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As Antigua and Barbuda prepares for its first International Music Festival, Romantic Rhythms June 12 - 15, 2008, the Ministry of Tourism and its travel partners launched a special promotion called "Kiss and Make Up in Antigua and Barbuda."

The promotion was officially launched on Tuesday 6 May, in the Zen gardens at Hotel a.k.a in New York City. The event attracted a large number of travel agents and distinguished media professionals including The New York Post, Town and Country Magazine, and UPN 9 television.

Director of Tourism, Derede Samuel-Whitlock indicated that, "one of the main attractions of the "Kiss and Make Up in Antigua and Barbuda" will be the Destination Renewals."

"Over the past two years we hosted a Celebrity Wedding as the highlight of our "June is Romance Month" promotions. This year we have decided to do a renewal of vows so that anyone, regardless of the status of your relationship can join in the celebrations. We expect that this event will help broaden the programming around the Music Festival and to create a buzz among visitors and residents about the Romantic Rhythms Festival."

Visiting couples can enter to win the unique opportunity to participate in a group renewal of vows. The ceremony will include a Garden Tour to "Sow Seeds of Love" to symbolize the rekindling of their relationship -- giving them the perfect reason to keep coming back to Antigua and Barbuda "Where Romance is always in Bloom." Singles, couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking to rekindle their relationship can enjoy great savings and an intimate opportunity to be pampered, sample exotic cuisine, experience unique heritage and cultural attractions.

Designed to attract large numbers of visitors to the destination, the "Kiss and Make Up" program also offers competitive summer rates and a range of special packages. One of the main incentives is a $100 rebate to be used towards air travel on Delta, accommodations, concert tickets, spas, adventure and other romantic experiences. Delta will begin non-stop service from JFK on Thursdays and Sundays just in time for the Music Festival. Information on special romantic packages and tickets for Romantic Rhythms is available on www.antiguamusicfestival.com

Tuesday evening's launch themed around romance started with a Cupid's Buffet catered by Chef Murphy that featured a 3-foot ice sculptured Cupid's vase. There was also a Couple's Fashion Show featuring Caribbean designer, Jurgis Jarvis, and a group of Caribbean models donning beach and casual wear as well as formal and wedding attire. The grand finale of this production choreographed by Dr. Dave Ray, was a wedding scene that helped to set the stage for Romantic Rhythms. Guests at the Kiss and Make Up Launch also entered to win a trip to Antigua and Barbuda for the Festival on Delta's inaugural flight.