November is shaping up to be quite a culinary month, with initiatives on both sides of the island announced in Monday’s paper, plus the return of Fète de la Cuisine (see related story today). It thus promises to be a wonderful period for gourmet meal lovers.
Make no mistake, such activities are very important to a destination known for an excellent variety of food and good times, in addition to the usual sun, sand and sea. An attractive hospitality industry with quality entertainment options and vibrant nightlife are essential parts of the tourism product as well.
Mainly online promotion and marketing to drive bookings is one thing, but events like the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, Carnival, the SXM Festival, “Les Mardis” in Grand Case and others create a buzz about exciting activities of which the impact should not be underestimated. Having plenty of fun places to go and things to do can be an advantage over some competitors in the region where that is less the case, particularly for more adventurous guests.
In comparison, fewer visitors here traditionally tend to mostly stay in resorts and instead like to get out ’n about, also because doing so is still considered relatively safe. The need to keep it that way cannot be overemphasised.
Public and private sectors alike must continue to facilitate, develop, support and invest in initiatives that help make “The Friendly Island” always interesting, never boring.
