The government of Antigua and Barbuda has appointed renowned Hollywood actresses Angela Bassett and Dawnn Lewis as tourism ambassadors for the Caribbean nation. According to Loop News, the appointment of the two stars as tourism ambassadors was ratified during a cabinet meeting that was held on Wednesday.
“Miss Basset has shown her love for Antigua by visiting frequently, and using her star power that has been earned by participation in scores of movies. Miss Lewis, who starred in Grey’s Anatomy, A Different World, and many movies and sitcoms also loves Antigua,” the Caribbean nation’s government said in a statement.
The government also said it will not be paying Basset and Lewis for their services as the “appointment is voluntary, does not involve any remuneration and they have agreed to make appearances on behalf of Antigua and Barbuda.” Bassett and Lewis are currently attending an event being held in Antigua and Barbuda.
Nicknamed the “Land of 365 Beaches,” the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda has gained grounds with tourists and is rising to be one of the Caribbean’s most sought after destinations. Antigua has about 365 beaches, lagoons, and natural harbors – which are rimmed by reefs and shoals. Barbuda, on the other hand, has pink and white sand beaches and coves from once-volcanic craters.
In addition to the beach highlights, the country also has rich vegetation and wildlife. About 150 species of birds have been recorded in Antigua and Barbuda’s game reserve which has a variety of wildlife: deer, wild pigs, duck, guinea fowl, and a large colony of frigate birds.
On December 3, 2019, the Caribbean nation received its 300,000th visitor, breaking its own record number of visitors from 2018. The twin-island’s tourism sector has also invested in the country’s amenities, like hotels.
The islands also have a complex mix of history from their indigenous West Indians – the Caribs and the Arawaks, Spaniard colonizers, and once enslaved African inhabitants.
