Monthly Record: Caribbean Room Nights Increase 10%
In January 2026, Caribbean travel was primarily affected by a major Venezuela-related airspace shutdown that caused hundreds of flight cancellations and region‑wide disruptions, along with major weather storm delays that affected travel. However, this did not slow the travel pace as intent remained elevated. The total estimated lodging demand in January, as tracked by STR (Smith Travel Research) and AirDNA as of February 17th, 2026, reached a new monthly record of over 772,000 room nights booked, a 10% increase from last year.
Hotel demand, driven by increased group and government business, as well as seasonal leisure demand, accounted for 404,000 room nights in January, an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. The rental market also grew by 9%, resulting in over 368,000 listing nights booked.
STR estimates indicate that January hotel occupancy rose by 11% year-over-year, increasing from 72% to 80%, marking the highest level recorded ever. Leisure rental occupancy remains steady despite the expansion of rental inventory; current rental occupancy is 58%, representing .5% decline from last year.
January lodging revenues neared an estimated $218 million, marking a 9% increase and setting a new monthly record. Hotels contributed $143 million, an increase of 9% year-over-year as average hotel rates decreased -2% at $353. The rental segment showed similar growth, generating $75 million, a 11% increase from last year.