to arrive in Islamabad on January 6.

West Indies Test Squad for Pakistan

Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain)

Joshua Da Silva (Vice-Captain)

Alick Athanaze

Keacy Carty

Justin Greaves

Kavem Hodge

Tevin Imlach

Amir Jangoo

Mikyle Louis

Gudakesh Motie

Anderson Phillip

Kemar Roach

Kevin Sinclair

Jayden Seales

Jomel Warrican

This series presents a significant opportunity for the West Indies to close the World Test Championship cycle on a high note and showcase their continued development on the global stage.

Stop Playing Sports With Sports: Reinvesting In Caribbean Advancement

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By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sat. Jan. 18, 2025: The Caribbean’s story is one of rhythm, resilience, and brilliance. Yet, in the symphony of national priorities, sports often plays second fiddle to education, healthcare, and carnival culture. This imbalance is short-sighted, neglecting sports as a vital engine of economic growth, social unity, and personal transformation.

St Lucia’s Julien Alfred celebrates after winning the women’s 100m final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Martin BERNETTI / AFP) (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Take the numbers: in 2022, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) injected over $200 million into regional economies. Guyana alone saw an economic impact of over $101 million in 2023, proving that sports not only entertains but also drives tourism, creates jobs, and amplifies international visibility.

Sports is more than dollars and cents—it is a force for unity. In Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda and St. Kitts and Nevis, structured youth programs have curbed crime, offering young people a positive path and building stronger communities. It’s also a health prescription: with diabetes and hypertension rampant across the Caribbean, active lifestyles driven by sports reduce healthcare costs and increase productivity.

Educationally, sports teaches lessons no classroom can match—discipline, teamwork, and leadership. Programs in St. Lucia, for instance, have empowered at-risk girls to outperform expectations in school and life.

The power of sports is personified by Julien Alfred, who in 2024 became Saint Lucia’s first Olympic gold medalist, winning the women’s 100-meter dash. Her triumph didn’t just bring glory to her nation; it inspired the entire region, solidifying the Caribbean as a global athletic powerhouse.

The region has long been renowned for producing world-class athletes who elevate its global brand. From Usain Bolt, the Jamaican sprint legend whose electrifying performances redefined athletics, to Barbados’ Kraigg Brathwaite, who carries the proud cricketing legacy of the West Indies, these icons inspire and attract investment, tourism, and global partnerships.

Yet, despite this potential, Caribbean nations allocate just 0.1% of GDP to sports programs. This glaring underinvestment ignores sports’ ability to unify nations, energize economies, and empower youth to dream beyond boundaries.

It’s time to recalibrate. Cultural festivals like carnivals are vital to our identity, but sports deserves equal spotlight. By investing intentionally in sports infrastructure, training, and programs, Caribbean governments can unleash a wave of opportunity—building healthier societies, safer communities, and brighter futures.

The time has come to stop playing sports with sports and recognize its profound role in our progress.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a Caribbean-born scholar and International Leadership Consultant. A Harvard, Princeton and Columbia -trained, he has spent decades advising global leaders on sustainable development and transformational leadership across the Caribbean and Africa.

Caribbean Olympian Sets National Record At New Balance Grand Prix

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 3, 2025: Caribbean Olympian, St. Lucia-born sprint star and Olympic 100-m champion Julian Alfred, delivered a stunning early-season performance on Sunday, setting a new national record in the women’s 300m at the New Balance Grand Prix in Boston.

Julien Alfred stuns at New Balance Grand Prix.

Alfred dominated the race from the start, blazing through the 100m in 11.83 seconds and the 200m in 23.18 seconds before powering to the finish line in an impressive 36.16 seconds. Her time shattered the St. Lucian national record and left her competitors trailing behind.

Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith secured second place in a personal best of 36.87 seconds, while France’s Emma Montoya finished third in 38.37 seconds.

Caribbean Athletes Shine Across Events

In the men’s 60m dash, Bahamian sprinter Terrence Jones showcased his speed, claiming second place with a season’s best of 6.57 seconds. He was narrowly beaten by American world champion Noah Lyles, who won in 6.52 seconds, while PJ Austin of the U.S. took third in 6.60 seconds. Italy’s Olympic 100m champion Marcell Jacobs finished fourth in 6.63 seconds.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards made an impact in the men’s 400m, clocking 46.49 seconds to finish third. Despite a strong first 200m in 21.12 seconds, Richards was overtaken by Americans Quincy Wilson and Will Sumner, who set personal bests of 45.66 seconds and 46.27 seconds, respectively.

Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford delivered a strong showing in the men’s high jump, clearing 2.19m to finish second on countback. He shared the same height as winner Vernon Turner (USA) and third-place finisher Luis Castro Rivera (Puerto Rico), both achieving season’s best performances.

Bahamian hurdler Devynne Charlton added to the Caribbean’s success, securing third place in the women’s 60m hurdles with a season’s best of 7.85 seconds. She finished just behind Americans Masai Russell (7.80) and Grace Stark (7.81), while Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent placed fourth in 7.92 seconds.