In addition to its traditional main sources for visitors North America and Europe, the destination would do well to make better use of other potential markets including Latin America. Although relatively far from the southern continent compared to – for example – Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao (so-called ABC islands), convenient flight connections are available.
That’s why it was good to read of two activities during the past week. In the newspaper of last Wednesday, the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry reported attendance at the “Trade Mission Dutch Caribbean meets Panama.” It provided an opportunity to establish and strengthen business ties with a major economic player in the region, due to – among other things – its Canal and Free Zone.
Thursday’s edition featured a story from St. Maarten Tourism Bureau (STB) on its participation in an “Island Hopping” webinar held in collaboration with Copa Airlines. The latter carrier offers three weekly direct return flights to Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) from Panama City.
This has become important gateway for much of the region, especially since international transit through US territory like Miami, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, is no longer as easy and convenient as it used to be. For example, Brazilians are increasingly turning to Copa’s hub to vacation in the Caribbean.
The St. Maarten/St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) at the end of next month appears the perfect occasion to further delve into this matter and see how that connection can prove even more beneficial. Attracting guests outside of winter in the Northern Hemisphere can also promote less seasonality with its negative social consequences.
A need for diversification of the local tourism economy is often mentioned, but a lot is still possible within the industry too.
