Looking Back with Gratitude and Forward to Adventure in 2025: A Guide to the Caribbean’s New and Upgraded Airports

 

December 31, 2024

Introduction: Gratitude and Growth in Travel

As the holiday season envelops us in warmth and celebration, it’s a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the promise of the year ahead. At Elevating Travel, we’re incredibly grateful for our clients and the unforgettable journeys we’ve shared together. Your trust fuels our mission to provide seamless, stress-free travel experiences that open doors to adventure, relaxation, and connection.

As we prepare to welcome 2025, there’s so much to look forward to in the world of travel. One of the most exciting developments is the wave of new and upgraded airports in the Caribbean and Central America, making it easier than ever to access the destinations you love. Whether you’re planning a tranquil beach escape, an adults-only getaway, or a small-group adventure, these updates promise smoother journeys and elevated experiences.

A Look Back at 2024: New and Upgraded Airports

1. Sangster International Airport (Montego Bay, Jamaica)
Sangster International Airport, a critical gateway to Jamaica’s renowned north coast, completed a multi-phase modernization project in 2024. The upgrades include expanded terminal facilities to reduce congestion, upgraded security screening areas for faster processing, and a refreshed departure lounge featuring new eateries and shops. Travelers can now enjoy a meal at Island Grill, known for its authentic Jamaican jerk chicken, or relax at Club Mobay, a premium lounge offering local delicacies and an all-inclusive bar. Shoppers can browse Duty-Free Express, offering spirits, tobacco, and Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee.

Several U.S. airlines added new direct routes to Montego Bay in 2024. JetBlue introduced a direct flight from Raleigh-Durham, while Southwest Airlines expanded service from Baltimore and Houston. These additions make Jamaica even more accessible for travelers from across the U.S.

2. Punta Cana International Airport (Dominican Republic)
As one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, Punta Cana International continued to impress travelers with its world-class facilities. In 2024, the airport unveiled newly designed VIP lounges that blend luxury with Dominican charm, offering complimentary refreshments, quiet workspaces, and even a spa area for pre-flight relaxation. The airport also added new dining options like La Cava Kitchen & Bar, which features Dominican-inspired cuisine, and Cinnabon, for those seeking familiar comfort foods.

For shoppers, the airport introduced BlueMall Duty-Free, an extension of the popular retail destination in Santo Domingo, offering premium brands and local artisan goods. U.S. airlines like Delta and American Airlines added additional flights from hubs in Atlanta, Miami, and Dallas, further enhancing Punta Cana’s connectivity.

3. Tulum International Airport (Mexico)
The grand opening of Tulum International Airport in 2024 was a game-changer for the Riviera Maya. Situated closer to Tulum’s eco-luxury resorts, mystical cenotes, and ancient ruins, the airport offers direct access to one of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations. The terminal boasts eco-friendly construction and features a selection of eateries such as Green Bite, specializing in sustainable and organic meals, and Casa Cenote Café, offering locally sourced coffee and pastries.

Travelers can browse local artisan crafts and souvenirs at Tulum Treasures, ensuring a piece of Tulum travels home with them. Airlines like Spirit and United added new routes to Tulum from Fort Lauderdale and Houston, respectively, making this destination more accessible than ever for U.S. travelers.

4. Barbuda Codrington Airport (Barbuda)
The completion of upgrades at Codrington Airport in Barbuda marked a major milestone for this tranquil Caribbean island. A longer runway and improved terminal facilities now accommodate more flights, connecting Barbuda more seamlessly to its sister island, Antigua, and beyond. While small, the airport added a cozy café called Lagoon View Bites, which serves fresh juices and local pastries, creating a charming welcome for visitors.

Regional airlines like LIAT and Caribbean Airlines enhanced connectivity to Barbuda, adding direct flights from Antigua, St. Kitts, and St. Lucia, making it easier for travelers to discover this untouched gem.

5. Liberia International Airport (Costa Rica)
In 2024, Liberia International Airport, the gateway to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, celebrated the opening of its expanded terminal. The upgrades include additional gates, an enlarged immigration area, and a curated selection of shops and restaurants showcasing local Costa Rican flavors. Visitors can now enjoy dishes at Soda Tica, a modern take on traditional Costa Rican cuisine, or grab a cup of premium coffee at Cafe Britt, a beloved local brand.

On the retail side, Souvenirs Pura Vida offers handmade crafts, jewelry, and Costa Rican coffee, perfect for last-minute gifts. Airlines such as Alaska Airlines and Southwest expanded service to Liberia, adding flights from Los Angeles and Denver to meet the growing demand for travel to Costa Rica.

Why These Developments Matter

Airport upgrades and new openings are more than just infrastructure projects—they’re gateways to new possibilities. These developments reflect a commitment to enhancing the traveler’s journey, making it easier to access remote or less-visited destinations, and supporting the sustainable growth of tourism. For Caribbean and Central American destinations, these projects mean shorter travel times, fewer logistical headaches, and a more enjoyable experience from the moment your plane lands.

For travelers, the benefits are clear. Whether you’re an introvert craving serenity, a couple planning a romantic escape, or a small group seeking adventure, the improvements in airport facilities ensure your journey is as effortless as your destination is inspiring.

Conclusion: A Toast to 2025

As we wrap up 2024, we’re filled with excitement and optimism for the year ahead. The new and upgraded airports across the Caribbean and Central America are a testament to the bright future of travel, promising smoother journeys and unforgettable adventures. From all of us at Elevating Travel, thank you for allowing us to be part of your travel story. Your trust and enthusiasm inspire us to continue delivering the best experiences possible.

Here’s to 2025—a year of discovery, connection, and relaxation. We can’t wait to help you explore the world’s most beautiful destinations and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Recipe of the Week: Caribbean Rum Punch

Bring the flavors of the Caribbean into your home with this vibrant and refreshing Rum Punch. Perfect for any festive occasion, this drink is a tropical mix of fruit juices, a hint of grenadine, and the rich flavor of Caribbean rum. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to transport you to an island paradise with every sip.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

  • 1 cup white rum
  • 1/2 cup dark rum
  • 2 cups pineapple juice
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
  • 2 tablespoons simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
  • Dash of Angostura bitters (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange slices, lime wedges, and maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Base: In a large pitcher, combine the white rum, dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine syrup. Stir well until all the ingredients are blended.
  2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the punch and adjust the sweetness with simple syrup, if needed. Add a dash of Angostura bitters for extra depth.
  3. Chill and Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the rum punch over the ice.
  4. Garnish: Decorate each glass with an orange slice, a lime wedge, and a maraschino cherry for a festive touch.
  5. Enjoy: Raise your glass and enjoy a tropical escape with every sip!

Pro Tip

For a non-alcoholic version, swap the rum with coconut water or sparkling water, and the grenadine syrup will still provide that vibrant, fruity flavor.

Call to Action:
Let Elevating Travel help you start 2025 with a journey to remember. From adults-only escapes to small-group adventures, we’ve got the perfect getaway waiting for you. Sign up for our weekly newsletter for travel tips, trends, and exclusive promotions!

Elevating Travel specializes in crafting stress-free, adult-only group getaways to top destinations like the Caribbean and Mexico. We handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

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