Rhythm and Spice was conceptualized and first hosted by the SLHTA in 2006. The main objective of Rhythm and Spice was to amalgamate some of the SLHTA’s traditional fundraising efforts into one major event. The rationale was to minimize the multiple requests for sponsorship from the membership and corporate partners, while also providing members with a stage for showcasing their major products and service offerings. Additionally, the event would serve as a medium to highlight the essence of St. Lucia’s tourism and to provide the public with an opportunity to be a part of this ever expanding sector.
Rhythm and Spice highlights the culinary skills of the Chefs and their innovation in the use of local products. An atmosphere of camaraderie and competition is created, as each team tries its utmost to win the coveted title of “Best Team of the Year”. Participating member hotels and allied businesses are responsible for funding their participation and providing the requisite products, ingredients and human resources for their respective booths. The prepared meals are sold to the public at a very affordable price and they can sample different dishes from the various booths. The proceeds go to the Association to assist with its community outreach and related work programmes.
The event also showcases the talents of the many musical bands that regularly ply their trade at the various hotels, restaurants and other tourism establishments. They provide the musical entertainment, which is one of the highlights of Rhythm and Spice. The event is much more than a hotels showcase, as allied members are also provided an opportunity to display their products and services.
The event has been very successful thus far with the full participation of the major hotels, some allied members and an alliance of smaller properties. The event continues to gain momentum as the public, allied tourism enterprises, hoteliers, distributors, fashion designers and musicians look forward to a day of true Rhythm and Spice.
