As the largest independent property on Antigua, the 464-room, all-inclusive Jolly Beach Resort & Spa would seem an accurate barometer of the current state of business on the island, given the economic downturn in the U.S.

“We’ve seen no huge falloff in bookings; we continue to upgrade facilities and offerings, and we foresee major growth from the U.S. over the long term,” said P. Hilary Modeste, director of marketing.

In fact, the resort has projected a 15% growth in business for 2008, Modeste said.

The U.S. and Canada account for 25% of the market, the U.K. represents 40% and the balance hails from other European countries as well as the regional Caribbean market.

More than 60% of the resort’s business is “tour operator-driven,” he said.

“There is a perceived slowdown in the economy, but people still are traveling and will continue to do so,” Modeste said.

The global press coverage following the murder in late July of a British couple on honeymoon in Antigua has had minimal impact on Jolly Beach, according to Modeste.

“Although the coverage in the British press was enormous, we received no cancellations and very few phone calls from guests and agents who wanted reassurances that Antigua was safe,” he said.

“I told them that indeed Antigua remained safe for visitors, and it’s a place I still want to raise children.”

The family market is one of the top three markets for Jolly Beach, along with couples and conferences.

The resort continues to invest a lot of money and energy in the family market, Modeste said.

“For starters, we offer good value for the money, with five restaurants, two pools, the Palms Wellness Centre Spa, a great location on a mile-long beach and lots for kids to do,” he said.