By Ricky Tyus
Owner Tyus Tours & Travel
Publicity, Education & Program Chair for PTANA GDC
I was the final board member from Detroit to arrive in the enchanting paradise of Antigua. Our journey began as we soared from Detroit to Miami together, though fate had me lingering with a two-hour layover while my fellow board members hurried to catch their connecting flight, as our flight from Detroit had arrived late. I have little fondness for racing through airports, so I ensure to grant myself at least 90 minutes between flights. Thus, while my companions dashed away, I indulged in a leisurely lunch.
Who are we, you may wonder? We are the illustrious Professional Travel Agents of North America (PTANA), Greater Detroit Chapter, here to celebrate our 16th Annual Convention. More on PTANA later.
As I arrived at Sandals Grande Antigua, blissfully unaware, I discovered that other board members from different chapters were also on my flight. Navigating through customs, I found a welcoming shuttle from Sandals awaiting me, ready to whisk me and fellow travelers to the splendid Sandals Grande Antigua—a mere 15-minute drive.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by Sandals staff with warm hospitality and refreshing cool towels. What a marvel! Despite my extensive experience selling Sandals, this was my inaugural stay at a Sandals Resort. Woo-hoo!
Let me share a glimpse of Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa: Nestled on the most breathtaking and longest stretch of white-sand beach in Antigua—Dickenson Bay. A swift 15-minute journey from V.C. Bird International Airport. Home to the ‘Original’ Rondovals, now beautifully renovated, featuring larger bathrooms with overhead rain showers. The garden Rondovals boast magnificent enhancements with private pool sanctuaries. This glorious resort sprawls over a 27-acre expanse on the island’s most stunning beach.
Sandals Grande Antigua offers 373 rooms and suites. The Mediterranean Oceanview Village, where our convention convened, boasts more swimming pools, while the Caribbean Beachfront Grove lies closest to the alluring shoreline. (See the picture above.)
About Antigua: When one envisions Antigua, the first thoughts often drift to its opulent, tropical climate and the sweet, majestic aroma of the year-round ocean breeze. This coveted destination proudly boasts 365 beaches, yet stepping onto the coral sands is merely the beginning of its treasure trove of offerings.
Fun fact: Just off the coast of Antigua lie around 51 smaller islands, easily accessible by speedboat or pleasure craft for a day of exploration or a secluded picnic on a private beach. Among these enchanting isles is Jumby Bay, home to a celebrated ultra-luxurious resort that exemplifies Caribbean elegance. While many of these offshore havens remain untouched, a select few serve as exclusive retreats for discerning travelers. To uncover more about the wonders of Antigua, visit https://bit.ly/3OizQqX.
About PTANA (Professional Travel Agents of North America): PTANA was established in 2009, blossoming into 13 chapters across the USA. Our membership comprises professional travel advisors and supplier Business Development Managers nationwide. PTANA stands as the largest national travel agent organization, governed by agents, and is the only member association recognized as a Consortia. Notably, PTANA is one of 28 premiere members of CLIA, representing top-producing travel advisors who generate millions in revenue annually across the U.S. Discover more about PTANA at [www.ptana.org](http://www.ptana.org).
Activities for our convention commenced on Monday evening with the jubilant White Party, where announcements were made and attendees mingled before embarking on “A Dine Around Restaurant Experience,” allowing us to choose different restaurants for our culinary adventures. All the dining experiences I encountered were simply delightful.
The convention’s primary goal was to vote on 39 by-law amendments. During our business sessions, we utilized our phones to cast votes, and by Thursday’s end, we triumphantly achieved our objective.
Here’s a glimpse of our activities beyond the business sessions: On Tuesday, we participated in a mandatory Sandals Site Inspection. Wednesday afternoon brought an island tour, culminating in an “Invitation Only” beach party at Royalton Chic Antigua. Thursday afternoon, while PTANA’s guests enjoyed a shopping tour, members savored a sponsored lunch with Barbados Tourism, followed by a trade show featuring various vendors.
Our farewell event, the Masquerade (mask optional), took place at Sandals Mediterranean Pool Arch, where it was announced that our next convention in 2025 will be aboard the Sun Princess, a 7-day sailing from Athens, Greece to Barcelona, Spain. This is an event not to be missed! Pictures from the event can be found on PTANA’s GDC Facebook page or Ricky Tyus’ personal Facebook page.
As our departure approached on Friday, Sandals graciously arranged transportation to the airport, along with a heartfelt farewell presentation from their staff. The temperature in Antigua throughout the week averaged a delightful 89 degrees, though Monday night brought gentle rain showers, as did our beach party on Wednesday. I commend Sandals for their outstanding hospitality and eagerly anticipate sending clients to this paradise soon.
I was the first board member from Detroit to depart Antigua, alongside newfound friends from PTANA and Industry Partners. While my colleagues faced a three-hour layover in Miami, I lingered with a five-hour wait. We reunited in Miami and journeyed back to Detroit, landing safely just after midnight on Saturday morning. This was my working vacation!