By Klieon John.
St. Kitts Reporter.
Tourism Awareness Month, put on by the St. Kitts Tourism Authority (SKTA) is slated for October this year under the theme Know the Environment, Know Tourism. No Environment, No Tourism.
However, the Authority is getting a head start on their series of activities.
Unoma Allen, Corporate Communications Officer for the SKTA, stated the main intention of the month of activities is to enhance public appreciation of the importance of the tourism industry.
“We are really seeking to bring to attention the importance of the industry, especially since the closing of the sugar industry. This industry has the most opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. We also want to introduce youth to the industry from a young age.
“We are having various activities specifically for youth in order to demonstrate the vast opportunities available to them. After all the present tourism officials have gone they are the ones who will have to keep the industry going so there is a major focus on them.”
The activities include a fashion weekend, held from October 4-7, featuring a fashion show with a special appearance by Miss Universe 2007, Royo Mori. This, she said, will bring international focus to the island, essentially fostering greater interest in travelling to the region.
Also, to increase the performance of the Tourism Authority in expanding the market for tourism in St. Kitts, a marketing symposium will be held on the 16th. Professionals in the field will evaluate their marketing efforts and share ideas on how to heighten effectiveness.
“The SKTA has also been facilitating local entrepreneurs who wish to profit from the growth in development,” says Allen. “We provide references to tours done by locals as well as invite local artists to perform at shows and other events which give them a chance to showcase local talent as well as make some money.”
Their activities began with the annual Torch Run on Thursday, World Tourism Day, starting at Baker’s Corner, Basseterre at 10:00 am. Past and present sports team members along with primary and secondary school students participated in the relay run throughout the entire island.
They were given a break at 2:30 pm at the Bottling Company until 5:00pm. It ended at The Circus, where the Tourism Awareness Month of activities was officially launched.
