The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has hosted its ninth annual showcase, this year welcoming more than 200 UK travel industry specialists.<\/p>\n
The aim of the event is to update partners on Saint Lucia news and to hear from key operators, airlines and agents on what they need to market the destination.<\/p>\n
The minister for tourism, information, broadcasting, culture and creative industries, Dominic Fedee, began the week by announcing a \u00a3230 million infrastructure overhaul of Saint Lucias east coast and west coast roads, the international airport, water supply, the new racecourse and the cruise terminal.<\/p>\n
He went on to update on the Village Tourism Programme which has undergone significant development since its launch a year ago.<\/p>\n
Eight communities were earmarked to be converted into tourism destinations, showcasing the unique culture, heritage and history.<\/p>\n
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Each has a different focus, thereby creating an experience for visitors unlike any other destination.<\/p>\n
With formal funding, locals enhance what they offer to visitors and therefore benefit directly.<\/p>\n
The programme is well underway with Soufriere taking the lead having opened a new beach park, town square, bus terminal and market which means that four major projects have been completed in under 16 weeks.<\/p>\n
Prior to Showcase, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority carried out research amongst 2,000 British residents across the UK to find out more about the priorities for holidays.<\/p>\n
The results support the village programme, showing the majority of tourists like to get out and about to experience a destination first-hand.<\/p>\n
Once on a trip, holidaymakers first opt to try the local cuisine (74 per cent) with 59 per cent looking to get to know the history and culture of the area.<\/p>\n
Throughout the showcase, a series of networking meetings and events took place covering Saint Lucia news, tourism developments and new information on accommodation and excursions.<\/p>\n