High room occupancy rates (see related story) for the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival (CNSJF) once again proves that event tourism works. Of course, it took “Fundashon Bon Intenshon” of philanthropist Gregory Elias years of preparation and investment, but the result is a huge annual attraction.
People sometimes question why government should grant subsidies for the Heineken Regatta, St. Maarten Carnival, SXM festival and others. However, these happenings not only draw visitors, but bring widespread publicity and promotion both mouth-to-mouth and otherwise.
Besides, it often regards repeat guests and customer-loyalty is one of the island’s strongest point. While they may be here for a specific occasion, that does not mean they won’t come back at different times.
The same goes for cruise passengers who spend only one day on the island. Many have returned by air-plane for a longer stay over the decades.
Ports of call can greatly stimulate this so-called “conversion” process by providing enjoyable, interesting and exiting activities. Offering “something new” every so often is also important in that sense.
It’s not just about sun, sand and sea nowadays. Modern travellers are known to expect more.
