Global Tourism Insights Conference Unveils Marketing Strategies for 2024
(Saint Lucia Tourism Authority)- In a groundbreaking effort to navigate the challenges of the evolving tourism landscape, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority recently hosted the highly anticipated Tourism Insights Conference. The event, held at Sandals Grande Resort provided a comprehensive overview of the calendar year 2023 and unveiled the strategic roadmap for the upcoming calendar year.
The conference’s highlight was the interactive session, “Meet the Market Showcase,” which facilitated direct engagement between attendees and the dedicated professionals shaping Saint Lucia’s tourism narrative in both international markets and on the local front. This unique opportunity allowed for one-on-one discussions, idea exchanges, and networking, fostering collaborative efforts to propel the island’s tourism sector forward.
Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister of Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture & Information, and CEO Lorine Charles-St. Jules inaugurated the event with insightful remarks, setting the stage for the dynamic discussions that followed. Two pivotal panel discussions took center stage, shedding light on critical issues facing the industry—tourism transportation challenges and the imperative of sustainability, a key focus for Saint Lucia in 2024.
The Transportation Panel, chaired by Paul Collymore, President of the SLHTA, brought together industry luminaries to address the pressing concerns in the wake of the COVID-19 fallout. Marie Mc. Kenzie (Senior Vice President, Government and Destination Affairs at P&O Cruises), Daren Cenac (Managing Director at St. Lucia Air & Sea Ports Authority), Nicola Madden-Grieg (President, Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association), and Herbert Ghent (Executive Manager, Network Revenue and Distribution at Caribbean Airlines) shared their expertise, offering strategic insights into the future of transportation in the Caribbean.
The Sustainability Panel featured distinguished experts committed to shaping a greener, more sustainable future for Saint Lucia’s tourism industry. Panelists included Karolin Trubetzkoy (co-owner of Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain Resorts), Amanda Charles (Sustainable Tourism Specialist at the Caribbean Tourism Organization), Terry Brown (Programmes Manager, Lead for Latin America, and the Caribbean at the Travel Foundation), and Samuel “Sam” Raphael (Owner of Jungle Bay Resort in Dominica). This panel delved into the importance of sustainability, enlightening the industry on the associated benefits and funding opportunities.
A critical focal point for Saint Lucia in 2024 is the emphasis on sustainability, both locally and internationally. The conference provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss, strategize, and collaborate on initiatives that will contribute to a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector.
Ben Rotherham, Director at Global Enterprise specializing in consumer data and insights, delivered a keynote address that offered attendees valuable insights and inspiration. His presentation aimed to guide participants as they seek to implement the strategies discussed throughout the conference.
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